Hang Phan Market, Saigon, Vietnam

Description

  Hang Phan Market is an old small market with more than 100 years old and surrounded by the old apartments in District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. The unique feature of this market is that it is covered by colorful umbrellas. Due to the hot weather, traders spread hundreds of umbrellas to cover the intense sunshine on the early morning and lowering them on the late afternoon.

  National Geographic Your Shot – Sep 13, 2017

  CIWEM Environmental Photographer of the Year Shortlisted

This fine-art print offers a mesmerizing glimpse into the historical charm of Hang Phan Market, a century-old hub nestled within the heart of District 4, Ho Chi Minh City. Surrounded by aged apartments that stand as silent witnesses to the passage of time, the market unfolds a story that transcends generations.

What sets Hang Phan Market apart is its distinctive adornment of vibrant umbrellas. A practical response to the relentless sun, the traders’ daily ritual involves unfurling a myriad of colorful umbrellas in the early morning, creating a kaleidoscope that shields the market from the intense rays. As the day progresses and the sun begins its descent, the umbrellas gracefully lower, casting a unique play of shadows and light over the scene.

The photograph, captured and recognized by National Geographic Your Shot on September 13, 2017, freezes this dynamic dance between tradition and modernity. The market, with its timeless architecture, forms a canvas upon which the daily life of the city unfolds. The hues of the umbrellas, the hustle of the traders, and the architectural relics that envelop the market create a visual tapestry that evokes a sense of nostalgia and cultural richness.

This print serves as a window to a bygone era, inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the intricate details of daily life in Hang Phan Market. It’s more than a photograph; it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of a place, a moment captured in time that invites contemplation and connection.