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Vạn Phúc Silk Village, a thousand-year-old traditional craft village nestled in the heart of the capital, preserves a cultural heritage spanning generations. Explore this place with Klook Vietnam!
Vạn Phúc Silk Village, located in Ha Dong, proudly stands as one of the most renowned traditional silk-weaving villages in Vietnam. Recognized as the 'oldest active silk-weaving village,' it holds a unique cultural and artistic heritage with over 1000 years of history. Vạn Phúc Village is not just an icon of traditional craftsmanship but also an enticing tourist destination with stunning Instagram-worthy spaces. Follow Klook Vietnam to discover the distinct features of this craft village!
About Vạn Phúc Silk Village
Where is Vạn Phúc Silk Village?
Vạn Phúc Silk Village, also known as Hà Đông Silk Village, is situated along the Nhue River in Vạn Phúc Ward, Hà Đông District, over 10 km from the center of Hanoi. It is one of the over 1,000 traditional craft villages still thriving in Vietnam.
Vạn Phúc Silk Village is considered the cradle of silk weaving, with a history spanning over a thousand years. Despite rapid urbanization, it retains the imprints of ancient rural life with village gates, banyan trees, water wells, communal yards, and more. Today, nearly 800 households still practice traditional silk weaving in the village. Vạn Phúc Silk Village, with its timeless beauty, is a unique destination for those interested in exploring Vietnam's traditional silk weaving craft.
History of Vạn Phúc Silk Village
According to ancient documents and artifacts, silk weaving in Vạn Phúc dates back around 1000 years. Initially named Vạn Bảo, the village changed its name to Vạn Phúc due to the displeasure of King Nguyễn.
Legend has it that about 1100 years ago, the region was ruled by the fairy couple Giao Chỉ Cao Biền. The fairy wife, Lady Lã Thị Nga, taught the locals how to earn a living and passed down the art of silk weaving. Over time, the craft prospered, becoming a famous brand. During the Nguyen Dynasty, Vạn Phúc silk was favored by kings, with garments of King Khải Định and King Bảo Đại tailored from Vạn Phúc silk.
Not only renowned domestically but Vạn Phúc silk also gained international acclaim, embraced by many European countries. In 1931 and 1932, Vạn Phúc silk was officially introduced to the international market at major fairs in Marseille and Paris. The French of that time praised Vạn Phúc silk as exquisitely woven fabric, top-quality throughout Indochina. By 1958, Vạn Phúc silk was exported to Eastern European countries, contributing significantly to the nation's economy.
Products of Vạn Phúc Silk Village
Vạn Phúc Silk Village has long been renowned for its unique and exquisite products. It produces a variety of silk products, from traditional silk to special types such as brocade, satin, and various other silk fabrics. Among them, the Van silk stands out with two types: pink orchid pattern and dual dragons and phoenixes pattern, featuring raised and submerged flowers creating intriguing effects when illuminated. The standard size of Vạn Phúc silk fabric is usually between 90–97 cm.
Not only diverse in types, Vạn Phúc silk products also come in a variety of decorative patterns. Silk fabrics in Vạn Phúc are often adorned with dynamic patterns of animals, plants, objects, and abstract designs. Patterns like Double Cranes, Longevity Summit, and Four Deities are exemplary of the creativity and craftsmanship of Vạn Phúc artisans.
How to Get to Vạn Phúc Silk Village from Hanoi
The silk village is only 10 km from the center of Hanoi, convenient for #teamKlook to explore. You can consider some convenient transportation options below:
- Bus: Public transportation is a suitable choice for quick and economical travel. Some bus routes to Vạn Phúc Village include: #3, #7, #14, #20c, #25, #26, #31, #32, #36, #50, #55, and #79.
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Personal vehicle: If you want the freedom to plan your itinerary and visit multiple places, you can use personal vehicles such as motorcycles or cars. The route from the center to the silk village: Hanoi center - Nguyen Trai Street - Ha Dong Post Office - turn right to Vạn Phúc. Alternatively, you can take the route: Hanoi center - Le Van Luong Street - To Hieu Street - Vạn Phúc Village.
- Rental vehicles: You can take a taxi or use ride-hailing services for convenient transportation to the silk village if you don't have your own vehicle.
Highlights of Tourism in Vạn Phúc Silk Village
1. Vạn Phúc Village Gate - Traditional Village Entrance
To enter the silk village, #teamKlook needs to pass through the village gate, a tall and imposing entrance in the midst of the modern city. The current gate is a newly constructed replica of the old village gate with a three-entrance structure, entirely built with red bricks. The main gate in the center bears the inscription 'VILLAGE VẠN PHÚC,' flanked by two side gates. The gate not only embodies the tradition of a 1000-year-old craft village but also symbolizes the resilience of the people here. The artisans in the village are ready to overcome any difficulties to preserve and develop the traditional silk craft.
Moreover, in front of the village gate, you will see a gray-white stone block with the words 'Vạn Phúc Silk Village.' The characters are deeply engraved into the stone with a soft and silky texture. The image of the stone block in front of the gate is both familiar and impressive, like a certification for a renowned craft village.
2. Colorful Umbrella Street
The vibrant umbrella street in Vạn Phúc silk village is a standout attraction that captivates visitors each time they visit. Before entering the inner area of the village, you will be surprised by the beautiful array of colors created by thousands of small umbrellas hanging above, covering a 100-meter stretch. This is a fascinating spot for you to capture impressive photos, an ideal check-in location.
In the evening, when Vạn Phúc is illuminated, the colorful umbrella street becomes even more enchanting. Glittering lights combined with vibrant colors create a magical space. Along both sides of the street, antique silk shops stand side by side. It feels like you are entering a fairy world of color and light, where tradition and modernity blend, making the journey to Vạn Phúc silk village memorable and exciting.
3. Vạn Phúc Silk Market
Vạn Phúc Silk Market, situated in the renowned silk village of Vietnam, is an unmissable highlight when you come for a visit. Here, visitors will have the chance to indulge in the softness and brilliance of handmade silk pieces. The uniqueness of Vạn Phúc silk products lies in their diverse patterns, including four main types: botanical, animal, abstract, and objects. What makes them exceptional is the symmetrical design, creating a sense of sophistication and elegance. Vạn Phúc silk is made from silkworms, and to create a perfect product, artisans must go through multiple stages, from silk processing, yarn warping, weaving, dyeing to stretching.
The stalls at Vạn Phúc Silk Market offer a variety of products such as silk fabric, silk clothing, and silk scarves, catering to every traveler's need. You can choose impressive silk items to bring as gifts or add to your personal collection. Vạn Phúc Silk Market is not just a shopping place but also a unique cultural experience, showcasing the pride and artistry of traditional silk artisans in Vietnam.
4. Impressive Mural Wall in Vạn Phúc Silk Craft Village
In Vạn Phúc silk village, beyond the colorful and shaded umbrella street, visitors also have the opportunity to explore a unique tourist attraction - the impressive mural wall. Located in the heart of the silk village, this wall has become a focal point attracting the attention of visitors and art enthusiasts.
The simple and rustic images on this wall are the work of teachers at Vạn Phúc kindergarten. They have hand-painted the wall to depict the daily life and activities of the craft village. The simple drawings on this unique wall portray the distinctive features of Vạn Phúc silk village, from scenes of ancient banyan trees by the water to village communal yards and the characteristic silk weaving process.
The mural wall is not just an eye-catching piece of art but also an excellent place for travelers to delve deeper into the life and work of the people in this silk village. It's a fantastic spot for art lovers and young adventurers looking to capture impressive photos.
5. Vạn Phúc Craft Village Festival
Vạn Phúc Craft Village Festival is an exciting event that attracts visitors from all over to explore the beauty of the traditional silk village in Vietnam. The festival takes place from the 8th to the 11th day of the 11th lunar month annually, in a lively and festive atmosphere. It's not just an opportunity for visitors to tour and shop for quality silk products, but also a chance to discover the historical and cultural beauty of silk weaving.
The festival is divided into three main parts: the ceremony, the festival, and the craft village promotion section. Visitors will have the chance to learn about silk thread extraction, the silk weaving process, and visit ancient weaving workshops. During the day, the silk village is vibrant with colorful silk strips under the sunlight, and as night falls, the shimmering yellow lights make the village even more enchanting. The lights blend into each silk thread, creating a romantic and unique painting.
The Vạn Phúc Craft Village Festival is not only an opportunity to explore the world of silk weaving but also an impressive cultural experience. It's a place where travelers can enjoy the fusion of tradition and modern creativity, as well as admire exquisite and beautiful handmade products.
6. Vạn Phúc Village Communal House
Vạn Phúc Village Communal House, situated in the heart of the silk village, stands out as a significant highlight in the travel journey of this renowned craft village. It's not just a visually pleasing architectural marvel but also holds special historical and cultural values.
The communal house venerates Thành Hoàng, known as the 'Protector of the Nation - Helper of the People.' With its red-tiled roof exuding a solemn atmosphere, this structure has endured through generations. It symbolizes the gratitude and reverence of the people of Vạn Phúc for their forefathers who contributed to the fame of the silk village.
According to legend, Thành Hoàng, also known as the Craft Ancestor of the silk village, is believed to be Mrs. Lã Thị Nga, who pioneered silk farming and weaving for the entire region. Behind the communal house, traditional weaving tools such as lacquered spindles and ivory rulers are preserved, creating a unique cultural space.
Every year, on the 10th day of the 8th lunar month and the 25th day of the 12th lunar month, Vạn Phúc Village organizes the ancestral anniversary festival at Thành Hoàng Communal House. It's an occasion for locals and visitors to participate in traditional activities, immersing themselves in the sacred atmosphere and rich cultural identity of Vietnam.
7. Ancient Pagoda in Vạn Phúc Craft Village
Vạn Phúc Pagoda, one of the prominent spiritual landmarks in the silk village, follows the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, facing south, and showcases traditional Vietnamese architecture and artistry.
Vạn Phúc Pagoda encompasses impressive structures like the Triple Gate with three main arched entrances adorned with curved arches and the temple bell on the upper floor. The outer house boasts remarkable architecture, tilting roofs, and sloping eaves. The front hall and Upper Sanctuary house Buddha statues and deities, including the Three Jewels, Guanyin, Mahasthamaprapta, Avalokiteshvara, Jade Emperor, and various other divine figures. The Nine-Dragon Altar is an impressive focal point, enhancing the sacred atmosphere of the pagoda.
Beyond the stunning architectural works, Vạn Phúc Pagoda features extensive grounds with a courtyard, fruit tree garden, and monk's stupa. This is where visitors can delve into the culture, spirituality, and traditional art of Vietnam.
Vạn Phúc Pagoda has been recognized as an architectural and artistic heritage site, serving as an intriguing stop for travelers eager to explore the unique cultural and spiritual beauty of Vạn Phúc Silk Village and the Hà Tây region.
Shopping Tips in Vạn Phúc Silk Village
For an enjoyable and convenient shopping experience in the silk village, consider these Klooker tips:
- Plan your purchases in advance: Vạn Phúc offers a myriad of beautiful and diverse products. Prepare a list of items you intend to buy to avoid indecision or excessive shopping.
- Check prices before buying: Prices in Vạn Phúc usually don't vary significantly. However, it's advisable to compare prices at different stores and negotiate for the most reasonable deal.Vạn Phúc Silk Village, a 1,000-year-old craft village thriving amidst Hanoi, is a culturally rich heritage waiting for #teamKlook to explore. The shimmering silk under the sun and the familiar scenes of Vietnamese countryside will transport you to a serene backdrop, distinct from the bustling modern capital.Explore more insightful articles by Klook Vietnam and confidently plan your adventures like a local: 27 Famous Hanoi Travel Destinations for New Experiences, 20 Most Attractive Hanoi Tours for Travel Enthusiasts, 4 Days 3 Nights Independent Travel Experience in Hanoi, Top Tours & Experiences in Hanoi.Are you ready for the exciting experiences in Vĩnh Phúc Silk Village?
