A unique green market in the highlands of Chiềng Lao commune, Sơn La province. Photo: Trường Sơn

On January 10th, at the community square of Phiêng Phả village, Chiềng Lao commune, an event was held.Highland Green Market"It attracted thousands of locals and tourists to participate."

The green market in Chiềng Lao commune, a highland area, attracts a large number of locals and tourists. Photo: Trường Sơn

The market features 13 stalls showcasing and introducing typical products of the highlands such as brocade fabrics, upland rice, rock honey, dried meat, river fish, wild vegetables, rice cakes, corn wine, etc.

The market space is constructed from bamboo and thatched roofs, reflecting the rustic charm of a highland market. Here, locals and tourists can not only shop for clean and safe products but also enjoy traditional cuisine and immerse themselves in the unique dances and folk songs of the ethnic minorities.

Local specialties are on display at the market. Photo: Truong Son

Besides buying and selling, the market is also vibrant with many folk games such as rice cake pounding competitions, crossbow shooting, tu lu (a traditional game), and community cultural exchanges, creating a lively and unifying atmosphere.

Ms. Lo Thi Ngoc (from Muong La commune), a tourist attending the market, shared: “The goods here are very clean and green. The market space with thatched houses and bamboo creates a very unique feeling, truly reflecting the highlands, which I and many others enjoy.”

According to the organizers, the Highland Green Market is an opportunity for local people to showcase their unique products, promote the image of their homeland, and create additional livelihoods and increase income for the people.

Tourists check in at the Green Market in Chiềng Lao commune, a highland area. Photo: Trường Sơn

Mr. Vu Minh Thai, Chairman of the People's Committee of Chieng Lao commune, said: "Beyond its economic significance, the market also contributes to improving the spiritual life of the people, arousing national pride, preserving and promoting traditional cultural identity. This is also a direction for sustainable economic development associated with community tourism in the area."

The rice cake pounding competition at the market fair. Photo: Truong Son

The green market in Chiềng Lao commune will be held regularly on the 10th of every month, with the expectation of becoming an attractive cultural and tourist destination in the Mường La highland region.

Truong Son