Tra Que Vegetable Village: Hoi An’s Organic Oasis in Da Nang City – A Complete Guide

Hoi An Ancient Town, now a ward of 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 3 km northeast in Cam Ha Ward, Tra Que Vegetable Village is a serene eco-tourism gem, attracting thousands of Hoi An’s 4.5 million annual visitors. With over 400 years of history, this 40-hectare organic farming village is famed for its lush herbs and vegetables, grown without chemical fertilizers using seaweed from the Co Co River. Supplying iconic Hoi An dishes like cao lầu and mi quang, Tra Que’s fragrant basil, mint, and coriander define the town’s culinary soul. Offering hands-on farming, cooking classes, and tranquil countryside vibes, the village is a must-visit for nature lovers and food enthusiasts. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in Tra Que’s green paradise, bookable via links throughout this guide. Embrace Tra Que’s rustic charm—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Tra Que tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles and electric shuttles, guided by local farmers who share organic farming secrets. We support Cam Ha’s community and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve Tra Que’s agricultural legacy. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless eco-adventure. Explore Tra Que responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Tra Que Vegetable Village, located between the De Vong River and Tra Que Lagoon, has thrived for over 400 years, transitioning from a 16th-century fishing settlement to a renowned organic farming hub. Named for its tea-like, cinnamon-scented herbs, the village was christened by a Nguyen Dynasty king in the 18th century, reflecting its aromatic produce. Spanning 40 hectares, Tra Que’s 220 agricultural households, including 130 specializing in vegetables, cultivate over 20 types of herbs and greens—basil, coriander, lettuce, houttuynia, and knotweed—using traditional methods and seaweed fertilizer from the Co Co River. This chemical-free approach ensures vibrant, safe produce that elevates Hoi An’s cuisine, contributing to dishes like tam huu spring rolls and banh xeo pancakes.

Recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2022, Tra Que blends agriculture with eco-tourism, offering visitors a chance to farm, cook, and relax in its verdant fields. Despite challenges like urban expansion and climate-driven flooding, the village’s sustainable practices and community resilience maintain its allure. Its proximity to Hoi An Ancient Town (3 km) and An Bang Beach (2 km) makes it an ideal day trip, accessible by bicycle for an authentic countryside experience.

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, making Hoi An a ward under Da Nang City’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Tra Que Vegetable Village’s cultural and tourism significance in Cam Ha Ward remains strong. Da Nang City aims to promote Tra Que as a “Global Eco-Tourism Destination,” enhancing sustainable tourism with improved cycling paths and eco-friendly infrastructure.

1. Become a Farmer for a Day

Join local farmers to plant, water, harvest, or fertilize crops using organic seaweed from the Co Co River. Activities include raking soil, sowing seeds, and picking herbs, offering a hands-on glimpse into Tra Que’s 400-year-old farming traditions.

• Cost: Entrance $1.50 (35,000 VND); farming tours $15–$35 (375,000–875,000 VND).

• Highlights: “A rewarding rural experience” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Wear comfortable clothes and closed shoes; morning sessions (8:00–10:00 AM) avoid midday heat. Included in our Tra Que Farming Tour ($70–$90).

2. Take a Cooking Class

Learn to prepare Hoi An specialties like banh xeo, tam huu spring rolls, and mi quang using Tra Que’s fresh herbs in a cooking class with local chefs, followed by a communal meal.

• Cost: $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND), including ingredients and lunch.

• Highlights: “Delicious and educational” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Book classes at Tra Que Herb Garden for small groups; bring a reusable water bottle. Included in our Hoi An Culinary Craft Tour ($75–$95).

3. Relax with a Herbal Foot Bath

Unwind with a 20-minute foot soak using Tra Que’s medicinal herbs, known for reducing stress and fatigue, offered at village guesthouses or restaurants.

• Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Highlights: “Soothing and rejuvenating” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: Combine with a sunset visit (4:30–6:00 PM) for a relaxing end to the day. Included in our Tra Que Wellness Tour ($65–$85).

4. Cycle Through the Countryside

Ride a bicycle through Tra Que’s lush fields and quiet lanes, soaking in the serene scenery of vegetable gardens, rice paddies, and the De Vong River.

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

• Highlights: “A picturesque escape” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me); cycle early morning for cool weather. Included in our Tra Que Cycling Tour ($60–$80).

5. Savor Local Cuisine

Dine at garden restaurants like Tra Que Herb Garden, enjoying dishes like stir-fried mussels or pork rice paper rolls made with Tra Que’s organic produce, paired with sweet basil seed drinks.

• Cost: Dishes $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Highlights: “Fresh and authentic flavors” (Tripadvisor, 4.8/5 stars).

• Tip: Confirm prices before ordering; try lotus seed water for a refreshing treat. Included in our Hoi An Foodie Tour ($60–$80).

Tra Que’s organic farming, using seaweed fertilizer and no chemicals, is a model of sustainable agriculture, recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2022. However, challenges like flooding from the De Vong River (October–November) and urban encroachment threaten its fields. Da Nang City’s initiatives, including drainage improvements and a 2023 eco-tourism development plan, aim to protect Tra Que:

• Conservation Efforts: The Hoi An People’s Committee supports crop rotation and intercropping on 40 hectares, with training for young farmers to preserve organic methods.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Tours prioritize bicycles or walking; restaurants use biodegradable packaging; waste management systems reduce environmental impact.

• Community Support: Tourism revenue funds local households, with 130 families offering farming and cooking experiences, boosting economic resilience.

Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, partnering with Tra Que farmers and eco-conscious vendors to support Cam Ha’s community and promote sustainable tourism.

• Entrance Fee: $1.50 (35,000 VND/person); free for children under 5; 50% off for ages 6–10.

• Dining: Dishes $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Activities: Farming tours $15–$35 (375,000–875,000 VND); cooking classes $25–$45 (625,000–1,125,000 VND); foot baths $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); bike rentals $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • From Hoi An (3 km, ~10–15 minutes): Bicycle $1–$2/day; motorbike $6–$10/day + $1 fuel (25,000 VND); taxi/Grab $3–$5 one-way (75,000–125,000 VND); cyclo $2–$5/trip (50,000–125,000 VND).

  • From Da Nang (20 km, ~20–30 minutes): Bus #1 $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND); taxi/Grab $7–$11 one-way (175,000–275,000 VND); shuttle bus $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); private car $15–$20 one-way (375,000–500,000 VND).

  • From Hanoi (750 km, round-trip): Flight $70–$140; train $35–$60 + $6–$12 taxi; bus $20–$35 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $160–$230.

  • From Ho Chi Minh City (900 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$160; bus $30–$45 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $200–$280.

• Accommodation (Hoi An): Hostels $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND); homestays $15–$50/night (375,000–1,250,000 VND); hotels $70–$200/night (1,750,000–5,000,000 VND); resorts (e.g., Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An) $180–$450/night (4,500,000–11,250,000 VND).

• Total Daily Cost: $20–$120 (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward (Vietcombank, BIDV). Book tours for eco-transfers to support sustainability. Rainy season discounts (10–20%) apply September–January.

From Hoi An (3 km, ~10–15 minutes)

• Bicycle: $1–$2/day; follow Cua Dai Road to Tra Que Village, a scenic ride through rice paddies.

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day + $1 fuel; restricted in Hoi An Old Town pedestrian zones (9:00 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–10:00 PM).

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 one-way (75,000–125,000 VND).

• Cyclo: $2–$5/trip (50,000–125,000 VND); cultural experience.

• Walking: ~45 minutes; follow Cua Dai Road for a leisurely stroll.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($55–$95) include eco-transfers.

From Da Nang (20 km, ~20–30 minutes)

• Bus #1: $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND); every 30 minutes (5:30 AM–5:00 PM) to Hoi An Bus Station; taxi to Tra Que $3–$5.

• Taxi/Grab: $7–$11 one-way (175,000–275,000 VND).

• Shuttle Bus: $3–$5 one-way; hourly (6:00 AM–9:00 PM).

• Private Car: $15–$20 one-way (375,000–500,000 VND).

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($80–$130) include transfers.

On-Site

• Walking: Village spans 40 hectares; key areas (gardens, restaurants) are 5–10 minutes apart on foot.

• Parking: $0.25–$0.60/motorbike (6,250–15,000 VND); cars park at village entrance.

Route Tip: Depart from Hoi An for shortest travel; use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Cua Dai Road is well-paved but busy during weekends.

• Dry Season (May–July, September–December): Mild to warm (25–35°C or 77–95°F), low rainfall (25–120 mm). Ideal for farming, cycling, and cooking classes; lush gardens thrive. Book 2–3 weeks ahead for July or December.

• Rainy Season (January–April, August): Cooler (19–29°C or 66.2–84.2°F), heavy rain (150–500 mm, peaking October–November). Flooding risks in November disrupt outdoor activities; focus on indoor cooking classes. Enjoy 10–20% discounts.
  Tip: May–July offers vibrant greenery and calm weather; early morning (5:00–7:30 AM) or late afternoon (3:30–6:00 PM) visits avoid heat and enhance sunset views.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654). Confirm hours (typically 8:00 AM–6:00 PM).

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

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, sunscreen, hat, gloves for farming, camera (ask permission for photos of farmers), small cash (VND) for entrance/dining.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day; carry VND; ATMs sparse in Tra Que (use Hoi An’s). Confirm prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Watch for uneven garden paths; stay hydrated; avoid farming during heavy rain. Check flood forecasts for November.

• Sustainability: Support organic farmers; use bicycles to reduce emissions; avoid plastic waste with reusable containers. Our tours promote eco-conscious travel.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to farmers; don’t pick herbs without permission; tip guides/chefs ($1–$2).

• Navigation: Allow 3–4 hours for farming, cooking, and dining; combine with An Bang Beach (2 km) or Thanh Ha Pottery Village (5 km) for a full day. Offline maps essential.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Tra Que’s organic paradise, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:

• Tra Que Farming Tour ($70–$90/person): Farming activities, herbal foot bath, tam huu spring roll tasting. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Hoi An Culinary Craft Tour ($75–$95/person): Tra Que cooking class, Hoi An Market visit, banh xeo preparation. Includes eco-transfers and meals.

• Tra Que Cycling Tour ($60–$80/person): Bicycle ride through Tra Que, garden tour, sweet basil seed drink. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Tra Que Wellness Tour ($65–$85/person): Herbal foot bath, sunset garden walk, cao lầu dining. Includes eco-transfers.

• Hoi An Eco Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Tra Que, My Son Sanctuary, homestays ($15–$50/night), all Hoi An highlights. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees ($1.50), and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Tra Que Vegetable Village, a 400-year-old organic farming haven in Da Nang City’s Cam Ha Ward, captivates with its lush herb gardens, sustainable practices, and authentic Hoi An cuisine. From planting basil to cooking banh xeo, this UNESCO-connected destination offers a refreshing escape just 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town. As a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, Tra Que blends tradition with eco-tourism, supporting local farmers and preserving its green legacy. Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours guide you through this green oasis, ensuring a sustainable Hoi An Travel experience that supports Cam Ha’s community and eco-conscious efforts. Don’t miss this green oasis—browse our featured tours and book your Tra Que adventure today!
Ready to explore Tra Que Vegetable Village’s organic wonders? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s green heritage!

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