As the most developed city in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City no longer hosts traditional craft villages within its urban area. However, a few years ago, some names were still highly renowned.
1. An Hội Bronze Casting Village
Emerging in the late 19th century, An Hội Bronze Casting Village grew alongside the historical changes and urbanization of Saigon.
Unfortunately, due to rapid development and market fluctuations, this once-famous craft is now almost extinct. Only a few small workshops and families continue this trade.
2. Bảy Hiền Textile Village
Bảy Hiền Textile Village is mainly concentrated in Tân Bình District, Ho Chi Minh City, particularly along Võ Thành Trang, Năm Châu, Nguyễn Bá Tòng, and Tái Thiết streets. Nearly every household in these areas was once involved in textile production.
In the 1960s, war and natural disasters drove many weavers from Duy Xuyên and Điện Bàn (Quảng Nam) to Saigon, bringing their traditional crafts with them. Around 90% of the population in wards 11 and 12 of Tân Bình District were from Quảng Ngãi, earning the area the nickname “Little Quảng Village.” The village thrived in the 80s and 90s, supplying fabric nationwide.
Most looms were initially wooden and manual, using shuttles to weave fabric. Today, modern looms have largely replaced these, boosting productivity significantly. However, many young people have moved away from this traditional craft, seeking other careers in bustling Saigon.
3. Thủ Đức Nem Village
Thủ Đức, encompassing the current Thủ Đức, District 2, and District 9, was once a large, semi-rural area known for its scenic spots and local delicacies, with Thủ Đức nem (fermented pork) being a standout.
To meet the demand for this renowned nem, Thủ Đức once had hundreds of nem-making establishments, primarily around Thủ Đức Market. Each had its own secrets but adhered to common principles like using high-quality pork and specific wrapping leaves for better preservation.
These shared practices, combined with unique family recipes, produced Thủ Đức nem with a perfect balance of texture and flavor. Thủ Đức’s nem became a staple in Saigon and beyond, easily competing with other famous nem varieties.
Today, the legacy of Thủ Đức nem endures, attracting visitors eager to taste and learn about its storied past.
4. Gò Vấp Flower Village
The name “Gò Vấp Flower Village” dates back to when early settlers in the highland area of Gò Vấp began cultivating flowers. Over time, this hobby turned into a livelihood, creating jobs and preserving cultural heritage.
Despite urbanization, Gò Vấp Flower Village continues to bloom, producing a wide variety of flowers year-round and supplying Ho Chi Minh City with its main flower stock. The village’s artisans also collaborate internationally, enhancing their craft.
Gò Vấp hosts over 200 flower varieties, cultivated by a dedicated community of professional and semi-professional gardeners. Their expertise and passion ensure the village remains a leading flower supplier.
Notable artisans like Lý Hùng, Huỳnh Văn Thân, and Đỗ Văn Quế have preserved and innovated traditional bonsai techniques, creating masterpieces that can be as valuable as gold.
The local government’s initiative to establish a “Flower Village Center” aims to support this traditional craft, ensuring Gò Vấp continues to thrive as a hub of horticultural excellence.
Conclusion
These traditional craft villages, though facing challenges, represent the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Ho Chi Minh City. They offer unique insights into the city’s history and continue to attract those interested in traditional crafts and their enduring legacies.
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