Kẻ Chợ – The Cultural and Commercial Heritage of Thăng Long – Hanoi

Kẻ Chợ is a meaningful name deeply rooted in the rich history and culture of Thăng Long – Hanoi. More than just a bustling marketplace, Kẻ Chợ symbolized a thriving hub of commerce, culture, and artistic exchange in Vietnam’s capital.

• Historical records indicate that the term “Kẻ Chợ” emerged before the 16th century when Western traders first encountered Hanoi.

• Prior to this, the region was already a vibrant trading hub in the Red River Delta, attracting merchants from across the country and fostering specialized craft guilds.

• Unlike smaller rural markets known as “Kẻ Quê”, Thăng Long was the sole urban trade center that engaged in both domestic and international commerce. This exceptional status earned it the distinctive name “Kẻ Chợ.”

• Over time, Kẻ Chợ evolved into more than just a marketplace. It became a lively social space where people gathered not only to trade but also to connect, exchange information, and enjoy cultural performances like folk singing, street music, and traditional games.

• The first known market in Thăng Long, Chợ Tây Nhai (now Ngọc Hà Market), was established by King Lý Thái Tông. This market laid the foundation for a network of major marketplaces in Thăng Long.

• As Thăng Long expanded, it became home to around eight major markets, each specializing in different types of goods. Market days resembled festivals, blending commerce with entertainment.

• During this period, the term “Kẻ Chợ” gained prominence in historical texts such as those by Nguyễn Trãi. Initially referring only to the bustling trade district, the term later encompassed the entire Thăng Long capital.

• Beyond commerce, Kẻ Chợ played a vital role as a cultural and social center. It was a place where locals gathered to exchange news, discuss politics, and connect with friends and family. This vibrant marketplace helped shape Thăng Long’s unique urban lifestyle — lively, dynamic, and deeply rooted in community values.

• While many traditional markets have vanished or transformed into modern shopping centers, remnants of the Kẻ Chợ spirit are still present in iconic markets like Chợ Bưởi, Chợ Đồng Xuân, and Chợ Mơ. These markets continue to preserve the cultural essence of old Hanoi, serving as vital reminders of the city’s rich heritage.

Kẻ Chợ is more than just a historical name — it embodies Hanoi’s identity as a bustling, vibrant city where commerce and culture thrive side by side. Reviving the essence of Kẻ Chợ in contemporary life is key to preserving the unique charm of Thăng Long – Hanoi, a city that proudly carries the legacy of Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital.