1. Canh Duong Fish Sauce Village – The Essence of the Sea
Located in Quang Trach District, Canh Duong Village is one of the oldest and most respected fish sauce producers in central Vietnam. The scent may be strong, but so is the tradition — families here have been fermenting anchovies in clay jars under the sun for centuries.
– What to experience: Watch the fermentation process, see large barrels of amber-colored fish sauce, and hear tales of the sea from local elders.
– Don’t miss: Bringing home a bottle of aged nuoc mam nhi — rich, savory, and proudly homemade.
2. Bao Ninh Fish Sauce Village – Sea to Table, the Traditional Way
Closer to Dong Hoi, the Bao Ninh Village continues the fish sauce tradition with its own twist. Located along the Nhat Le River, the village combines fishing, drying, and fermenting in one tight-knit community.
– What makes it special: The fish sauce here is famed for its deep flavor and natural processing, often paired with Bảo Ninh’s dried seafood products.
– Perfect for: Visitors staying in Dong Hoi who want a quick and authentic cultural side trip.
3. Quy Hau Conical Hat Village – Elegance Woven from Simplicity
Nestled quietly in Le Thuy District, Quy Hau Village keeps alive the art of crafting non la — Vietnam’s iconic conical hat. Made from palm leaves and bamboo, these hats aren’t just practical, they’re poetic.
– What to see: Artisans meticulously sewing layers of dried leaves, using bamboo frames and needle-thin thread.
– Try it yourself: Some families welcome visitors to try making a simple hat under their guidance.
4. Tan An Rice Paper Village – The Taste of Simplicity
Known for its rustic and aromatic rice paper, Tan An Village in Quang Ninh District offers a crispy, sun-dried delicacy that goes into spring rolls or becomes a snack on its own.
– Experience: Watch rice batter being spread thin on cloth steamers, then dried on woven trays under the sun.
– Must-try: Grilled rice paper with sesame and coconut — a crunchy delight!
5. Tho Don Weaving Village – The Art of Bamboo and Rattan
In the countryside of Quang Trach, Tho Don Village is filled with the tapping sounds of bamboo being split and shaped. Here, locals craft baskets, mats, sieves, and even furniture by hand.
– Why go: See how a raw bamboo stalk becomes a beautiful woven item, and maybe pick up a lightweight, durable basket as a souvenir.
– Local tip: The best time to visit is in the morning, when workshops are in full swing.
6. Quang Phong Broom-Making Village – From Grass to Craft
Who knew a broom could be so beautiful? In Quang Phong, dry đót grass becomes soft yet sturdy brooms, bound tightly with colorful string and skilled hands.
– What to observe: The drying of broom grass in neat rows, and the rhythmic binding process done entirely by hand.
– Fun fact: Many of the brooms you see in Central Vietnam come from this humble village.
7. Bo Trach Incense Village – Scent of the Spirit
In a quiet corner of Bo Trach, a village creates one of Vietnam’s most symbolic offerings: incense sticks. Bright red stems, golden powder, and the gentle aroma of herbs fill the air.
– Cultural touch: Incense is used in nearly every Vietnamese home and temple. Watching its creation is watching a spiritual tradition come alive.
– Good to know: Many villagers use natural scents like cinnamon or basil for their incense blends.
Tips for Visiting Craft Villages in Quang Binh
– Come early: Mornings are best to see full activity — from fish sauce stirring to hat sewing.
– Bring cash: Many artisans sell directly from home, and prices are very reasonable.
– Be respectful: Ask before taking photos, and always greet with a smile and a “Chào cô/chú.”
– Buy small, buy meaningful: Even a simple handmade fan or bottle of fish sauce supports tradition and local livelihoods.
Conclusion
In Quang Binh, every handmade product tells a story — of family, of memory, of quiet resilience. These craft villages are not museum pieces; they are living chapters in Vietnam’s cultural book. Visiting them is not just sightseeing — it’s a way to connect with real people, real skills, and real heritage.So the next time you think of caves or beaches, don’t forget to look inland — where tradition lives on, one conical hat, one bamboo basket, and one drop of fish sauce at a time.
