Kim Bong Carpentry Village: Hoi An’s Timeless Craft Haven in Da Nang City

Hoi An Ancient Town, now Minh An Ward in Da Nang City following the merger of Quang Nam Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its lantern-lit streets and vibrant cultural heritage. Just a 10-minute boat ride across the Thu Bon River, Kim Bong Carpentry Village in Cam Kim Ward is a 600-year-old craft haven, attracting thousands of Hoi An’s 4.5 million annual visitors. Established in the 15th century, this village is famed for its intricate wood carvings, shipbuilding, and contributions to Hoi An’s iconic architecture, including the Japanese Covered Bridge. With eco-friendly tourism initiatives and hands-on experiences like carving workshops, Kim Bong offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s artisanal legacy. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-conscious tours to immerse you in this cultural gem, bookable via links throughout this guide. Explore Kim Bong’s timeless craft—reserve your tour now

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Kim Bong tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles and electric boats, guided by local artisans who share the village’s history. We support Cam Kim’s community and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve craft traditions. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless cultural journey. Discover Kim Bong responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, making Hoi An Minh An Ward and Kim Bong Carpentry Village part of Cam Kim Ward under Da Nang’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s UNESCO status and Kim Bong’s cultural significance remain strong. Da Nang City promotes sustainable tourism with cycling paths, electric transport, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring easy access to Kim Bong.

Founded in the late 15th century by Vietnamese settlers from Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, and Ha Tinh, Kim Bong Carpentry Village (originally Kim Bong Chau) emerged on Cam Kim Island, opposite Hoi An’s bustling port. By the 16th–17th centuries, as Hoi An became a major Silk Road hub, the village thrived, crafting ships up to 20 tons, intricate furniture, and architectural masterpieces for Hoi An, Hue’s Imperial Citadel, and even Hanoi’s Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Known for its three craft groups—architectural construction, civil furniture, and shipbuilding—Kim Bong blends Cham, Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese styles, with artisans like Huynh Ri (recognized in 1984) preserving techniques through UNESCO-funded training since 1997.

Spanning two areas—western handicrafts (carvings) and eastern shipbuilding—the village produces everything from sacred censers with 1,000 dragons to wooden buffalo statues and Guanyin sculptures. Despite a 20th-century decline due to urbanization, Kim Bong adapted to tourism, restoring Hoi An’s relics and creating souvenirs. Its annual festival on the 12th lunar day of the first month celebrates carpentry ancestors with boat races and carving demos, drawing eco-conscious visitors. Open 24/7 with no entrance fee, Kim Bong remains a vibrant testament to Hoi An’s craft heritage.

Ticket Prices

• Entrance Fee: Free for all visitors, making Kim Bong an accessible cultural attraction.

• Workshops and Activities:

  • Carving Workshops: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) per person, 1–2 hours, including materials.

  • Guided Tours: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND) per person, covering boat transfers and village exploration.

  • Souvenirs: Wooden statues, furniture, or carvings range from $5–$30 (125,000–750,000 VND); larger pieces (e.g., reliefs) $50–$300 (1,250,000–7,500,000 VND).

• Boat Transfers: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) round-trip from Bach Dang Wharf in Hoi An.

• Note: Prices are transparent at village shops; bargaining is polite but limited. Guided tours often include boat fees and workshop costs.

Opening Hours

• Hours: Open 24/7, with artisan workshops typically active from 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily, including holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year).

• Best Visiting Times:

  • Morning (7:00–9:00 AM): Cooler temperatures (24–28°C or 75.2–82.4°F), active artisans, and fewer visitors.

  • Afternoon (2:00–4:00 PM): Avoid midday heat (up to 35°C or 95°F); ideal for photography.

  • Festival (12th lunar day, first month): Features ancestral worship, boat races, and carving demos (January–February, check lunar calendar).

• Note: Rainy season (September–January) may make river crossings or cycling trickier; dry season (March–August) is optimal for outdoor exploration.

Kim Bong is 2–3 km from Hoi An’s Minh An Ward, accessible by boat, bicycle, motorbike, or taxi across the Thu Bon River or Cam Kim Bridge (built 2016). Below are updated options for sustainable travel.

1. Guided Tours (Recommended)

• Cost: $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND) per person; private tours $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND, up to 4 people).

• Duration: Half-day (3–4 hours) or full-day (6–8 hours, often with Thanh Ha Pottery Village).

• Departure: Pick-up from Hoi An hotels (Minh An Ward) or Da Nang (Hai Chau Ward) at 8:00 AM or 2:00 PM.

• Includes: Electric boat or shuttle, guide, workshop access, and sometimes lunch.

• Sustainable Tips: Choose tours with electric boats or shared vans; Legend Travel Group supports local artisans.

• Pros: Hassle-free; cultural insights; eco-friendly transport.

• Cons: Less flexibility than DIY options.

• Tip: Book sunrise tours for serene river views. Included in our Kim Bong Handicraft Tour ($70–$90).

2. Boat

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) round-trip per person; private boats $6–$8 (150,000–200,000 VND, up to 4 people).

• Duration: 10 minutes from Bach Dang Wharf (Hoi An, Tran Phu Street).

• Schedule: Ferries run 6:00 AM–6:00 PM, every 15–30 minutes; private boats available 24/7.

• Sustainable Tips: Electric boats reduce emissions; share group boats to lower impact.

• Pros: Scenic river ride; authentic experience.

• Cons: Limited evening schedules; rainy season may affect crossings.

• Tip: Catch the 7:00 AM ferry to beat crowds; contact camkimclb@gmail.com for private bookings.

3. Bicycle

• Cost: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); free at some Hoi An hotels.

• Duration: 15–20 minutes via Cam Kim Bridge (600 m from Old Town, then 3 km).

• Providers: Hoi An Bike Rental (+84 961 172 423), Path Biker.

• Sustainable Tips: Zero-emission transport; lock bikes at village shops to prevent theft.

• Pros: Eco-friendly; scenic rice paddy views; flexible.

• Cons: Not ideal in rain or heat; bridge traffic can be busy.

• Tip: Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me); cycle early to avoid midday sun.

4. Motorbike

• Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); parking $0.40 (10,000 VND).

• Duration: 15 minutes via Cam Kim Bridge.

• Providers: Rentabike Vietnam (+84 969 722 744).

• Sustainable Tips: Choose fuel-efficient scooters (e.g., Honda Wave); carry IDP or Vietnamese A1 license (mandatory, $200 fine without).

• Pros: Fast and flexible; affordable for pairs.

• Cons: Traffic risks; not covered by standard travel insurance.

• Tip: Wear helmets; avoid night rides due to poor lighting.

5. Taxi or Grab

• Cost: $3–$5 one-way (75,000–125,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND).

• Duration: 10–15 minutes from Hoi An.

• Providers: Mai Linh (+84 236 352 5252), Grab, Xanh SM.

• Sustainable Tips: Xanh SM’s electric taxis cut CO2 by 30%; share rides for efficiency.

• Pros: Comfortable; safe for families.

• Cons: More expensive than bikes or boats.

• Tip: Book via Grab for transparent fares; confirm drop-off at Nong Thon Street.

1. Observe Artisan Craftsmanship

Watch skilled artisans carve intricate designs, from wooden buffaloes to Guanyin statues, using traditional chisels. Visit shipyards to see 20-ton fishing boats being built.

• Cost: Free; guided tours $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND).

• Highlights: “The sound of chiseling wood is mesmerizing” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Ask artisans about their techniques; avoid touching unfinished pieces. Included in our Kim Bong Handicraft Tour ($70–$90).

2. Join Carving Workshops

Participate in hands-on workshops to create small wooden items like figurines or keychains, guided by master carpenters.

• Cost: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND), 1–2 hours.

• Highlights: “Carving my own buffalo was a highlight” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Book via Klook for small groups; wear closed shoes for safety.

3. Explore the Village by Bike

Cycle through Cam Kim’s rice paddies and rural lanes, stopping at workshops and communal houses honoring carpentry ancestors (Nguyen, Chuong, Phan, Huynh families).

• Cost: Bike rental $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); guided bike tours $10–$25 (250,000–625,000 VND).

• Highlights: “The countryside is as beautiful as the crafts” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Use Maps.me for routes; visit early for cool weather. Included in our Cam Kim Cycling Tour ($60–$80).

4. Shop for Unique Souvenirs

Purchase handcrafted items like wooden statues, reliefs, or furniture, showcasing Hoi An’s rustic motifs (dragons, storks, bamboo).

• Cost: $5–$30 (125,000–750,000 VND) for small items; $50–$300 (1,250,000–7,500,000 VND) for larger pieces.

• Highlights: “Bought a carved dragon for $20, beautifully detailed” (Tripadvisor, 4.4/5 stars).

• Tip: Check prices at multiple shops; larger items can be shipped internationally.

5. Attend the Kim Bong Carpentry Festival

Join the annual festival (12th lunar day, first month, typically January–February) for ancestral worship, boat races, and carving demos, celebrating 600 years of craft heritage.

• Cost: Free entry; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) appreciated.

• Highlights: “The boat races were vibrant and cultural” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Book tours 3–4 weeks ahead for festival dates; dress modestly. Included in our Kim Bong Festival Tour ($65–$85).

Kim Bong Carpentry Village is a cornerstone of Hoi An’s cultural heritage, supported by Da Nang City’s sustainable tourism initiatives:

• Eco-Tourism Development: A 2023 eco-tour project links Kim Bong with Tra Que and Thanh Ha villages, promoting green travel via boats and bikes. Tourism employs 100+ carpenters, down from 130 two decades ago.

• Flood Mitigation: Da Nang’s VND500 billion drainage project (2023) ensures access during November rains, protecting Cam Kim’s farmland and workshops.

• Cultural Preservation: UNESCO-funded training since 1997, led by artisan Huynh Ri, has trained 100 young carpenters, though only 30% remain active due to tourism jobs offering higher pay (VND400,000/day vs. VND600,000 for guides).

• Sustainable Practices: Artisans recycle scrap wood; shops use biodegradable packaging; guided tours prioritize low-emission transport.

• Recent Developments: Guided tours launched in June 2024 enhance visitor experiences, while the Cam Kim Bridge (2016) improves access.

Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, supporting artisans and promoting eco-conscious practices to preserve Kim Bong’s legacy.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654). Confirm festival dates (January–February) via lunar calendar.

• Dress Code: Casual, comfortable clothing; closed shoes for workshops; conical hats ($1–$2) for sun protection.

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, small VND for souvenirs, camera (ask permission for artisan photos).

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120). Souvenirs $5–$300; tours $10–$120.

• Stay Safe: Watch for uneven paths; secure valuables; check flood forecasts for November via Vietnam News.

• Sustainability: Use bikes or electric boats; buy from artisans to support local economies; avoid plastic waste with reusable bags.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); don’t touch carvings without permission; tip artisans/guides ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Allow 2–3 hours for the village; combine with Thanh Ha Pottery Village (5 km) for a full day. Offline maps essential.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Kim Bong’s artisanal heritage, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:

• Kim Bong Handicraft Tour ($70–$90/person): Carving workshop, shipyard visit, Thu Bon River boat ride, mi quang tasting. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Kim Bong & Thanh Ha Full-Day Tour ($80–$120/person): Kim Bong carpentry, Thanh Ha pottery, Hoi An Old Town. Includes bike rentals, boat transfers, and meals.

• Cam Kim Cycling Tour ($60–$80/person): Bike through Kim Bong, visit communal houses, rice paddy stops, local coffee. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Kim Bong Festival Tour ($65–$85/person): Festival events, ancestral worship, boat races, carving demos. Includes eco-transfers and festival access.

• Hoi An Cultural Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Kim Bong, My Son Sanctuary, Tra Que, homestays ($15–$50/night), Full Moon Lantern Festival. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Kim Bong Carpentry Village, a 600-year-old craft haven in Cam Kim Commune, Hoi An Ward, Quang Nam Region, 30 km from Da Nang City, captivates with its intricate wood carvings, shipbuilding, and contributions to Hoi An’s UNESCO heritage. With no entrance fee and 24/7 access, this village offers sustainable experiences like carving workshops ($5–$15, 125,000–375,000 VND) and eco-tours, enchanting cultural explorers. Supported by green tourism initiatives, Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours ensure a sustainable Hoi An Travel experience, supporting local carpenters with low-impact tours and visits to Japanese Covered Bridge and Hoi An Ancient Town. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Kim Bong Carpentry Village’s artisanal wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Vietnam’s craft heritage!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Kim Bong Carpentry Village Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group