Top 5 Traditional Craft Villages in Da Nang
The ancient craft villages in Da Nang not only hold unique historical and cultural significance but also play a vital role in boosting local tourism and the economy. In this article, join SVietnam as we explore the famous craft villages you simply must visit when traveling to Da Nang.
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, located at the foot of Marble Mountains, less than 10 km from Da Nang’s city center, is one of the oldest traditional craft villages in the city. With over 400 years of existence, the village has not only preserved its heritage but also thrived, contributing significantly to the local tourism industry.
A short 20-minute drive from the city center will take you to this remarkable village. Here, you will find a wide range of products, from small items like bracelets, necklaces, and rings, to intricately carved statues of deities, stone paintings, and other artistic works made from precious stone. These creations blend traditional values with modern artistic styles.
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The village was founded in the 18th century by artisan Huynh Ba Quat from Thanh Hoa. He recognized the potential of marble from the Marble Mountains and taught the local people stone carving techniques, turning Non Nuoc into a major source of livelihood for the community. Through generations, the people of Non Nuoc have preserved and advanced the art of stone carving, producing masterpieces of great artistic value.
Today, Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village is not only a popular destination for domestic tourists but is also known worldwide. Its artistic creations have reached many countries, solidifying Non Nuoc’s reputation as a unique cultural and artistic symbol of Da Nang.
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Nam O Fish Sauce Craft Village
The Nam O fish sauce craft village was established in the early 20th century and quickly became one of the most renowned traditional craft villages in Da Nang. With over a hundred years of history, Nam O fish sauce has not only become a staple in the daily lives of people in Central Vietnam but also a unique cultural symbol, attracting the attention of food enthusiasts from the southern to the northern regions. Its rich flavor, high quality, and meticulous production process—passed down through generations—have earned Nam O fish sauce widespread acclaim.
What sets Nam O fish sauce apart is its distinctive and carefully refined production method. To achieve its signature flavor, Nam O fish sauce is made from black anchovies, a fish that is only caught in March when the fish are at their peak in protein content. The selected fish are neither too large nor too small and are salted in jars made from jackfruit wood, a type of wood that helps preserve the freshness and natural aroma of the sauce. The fish salting process is intricate and follows traditional handcraft methods to retain the original taste of the fish sauce, which is fragrant, bold, and savory.
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Visitors to the Nam O village not only have the chance to witness the fish sauce production process but can also purchase bottles of the renowned sauce to bring home as gifts for family and friends. Nam O fish sauce is not just an everyday condiment; it is a cultural legacy, embodying the essence of the sea and the heritage of Nam O’s fishing community through the generations. The village offers a range of products, from small souvenir bottles for tourists to premium fish sauce exported to countries such as France, the United States, and Australia.
Nam O fish sauce craft village represents more than just the production of a vital seasoning; it embodies a profound cultural heritage, enriching the traditional culinary legacy of Vietnam. For many visitors, a trip to Nam O village is not only an opportunity to experience the distinctive flavor of this prized fish sauce but also a journey into Vietnam’s deep-rooted cultural traditions and history.
Tuy Loan Rice Paper Craft Village
Located about 14 km southwest of Da Nang’s city center, Tuy Loan Craft Village boasts a nearly 200-year history. Visitors to this village not only have the chance to savor traditional rice paper and Quang noodles but also to explore and learn about the intricate process of making rice paper. The peaceful, traditional rural setting and the warm hospitality of the locals ensure an unforgettable experience for those on their journey to discover Da Nang.
Tuy Loan rice paper is more than just a food item; it plays a significant role in the cultural and spiritual life of the local community. According to the village elders, rice paper is often used to offer on ancestral altars during important ceremonies and memorials, symbolizing respect and remembrance of ancestors. This tradition has been passed down through generations, imbuing the craft of rice paper making with deep meaning. Each rice paper sheet is crafted with meticulous care and dedication, preserving not only the traditional craft but also the cultural and spiritual values of the community.
The key ingredient in making Tuy Loan rice paper is fragrant rice harvested during the winter-spring season. The rice is carefully selected and combined with fish sauce, salt, garlic, sesame, and sugar to create a unique flavor. What sets Tuy Loan rice paper apart is that after being made, the rice paper is toasted over a fire rather than dried in the sun like in other places. This method gives the rice paper a crispy texture, a fragrant aroma, and prevents mold, ensuring the product’s high quality and distinctive taste.
Today, Tuy Loan rice paper has grown beyond its local roots, becoming a beloved dish in many family meals and an attractive highlight for visitors. The combination of traditional flavors and deep cultural significance has made Tuy Loan rice paper a unique cultural symbol, not to be missed when visiting Da Nang.
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Cam Ne Mat Weaving Craft Village
Located about 14 km southwest of Da Nang’s city center, Cam Ne Village in Hoa Tien Commune, Hoa Vang District, is renowned for its long-standing traditional mat weaving craft. Nestled in a fertile plain, Cam Ne is famous for its handcrafted mats, which come in various sizes, patterns, and colors, showcasing the artisans’ skill and creativity.
With their dexterous hands and expertise passed down through generations, the artisans of Cam Ne have preserved and developed the craft for over 500 years. Despite sourcing materials from outside the village, Cam Ne mats are known for their superior quality, characterized by their durability, sturdiness, and the comfort they provide.
Visitors to the village can not only witness the intricate techniques of traditional mat weaving but also delve into the rich history and deep cultural values embedded in this ancient craft.
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Cam Le Sesame Rice Cracker Craft Village
Located in Khue Trung Ward, Hai Chau District, Da Nang, Cam Le Village is famous for its specialty sesame rice crackers, a culinary symbol of the Quang Nam-Da Nang region. These sesame rice crackers are made from a delicate combination of rice flour, glutinous rice flour, sugar, ginger, and sesame seeds, creating a distinct and rich flavor. There are two main types of crackers: “banh kho no” and “banh kho me,” each offering a unique crispy texture, with a delightful balance of sweetness and the nutty aroma of toasted sesame.
The craft of making sesame rice crackers in Cam Le has been preserved and passed down through generations. The traditional recipe has been carefully maintained, ensuring that the crackers retain their authentic taste for hundreds of years. The villagers of Cam Le take great pride in their craft, viewing it as a valuable part of their heritage that is deeply connected to the history and culture of the village. Despite the passage of time, the core values of this craft have been upheld, ensuring both quality and the celebration of Vietnam’s traditional culinary excellence.
Today, Cam Le sesame rice cracker production has expanded significantly, making the village a popular destination for both domestic and international tourists. Visitors not only get to savor these delicious crackers but also witness the meticulous and intricate process of crafting them by hand. From selecting ingredients, kneading the dough, steaming, and baking, to coating the crackers with sugar and sesame seeds, every step is carried out with care to ensure the best quality product.
With its unique flavor and cultural story, Cam Le sesame rice crackers have become a treasured gift that reflects the essence of the Quang Nam-Da Nang region, enriching Vietnam’s culinary heritage.
Conclusion
The traditional craft villages in Da Nang carry immense cultural and historical significance. Each village not only preserves intricate craftsmanship techniques but also develops unique products that help promote Vietnam’s culinary and artisanal heritage. Visitors to Da Nang have the chance to not only experience these traditional products but also feel the deep respect and preservation of cultural heritage passed down through generations. These craft villages play a key role in making Da Nang’s tourism scene more vibrant and enriching the local identity.
If you are planning a trip to Da Nang, be sure to include visits to the traditional craft villages in your itinerary. Don’t hesitate to contact SVietnam Travel for expert advice and special early booking offers.
