Thu Sy Village | A 200-Year-Old Bamboo Fish Trap Crafting Village

Thu Sy Village in Hung Yen province, housing a renowned bamboo fish trap crafting village with a nearly two-century-old legacy. This serene locale showcases quaint traditional dwellings and scenic panoramas that have charmed countless photographers. For a tranquil and rejuvenating day trip from Hanoi, look no further than this village. Dive into the travel guide of Hanoi Local Tour below for captivating insights into Thu Sy’s bamboo fish trap crafting villages.

Where is Thu Sy Village?

Located about 60 km from central Hanoi and only 7 km from Hung Yen City, Thu Sy Village belongs to Tien Lu district and forms a cluster of craft villages together with Noi Lang and Tat Vien. Today, more than 500 artisans dedicate their lives to maintaining the age-old weaving craft that defines this tranquil community.

Rural northern Vietnam has long depended on agriculture. But as farmers needed tools to catch fish and shrimp in ponds, canals, and rice paddies, the villagers of Thu Sy began crafting bamboo traps—lightweight, durable, and perfectly adapted to local waterways. Over time, these practical tools evolved into beautiful handmade items admired by photographers, collectors, and art lovers.

Walking through the village, you will encounter countless handcrafted bamboo items drying under the sun. The rhythmic tapping of knives shaping bamboo strips and the sight of elders and young villagers weaving together reflect a lifestyle deeply connected to tradition.

To aid in this pursuit, they developed several practical tools intricately crafted from bamboo and rattan. These tools have evolved from simple fishing implements into revered artefacts in art and home décor. For those on a Hanoi tour, a visit to Thu Sy village in Tien Lu district is a must. This village, along with the neighbouring villages of Noi Lang and Tat Vien, is home to approximately 500 artisans dedicated to this traditional craft.

Want a worry-free journey to Thu Sy and nearby artisan villages? Join our Thu Sy Village Tour for a guided cultural experience, including hands-on activities, local stories, and memorable photography opportunities.

The Beauty of Thu Sy Village

Thu Sy village in Hung Yen province epitomises the idyllic northern Vietnamese countryside with its rustic tiled-roof houses, ancient three-compartment homes, and bamboo hedgerows, creating a serene rural ambience. Exploring Thu Sy, visitors bask in a profound sense of warmth and simplicity. Ambling through the village on a sunny day, tourists are captivated by the vibrant bamboo products adorning local yards. Moreover, encounters with friendly locals eager to share their craft-making experiences or tales of village life enrich the experience.

A journey to Thu Sy village in Hung Yen promises an authentic encounter with rustic rural beauty. From the sight of laden vehicles resembling blooming flowers ferrying goods for sale to scenes of villagers, young and old, congregating in front of their homes, weaving bamboo fish trap tools, every facet of the village exudes tranquillity and hospitality, leaving an indelible mark on visitors’ hearts.

The Story Of the Thu Sy Bamboo Fish Trap Village

The reputation of Thu Sy Village is built on its exquisite bamboo craftsmanship. For nearly 200 years, families have passed down the intricate weaving techniques used to create:

• Dụ: A long, slim fish trap
• Rọ tôm: A shrimp trap
• Lờ: A traditional bamboo funnel trap
• Home décor items inspired by traditional shapes

These beautifully tapered tools require remarkable skill, patience, and precision. Artisans must select the right bamboo, split it into thin, even strips, and weave without using nails or metal parts. This meticulous craftsmanship is a major reason why Thu Sy Village is recognised as one of Vietnam’s most iconic bamboo weaving communities.

In recent years, many foreign photographers and Vietnam-based travel bloggers have highlighted the village, making it a must-visit spot for cultural travellers. The vibrant scenes of bamboo traps arranged like blooming golden flowers have become an iconic photographic subject.

Why Thu Sy Village is a Must-Visit Near Hanoi

Authentic Rural Atmosphere

What immediately captivates visitors upon arriving in Thu Sy village is its timeless countryside charm. The village has preserved the architectural and cultural features that once defined rural communities in the Red River Delta. 

As you wander through the winding stone alleys, you will encounter old three-compartment houses topped with weathered tiles, mossy brick courtyards, and bamboo hedgerows that sway gently in the breeze. Life here flows at an unhurried pace: elders rest in front of their homes, children play along the small lanes, and artisans work patiently on bamboo crafts under the warm sunlight.

This quiet environment allows travellers to fully embrace the simplicity and serenity of Vietnamese rural life—an experience increasingly rare in the country’s rapidly urbanizing regions. Surrounded by rice fields and tranquil village scenery, Thu Sy Village offers a deeply relaxing atmosphere that invites visitors to slow down, observe, and appreciate the beauty of everyday living in rural Vietnam.

A Window Into Vietnamese Craft Heritage

A visit to Thu Sy village also serves as a profound reminder of the importance of traditional crafts in Vietnam’s cultural identity. Bamboo fish trap weaving originated as a practical necessity for farmers and fishermen who relied on handwoven traps to catch fish, crabs, and shrimp in local rivers and rice fields. 

Over time, these humble tools evolved into admired cultural objects, widely used in home décor, art installations, and even international exhibitions.

What sets Thu Sy apart from other craft villages is the community’s unwavering dedication to preserving these techniques. The weaving process here is entirely manual—without the use of nails or synthetic materials—and requires exceptional skill, experience, and patience. 

Every household plays a role in maintaining the craft, making it a true village-wide heritage. For travellers seeking to understand Vietnam beyond its famous monuments, Thu Sy offers a powerful glimpse into the resilience and pride of rural artisans who continue to protect their cultural identity through craftsmanship.

Meet The Welcoming Locals

Perhaps the most unforgettable part of visiting Thu Sy village is the warmth of its people. The villagers are known not only for their exceptional craftsmanship but also for their genuine hospitality and openness toward visitors.

 Artisans often invite travellers into their homes or courtyards to watch them work more closely, and many willingly share their personal stories—how they learned weaving as children, how the village cooperated to preserve the craft, and how the fish traps once played an essential role in local life.

These conversations add emotional depth to the experience, allowing visitors to appreciate not just the craft but the community behind it. The kindness and authenticity of Thu Sy’s residents have left a strong impression on countless travellers, turning what might have been a simple sightseeing stop into a heartwarming cultural encounter.

How to Get to Thu Sy Village from Hanoi?

Situated around 60km from central Hanoi and 7km from Hung Yen city, the bamboo fish trap crafting village in Thu Sy is accessible by car, motorbike, or guided tour. For motorbike travel, depart from Hanoi’s center and journey along Highway 5, then transition to provincial road 200 to reach Thu Sy commune in Tien Lu district, Hung Yen province. Passing through Ba Hang leads to the bamboo weaving villages of Noi Lang and Tat Vien.

Travellers opting for cars can follow the motorbike route or take the Hanoi – Hai Phong highway, exiting at the Yen My junction, then continuing towards Thu Sy commune. From there, navigate the narrow village alleys to reach Noi Lang and Tat Vien Village. For convenience or peace of mind, booking a guided tour is advisable, ensuring a reputable operator is chosen. Tour prices vary based on factors like timing, duration, and group size, with larger groups often enjoying reduced rates.

What To Do in Thu Sy Bamboo Fish Trap Village

Try Bamboo Splitting

Bamboo splitting is the very first and most crucial step in creating Thu Sy’s iconic fish traps. When you try it yourself, you’ll quickly realize how much precision and strength the craft requires. Artisans will show you how to select the right bamboo, measure each strip, and use traditional knives to split the stalk into thin, flexible pieces. 

It’s a hands-on experience that helps you appreciate the skill behind what seems like a simple tool. Even beginners can give it a try, and the artisans are always patient, guiding you with warm smiles and decades of practice.

Learn Basic Weaving Techniques

Once the bamboo strips are prepared, weaving begins—a rhythmic, almost meditative process. Travellers can sit beside local craftswomen as they intertwine strips to form the curved body of the trap. 

You’ll learn how to maintain tension, shape the frame, and secure each layer so the final product is both durable and beautiful. Experiencing these techniques firsthand offers a deeper understanding of how a humble raw material becomes a functional and artistic piece of everyday life.

Photograph Bamboo Fish Traps 

One of the most captivating sights in Thu Sy Village is the image of hundreds of bamboo fish traps spread out under the golden sunlight. They are arranged neatly in courtyards, rooftops, or open fields, creating dreamlike patterns and shadows that photographers adore. 

Morning and late afternoon are the best times to capture these scenes, when the warm light highlights the natural colour of the bamboo. Whether you’re a professional or a casual traveler, this simple moment provides stunning visual memories.

Explore Noi Lang and Tat Vien Weaving Villages

Just a short distance from Thu Sy’s centre, Noi Lang and Tat Vien are two smaller hamlets known for their skilled artisans. These villages offer a quieter, more intimate atmosphere where you can wander through narrow lanes lined with bamboo frames and tools. 

The artisans here maintain some of the village’s oldest weaving methods, and many still work entirely by hand. Exploring these areas helps you see how each community contributes to the region’s strong craft identity.

Chat with Local Artisans

The artisans of Thu Sy are not only skilled but also wonderfully open to conversation. Sit with them over a cup of tea, and they’ll share how the craft has changed over time—shifts in materials, new designs inspired by tourism, and efforts to keep the tradition alive for younger generations. 

These stories offer valuable context that you won’t find in guidebooks. Through these simple interactions, visitors gain a meaningful connection to the people and culture behind Thu Sy’s signature bamboo fish traps.

Book our Bamboo Fish Trap Village & Soy Sauce Village Tour now to experience the beauty of the local village in Hanoi today!

Practical Tips for Visiting Thu Sy Village

For an enriching visit to Thu Sy fish trap crafting village, consider these practical tips:

• Before departing, check the weather forecast; rainy conditions may inhibit locals from showcasing their crafts outdoors.
• Engage with locals to gain unique insights into village life and traditions not found in guidebooks.
• Pack allergy medication as a precaution, as the village environment may not suit everyone.
• Either pre-order lunch or bring snacks, as dining options in the vicinity are limited.
• With these pointers, your excursion to Thu Sy village promises comfort and enjoyment, ensuring a memorable experience amidst its rustic allure.

If you’re seeking a peaceful escape and craving the chance to savour life’s simple pleasures, look no further than a visit to Thu Sy village in Hung Yen. Here, you can fully immerse yourself in the serenity of rural surroundings and delve into the authentic local culture. Why not visit our official website, Hanoi Local Tour, to get more inspiration for Hanoi tours today and experience its tranquil allure for yourself?

Curious about other traditional craft villages around Hanoi? Discover a slower pace of life and hands-on cultural experiences through our Hanoi Village Tours, where each visit brings you closer to Vietnam’s timeless heritage.