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Hanoi has long been known for its famous landscapes and ancient landmarks, some of which are hundreds of years old, befitting the city’s title of "Land of a Thousand Years of Civilization." Today, let's explore Duong Lam Ancient Village with BDATrip – a place that preserves unique cultural and architectural heritages, rarely found anywhere else!
Located approximately 44 km to the west of Hanoi's bustling city center, Duong Lam Ancient Village is nestled in the heart of Son Tay Town, making it an excellent addition to a Hanoi city tour. This ancient settlement is often regarded as a living museum, where history and tradition converge in a serene, picturesque setting. While commonly referred to as a single entity, the village is actually a collection of nine smaller hamlets, each contributing its own charm and cultural essence.
The core area consists of Mong Phu, Dong Sang, Cam Thinh, Doai Giap, and Cam Lam, which together form a closely-knit community. These villages have upheld their ancient customs, traditional lifestyles, and architectural marvels for generations. A visit here not only offers scenic views but also a profound connection to Vietnam's past. Furthermore, Duong Lam is famously known as the "land of two kings," being the birthplace of national heroes Phung Hung and Ngo Quyen, both of whom played significant roles in Vietnam’s historical resistance against foreign invaders.
When visiting Duong Lam, you'll be pleased to know that it’s a budget-friendly destination:
For those embarking on a Hanoi walking tour, renting a bicycle is a delightful way to explore the narrow lanes and scenic countryside. The slow pace allows you to fully absorb the village’s tranquil atmosphere, making it a highlight of Hanoi tourism.
Upon entering Duong Lam Ancient Village, visitors are immediately greeted by the iconic Mong Phu Village Gate, a stunning architectural relic constructed in 1833. This gate, standing proudly beside a majestic banyan tree that has withstood over 300 years of history, serves as a symbol of the village’s endurance and heritage. The entrance exudes an aura of ancient charm and rural simplicity, setting the tone for your journey through one of Vietnam’s most well-preserved traditional villages.
The highlight of Duong Lam’s charm lies in its laterite architecture. The houses and walls are predominantly built from laterite stone, a material rich in iron oxide, giving them their characteristic dark yellow hue. Known as the "laterite village," Duong Lam is one of the few places in Vietnam where this unique construction style is still visible. These weathered yet enduring walls, coupled with red-brick-paved pathways, create an idyllic and nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of an ancient Vietnamese countryside.
Walking along the clean, quiet lanes surrounded by these historic walls is like stepping back in time. The soothing sound of rustling leaves and the sight of the yellow laterite harmonizing with the surrounding greenery offer an unmatched sense of serenity. For those seeking authentic experiences during their Hanoi walking tour, Duong Lam provides a unique glimpse into the rustic lifestyle of the past.
Nestled in the heart of Mong Phu Village, Mrs. Dien’s ancient house is an extraordinary example of traditional Vietnamese architecture. With over 200 years of history etched into its wooden beams and moss-covered tiles, this house tells the story of a bygone era. Its beauty lies not only in its physical structure but also in the memories and cultural heritage it has preserved through the years.
Visitors are welcomed by Mrs. Dien’s granddaughter, a spirited 95-year-old woman who delights in sharing stories about the family’s legacy and the village’s traditions. Inside the house, you'll find a cozy, timeworn space that serves as a window into the daily lives of Vietnam's past generations. The walls, adorned with family heirlooms and historical artifacts, create a rich narrative that captivates all who enter.
One of the most enchanting aspects of this visit is the opportunity to sample local delicacies like che lam (a sweet, sticky rice cake) and nuoc voi (mulberry leaf tea). These traditional treats are not only delicious but also deeply tied to the village's identity, offering visitors a literal taste of its heritage.
A short stroll from Mrs. Dien’s house brings you to the grand Mong Phu Communal House, an architectural treasure spanning 1,800 square meters. Constructed over 380 years ago, this communal house is a testament to the skills of Master Craftsman Muc Hung, whose artistry and craftsmanship have ensured its lasting beauty. Unlike typical communal houses, this structure showcases a harmonious blend of Vietnamese and Muong cultural influences, particularly in its design resembling a stilt house with an elevated wooden floor.
Inside, visitors are greeted by the sight of intricately carved wooden beams and sacred calligraphy boards, each radiating cultural significance. The communal house once served as a gathering place for the villagers, hosting ceremonies and festivals that continue to this day. It remains a sacred space, filled with a sense of reverence and history.
The house’s central location in the village makes it a must-see for anyone exploring Duong Lam Ancient Village. Its impressive scale and unique architectural features set it apart, providing plenty of opportunities for awe-inspiring photographs. For lovers of Hanoi tourism, this communal house represents an essential stop to understand the historical and cultural fabric of the region.
When visiting Duong Lam Ancient Village, if you don’t stop by Mr. Hung's house, you’ll miss an important part of Mong Phu Village. This is the oldest house in the village, built in 1649, and has been inhabited by 12 generations over nearly 400 years. The house’s unique feature is its ancient gate, made from a mixture of soil, stone, rice husks, and mud, creating a durable and distinctive structure. If you’re passionate about architecture, this place will provide valuable lessons and may serve as a source of creative inspiration.
The house has a traditional design with five compartments and two wings, with the three central compartments dedicated to ancestor worship, and an antique truong ky (long bench) set for receiving guests. The two side wings are private spaces for resting. Notably, the middle of the house features a canh pho door system that creates a harmonious and ancient feel, highlighting the overall design.
Have you ever imagined a house built without using a single iron nail? Mr. The's house, located in Xom Xui, Mong Phu village, is a seven-compartment house constructed entirely using traditional mortise and tenon techniques, where wooden joints are used to interlock the structure without a single nail—an impressively unique feature.
Additionally, the house is famous for its traditional soy sauce-making craft, passed down through generations. As soon as you step into the yard, you’ll catch the gentle aroma of soy sauce wafting through the air from the neatly arranged jars. Furthermore, the house reflects the rich culture of the northern region, with clusters of corn hanging from beams and traditional corn-grinding tools in the distance.
When you visit, don't miss the chance to sample their soy sauce and ground rice wine—famous specialties of the house. The rich and distinctive flavors will surely captivate you from the first taste.
While wandering around the village, you’ll easily come across small, charming cafés nestled in simple wooden stalls, offering a peaceful and rustic atmosphere. These cafés often serve traditional Hanoi specialties like che lam cake and refreshing nuoc voi tea. Chatting with the café owner, listening to fascinating stories about the two types of che lam, and buying a few packs as gifts for family and friends will surely be a memorable experience.
Don’t forget to stop by Café Lang – a more "premium" version of the small roadside cafés. With rustic wooden chairs and a simple setting, this café evokes a sense of nostalgia, as though you're reliving childhood memories. Although not overly elaborate, the space here brings back fond memories from youth. The prices are also incredibly affordable, with the most expensive item being just 25,000 VND – perfect for indulging without worrying about the cost. The café’s owner, a local resident, is incredibly friendly, and the coffee here is particularly fragrant.
We hope this article has helped you discover 6 exciting and unique attractions at Duong Lam Ancient Village, while also learning more about the history and formation of this ancient village. For those who love to explore history, these are must-visit spots! Additionally, Hanoi has countless other beautiful destinations that BDATrip is eager to introduce to you. Don’t miss the chance to explore them!
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