Nam Dinh, known as Thành Nam, is a land rich in history and culture, famous not only for its sacred temples and pagodas but also for the rustic and simple beauty of its ancient villages. Exploring the ancient villages of Nam Dinh is a journey to return to the roots, immerse yourself in traditional cultural spaces, and feel the slow, peaceful rhythm of life in the Northern Delta. Let “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around the World) guide you to discover the unique ancient villages that preserve the soul of rural Vietnam in the heart of Nam Dinh.
Stepping Back in Time: Discovering the Beauty of Nam Dinh’s Ancient Villages
Nam Dinh is not only a land with a rich revolutionary tradition but also a place that preserves the cultural values and unique architecture of ancient Vietnamese villages. The ancient villages of Nam Dinh still retain mossy houses, small winding brick paths, ancient communal houses, and traditional handicrafts passed down through generations. Visiting the ancient villages of Nam Dinh is like stepping into another world, separated from the noise and bustle of the city, to enjoy peace and discover unique cultural features.
La Xuyen Traditional Craft Village: Masterpieces of Fine Woodworking
- Address: Yen Ninh Commune, Y Yen District, Nam Dinh Province.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
Exquisite wooden crafts in La Xuyen Village, Nam Dinh, a renowned center for fine woodworking.
La Xuyen, a craft village with over 1000 years of history, is a must-visit destination when exploring the ancient villages of Nam Dinh. It is known as the cradle of carpentry, famous for its exquisite fine woodworking products, deeply imbued with traditional cultural imprints. From the talented hands of La Xuyen artisans, lifeless wood becomes unique works of art, from sacred worship items to intricately carved furniture, captivating hearts. La Xuyen Communal House, an ancient communal house dedicated to the carpentry ancestor Ninh Huu Hung, is a unique architectural work with intricate carvings, demonstrating the talent and dedication of La Xuyen carpenters.
Xuan Duc Weaving Village: Traditional Beauty by the Ninh Co River
- Address: Xuan Ninh Commune, Xuan Truong District, Nam Dinh Province.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
Traditional mat weaving in Xuan Duc Village, Nam Dinh, a village famous for its nearly 200-year-old mat weaving tradition.
Xuan Duc mat weaving village, with a history of nearly 200 years, is one of the famous traditional craft villages of Vietnam. Coming to Xuan Duc, visitors will admire the ancient looms, hear the clacking of shuttles, and witness firsthand the sophisticated manual process of weaving “đậu” mats. Xuan Duc “đậu” mats are famous for their high durability and beautiful patterns, traditional handicrafts that are popular both domestically and internationally. Visitors can buy “đậu” mats as souvenirs and enjoy the peaceful rural space along the Ninh Co River.
Vi Khe Creative Flower Village: Vibrant Flower Gardens of Thanh Nam
- Address: Dien Xa Commune, Nam Truc District, Nam Dinh Province.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
Colorful flower gardens in Vi Khe Flower Village, Nam Dinh, an attractive tourist destination showcasing vibrant flowers and ornamental plants.
Vi Khe, the “flower garden” of Nam Dinh, is an ideal destination for those who love the vibrant beauty of flowers and ornamental plants. The craft village has a tradition of growing flowers since the Tran Dynasty, famous for its unique techniques in growing and caring for flowers and ornamental plants. Visitors to Vi Khe will wander through flower gardens showing off their colors, from roses and chrysanthemums to sophisticated bonsai trees. Not only can visitors admire flowers, but they can also learn about the flower growing process, buy flower and ornamental plant products, and explore the peaceful rural space filled with fragrance and color.
Co Chat Silk Weaving Village: Traditional Silk Capital
- Address: Phuong Dinh Commune, Truc Ninh District, Nam Dinh Province.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
Traditional silk looms in Co Chat Silk Village, Nam Dinh, preserving the craft of silk weaving by hand since the Tran Dynasty.
Co Chat, the “silk capital” of Nam Dinh, is an ancient village famous for growing mulberry trees, raising silkworms, reeling silk, and weaving silk. The craft village has a long history dating back to the Tran Dynasty, still maintaining the traditional manual silk reeling process. Coming to Co Chat, visitors will admire the ancient looms, witness firsthand the meticulous silk weaving process, and discover the delicate and luxurious beauty of Co Chat silk. Visitors can buy genuine silk products and learn about the traditional cultural beauty of the craft village.
Cat Dang Lacquerware Village: The Cradle of Vietnamese Lacquerware
- Address: Yen Tien Commune, Y Yen District, Nam Dinh Province.
- Entrance Fee: Free.
Exquisite lacquerware art in Cat Dang Village, Nam Dinh, attracting visitors with the refined beauty of traditional lacquer art.
Cat Dang, the “cradle” of Vietnamese lacquerware, is a must-visit destination for those who love traditional art. The craft village has a history dating back to the 11th century, famous for its skillful lacquer techniques, creating unique and sophisticated works of art. Coming to Cat Dang, visitors will visit lacquerware workshops, learn about the elaborate crafting process, and admire the magnificent beauty of lacquerware products. Visitors can buy unique lacquerware items as souvenirs and discover the traditional cultural beauty of the craft village.
Experiencing Tourism in Nam Dinh Ancient Villages
To make your journey to explore the ancient villages of Nam Dinh more complete, visitors can combine it with visits to other famous destinations in Nam Dinh such as:
- Nam Dinh Old Quarter: Explore ancient architecture, small streets, and the bustling Rong Market.
Historic architecture in Nam Dinh Old Quarter, attracting tourists with its ancient beauty and nostalgic atmosphere.
- Tran Temple – Pagoda Tower Historical and Cultural Relic Site: Learn about the heroic history of the Tran Dynasty and visit ancient architectural works.
Tran Temple Relic Site in Nam Dinh, dedicated to the Tran Dynasty kings and the famous Opening Seal Festival.
- Co Le Pagoda: Admire the unique architecture combining Buddhist and European Gothic styles.
Unique architecture of Co Le Pagoda in Nam Dinh, blending Asian and European Gothic styles in an ancient pagoda.
- Phu Day: Explore the architectural complex of Mother Lieu Hanh worship and participate in the vibrant Phu Day Festival.
Phu Day in Nam Dinh, the largest center for Mother Lieu Hanh worship in Vietnam, featuring unique architecture and traditional festivals.
- Quat Lam and Thinh Long Beaches: Enjoy the fresh sea air and savor delicious fresh seafood.
Quat Lam Beach in Nam Dinh, an ideal destination for tourists seeking swimming and fresh seafood.
Nam Dinh Rural Cuisine: Unforgettable Traditional Flavors
A trip to Nam Dinh’s ancient villages is incomplete without experiencing the unique cuisine with dishes imbued with the flavors of the countryside. Visitors can enjoy:
- Nam Dinh Beef Pho: The famous pho with rich broth, chewy noodles, and tender, sweet beef.
Nam Dinh Beef Pho, a famous specialty dish known for its rich flavor and delicious chewy noodles.
- Banh Xiu Pao: Delicious buns with soft, fluffy crusts and savory char siu pork filling.
Nam Dinh Banh Xiu Pao, an attractive snack with a distinctive flavor of Thanh Nam region.
- Nem Nam Giao Thuy: Famous delicious fermented pork roll, served with sung leaves and sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Nem Nam Giao Thuy from Nam Dinh, a famous specialty with a unique sour and delicious taste.
- Xoi Xiu (Savory Sticky Rice): Delicious, fatty sticky rice served with char siu pork, Chinese sausage, and eggs.
Nam Dinh Xoi Xiu, a popular and beloved breakfast dish with a distinctive and delicious flavor.
- Banh Gai Ba Thi: Delicious chewy cake with green bean and grated coconut filling, and the characteristic flavor of gai leaves.
Nam Dinh Banh Gai Ba Thi, a famous specialty sticky rice cake known for its traditional flavor and delicious quality.
Accommodation When Exploring Nam Dinh Ancient Villages
For convenient exploration of ancient villages and other tourist attractions, visitors can choose to stay in Nam Dinh city or surrounding areas. Some popular accommodation options include:
- Nam Cuong Nam Dinh Hotel: 4-star hotel, luxurious and convenient, located in the city center.
Nam Cuong Nam Dinh Hotel, a luxurious and convenient 4-star accommodation option in Nam Dinh city center.
- Vi Hoang Hotel: 3-star hotel with a quiet and airy space by Vi Xuyen Lake.
Vi Hoang Hotel in Nam Dinh, an ideal 3-star hotel with a peaceful setting by Vi Xuyen Lake.
- Ecohost Hai Hau Homestay: 4-star homestay meeting OCOP standards, offering an experience close to nature and local culture.
Ecohost Homestay Hai Hau in Nam Dinh, a 4-star OCOP standard homestay providing eco-tourism and local cultural experiences.
Conclusion
Exploring the ancient villages of Nam Dinh is a meaningful journey for visitors to return to their roots, discover traditional cultural values, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of rural Vietnam. With unique craft villages, ancient architecture, distinctive cuisine, and the hospitality of local people, Nam Dinh’s ancient villages promise to bring visitors unforgettable experiences and cherished memories in their journey to discover the beauty of Vietnam. Come and feel the soul of rural Vietnam in the ancient villages of Nam Dinh!