Cultural beauty at Bac Ha market

Bac Ha Market (Bac Ha District, Lao Cai Province) is a unique highlight, vividly reflecting the life of the Northwest highlands. Known as one of the most unique markets in Southeast Asia, this place is not only a bustling trading point but also preserves traditional values through each brocade color.

They brought with them all kinds of mountain and forest products: fruits, honey, corn wine... Some people led horses, buffaloes, pigs, others carried heavy bags of corn, potatoes, and cassava. It was not difficult to see young mothers carrying their children to the market, blending into the bustling atmosphere, enjoying the joy of gathering. In that space, the flute and panpipe sounds of the Hong Mi Folk Arts Club resounded from the large house, creating a vibrant cultural picture.

Bac Ha market impresses tourists with its beautiful brocade.

Bac Ha market is divided into many areas selling agricultural products, precious medicinal herbs, livestock, household items and typical cuisine . The highlight is the colorful brocade stalls - a symbol of the creativity and ingenuity of the ethnic people. The hand-woven, indigo-dyed or intricately patterned fabrics reflect the culture of the Mong, Dao and Tay people.

Not only a garment product, Bac Ha brocade also contains a story of historical art passed down through generations. Each piece of fabric is the crystallization of traditional weaving techniques, from spinning, dyeing to meticulous needlework. Geometric motifs, natural symbols and indigo, yellow, and red colors not only have aesthetic value but also represent the beliefs and worldview of the highland people. The special thing about Bac Ha market is that visitors can not only admire and shop but also directly experience part of the manufacturing process.

At the exhibition of the Mong ethnic brocade embroidery and beeswax painting cooperative in Thai Giang Pho commune, Mr. Nguyen Hoai Nam (Hanoi) eagerly tried to paint beeswax on fabric under the guidance of Ms. Vang Thi My. After a few strokes, Mr. Nam shared: "I really admire the ingenuity of the highland women, just a little mistake and the pattern is no longer as expected. Luckily, brocade now has a more modern design, making it easier for tourists to use and bring home as souvenirs."

In the context of modernization, the penetration of industrial goods and the risk of losing handicrafts are worrying issues, especially for brocade weaving. Realizing this, local authorities and communities have been implementing many conservation measures. Cultural events are regularly held to honor handicrafts, people are encouraged to wear traditional costumes when attending markets, and at the same time support households and Cooperatives maintain the weaving profession.

Skilled craftsmen are also creative, incorporating brocade into modern designs to meet the tastes of tourists. Promoting sustainable tourism associated with indigenous culture, combining conservation and innovation will help Bac Ha maintain its appeal and spread traditional values.

Source: https://baolangson.vn/net-dep-van-hoa-o-cho-phien-bac-ha-5049514.html