Located in Phuong Trung Commune, Thanh Oai District, Chuong Village is famous for its traditional craft of handmade conical hats. If you're looking to step away from the hustle and bustle and explore Vietnam's cultural heritage, follow this guide to discover the tranquil and skillful world of Chuong Village.
Where Is Chuong Village and How to Get There?
Chuong Village is situated about 30–40 km southwest of central Hanoi.
- By private vehicle (motorbike or car): This is the most flexible option. From Hanoi, take National Road 21B or Cienco 5 Highway via Thanh Ha Urban Area, then follow signs to Kim Bai Town and ask locals for directions to Phuong Trung Commune and Chuong Village. The trip takes about 1–1.5 hours.
- By bus: You can take buses heading toward Thanh Oai, such as Route 103 (My Dinh Bus Station – Huong Son) or others passing Kim Bai Town. From there, take a short motorbike taxi ride into the village. It's more budget-friendly but takes longer.
Best Time to Visit Chuong Village
The village comes alive on conical hat market days. Chuong Market is one of the largest and most unique hat markets in Northern Vietnam, held only on the lunar calendar dates: 4th, 10th, 14th, 20th, 24th, and 30th each month.
- On market days (early morning): Arrive by 5–6 AM to witness the vibrant trading of palm leaves, bamboo frames, threads, and finished hats. The market usually winds down around 8–9 AM. It's a perfect time for photography and cultural immersion.
- On regular days: Even without the market, the village is worth visiting. Artisans continue making hats in their courtyards, offering you more time to observe and interact with them at a relaxed pace.
Top Things to Do in Chuong Village
- Visit the bustling morning market: The heart of the village is its traditional hat market, where hundreds of handmade conical hats are sold—some rustic, others elaborately decorated. Women sort through materials, buyers negotiate, and traders from across the region gather here.
- Watch the traditional hat-making process: Visit artisan households to witness each meticulous step—from selecting and sun-drying palm leaves, flattening them, shaping bamboo frames, layering the leaves, to sewing with transparent thread and decorating the final product. The craft demands patience and finesse.
- Explore different types of conical hats: Chuong offers a wide variety—from the iconic pointed hat to the flat “ba tam” hat, festival “quai thao” hats, and even creatively painted versions for tourists.
- Experience a traditional Northern Vietnamese village: Beyond the craft, Chuong retains the charm of Red River Delta villages, with banyan trees, old tiled houses, village gates, and communal yards that exude tranquility far removed from city life.
Helpful Tips for Visiting Chuong Village
- Dress appropriately: Wear comfortable, respectful clothing—especially if you plan to visit local temples or communal houses.
- Ask before photographing: Always seek permission before taking close-up photos of villagers or entering their homes.
- Keep the village clean: Help preserve the local environment by avoiding littering.
- Check the lunar calendar: If your goal is to attend the market, make sure to plan your visit according to the lunar schedule.
A trip to Chuong Conical Hat Village is more than just a visit—it's a journey into Vietnam's cultural soul. Slow down, appreciate the artistry and dedication of local craftsmen, and take home not just a hat, but a piece of heritage. It's an unforgettable experience for anyone exploring the deeper charms of Hanoi.
