When tourists initially arrived in Vietnam, they were truly taken aback by the mesmerizing Ho Thi Ky Flower Market. The market’s sheer size and diverse assortment of flowers were not the only factors that astounded them, but also the deeply -rooted flower culture embedded within Vietnamese traditions.
Where is Ho Thi Ky flower Market?
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The bustling and lively Ho Thi Ky flower market can be found nestled within District 10, enclosed by the streets of Le Hong Phong, Hung Vuong, and Ly Thai To, only a few kilometers away from the downtown. This market has gained immense popularity amongst both locals and visitors alike, drawing in huge crowds with its vibrant atmosphere and constant activity.
When is the best time to visit?
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The market operates around the clock, allowing visitors to witness its bustling activities at any given time. Between 7:00 and 12:00, both locals and tourists flock to the market to indulge in its vibrant ambiance, purchasing flowers and immersing themselves in a sensory experience of delightful aromas and vivid colors. As the clock strikes noon and extends into the night, the flower market undergoes a transformation into a street food haven that is simply irresistible. Even when the city sleeps, Ho Thi Ky market remains wide awake, bustling with vendors and sellers who gather to procure large quantities of goods before distributing them to smaller markets.
Background of Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
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Established in the year 1987, the market has flourished to become the largest wholesale flower market in Saigon today. It proudly bears the name of a courageous young woman, aged merely 23, who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War.
A significant portion of the vibrant flowers found within this market are sourced from the Mekong Delta, renowned as Vietnam’s largest delta, while a smaller percentage originates from the captivating central highland region.
Flowers in Vietnamese Culture and in Ho Thi Ky Flower Market
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The demand for flowers in Vietnam is remarkably high, resulting from a combination of both nature and culture. Vietnam resides in a region with a tropical climate, thereby fostering a wide variety of flowers across the country. The local population is deeply intertwined with flowers in their everyday lives. Particularly during the middle days of the month or ancestor ceremony days, people invariably visit the market to purchase flowers, which they later place on their altars.
In Vietnamese culture, there exists a strong belief that devoting oneself to worship yields greater blessings. Therefore, it is common for individuals to adorn altars with flowers, burn incense, and engage in daily acts of worship.
The demand for flowers significantly rises during special occasions and holidays, notably during Tet, also known as Lunar New Year, which spans over two weeks. During Lunar New Year, individuals eagerly purchase an abundance of flowers to adorn their altars or homes, with the intention of wishing for a prosperous upcoming year filled with hope, good fortune, and improved prospects. It symbolizes a desire for a blossoming year, mirroring the beauty and vibrancy of the flowers they acquire.
Apricot and Peach Blossoms hold a special place in people’s hearts as beloved flowers during the festivities of the New Year. These blossoms carry profound symbolism, with Apricot Blossoms representing good fortune and prosperity, while Peach Blossoms exude love and the spirit of blooming.
In other cases: at a funeral, wedding, shop’s grand opening, Valentine’s day…, flowers are decorated or given as a gift just like many cultures in the world. Flowers play an important role in Vietnamese culture, on any corner of the streets. Sometimes you may see some truck drivers have a small altar on the truck’s head, with flowers and incense- they pray everyday for a farewell trip. Even when someone buys a new car, there will always be a small altar with flowers to celebrate it or wish for good fortune with the new car.
Back to the Ho Thi Ky flower market, due to the huge demand for flowers in Vietnam, there is a huge variety of flowers displayed everywhere in the market. There are also flower decoration goods like baskets, vases, painted flowers, flower standee… with an affordable price since this is the largest wholesale market of flowers. You can find any kind of goods here if it’s related to flowers.
Not Just Flowers Market,…
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During the nighttime hours, the bustling Ho Thi Ky market undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, turning into an absolute paradise for individuals who adore exquisite cuisine. This remarkable food haven hosts an expansive street food market, offering visitors an unforgettable opportunity to embark on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of various regions across Vietnam, as well as international delicacies. When comparing Ho Thi Ky market to its counterparts in Vietnam, it undoubtedly reigns supreme in terms of the vast expanse dedicated to food, the sheer abundance of mouth watering dishes, and the remarkable influx of daily tourists it attracts.
Having a crush on Ho Thi Ky market yet? Let us – Jackfruit Adventure help you reach out to that gorgeous market, which is included in our daily Ho Chi Minh city Cycling tour or food tour Ho Chi Minh on bikes, come and join us!
