Vietnam’s Tan Phong Village Shines as a Sustainable Tourism Destination, Here’s All You Need to Know

Published on December 19, 2025

In Tan Phong Commune, Hiep Duc Commune, Dong Thap Province, there exists a craft village named Tan Phong Handicraft Village, which has been a brilliant example of community-based tourism in Vietnam. Famous for products with unique designs made from water hyacinth fibers, this village, instead of just earning livelihoods with sustainable means, has also succeeded in attracting tourists from all over the world. For this reason, Tan Phong Handicraft Village has become a thriving tourist spot located in the Mekong Delta Region of Vietnam.

Preserving Tradition and Creating Livelihoods

The Tan Phong handicraft village, run by Tran Quang Dung, has been a symbol of the region’s craftsmanship for nearly 20 years. The village specializes in weaving products from dried water hyacinth fibers, a sustainable material found abundantly along the Mekong River. The skilled artisans of Tan Phong transform these fibers into elegant and eco-friendly products such as handbags, baskets, trays, and household items. These handmade goods have grown in popularity, especially among international tourists, for their distinctive design and environmental friendliness.

According to Tran Quang Dung, the art of water hyacinth weaving is deeply intertwined with the local community’s culture. “We take pride in the fact that each product tells the story of our homeland,” he said. The facility produces over 200 items daily, each crafted with precision and care, requiring multiple stages of work, from weaving the body of the baskets to drying the finished products. The process involves sun-drying or kiln-drying the items to ensure their durability, a traditional method that has been passed down through generations.

The village’s transition from small-scale local markets to becoming a well-established tourist destination is a success story of how a community can revitalize a traditional craft. This evolution, which was initially feared to result in the decline of water hyacinth weaving, has proven that with the right support, such practices can not only be preserved but also thrive in the modern economy.

Tan Phong as a Key Destination for Cultural Tourism

As the demand for cultural tourism grows, Tan Phong Handicraft Village has become an integral stop for visitors seeking an authentic glimpse into rural life in Vietnam. Over the past few years, Tan Phong has been included in local cultural tours, alongside the popular orchard tours in Cai Lay and boat rides along the Tien River. These experiences offer visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the everyday life of the Mekong Delta, from handwoven water hyacinth products to the lush green landscapes of the region.

What sets Tan Phong apart is its ability to offer a hands-on experience to visitors. Tourists can try their hand at weaving water hyacinth fibers, learn about the drying and processing techniques, and engage with the local artisans who keep the craft alive. The opportunity to exchange stories with the artisans and understand the deeper cultural significance of their work has made the village particularly popular with foreign tourists, who appreciate the opportunity to connect with the local culture on a personal level.

Le Thi Diem Lan, a resident of Tan Thai Hamlet, proudly shared her experience: “It brings me joy that our products are reaching international customers, and we are able to share our culture with the world. The demand for environmentally friendly products has increased, and this has really boosted the success of our handicrafts.”

Community Empowerment and Economic Impact

The rise in tourism has had a significant economic impact on Tan Phong and the surrounding areas. The handicraft industry has provided stable employment for many locals, especially women and the elderly, who might otherwise struggle to find work in the region. Beyond providing direct employment, the tourism influx has encouraged other sectors, including retail, hospitality, and transportation, to thrive as well.

The development of community-based tourism has also fostered a sense of pride among locals, who are now more involved in tourism activities. The village’s increased visibility has prompted local governments to invest in infrastructure improvements and enhance the overall tourism experience. As the community works to ensure that visitors have a memorable experience, there is a growing sense of ownership and involvement in tourism development.

The Hiep Duc Commune People’s Committee, led by Vice Chairman Tran Van Trung, is fully supportive of this growth. “We see the Tan Phong handicraft village as a major asset for community-based tourism. We are working on improving infrastructure, connecting with local businesses, and collaborating with travel agencies to include Tan Phong in fixed tour itineraries,” he said.

Expanding Tourism Infrastructure for Growth

As Tan Phong continues to grow as a tourism destination, the local government is focused on improving the necessary infrastructure to accommodate an increasing number of visitors. Enhancing transportation options, improving accessibility to key tourism sites, and creating more tourism-related services will help ensure that Tan Phong can handle the increasing interest in the village.

The village’s integration into the broader tourism circuit, especially with nearby attractions such as orchards, river tours, and historical landmarks, is a critical part of its future growth. By promoting sustainable tourism and focusing on the preservation of its cultural heritage, Tan Phong can maintain its authenticity while meeting the demands of a modern tourism market.

Sustainability and Future Prospects for Tan Phong

Tan Phong Handicraft Village’s success highlights the potential for sustainable, community-based tourism to generate long-term benefits for both locals and tourists. The village’s commitment to preserving traditional crafts, while also embracing eco-friendly products, positions it as a model for sustainable tourism in Vietnam. As more tourists seek authentic, environmentally conscious travel experiences, Tan Phong will likely continue to grow as a destination for cultural and sustainable tourism.

Looking forward, the continued development of Tan Phong as a tourism hub will depend on ongoing support for local businesses, better infrastructure, and a sustained focus on sustainable tourism practices. By fostering local talent, promoting the unique cultural identity of the village, and embracing eco-friendly tourism, Tan Phong can continue to attract visitors, support the local economy, and protect its cultural heritage.

Tan Phong’s Bright Future as a Tourism Destination

Tan Phong Handicraft Village has a bright future ahead of it because it continues to develop into an important tourist spot in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. With the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts, the development of the community, and sustainable tourism practices, Tan Phong has discovered a way to prosper economically and at the same time preserve its culture. With increasing tourism, Tan Phong is going to play an important role in the identity of the Mekong Delta because it gives tourists an unforgettable experience amidst the rich culture of Vietnam.