If you’re planning to explore Hoi An, there’s one place I always recommend is Kim Bong Carpentry Village. Located on the quiet Cam Kim Commune, just across the Thu Bon River, this village has been the soul of Hoi An’s wooden architecture for more than five centuries. As someone who loves history and craftsmanship, my trip here felt like a walk back in time.
I could hear the rhythmic tap-tap of chisels blending with the river breeze. That sound alone tells a story of hands that built Hoi An Ancient Town, and hearts that continue to protect it.
The History and Origin of Kim Bong Carpentry Village
Kim Bong Carpentry Village was founded in the 15th century, during the flourishing trade era of Hoi An. Back then, the area was home to skillful artisans who built ships, furniture, and temples for merchants from Vietnam, China, Japan, and Cham kingdoms. The blend of these cultures shaped the unique carving style we still see today.
The name “Kim Bong” itself is symbolic: “Kim” means gold, and “Bong” means to emerge, representing fertile land and “golden hands” of talented craftsmen. The village’s artisans once helped construct landmarks like the Japanese Covered Bridge, which remains a symbol of Hoi An Ancient Town.
In 2016, Kim Bong’s woodworking tradition was officially recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, ensuring its preservation for future generations. For me, walking around this village felt like reading a living museum — every sculpture, every plank of wood had a piece of history to tell.
The Unique Art of Woodworking in Kim Bong
What makes this village so fascinating is its dedication to pure, traditional techniques. No machines, no shortcuts, just hands, patience, and passion.
I watched as artisans shaped tables, chairs, ancestral altars, boats, and even Buddha statues from raw wood. Their precision amazed me. One craftsman smiled and said, “We work with the soul first, not the tool.” That stuck with me.
The art here goes beyond utility and it’s deeply spiritual. Motifs like Long – Lan – Quy – Phung (Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, Phoenix) are carved to bring luck, strength, and harmony. The influence of Vietnamese, Chinese, Cham, and Japanese art styles gives each product a cultural richness you won’t find anywhere else.
Each handcrafted piece is unique, unlike industrial factory items, every line, every curve here carries the artisan’s identity.
How to Visit Kim Bong Carpentry Village
Getting to Kim Bong is easy. It’s only about 3–4 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, and there are two great ways to reach it:
- By Bicycle or Motorbike: Cross the Cam Kim Bridge, ride along peaceful rural paths, and feel the cool breeze from the Thu Bon River.
- By Boat: Take a short 10-minute ferry ride from Bach Dang Street. I took this route because it was calm, scenic, and gave me a glimpse of daily river life.
- Entrance Fee: Free
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
As you arrive, you’ll see small wooden houses filled with tools, sawdust, and smiles. It’s simple, yet full of life.
Best Things to Do in the Carpentry Village
1. Visit Traditional Workshops
Step inside one of the local workshops. You’ll find artisans focused on carving intricate designs from solid blocks of wood. The air smells of fresh sawdust, oddly comforting. I watched a master carve a phoenix, and within minutes, it came alive under his chisel.
2. Try Handicraft Activities
Don’t just watch, let’s join in! Visitors can carve small wooden keychains or mini statues. My first attempt wasn’t perfect, but the artisan laughed kindly and guided me. The piece I made may be rough, but it’s now my favorite souvenir.
3. Buy Wooden Souvenirs
The village shops offer feng shui figurines, carved paintings, miniature boats, and tea trays. Each is an art piece made with care. If you plan to buy, bring cash, as small workshops often don’t take cards.
4. Explore the Local Lifestyle
Beyond carpentry, you can stroll around the quiet lanes, chat with locals, and watch the slow pace of riverside life. It’s peaceful – a real contrast to Hoi An’s bustling Old Town.
If you love planning day trips, you can also check out this detailed first-time visitor’s guide to Hoi An for ideas on nearby experiences.
Meet the Master Artisans of Kim Bong
The heart of Kim Bong Village lies in its people. Many artisans here are third or even fourth-generation woodworkers. Their ancestors built Hoi An’s ancient houses and even boats that sailed to foreign lands centuries ago.
Meeting them was the highlight of my trip. One elderly craftsman showed me an altar he was restoring. The delicate dragons and clouds on it took him two weeks to carve – all by hand.
These masters preserve techniques passed down for generations. Watching them carve Buddha statues or decorate tea trays reminded me how patience can turn simple wood into art. Their dedication keeps this village’s soul alive.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kim Bong Carpentry Village
Here are some useful tips from my visit:
- Best Time to Visit: The dry season (March–August) is the most pleasant time to explore. During these months, the sky is clear and perfect for photos. Try to visit in the early morning (around 8–10 AM) when the air is cooler and you can see the workshops at their busiest.
- Dress Comfortably: Wearing light, breathable clothes can help you get warm during the day. Choose comfortable shoes or sandals with soft soles because you’ll be walking on uneven dirt or gravel paths inside workshops and around the village.
- Bring Cash: Keep some small Vietnamese Dong (VND) handy. Most artisans don’t have card machines, and small cash is useful for buying souvenirs, paying for boat rides, or tipping local guides who share stories about their craft.
- Photography: You’ll find endless photo-worthy scenes here. Bring a fully charged camera or phone, and if possible, a power bank. Always ask politely before taking close-up photos of people, especially when they are focused on their work.
- Be Respectful: The workshops are quiet, almost meditative places. When visiting, speak softly and avoid touching unfinished works. The artisans truly appreciate visitors who observe with quiet admiration rather than interruption. A warm smile or a short “Cảm ơn” (thank you) goes a long way.
- Go Light: The village is small, and you’ll likely walk or bike around. Traveling light helps you move freely and focus on the beautiful details like the wood scent, the sound of carving, and the charm of local life.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Visit
If you have extra time, Kim Bong is perfect to pair with other spots around Hoi An:
- Hoi An Ancient Town: Just across the river, this UNESCO World Heritage site is famous for its centuries-old houses, colorful lanterns, and charming riverside streets.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village: A peaceful farming area where you can see how locals grow organic herbs and even try planting or watering with traditional tools.
- Bay Mau Coconut Forest: Join a fun basket boat ride through coconut canals, watch traditional performances, and enjoy the calm countryside vibe.
- Japanese Covered Bridge: A historic symbol of Hoi An, built centuries ago with help from Kim Bong artisans, representing the blend of Japanese and Vietnamese culture.
Why Kim Bong Carpentry Village Matters Today
In today’s fast-changing world, Kim Bong stands as a symbol of timeless craftsmanship. It’s not just about carving wood, it’s about carving stories, values, and memories.
This village continues to support sustainable cultural tourism, offering visitors meaningful experiences while helping local artisans earn a living. It also inspires young generations to appreciate and preserve Vietnam’s traditional arts.
I left Kim Bong feeling grateful, for the people, their patience, and their pride in keeping a 500-year-old craft alive. If you love authenticity and cultural depth, this place is a must-see in your Hoi An itinerary.