Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism Guide: Eco-Tours & Cultural Immersion in Son Tay, Hanoi

A Sustainable Cultural Hub Near Hanoi

Located 43 km west of Hanoi in Dong Mo, Son Tay Ward, the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is a premier eco-tourism destination, showcasing the vibrant heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. Spanning 1,544 hectares, including 900 hectares of Dong Mo Lake and lush forests, this cultural hub recreates traditional villages, festivals, and crafts, offering an immersive experience of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic identities. Just 20 km from Ba Vi National Park and 10 km from Duong Lam Ancient Village, it’s ideal for cultural enthusiasts and families seeking fresh air and authentic experiences. Aligned with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, the village promotes sustainable tourism through eco-friendly activities and local engagement, attracting over 500,000 visitors annually. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours ensure a responsible, enriching visit. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with Son Tay District now Son Tay Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This enhances access through sustainable infrastructure, including upgraded roads and eco-friendly transport options, ensuring seamless travel to the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism.

Legend Travel Group is a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-tours to the Vietnam National Village with a focus on environmental care and cultural preservation. Our tours use fuel-efficient vehicles and local guides who share the traditions of Vietnam’s ethnic groups, ensuring a safe, immersive experience. Supporting Son Tay Ward’s communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore the village responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

The Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, established in 2010 in Dong Mo, Son Tay Ward, is a 43-km drive from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward. Set in a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F) and a rainy season (May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), it covers 1,544 hectares, including seven functional zones like ethnic hamlets and a lake. Representing 54 ethnic groups, including Tay, Nung, Dao, and Khmer, it recreates traditional architecture, festivals, and crafts. Sustainable activities—cultural performances, folk games, and local cuisine—support preservation, with recent initiatives like the 2024 Ethnic Groups’ Culture Day enhancing its eco-tourism appeal.

The village is accessible in about 1–1.5 hours from Hanoi via sustainable transport options, covering 43 km. Below are updated routes and costs:

By Air

• Details: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 70 km from the village, serves domestic and international flights. Arrange a shuttle or taxi from the airport.

• Round-Trip Costs:

  • Ho Chi Minh City: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • International (e.g., Bangkok): $200–$600.

• Airport Taxi/Grab: $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) one-way.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Share taxis or shuttles to reduce emissions; book via village management at phongnghiepvu.lvh@gmail.com.

By Bus (Eco-Friendly)

• Details: From Hanoi’s My Dinh Bus Station, take Route 107 (Kim Ma to village, 1–1.5 hours, $2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND) or Route 71/71B (My Dinh to Son Tay, then taxi/Grab for 10 km, $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND). Buses run every 20–30 minutes from 5:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Total Cost: $7–$12 (175,000–300,000 VND) one-way.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Public buses minimize carbon footprint; walk short distances in Son Tay if fit.

• Note: Confirm “Dong Mo, Son Tay” with drivers to avoid confusion.

By Motorbike

• Details: Rent a motorbike in Hanoi ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND). Two routes:

  • Thang Long Avenue (Recommended): From Tran Duy Hung, travel 8 km on Thang Long Boulevard, turn right to the village gate (~1 hour, 43 km).

  • Route 32: From Cau Giay, go 33 km to Son Tay, then 10 km to Dong Mo (~1–1.5 hours, 43 km). Confirm directions with locals.

• Costs: Rental $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); fuel $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) round-trip.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Use a fuel-efficient 125cc–150cc bike; share with a companion to halve emissions.

• Note: Avoid rainy season (May–October) for safety; ensure riding experience.

By Taxi or Grab

• Details: From Hoan Kiem Ward, book a taxi or Grab to Dong Mo, covering 43 km in 1–1.5 hours.

• Cost: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) one-way; $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Share with others to reduce emissions; use hybrid vehicles if available.

By Private Car (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: Book a private car ($70–$100 or 1,750,000–2,500,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for flexible, eco-friendly travel with stopovers at Duong Lam or Ba Vi.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Fuel-efficient vehicles minimize impact; combine with cultural stops.

• Note: Ideal for groups; book 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.

Tip: Choose buses or shared private cars for sustainability; Legend Travel Group’s tours ensure eco-friendly navigation. Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Vietnam National Village, Dong Mo” as a landmark.

The dry season (November–April) is ideal, with mild temperatures (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F) and clear skies, perfect for outdoor activities like festivals and biking. Autumn (September–November) features vibrant foliage, while Tet (January–February) offers cultural events but requires early booking due to crowds. The rainy season (May–October) brings lush greenery and 15–25% tour discounts but includes rainfall (200–400 mm/month), better for indoor exhibits. Key events like Vietnam Ethnic Groups’ Culture Day (April 19) attract visitors with performances. Check AccuWeather for updates.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable, comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Modest attire for cultural respect; comfortable shoes for walking.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone/camera for photos; portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to minimize waste.

• Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; small gifts for artisans ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND).

Tip: Carry small VND notes; use a waterproof bag for electronics in rainy season.

Established in 2010, the Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism is a cultural epicenter, recreating the traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups across four hamlets. Spanning 1,544 hectares, it features authentic stilt houses, markets, and festivals, preserving intangible heritage like Cham music and Tay dances. With 15 ethnic groups (e.g., Tay, Nung, Khmer) actively participating, it offers daily life reenactments, crafts, and cuisine, fostering unity and cultural exchange. Its sustainable practices—eco-friendly infrastructure and local artisan support—make it a model for responsible tourism, drawing 500,000 visitors annually.

1. Cultural Performances and Festivals

Experience ethnic dances, music (e.g., Cham Paranung drums), and festivals like Vietnam Ethnic Groups’ Culture Day, a 1–2-hour cultural immersion showcasing 54 ethnic traditions.

• Cost: Included in entry ($1.50 or 37,500 VND); special events $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM; festivals vary.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports artisans; minimal resource use.

• Tip: Included in our Village Eco-Tour ($80–$120).

2. Ethnic Hamlet Exploration

Tour recreated villages (Tay, Nung, Khmer) to see stilt houses, crafts, and daily life, a 1–3-hour low-impact activity with guided or self-guided options.

• Cost: Included in entry ($1.50 or 37,500 VND); guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Preserves traditional architecture; supports local residents.

• Tip: Included in our Village Cultural Tour ($100–$150).

3. Mountainous Market Experience

Visit a recreated Ha Giang-style market with ethnic crafts, textiles, and foods like thang co (H’Mong stew), a 1–2-hour sustainable activity.

• Cost: Entry $1.50 (37,500 VND); purchases $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: Weekends, 9:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Supports local artisans; uses biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Included in our Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400).

4. Folk Games and Workshops

Participate in ethnic games (e.g., bamboo dancing) or craft workshops (e.g., brocade weaving), a 1–2-hour cultural experience promoting traditional skills.

• Cost: $3–$10 (75,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses local materials; supports artisans.

• Tip: Included in our Village Eco-Tour ($80–$120).

5. Culinary Tasting

Savor ethnic dishes like Muong tray feasts or Tay sticky rice at village eateries, a 1-hour sustainable dining experience using local ingredients.

• Cost: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per meal.

• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–3:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced produce; minimal waste.

• Tip: Included in our Village Cultural Tour ($100–$150).

Entrance Fees

• Village Entry: $1.50 (37,500 VND); students $0.50 (12,500 VND).

• Electric Tram (Optional): $1.50 (37,500 VND) per person.

• Photography Permit (Professional): $30/day (750,000 VND, groups <10).

Transportation (Round-Trip)

• Bus: $14–$24 (350,000–600,000 VND, including taxi from Son Tay).

• Motorbike: $7–$14 (175,000–350,000 VND, rental + fuel).

• Taxi/Grab: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Private Car: $70–$100 (1,750,000–2,500,000 VND).

• Airport Taxi: $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).

Activities

• Guided Tours/Workshops: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Market Purchases: $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

• Meals: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $20–$40 (entry, bus, meals, free activities).

• Mid-range: $50–$80 (guided tours, motorbike, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$150 (private car, premium activities).

Tip: Carry VND for small fees; book tours early for festivals or dry season.

• Plan Your Activities: Combine cultural performances and hamlet tours for a full day; prioritize morning visits to avoid crowds, especially during festivals like April 19.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons (November–April, Tet) to secure spots. Contact the village at phongnghiepvu.lvh@gmail.com for event schedules.

• Sustainability: Use electric trams or bikes ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) for low-impact exploration; buy crafts ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND) to support artisans. Bring reusable items to minimize waste.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); mark “Vietnam National Village, Dong Mo” as a landmark. Guides ensure seamless access.

• Safety: Stick to marked paths; carry a first-aid kit. Contact village management for emergencies (+84 977 691 871).

• Weather Considerations: Dry season is best for outdoor activities; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip artisans $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Respect festival rituals.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent; ensure fitness for walking tours.

Our sustainable tours showcase the Vietnam National Village’s cultural richness:

• Village Eco-Tour ($80–$120/person, 1 day): Cultural performances, hamlet tours, mountainous market, eco-friendly lunch. Includes private car, guide.

• Village Cultural Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Folk games, craft workshops, Duong Lam visit, homestay ($50–$80/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Son Tay Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Village activities, Ba Vi National Park, Hoan Kiem Lake, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

The Vietnam National Village for Ethnic Culture and Tourism, just 43 km from Hanoi, is a sustainable cultural gem, celebrating the heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups. From vibrant festivals to authentic hamlet tours, it offers an immersive, eco-friendly experience. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours ensure a responsible adventure, supporting Son Tay’s communities and Hanoi’s green initiatives. Whether savoring ethnic cuisine or exploring traditional crafts, the village promises unforgettable memories. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your cultural journey today!
Ready to discover Vietnam’s ethnic diversity? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Hanoi Travel getaway!

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.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group