Flea Market (Choi Gioi)

Cho Troi (or Gioi market) is a market in the center of Hanoi with a name that sounds both rustic and a bit "gypsy". Almost all Hanoians are so used to the name "Triple Market" that they forget the real name of the flea market is Hoa Binh Market. Why is this market called Troi market? Unlike other markets, this place sells all kinds of items from tiny snails to bicycle and motorbike parts and many other products that are sold among the stalls without a roof.

Hanoi flea market was formed during the subsidy period, from the years 54-55, is considered the oldest temporary market in Hanoi still in operation with an age of over 60 years. During the subsidized years, goods could only be purchased through "stamping stamps" at state-owned commercial stores. Therefore, if you want to buy goods from the street, even stolen goods, you can only go to the sidewalk, to the market without a roof - the flea market.

Many visitors when coming to Hanoi for the first time will be surprised to receive different answers to the same question: Where is the flea market? A bit like Chatuchak market in Bangkok, the flea market is spread on many different streets, starting at the end of Hue street and extending through Dong Nhan, Tran Cao Van, King Pagoda, Thinh Yen, Yen Bai 2, connected to a part of Nguyen Cong Tru collective area and some small alleys. So it is very difficult to find the way for strangers who come here for the first time.

Along with the development of science and technology after years of innovation, the flea market has become a technology paradise for engineering students because of the wide range of equipment and affordable prices here. Any student components used for the subject can be found at the flea market at very affordable prices for students. Therefore, students of technical schools always give their first time and attention to the electronics booths here.

"Whatever is available in the world, just go to Gioi market" is the catchphrase of Hanoians when it comes to the abundance of goods here. The above way is not too much for those who have been trading for many years here, and is also the most satisfying answer for those who ask what Hanoi flea market sells?

The flea market is also a place where you can find many "unique" components for collectors. From ancient ICs that are no longer produced, to rare components that only go to the flea market to find a place to buy. Those with "deep knowledge" can buy genuine and durable goods here at surprisingly low prices.

However, Hanoi flea market is also a place where there are not so happy experiences with buyers that are fake goods. The truth that the small traders here once confirmed is that up to 75% of the goods in the flea market are fake and poor quality products that are mixed and sold with other items.

The flea market is the largest consumer of stolen goods in Hanoi. Hundreds of expensive products and components are stolen and brought to the flea market for sale. And one thing is for sure, anyone who has lost something, needs something (stolen items) just go to the flea market, Hue street, Hanoi, and ask that they will be able to buy it.

Flea Market is not for the faint of heart. The sales style of some shop owners is also not for the "weak of heart" when buying without knowing the price. It is rare to see a buyer who is not challenged by the owners, pressured by cheap goods, and is not connoisseur, so it is easy to be deceived.

In 2016, the Hanoi People's Committee had a directive to eliminate the sale of old, unknown goods at the Hanoi flea market. But until now, trading activities at the market are still bustling. The elimination of sales of unknown origin at the flea market does not mean that the market is "cleaned up" and anyway, the flea market is also a place associated with many memories of a distant Hanoi.