Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, captivates visitors not only with its majestic tombs and ancient temples but also with its peaceful villages, deeply imbued with the marks of time. Among them, Phuoc Tich ancient village stands out like a jade gem, nestled along the gentle O Lau River, where time seems to slow down, and traditional beauty is still preserved intact. Let’s explore the centuries-old beauty of Phuoc Tich village with “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around The World) to fully experience the soul of Hue’s countryside.
1. Overview of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village: Where Time Stands Still
Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is located in Phong Hoa commune, Phong Dien district, Thua Thien Hue province, about 40km north of Hue city center. The village nestles on the banks of the romantic O Lau River, surrounded by lush green bamboo groves, offering a peaceful space, separate from the hustle and bustle of the city.
According to historical records, Phuoc Tich village was established in 1470, during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong, initially named Phuc Giang village. During the reign of King Gia Long, the village was renamed Phuoc Tich, with the wish for accumulated blessings, passed down through generations. Over 500 years of history, Phuoc Tich village has preserved its cultural and architectural values, becoming one of the most beautiful ancient villages in Vietnam.
In 2009, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village was honored to be recognized as a National Monument, affirming the special historical and cultural value of the village. With an area of approximately 49ha, Phuoc Tich boasts a dense architectural complex of ancient Ruong houses, winding village roads shaded by green trees, and ancient communal houses, pagodas, and temples, all harmoniously creating a picturesque Vietnamese countryside imbued with national identity.
Coming to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, visitors not only admire the unique architectural beauty but also experience the peaceful life of the local people, and learn about traditional crafts such as the Phuoc Tich pottery craft, famous for over 500 years. The hospitality and enthusiasm of the locals are also a big plus, making Phuoc Tich an increasingly attractive destination for domestic and international tourists.
Useful information:
- Location: Phong Hoa Commune, Phong Dien District, Thua Thien – Hue Province
- Entrance fee: Free (garden house visits are at your discretion, around 50,000 VND)
- Services: Bicycle rental (20,000 VND/bike), Ruong house tours, homestay accommodation, dining, pottery making experience.
Ancient gate of Phuoc Tich village, the starting point to explore the traditional beauty of Hue
Peaceful beauty of Phuoc Tich ancient village with mossy-roofed Ruong houses
2. How to Get to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village?
To get to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, visitors can choose from various means of transport depending on their preferences and starting point.
From Hue city center:
- Motorbike: This is a popular and flexible means of transportation chosen by many tourists. From the center of Hue, follow National Highway 1A north for about 35-40km. Near My Chanh bridge (Hai Lang district, Quang Tri), turn right onto National Highway 49B and go about 1km further across the bridge over the O Lau River to reach Phuoc Tich village. Travel time by motorbike is about 40-50 minutes. You can easily rent a motorbike in Hue.
- Taxi/Car: If traveling in a group or wanting to travel more comfortably, you can choose a taxi or car. The road to Phuoc Tich is quite easy to find and convenient for cars.
- Bus: You can take bus number 07 (Hue – Phong Dien) at Nguyen Hoang bus station or bus stops on the streets of Hue. This bus route will stop at Phong Dien town, from there you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi about 5km to reach Phuoc Tich village.
Getting around the village:
To fully experience the peaceful and ancient beauty of Phuoc Tich village, visitors should choose to walk or rent a bicycle. Bicycle rental services are available in the village at affordable prices. Walking or cycling slowly along the village roads shaded by trees, admiring the ancient Ruong houses, and breathing in the fresh air will be an unforgettable experience.
Tourists cycling on the village road of Phuoc Tich, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere
Exploring Phuoc Tich village by bicycle, a fun and nature-friendly experience
3. Discovering the Unique Beauty of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village
3.1. Ancient Ruong House Architecture: Marks of Time
Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is famous for its ancient Ruong houses, built in the traditional Hue architectural style. These Ruong houses are hundreds of years old, with solid lim wood structures and mossy yin-yang tile roofs, bearing the marks of time.
A special feature of Phuoc Tich Ruong houses is the harmony between architecture and nature. Each house has a spacious garden, surrounded by neatly trimmed green tea hedges, creating a green, peaceful space. Inside the Ruong houses, intricate carvings on wood and antique household items are meticulously arranged, recreating the living space of the ancient Hue people.
Visiting ancient Ruong houses in Phuoc Tich, visitors not only admire the unique architectural beauty but also hear historical and cultural stories associated with each house and each family lineage. This is a great opportunity to learn about the lifestyle and customs of the local people.
Ancient Ruong house with mossy tile roof, architectural symbol of Phuoc Tich village
Unique Ruong house architecture with sophisticated carvings
Timeless beauty of ancient Ruong houses in Phuoc Tich village
3.2. Cay Thi Temple: The Sacred Place of the Village
Cay Thi Temple, also known as Mieu Ba, is one of the important spiritual destinations in Phuoc Tich ancient village. The temple was built to worship the village guardian deities, bringing peace and luck to the people.
A special feature of the temple is the ancient persimmon tree, over 500 years old, providing cool shade, creating a sacred and ancient space. The people of Phuoc Tich believe that the persimmon tree is a symbol of the village, associated with the history and life of the community.
Every year, during festivals, the villagers of Phuoc Tich gather at Cay Thi Temple to perform traditional rituals, praying for a year of favorable weather and abundant harvests. Coming to Cay Thi Temple, visitors will feel the solemn and sacred atmosphere, as well as learn more about the spiritual life of the ancient villagers.
Ancient Cay Thi Temple, a sacred place of worship for the people of Phuoc Tich village
Ancient and sacred space at Cay Thi Temple
3.3. Traditional Pottery Craft: Vietnamese Essence
Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is also famous for its traditional pottery craft, with a history of over 500 years of development. Phuoc Tich pottery is known for its high durability, good quality, natural colors, and unique designs.
A special feature in the Phuoc Tich pottery making process is the technique of firing pottery with straw and firewood, creating products with unique characteristics. Phuoc Tich pottery products not only serve daily life needs but were also used to be offered to kings and lords in ancient times.
Coming to Phuoc Tich pottery village, visitors will witness firsthand the traditional handmade pottery making process, from selecting soil, kneading, shaping, to firing pottery. You can also try your hand at making pottery under the guidance of skilled artisans and buy unique pottery products as souvenirs.
Traditional pottery kiln in Phuoc Tich ancient village, where unique pottery products are created
Phuoc Tich pottery artisan meticulously shaping products
Talented hands of Phuoc Tich pottery artisan
3.4. Phuoc Tich Lotus Lake: Serene Beauty
In the heart of Phuoc Tich ancient village, the lotus lake appears like a green highlight, embellishing the peaceful beauty of the village. In the summer, the lotus lake blooms, showing off its pink and pure white colors, spreading a fragrant scent throughout the area.
Phuoc Tich lotus lake is not only a place to relax and admire the scenery but also an ideal check-in location for young people when visiting Hue. Standing by the lotus lake, admiring the lotus flowers reaching out in the sun, feeling the cool breeze from the O Lau River blowing in, you will find peace and tranquility in your soul.
Phuoc Tich lotus lake in full bloom, bringing serene beauty to the village
3.5. Countryside Cuisine: Unforgettable Flavors
Coming to Phuoc Tich ancient village, visitors cannot miss the opportunity to enjoy local specialties imbued with the flavors of Hue countryside. The dishes are prepared from fresh ingredients, with rustic and simple flavors, but they leave a lasting impression.
You can enjoy rustic dishes at restaurants and eateries in the village, or experience a cozy family meal at homestays. Some specialties you should try when coming to Phuoc Tich include: Banh Khoai (crispy crepe), Bun Bo Hue (Hue beef noodle soup), Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers), dishes made from O Lau river fish, etc.
Local dishes carefully prepared in Phuoc Tich ancient village
Enjoying local cuisine, experiencing unique culinary culture in Phuoc Tich
4. Conclusion: Phuoc Tich Ancient Village – A Must-Visit Destination in Hue
Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is not only a tourist destination but also a place that preserves the traditional cultural and historical values of the nation. Coming to Phuoc Tich, visitors will immerse themselves in a peaceful and ancient space, discover unique architectural beauties, learn about traditional pottery crafts, and experience the simple life of the villagers.
If you are looking for a peaceful destination, away from the hustle and bustle of the city, and want to explore the cultural and historical beauty of Hue, then Phuoc Tich ancient village is definitely a great choice. Come and feel the unique beauty of this jade gem, to make your trip to Hue more meaningful and memorable.
Phuoc Tich ancient village, an ideal destination for those seeking peace and traditional beauty