Colors of Pho Bang market

Hidden behind rows of gray limestone mountains, Pho Bang commune appears like a nostalgic film scene. This land remains full of vitality thanks to its unique “backward market,” a small festival-like gathering whose schedule shifts one day earlier each week compared to the previous one.

The Pho Bang market is not only a place for trade but also a living museum preserving the cultural identity of the Mong and Hoa ethnic groups in the border region. From early dawn, young women descend the mountains in vibrant indigo attire, carrying with them the breath of the forest through baskets of wild vegetables, bundles of fragrant firewood, or leading small pigs to market. The Pho Bang market is a pure cultural touchpoint, where the warmth and friendliness of the people dispel the quiet harshness of the highlands.

From early morning, local people of Pho Bang commune dress in their finest traditional clothing to go to the market.

Bundles of fresh green vegetables are brought by locals to sell at the market.

Many handmade goods produced by local people are displayed at the Pho Bang market.

People select traditional ethnic clothing at the market.

Visitors experience the Pho Bang market.

A wide variety of goods are sold at the Pho Bang market.

Goods are exchanged and traded at the Pho Bang market.

Minh Hoa – Hoang Tuyen