KENGTUNG in eastern Shan State hosted its annual Saopha Market Day on the morning of 20 March in front of the Saopha’s Tomb in Ward 3. This event, held once a year, commemorates and honours past Saophas (Shan chieftains) and allows vendors to sell goods for just one day.
The tradition dates back to 1368 AD, during the reign of Saopha Sao Sit Pan Tu. Historically, this area — now known as Aung Mye Park in Ward 3 — served as a gathering place for Shan Saophas before they embarked on journeys or military expeditions. They would stay for two or three nights, granting ranks to commanders and gathering weapons and troops before departing. By 1632, the market was relocated to the current Myoma Market in Ward 1 as trade increased,
Today, the annual Saopha Market Festival continues in its original location, with vendors setting up stalls along Loimwe Road from behind the Saopha Stupa to the Parlian Gate and along Zaytangyi Road. The market extends to the EPC Road Junction, bustling with traders and visitors.
The event is particularly lively, featuring a wide variety of local crops, traditional foods, ethnic clothing and consumer goods. Visitors from near and far come to buy, take photos and pay respects at the eight stupa tombs, where offerings of fruits, flowers, candles and incense sticks are made.
For the Shan ethnic community, this market is a symbol of tradition and prosperity, with people believing that purchasing goods here brings blessings for health, social well-being and business success. As a result, both locals and visitors — from children to the elderly — gather in large numbers to shop and celebrate this unique annual event. — Aung Zin Myint (IPRD) and Myint Mo (Tachilek) /KZL
