Lung Phinh market (Lung Phinh commune, Bac Ha district, Lao Cai province) offers a unique and authentic glimpse into the highland way of life. More than a place for trading goods, it's a vibrant gathering where locals and visitors come to savor traditional specialties.

Photographer Khang Chu Long captured vivid moments from the Lung Phinh market, a destination set amidst the breathtaking natural scenery unique to this region. Towering limestone mountains, clouds hugging the mid-slopes, cool mountain air, and lush terraced fields nestled in valleys create a poetic, majestic landscape found nowhere else.

Beyond the natural beauty, Lung Phinh market itself, held every Friday morning, is a cultural highlight. From early dawn, ethnic groups such as the Mong, Hoa, Giay, Tay, and Phu La flock to the market on foot or horseback, bringing woven goods, agricultural produce, livestock, and poultry for trade. The bustling scene is a kaleidoscope of color and tradition.

The highland market is divided into distinct zones: one for vegetables, roots, fruits, and traditional textiles; another for livestock and poultry; a section for household tools; an area for local cuisine; and another for ethnic liquors. The liveliest area is undoubtedly the food section, where shouts of welcome, laughter, the clatter of chopping boards, and the sounds of celebration fill the air.

Here, both locals and tourists can enjoy ethnic delicacies such as Phu La-style sour pho, the famed “thang co” (a traditional stew), and various dishes made from "man" pork (black pig). A highlight is the locally distilled corn wine, brewed using wild forest herbs and mountain spring water at an altitude of over 1,200 meters. These offerings showcase the distinctive culinary culture of the region.

Some photos from the Lung Phinh market:

commune –n. a small administrative district or village, especially in rural areas

livestock –n. animals such as cows, pigs, and chickens that are kept for farming purposes

bustling –adj. full of activity, noise, and people; busy and lively

ethnic –adj. relating to a particular cultural group, especially one with shared language, traditions, or heritage