Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market in Kunming

Located in Kunming, the Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market has been a staple since 1988, making it the city’s oldest and most beloved traditional market. Despite the rise of online shopping and modern supermarkets, many locals still prefer to shop at Zhuanxin for its fresh produce and other delectable foods and snacks.

For Kunming residents, visiting Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market is more than just a shopping trip—it’s a cultural experience and a nostalgic journey. Each morning, the market bustles with activity as locals, especially the elderly, flock to its stalls to procure their daily groceries.

The market boasts an extensive variety of fruits and vegetables, including some unique items that may be unfamiliar to outsiders. Additionally, it offers an array of fresh seasoning ingredients like lemongrass, enhancing the flavors of local cuisine.

One of the market’s highlights is its selection of wild mushrooms, a specialty of Yunnan province. Yunnan’s diverse landscape and climate make it an ideal habitat for a wide range of edible fungi, and Zhuanxin Market is the place to find them during the rainy season.

Upstairs, a corridor filled with the aroma of mushrooms leads to vendors offering an impressive assortment of these prized fungi. Sellers are always ready to assist customers in selecting from the diverse mushroom varieties available.

Another must-try at Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market is Douhua Mixian, a popular Kunming snack. Sold at small eateries within the market called Lalaxiaochi, Douhua Mixian features soft rice noodles mixed with spicy chili sauce and bean curd, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Visitors should also sample sticky rice balls with bean flour, a beloved local dessert resembling round dumplings with various fillings. Comprising sticky rice, yellow bean flour, brown sugar, sesame, and peanuts, this treat pairs perfectly with a bowl of spicy rice noodles with bean curd.

For the people of Kunming, Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market holds cherished memories and serves as a vibrant symbol of the city’s lively culture and community spirit.