Travelers seeking a new angle on Hanoi can now embark on a one-day journey through the city’s southern gateway - visiting the once-affluent Cuu Village, the traditional craft village of Chuyen My, and the century-old tailoring hub of Van Tu.

A vivid portrait of Vietnam’s artisan heritage

In October 2025, the Hanoi Department of Tourism introduced three new tour experiences under the theme "The gathering of quintessence." One of the highlights is the “Southern Thang Long Heritage Route – The essence of Vietnamese craft villages,” which connects the four communes of Dai Thanh, Hong Van, Ngoc Hoi, and Chuyen My. These destinations offer visitors a rare glimpse into traditional craft villages preserved through generations.

Visitors can admire the intricate lacquer art of Ha Thai Village, soak in the unique East–West architecture of Cuu Village, explore the heritage of suit tailoring, sample chrysanthemum wine once reserved for royalty in Ngau Village, or experience spiritual traditions in Phuc Am. Each stop tells a story of cultural fusion and creativity, together forming a vibrant tapestry of Vietnam’s artisanal heritage.

Chuyen My commune is now working with the Hanoi Department of Tourism to elevate Cuu Village as a cultural destination while partnering with tour operators to attract both domestic and international tourists.

Located about 40 km from downtown Hanoi, Chuyen My is home to many intangible cultural treasures, including Tu Can and Gie Ha communal houses - both recognized as National Historic Sites built during the Le Dynasty.

The village also honors its artisan heritage at the Nationally Recognized Shrine to the Ancestors of Inlay Craft, commemorating those who founded and nurtured the traditional mother-of-pearl inlaying trade.

Cuu Village is often described as a “living museum,” drawing architecture lovers, photographers, and history buffs. While it features classic elements like banyan trees, village wells, and communal courtyards, Cuu also surprises with 2- to 3-story French-inspired villas - evidence of the village’s prosperous past, once renowned for its mastery in Western-style tailoring.

Exploring the crafts of Van Tu, Chuyen My, and Phu Yen

In addition to the peaceful charm of Cuu, tourists can explore three officially recognized craft villages in the area: Van Tu for suit tailoring, Chuyen My for inlay and lacquerware, and Phu Yen for leather shoe making.

Van Tu has upheld its tailoring tradition for over a century. Despite changing times, the craft remains strong, with around 1,000 active workshops and retail outlets. Many of Van Tu’s bespoke suits are now popular in domestic markets and even exported abroad.

Tourism paired with traditional craft preservation

Dao Ngoc Hung, Director of Hung Luyen Garment Co., shared: “Beyond tailoring and business, we’re open to innovation to promote tourism. Visitors can tour historical sites, observe the tailoring process in our stores, and even place custom orders.”

To support its craftspeople, Chuyen My has launched an e-commerce platform, held training sessions on livestreaming and online selling, and leveraged social media to expand customer outreach.

For those drawn to the delicate beauty of inlay art, Chuon Ngo Village is a must-see. The village still thrives with families of skilled artisans, welcoming visitors to witness every step of the inlay and lacquerware production process.

The commune has also transformed its old primary school campus into a 12,000-square-meter craft exhibition and shopping center. Recognized as a communal-level creative design hub, the site promotes OCOP (One Commune One Product) goods and serves as a model for linking cultural preservation with tourism.

By intertwining tourism with the preservation of traditional crafts, Chuyen My is not only protecting its cultural legacy but also building a sustainable livelihood for local residents.

Linh Trang