Duong Lam Ancient Village, a precious gem of Vietnamese culture, is located about 44 km from the center of Hanoi. This place not only preserves unique architectural values but also offers an ideal destination to experience the traditional beauty of the Vietnamese people. With its ancient houses, village gates, wells, and tranquil landscapes, Duong Lam promises to provide you with wonderful experiences. Let’s explore the fascinating aspects of this ancient village!

Getting to Duong Lam Ancient Village: Easy and Convenient

Address:

• Duong Lam Commune, Son Tay Town, Hanoi

Duong Lam Ancient Village is situated on the southern bank of the Red River, in Son Tay Town, an area known for its beautiful natural landscapes and fresh air. Visiting Duong Lam, you will feel the peace of the northern countryside, where many cultural values and traditional customs are still preserved.

Transportation Options:

Getting to Duong Lam is very convenient, and you can choose from several transportation methods:

• Bus: This is the safest and most economical option for those who prefer not to drive. Bus routes such as 71 (My Dinh – Son Tay Bus Station), 73 (My Dinh – Chua Thay), and 89 (Yen Nghia Bus Station – Son Tay Bus Station) have ticket prices ranging from 9,000 to 20,000 VND. Buses run frequently, making it easy to plan your trip.
• Motorbike or Private Car: If you prefer independence and want to explore more, driving your own vehicle is an ideal choice. You just need to follow the Thang Long Boulevard, turn right at Hoa Lac intersection, and continue along Road 21 through Son Loc; a short distance later, you will see signs leading to the ancient village. Alternatively, you can take Road 32 to Son Tay Town, then turn left onto Road 21 to enter the ancient village.
• Passenger Bus: Many tourists also opt for passenger buses from Hanoi to Duong Lam. You can catch the My Dinh – Phu Tho bus route to reach the ancient village.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Services like Grab, Be, or Xanh SM are available, providing you with a convenient and quick way to travel.

Exploring Fascinating Attractions in Duong Lam Ancient Village

Mong Phu Village Gate: The Gateway to the Past

Mong Phu Village Gate, built in 1833, is a distinctive symbol of Duong Lam Ancient Village. With its arched design and laterite stone construction, the gate reflects the architectural culture of the Le Dynasty. As you pass through the village gate, you will feel the tranquility and fresh air of a northern countryside village.

Next to the village gate stands a centuries-old banyan tree, over 300 years old, providing shade for locals and visitors to rest. This scenery creates a beautiful, peaceful picture that embodies the essence of Vietnamese rural life.

Duong Lam Village Communal House: A Testament to Time

The communal house of Duong Lam, built in 1684, is one of the oldest architectural structures in the area. It showcases the unique architectural style of the Viet-Muong culture with its stilt houses and wooden floors elevated above the ground, creating a spacious and cool environment.

Upon entering the communal house, you will find the Nghi Mon, the communal yard, and two side halls (Ta Mac and Huu Mac), with the main hall (Dai Dinh) at the center. Inside, numerous ancient horizontal lacquered boards and couplets dating back hundreds of years hang proudly, reflecting the culture and beliefs of the local people. This is also where traditional festivals are held, bringing the community together to pray for bountiful harvests and good health.

Duong Lam Ancient Wells: The Soul of the Countryside

Ancient wells are an indispensable part of the daily life of Duong Lam’s residents. These wells not only provide drinking water but also serve as a gathering place for the community. The water from these wells is clear, cool, and clean, used by locals every day.

As you stroll around the village, you will encounter many ancient wells, each telling its own story and memories of the people. These wells have maintained their original beauty and sturdiness for hundreds of years, serving as a testament to the resilience of Vietnamese rural culture.

Giang Van Minh Memorial: Honoring a National Hero

The Giang Van Minh Memorial was built during the reign of King Tu Duc to honor the contributions of Tham Hoa Giang Van Minh, who played a significant role in protecting the nation’s honor when traveling to China.

The memorial is not only a tourist attraction but also an educational site for instilling patriotic values in younger generations. Its architecture features classic styles, with intricate details that create a solemn and sacred atmosphere.

Ba Dien’s Ancient House: A Cultural Heritage of Northern Vietnam

Ba Dien’s ancient house, over 200 years old, is one of the representative ancient houses in Duong Lam. The house bears the marks of time through layers of moss, cracked tiles, and faded decor, showcasing traditional architectural styles.

Inside the house, you will find various antique items, from furniture to everyday utensils, all of which evoke memories of a bygone era. This is an ideal place to learn about the culture and lifestyle of ancient Northern Vietnamese people.

Mr. Hung’s Ancient House: A Must-Visit Check-in Spot

Mr. Hung’s ancient house, nearly 400 years old, is a must-visit when coming to Duong Lam. This house has been home to 12 generations and still retains the essence of traditional Vietnamese architecture.

As you arrive, you will be impressed by the ancient gate made of earth and stone, bound together with straw and mud. The courtyard is adorned with flower beds, trees, and jars of rice wine, creating a peaceful and rustic atmosphere. This is a perfect spot for taking photos and capturing memories.

Mr. The’s Ancient House: No Nails Used

Mr. The’s house is one of the most unique houses in Duong Lam. Built entirely without nails, all seven sections of the house are connected using traditional joinery techniques.

As you enter the courtyard, you will catch the fragrant aroma of jars of fermented soybean paste lined up neatly. The famous soy sauce here is a highlight you should not forget to buy as a souvenir!

Ngô Quyền Tomb and Temple: A Sacred Space

Ngô Quyền Tomb, located on Cam Hill, is dedicated to the heroic king who defeated the Southern Han army in 938 AD, regaining independence for the nation. The tomb and temple complex may be small, but it is meticulously maintained, surrounded by lush greenery and beautiful flowers, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.

When visiting, you will feel the reverence and gratitude of the locals towards the significant contributions of King Ngô Quyền. This site also hosts many traditional festivals, attracting both tourists and local residents.

Village Café: A Place to Relax

After a day of exploration, the Village Café will be an ideal stop for you. Although it is just a small café by the roadside, with rustic wooden tables and chairs, the ambiance is peaceful, quiet, and nostalgic.

Here, you can enjoy delicious cups of tea and coffee at affordable prices, surrounded by the fresh air of the countryside. This is also a perfect spot to rest, relax, and observe the simple life of the local people.

Unique Cuisine in Duong Lam Ancient Village

When visiting Duong Lam, you not only get to explore the sights but also indulge in a variety of delicious local specialties that reflect the flavors of Northern Vietnamese rural cuisine. Here are some dishes you shouldn’t miss:

• Mia Chicken: This type of chicken has small legs and golden feathers. When boiled, the meat is white, the skin is golden and crispy. Historically, mia chicken was a royal dish reserved for kings or special village festivals. Be sure to try this specialty when visiting Duong Lam.
• Roasted Pork: Famous not only for its unique flavor but also for its elaborate preparation method. The highlight of this dish is the young guava leaves, finely chopped and marinated with the meat. Enjoying a piece of crispy, tender, and fragrant pork infused with guava aroma is truly delightful.
• Kho Dessert: Made from steamed mung beans, sugar, and stirred until smooth, kho dessert is best enjoyed when chilled. Eating small pieces while sipping green tea creates a delightful and soothing experience.
• Rice Fermented Soy Sauce: This rustic dish is made from rice, soybeans, salt, and water from the village wells. It is used as a dip for vegetables or fried tofu, enhancing the flavor of various dishes.
• Sesame Candy: Made from simple ingredients like peanuts, sesame, sugar, and malt, enjoying a few pieces of this candy with a cup of green tea is a delightful experience.
• Tee Cake: While tee cakes can be found everywhere, the ones in Duong Lam have their unique characteristics. Here, they are wrapped in dong leaves, elongated, with filling spread evenly along the leaf. The cake has a distinct flavor, chewy and fragrant.

Entrance Fee for Duong Lam Ancient Village

The entrance fee for Duong Lam Ancient Village is 20,000 VND for adults, 20,000 VND for children over 14 years old, and free for children under 14 years old.

To save time, you can purchase tickets online in advance. Upon arrival at the village, simply present the QR code to the ticket checker to enter without waiting in line. If you forget to buy tickets online or prefer to buy them at the entrance, that option is also available.

Travel Tips for Duong Lam Ancient Village

Ideal Visiting Times:

You can visit Duong Lam Ancient Village at any time of the year. However, the festival season and the rice harvest season are the most ideal and interesting times to visit. During the festival season, the lively atmosphere with cultural and artistic activities will make your experience more exciting. In the rice harvest season, the golden fields create stunning landscapes for you to capture beautiful photos.

Accommodation Options:

If you wish to stay overnight in Duong Lam to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside, there are many options available. You can choose from hotels, homestays, or guesthouses in Son Tay, all at very reasonable prices. Some homestays even offer agricultural experiences, giving you a chance to learn about the local lifestyle.

Duong Lam Ancient Village is not just an attractive tourist destination but also a place that preserves valuable cultural and historical values of the Vietnamese nation. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience simple rural life, enjoy delicious local dishes, and learn about traditional culture. Plan your trip to Duong Lam Ancient Village to discover the wonderful things this place has to offer!