TransportThien Huong Village is a peaceful, beautiful place in Vietnam. It is known for its traditional stilt houses and friendly people. The village has stunning views of nature and is a great spot to learn about the local culture. Visitors can enjoy a calm, relaxing time, experience daily life, and see the unique customs of the local people.
Location of Thien Huong Village
Thien Huong Village is located about 6 kilometers from Dong Van town in Ha Giang province, in the northern part of Vietnam. This peaceful Ha Giang village offers beautiful landscapes and a glimpse into the local culture and traditions.
What Are Special Things about Thien Huong Village
Thien Huong Village is known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and vibrant traditions. It offers a unique and authentic experience for every visitor. Let’s explore together!
Ancient Banana Trees Worshiped For Blessings
Upon arriving at the village, we are greeted by ancient banana trees, sacred to the forest god. Every month, on the 1st and 15th lunar days, villagers gather to worship, seeking blessings for good harvests and health. Four of these trees are estimated to be 700-750 years old, standing as symbols of the village’s deep spiritual connection to nature. Their enduring presence reflects the continuity of tradition and the sacred bond between the people and the land.
Residents In Thien Huong Village
Thien Huong village is home to 43 families from three ethnic groups: the Tay, Nung, and Giay. The Tay people are the largest group, with around 200 members. They live in traditional “Trinh Tuong” houses, known for their unique and beautiful design. These houses, typical of the region, have thick walls, tiled roofs in the Ying-Yang style, and sturdy wooden frames. The architecture reflects the village’s cultural identity and the close relationship between the people and their environment.
Traditional Tày Ethnic Houses – Called “Trinh Tuong”
The house has 3 main parts and sometimes one or 2 extra rooms. It has two entrances. In the middle, there is a sacred altar for the ancestors, and next to it is the living room. On the left side, you’ll find the guest rooms and kitchen, and on the right side, there are more guest rooms.
Stone walls and fireplaces separate the rooms. The Tay family pays special attention to the altar, with special writing on both sides. At the entrance, they hang three talismans to protect the house and guests from evil spirits, as part of their beliefs. The design shows their respect for family traditions and spiritual customs.
Corn Wine
When you hear about Dong Van, you can’t forget its famous corn wine. The best corn wine comes from Thien Huong village, and once you try it, you’ll agree. The wine is made with great care and skill. To make just one liter, which costs about 1.58 $ ~ 40,000 VND, the villagers use a special recipe passed down through generations.
The process takes time and involves cooking the corn, letting it cool, and then mixing it with a unique ferment. What makes it special is the use of thirty different herbs that are carefully fermented. After mixing, the whole thing is covered with a bag and left for a week. Then, the wine is distilled, resulting in a smooth, flavorful drink.
The Friendly Life of Residents
When you visit, the hosts greet you kindly and offer tea or corn wine, a special drink that many people remember. If you want to try something new, you can also taste “Thuoc lao”, a strong tobacco from the mountains. It’s for people who smoke a lot.
The locals farm, raise animals and make crafts to live. They also make corn wine, which is liked by people in other places too. Women and girls weave, and children play outside. After school, with some candies, the kids are ready to have fun!
Best Time To Visit Thien Huong Village
- Spring (March to May): The village has many blooming flowers in spring. It’s a nice time to explore, though it can sometimes rain. The weather is mild, and nature looks fresh and colorful.
- Summer (June to August): The mountains and forests are very green and full of life. But be careful during summer because it rains a lot, and the roads can be slippery and hard to travel.
- Autumn (September to November): This is the best time to visit. The weather is pleasant, and the Ha Giang rice fields turn golden. It’s a perfect time for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful scenery.
- Winter (December to February): Winter is quieter and less crowded. It’s cold, but you can still visit if you like the peace. Be ready for chilly weather, but it’s a calm time to enjoy the village.
How To Get To Thien Huong Village?
To reach Thien Huong Village, follow these simple steps starting from Hanoi and traveling through Ha Giang and Dong Van before arriving at this scenic destination.
Step 1: Travel from Hanoi to Ha Giang
Start by traveling from Hanoi to Ha Giang, which takes about 6 hours by bus, private car, or motorbike.
Step 2: From Ha Giang to Dong Van
Once in Ha Giang, head to Dong Van town, which is around 120 kilometers away. The drive takes about 3 hours by car or motorbike.
Step 3: Travel from Dong Van to Thien Huong Village
From Dong Van, continue your journey for 6 kilometers to Thien Huong Village. You can rent a motorbike or take a taxi for this short distance.
Step 4: Drive Carefully
The roads leading to the village are narrow and winding, so make sure to drive carefully.
Tips To Visit Thien Huong Village
- Comfortable footwear: Wear comfortable shoes to explore the village’s scenic trails and traditional stilt houses.
- Capture memories: Bring a camera to photograph the beautiful landscapes and vibrant local life in Thien Huong Village.
- Respect local customs: Be mindful of local greetings and dress codes when interacting with the villagers.
- Try local food: Don’t miss tasting the unique dishes made from fresh ingredients grown in the village.
- Hire a guide: Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the culture and history of the village.
- Respect the environment: Avoid leaving trash behind and respect the natural surroundings during your visit.
- Cash preparation: Bring enough cash with you as ATMs may not be available in the village.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Thien Huong Village is a wonderful place to visit. The village offers beautiful views, traditional houses, and a chance to experience local culture. You can enjoy peaceful moments and learn about the lifestyle of the people living there. Thien Huong Village is a great spot for anyone looking to relax and explore Vietnamese traditions.
