Thanh Phuoc Village: Where the Rivers Meet, and Incense Crafts Flourish

Thanh Phuoc Village, located in Huong Phong Ward, Thuan Hoa District, Hue City, is a quintessential ancient village in the former imperial capital. It sits at the confluence of the Bo and Hương rivers. Its rich history is evident not only in its preserved traditional architecture but also in its unique, traditional incense-making craft.

Ancient Village at the River’s Bend: Architecture and Culture

Established during the Lê Dynasty, Thanh Phuoc Village occupies a strategic location at the confluence of the Bo and Hương rivers. The village’s architectural layout is relatively clear, with residential areas concentrated along the riverbanks and main thoroughfares. Public buildings and religious sites are strategically placed, often oriented towards the river. The riverside areas and burial grounds are kept separate, minimizing interference between residents and production activities.

The worship of the Kỳ Thạch phu nhân (Strange Stone Lady), also known as the Bà Đá shrine, is a notable feature. A sculpted representation of the Hindu goddess Shiva, carved from stone, stands as a testament to the village’s reverence for their history and cultural heritage.

Traditional Incense Crafts: A Sustainable Source of Livelihood

Beyond its rich cultural heritage, Thanh Phuoc Village is famed for its traditional incense craftsmanship. This craft provides employment and income for numerous households.

Thanh Phuoc’s incense products are not only popular domestically but also exported internationally, particularly for premium grades. This significantly contributes to the village’s economic well-being.

Preserving Heritage, Fostering Tourism

Despite rapid urbanization, Thanh Phuoc Village retains a peaceful, ancient village ambiance. The preservation of communal structures like temples, pagodas, ancestral halls, shrines, and wells are invaluable to the village’s cultural heritage.

Thanh Phuoc, and other villages along the Hương and Bo rivers, have a unique combination of location, scenery, heritage, and culture, promising to become attractive tourist destinations in the future.

Conclusion

Thanh Phuoc Village exemplifies the harmonious blend of traditional cultural heritage and sustainable economic development. Preserving and promoting its cultural values while leveraging its tourism potential will contribute to the village’s sustained growth and preservation of its unique charm.