Duong Lam Ancient Village in Hanoi: Explore Vietnam’s First Heritage Village

Duong Lam Ancient Village, often called the “land of laterite and rice,” is recognized as Vietnam’s first national heritage village. It is home to centuries-old houses, mossy village gates, ancient wells, and historic temples. For travelers seeking to experience the authentic charm of Northern Vietnam’s countryside, a visit to Duong Lam offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and tradition.

1. Where Is Duong Lam Ancient Village?

Address: Duong Lam Ancient Village, Son Tay District, Hanoi
Opening hours: From 8:00 am – 5:00 pm daily (including weekends & holidays)
Entry fee: 20,000 VND for adults, 10,000 VND for children; motorbike parking costs around 10,000 VND/vehicle.

Duong Lam Ancient Village is located in Son Tay District, Hanoi, only 44 kilometers away from the city center. It is right next to the intersection between Ho Chi Minh Road and National Road 32, which makes it very convenient for tourists to visit.

Visiting this village in Vietnam, you will notice that it has most of the features of an old village, with banyan trees, wells, communal courtyards, pagodas and temples, winding village roads, old wooden houses, red-brick walls, etc. Duong Lam Ancient Village appeared as an ancient town full of nostalgia and peace.

The village has nearly 1,000 old houses built more than 370 years ago. They are all built with traditional materials: laterite, bamboo, oak, terracotta bricks, tiles, etc. A traditional house of Duong Lam typically includes a gate, fence, yard, garden, main building, kitchen, and poultry barn. Some large houses also have wells, and even ponds. The old houses in Duong Lam often face the south and southeast, making them cool in summer and warm in winter.

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2. Best Time to Visit Duong Lam Ancient Village for an Authentic Experience

You can explore Duong Lam Ancient Village at any time of the year, but the festive season and harvest season are considered the most magical times to visit. During these periods, the village’s ancient charm is enhanced by vibrant cultural activities and stunning countryside scenery, offering visitors a truly immersive experience.

2.1 Festive Season (First Lunar Month) - Immerse Yourself in Vietnamese Traditions

The first lunar month (usually January-February) is one of the best times to visit Duong Lam, as the village comes alive with traditional festivals. These celebrations are held at the communal house - the heart of village life - where you can witness a vibrant mix of ritual ceremonies, palanquin processions, traditional offerings, and folk games.

It’s also the perfect time to taste local delicacies prepared exclusively for the occasion and to immerse yourself in the joyful atmosphere filled with drumbeats, laughter, and colorful traditional costumes. Visiting during the festive season is not just a sightseeing trip — it’s a cultural journey that offers deep insight into the spiritual and communal life of rural Vietnam.

2.2 Harvest Season (May – June) – Capture the Village’s Most Peaceful Beauty

Another ideal time to explore Duong Lam is during the harvest season, typically in May and June. As the rice fields turn golden and farmers prepare for harvest, the village transforms into a picturesque countryside scene. Roads are lined with sun-dried straw, traditional carts move slowly through the fields, and the scent of freshly harvested rice fills the air.

This season is particularly photogenic, making it a favorite for photographers and culture lovers alike. The slower pace of rural life and the gentle beauty of the landscape provide a peaceful escape from the bustle of Hanoi, allowing you to fully appreciate the timeless charm of Duong Lam.

3. What to explore on your trip to Duong Lam Ancient Village?

3.1 Mong Phu village gate

Mong Phu village gate is the oldest architectural feature of Duong Lam Ancient Village. This gate was built in the Le Dynasty, with laterite pillars and ironwood gate. To the right of the gate is a large lake and to the left is an ancient tree of thousands of years old. Thanks to its peaceful beauty, Mong Phu village gate is not only an interesting sightseeing spot but also an ideal place for tourists to take pictures when coming to Duong Lam Ancient Village.

3.2 Giang Van Minh worship house

Giang Van Minh worship house is a relic built during the reign of King Tu Duc to commemorate the merits of Giang Van Minh, who was sent by King Le Than Tong to China to respond to the Ming court and protect the honor of the nation. Today, the church is a popular tourist attraction for those interested in learning about history and culture, as well as a place to educate patriotic traditions for the next generation.

3.3 Duong Lam ancient well

Like the communal house, the well is considered the soul of many villages in Hanoi. Walking around Duong Lam, you will come across many ancient wells. In the past, these wells were where people got their water every day. The wells here are located in high places near the communal house, the pagoda, or the center of the village.

3.4 Ngo Quyen Temple & Phung Hung Temple

Duong Lam Ancient Village is the birthplace of two national heroes, Phung Hung and Ngo Quyen.
Phung Hung Temple is the largest and most sacred temple dedicated to the hero who led the uprising against the Tang Dynasty and ruled Vietnam for seven years.

Just 500 meters away on Cam Hill, the Ngo Quyen Temple and Mausoleum commemorate the king who defeated Chinese forces on the Bach Dang River in 938, securing Vietnam’s independence. Surrounded by rice fields and historical legends, this site offers a solemn space to honor Vietnam’s resilience.

3.5 Walk or Cycle Through Duong Lam’s Scenic Lanes

One of the most charming experiences in Duong Lam Ancient Village is immersing yourself in its tranquil countryside. Stroll or cycle along narrow lanes shaded by ancient banyan trees, where the air is fresh, and the pace of life feels timeless. Beyond the village, vast rice fields stretch into the horizon, especially picturesque during harvest season when golden paddies and drying straw create postcard-perfect scenery. Along the way, you may encounter farmers tending their crops, water buffalo grazing peacefully, and children playing traditional games. This slow, rustic rhythm offers a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi, giving you a true taste of rural Vietnam.

3.6 Must-Try Local Specialties in

A trip to Duong Lam Ancient Village isn’t complete without tasting its famous countryside delicacies. These traditional dishes reflect the village’s rich heritage and offer visitors a chance to savor authentic Vietnamese flavors. Here are some specialties you should not miss:

Gà Mía – A unique local chicken breed known for its firm, fragrant meat and naturally sweet flavor. Often served boiled or grilled, it’s a must-try dish in Duong Lam.
Tương – A traditional fermented soybean paste used as a salty dipping sauce. It’s an essential ingredient in many local meals and pairs perfectly with boiled vegetables.
Bánh Tẻ – A small steamed rice cake wrapped in banana leaves, filled with minced pork and wood ear mushrooms. Simple yet flavorful, it’s a beloved snack in the region.
Kẹo Dồi – A traditional sweet made from peanuts, sugar, and vanilla powder. Its nutty taste and chewy texture make it a popular treat for both locals and visitors.
Chè Lam – A rustic dessert made from sticky rice flour, ginger, peanuts, and sugar. Soft and aromatic, it’s best enjoyed with a cup of hot green tea.

Che lam is a must-try dish for tourists

Duong Lam Ancient Village is more than just a cultural attraction-it’s a living museum of Vietnamese rural life. From its ancient laterite houses to historic temples and peaceful countryside, every corner of Duong Lam reflects the depth of Vietnam’s heritage. Whether you’re a history buff, a culture lover, or simply seeking a tranquil escape from Hanoi, Duong Lam is a destination that should not be missed.

Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

After exploring the timeless beauty of Duong Lam, many travelers choose to return and stay in Hanoi’s Old Quarter for convenience. A great option is Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa, located right in the heart of the Old Quarter. From here, you can easily continue your Hanoi journey, visiting iconic attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Dong Xuan Market. The hotel combines modern comfort with Vietnamese charm, making it an ideal retreat after a day of cultural discovery.

>>> Read more: Top 10+ best hotel in Hanoi Old Quarter, 8 Best Hanoi Restaurants in 2025 for Authentic Vietnamese Dining

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