Yen Truong Village

Nestled in the heart of Chuong My, Ha Noi, Yen Truong Village stands as a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Vietnam. With its well-preserved traditional beauty, this village has become a hidden gem, captivating visitors with its charm and tranquility. In this article, we will delve into the history of Yen Truong Village, explore its traditional beauty, and discover what makes it a must-visit destination in modern times.

History of Yen Truong Village

Yen Truong Village in Chuong My, Hanoi, is an ancient village that dates back to the time of Hai Ba Trung. It preserves historical relics such as Bai Phao and Bai Gioi, where fierce battles took place between Hai Ba Trung army and the invading forces of the Eastern Han Dynasty. The village is located near the Day River and is connected to other villages along the river associated with Hai Ba Trung, such as Van Con and Tay Mo. Yen Truong Village boasts numerous historical relics and overall architectural beauty that rival well-known ancient villages like Duong Lam and Dong Ngac. There are still many ancient houses and intricately carved stone gates, some of which are 100 to 200 years old. Notably, the village is adorned with unique onyx stone wells, including one shaped like a foot, and a complex network of village ponds, as well as an elaborate ornamental fence along the pond’s edge, as depicted in photographs of the village. The Yen Truong Shrine, where the national congress worked during the resistance against the French colonial rule, was burnt down but has since been reconstructed. The village elders, who have a deep understanding of its history, claim that Yen Truong Village dates back to the time of the Trưng Sisters and is famous for its unique and peculiar onyx stone wells. The village also preserves historical relics such as Bai Phao and Bai Gioi, where intense battles occurred between the forces of Hai Ba Trung and the invading Han Dynasty.

Traditional Beauty Well-Preserved in Yen Truong Village

Visiting Yen Truong Village, regardless of the time of year, reveals the distinct beauty of the ancient village. The presence of banyan trees, water wharves, and communal courtyards embodies the epitome of traditional and rustic village life. These elements are considered the quintessential standards and measures of a countryside village.

According to the elderly residents of Yen Truong Village, the ancient village holds two values: tangible and intangible. The intangible aspect cannot be seen with the naked eye and can only be experienced through observation and examination. The village’s pathways are not purely typical of modern Vietnamese villages. Part of the reason is the topography of the midland region, which includes slopes that require motorcycles to increase speed to overcome them and gently apply the brakes when descending.

Along the narrow alleyways, one can find unique, ancient houses with intriguing architecture in Yen Truong Village. The houses in Yen Truong are truly extraordinary, built with materials made of onyx stone. The walls, fences, and house gates are not adorned with vibrant colors or intricate designs. Instead, the onyx stone walls have a smooth, wax-like texture, spreading throughout the village. Yen Truong Village still preserves the old, moss-covered onyx stone houses. The various shades on the onyx stone walls, originally dark like beeswax, have transformed into patches of yellow, black, and specks of mossy green, resembling an abstract painting. Here, one can still find onyx stone houses that have stood for hundreds of years, witnessing multiple generations living within their walls. These ancient houses are built in the architectural style of Northern Vietnamese garden houses. Consequently, every house comes with a spacious garden and courtyard adorned with rows of areca palms and fragrant pomelo trees, filling the air with the scent of March.

On both sides of the narrow alleyways, one can also find ancient gates that are 100 to 200 years old. The predominant material used for these gates is still onyx stone. Some of the gates, although shorter in age, were constructed using fired bricks. However, all of them have weathered significantly over time, with fallen and crumbling bricks. Yet, the passage of time has left its mark, with patches of moss and areas of reddish decay.

The village shrine, situated on a raised land overlooking a large pond with a low hill on the other side, stands as a prominent symbol of the village’s historical and cultural significance. The shrine is dedicated to the revered deity Cao Son Quy Minh, who is considered the village’s guardian. A festival is held at the shrine on the fifteenth day of the second lunar month. During the French colonial period, the shrine was tragically burned down. However, the villagers managed to hide the large bronze bell by submerging it in the village pond, and remarkably, the bell has survived to this day. When the bell tolls, its resonant sound echoes throughout the entire village and beyond. The shrine was subsequently reconstructed on its original site, preserving the village’s heritage and traditions.

Yen Truong Village in Nowadays

Yen Truong Village strikes a harmonious balance between embracing modernity and preserving its traditional charm, making it a sought-after destination for both locals and tourists. This idyllic village offers a serene escape from the fast-paced urban life, captivating visitors with its tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking natural surroundings.

One can partake in a variety of activities in Yen Truong Village, such as leisurely cycling along the village paths, engaging in traditional craft workshops, or simply indulging in a cup of aromatic Vietnamese tea while immersing themselves in the peaceful ambiance. The locals warmly welcome visitors, eager to share their rich cultural heritage through traditional customs and vibrant celebrations.

Yen Truong Village in Chuong My, Ha Noi is a living testament to Vietnam’s rich history and cultural heritage. With its well-preserved traditional beauty, this village offers a unique experience for those seeking to connect with the country’s past. From its ancient houses and temples to its serene surroundings, Yen Truong Village is a treasure trove of historical and cultural significance. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, a visit to Yen Truong Village is sure to leave you enchanted and with memories to cherish.