Hari Ton Iron Market is a centuries-old iron market located in Harbin, Heilongjiang province, in northeast China. It is considered one of the oldest and most famous regional markets in the country, and it has been around since the Ming dynasty. Hari Ton Iron Market covers an area of 33,000 square meters and contains an array of specialty stores, including shops selling old coins, jewelry, antiques, historical artifacts and medieval weapons. There are also stores that specialize in industrial metal goods, such as coal and iron ore.
The market was first established in 1418 by the Ming emperor Zhu Yuanzhang to facilitate the buying and selling of goods in the area. Originally a small hari ton (also known as a gold tongue) market, it slowly expanded over the centuries, eventually encompassing the entire area. During the Qing dynasty, the area became a bustling business and trade center as goods from all over the country converged on the market. While the market has declined significantly in recent years due to the rapid growth of modern shopping malls, it still remains a popular spot for tourists and locals alike.
Visitors to the Hari Ton Iron Market can wander through the aisles of stores, marvel at the countless goods for sale, and even find rare items. The market also serves as a important source of employment for many of the locals as nearly every store in the market is independently owned and operated. Many of the stores specialize in iconic items associated with the area, such as special wooden carts and large hunting blades.
The Hari Ton Iron Market is the perfect spot to pick up a unique item or two and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of a unique Chinese market. With its centuries of history, incredible array of goods, and haggle-friendly vendors, the market is a great place to explore and learn a bit more about the culture and history of China.
