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Renowned for its enduring pottery craft and the serene charm of tree-lined avenues, Phuoc Tich ancient village offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a peaceful countryside experience to unwind and reconnect with themselves.
Following in the footsteps of Hanoi’s Duong Lam ancient village, Phuoc Tich in Hue has earned the official recognition as a National Monument. Nestled along the O Lau river, this idyllic village embodies the quintessential beauty of North Central Vietnam, preserving both its expansive landscapes and traditional allure. Amidst the relentless passage of time, Phuoc Tich stands as a haven for those yearning to rediscover the old-world charm of Hue.
The village showcases the timeless essence of Hue Vietnam with its characteristic features, including ancient ram houses, temples, shrines, banyan-lined streets, water wharves, and communal courtyards. Cultural treasures, accumulated over centuries, are meticulously preserved, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich heritage and sediments of the region. If you crave the tranquility of bygone eras within the captivating flow of time, Phuoc Tich ancient village, with its cultural tapestry and centuries-old ambiance, beckons as the ultimate destination for you.
The Rich Heritage of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village
Phuoc Tich ancient village, nestled in the heart of Hoa Phong commune, Phong Dien district, stands 40km away from the bustling center of Hue city. Positioned on the elevated Duong dune land and embraced by the gentle O Lau river, this historic village has roots dating back approximately 500 years to the Le Dynasty.
Historical accounts unveil the village’s origins, tracing back to the initiative of 12 individuals from distinct clans who, during the early days, ventured to Phuoc Tich to establish a community. These pioneers, led by a visionary named Hoang, bestowed the village with its initial name, Cam Quyet, in homage to their shared roots in the Quyet mountain area of Nghe An province.
Through the ages, the village underwent several name changes, reflecting different dynasties’ influences. Initially known as Cam Quyet, it was later renamed Phuoc Giang during the reign of Lord Nguyen, then Hoang Giang during the Tay Son dynasty. Finally, under the reign of King Nguyen, the village acquired its present name, Phuoc Tich, symbolizing the accumulation of blessings across generations.
The villagers of Phuoc Tich steadfastly uphold their ancestral traditions, a commitment visibly manifested in the village communal house. In times past, the village boasted two communal houses — Dai communal house in Ha Hoa hamlet for worship and Trung communal house in Trung Hoa hamlet for communal activities. Unfortunately, both suffered extensive damage during the resistance against the French. Subsequently, the resilient villagers restored Trung communal house, transforming it into a revered site dedicated to Thanh Hoang, the cultivation founders, and the twelve sects. Within the communal house, relics endure, including a stele chronicling the remarkable contributions of those who shaped the village’s destiny.
Despite enduring the ravages of the French resistance, Phuoc Tich ancient village persists in safeguarding its ancient cultural values. Over its 500-year history, the village has not only preserved but also expanded upon its cultural heritage, rendering it a captivating destination that seamlessly blends ancient allure with contemporary charm.
Tips for Exploring the Enchanting Phuoc Tich Ancient Village
Upon entering Phuoc Tich ancient village, visitors are immediately embraced by a serene atmosphere and the endless greenery of tree-filled surroundings. Strolling through the ancient village reveals not only cool, tree-shaded paths but also a myriad of temples, each weaving a narrative intricately tied to the village’s profound history.
Cay Thi Temple
At the village’s onset, Cay Thi Temple, boasting a history predating the village itself, captures attention. Named after the ancient tree adjacent to it, Cay Thi Temple houses a colossal tree so vast that even five or six people cannot encircle it. Legend has it that since the villagers’ arrival, the temple, originally dedicated to Po Nagar, continues to be venerated by present-day residents. Marked by an ancient-looking gate, a mere 1.3m in width, the temple plays a pivotal role in the spiritual life of Phuoc Tich’s inhabitants. Annually, on the 16th day of the first lunar month, a ceremony is held to honor the village pioneers and express gratitude to the tree and temple deities for their protection. In 2015, Cay Thi Temple and its millennium-old tree were rightfully recognized as heritage sites.
Doi Temple
Parallel to Cay Thi Temple, Doi Temple stands as another sacred haven in Phuoc Tich. This dual-purpose temple venerates Mr. Khai Canh Hoang Minh Hung and Mr. Bon Nghe, the village’s founders, affectionately known as Mr. Pot. The temple’s mystique is accentuated by tales of two colossal crow fish that once frequented its grounds, a story culminating in an eerie event involving a fishing boat. Despite its enigmatic past, Doi Temple is revered by the locals as a sacred site.
Phuoc Buu Pagoda
Phuoc Buu Pagoda adds to the spiritual allure of Phuoc Tich with its unique and ancient architecture, standing as the village’s sole pagoda. The village’s array of pagodas and shrines, such as Lieu Hanh Temple and Quang Te Temple, provides insight into the spiritual fabric of its people.
Ancient houses
Beyond the spiritual landmarks, Phuoc Tich ancient village is celebrated for its dense collection of ancient houses. Nestled amid lush green gardens and surrounded by rows of areca nuts and tea trees, these 26 century-old houses showcase distinctive Hue garden house architecture. As visitors wander through the village, they encounter shallow tanks adorned with intricately carved ancient patterns, echoing the aesthetics of the ancient capital.
Other heritages
The village’s legacy in pottery-making is evident everywhere, with pottery, jars, mortars, and rice cookers serving as ubiquitous symbols. Once a thriving industry, the village’s pottery products gained royal favor, with the Nguyen Dynasty kings using clay pots from Phuoc Tich. Today, a lone pottery workshop, situated near an old kiln, stands as a testament to this historical craft, attracting tourists seeking to explore and purchase these timeless creations.
As visitors traverse Phuoc Tich ancient village, they are greeted by 12 water wharfs, creating a picturesque, tranquil ambiance. Behind the village lies Ha Tri Lake, surrounded by lush bamboo trees, its lotus pond flourishing in the summer. The white lotus variety from Ha Tri Lake, brought back by villagers, adds a touch of imperial elegance to the landscape, gracing the village with fragrant blooms and enhancing its scenic allure.
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Unique Activities in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village Tour
Cycling Expedition through the Enchanting Ancient Village
Embarking on a cycling adventure is an exceptional way for visitors to fully appreciate and uncover the enchanting allure of the ancient village. In Phuoc Tich, one becomes immersed in a poetic natural environment, surrounded by verdant trees and adorned with impressive ancient architectural marvels. As you leisurely pedal through the ancient village, the profound stillness and serenity will captivate your senses, offering moments of soulful relaxation and an escape into tranquility.
Pottery Crafting Experience
With a storied legacy as a renowned pottery village in the region, a visit to Phuoc Tich ancient village would be incomplete without immersing oneself in the art of pottery making. For an authentic experience, head to Mr. Luong Thanh Hien’s workshop, where you can receive guidance on crafting traditional pottery or browse through an array of ceramic souvenirs. For a deeper insight into the ancient Phuoc Tich ceramics, a visit to the home of Mr. Le Trong Dien, a 73-year-old master potter, unveils a remarkable collection of ceramics crafted by his skilled hands.
Culinary Exploration – Learn to Cook and Savor Traditional Delicacies
While exploring Phuoc Tich ancient village, take the opportunity to delve into the art of crafting traditional village delicacies like wet cake, pillow cake, xu xe cake, or filter cake. The village’s adept mothers are renowned for their culinary skills. To indulge in these countryside-flavored meals, it is advisable to pre-register with the Phuoc Tich Ancient Village Management Board for an authentic and delightful culinary experience.
In conclusion, traveling to Phuoc Tich ancient village offers a chance to bask in the rich tapestry of nature, with sunlight filtering through the leaves, the simplicity of ancient houses adorned with tiled roofs, and the unhurried pace of life characteristic of Hue. Immerse yourself once again in the peaceful and adventurous ambiance of the tranquil countryside, creating indelible memories in your exploration of Hue.
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