Things to buy in Sapa

As a tourist attraction in the northwest mountains of Vietnam, Sapa is an ideal destination for those who are looking for unique shopping experiences in an area of picturesque hilly nature and rich ethnic cultures. Strolling around Sapa town’s placid streets, you will soon find some souvenir shops here and there. Your purpose may be just to have a look to get a feel about that something special of Sapa. But, in no time, you will become captivated by various handicrafts delicately designed in the style of minorities such as silver accessories, animal – modelled wooden souvenirs or clothes with colourful patterns. They all could make good presents for you to bring home.

Photo by Vietnam Typical Tours team

What is more interesting is that you save your time trekking down the hills and discover traditional markets of local  ethnic minorities like Sapa market, Bac Ha market, Coc Ly market. Here you will have a chance to buy souvenirs from the local hill tribes themselves. They trek surprisingly long distances to gather here and sell you their hand – made nice items, most impressive of which are colourful clothes made of local fabrics (tho cam).  

If you set off your trip to Sapa on weekends, Sapa market would provide you a deeper understanding of the local culture and lifestyle. Every Saturday and Sunday, local people, especially the youth, gather in the market to meet and get to know about each other through exciting songs for courting. You will hear flute tune, khen, dan moi which are local musical instruments and enjoy romantic melodies filling the night air. That’s why Sapa market has another meaningful name – Love market.

And if you visit Sapa right a few days before Tet holiday, you will be struck by Sapa’s peach markets. The whole Sapa will be covered by blossoming peach flowers. Choose yourself a peach branch or tree and your Tet in Vietnam will be more fullfilled by Sapa’s natural beauty in your beloved house.