Explore Halong Bay’s Fishing Villages: A Journey Through Local Culture
Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Vietnam, is known for its emerald waters and towering limestone karsts. However, beyond the bay’s natural beauty, its traditional fishing villages offer a glimpse into the lives of the bay’s local communities. This article will help you get a better understanding about three popular villages including Vung Vieng, Cua Van, and Ba Hang villages.
Vung Vieng Fishing Village
Where is Vung Vieng Village?
Vung Vieng lies in the center of Bai Tu Long Bay, a smaller bay adjacent to Halong Bay in northeastern Vietnam, approximately 25 kilometers from the mainland in Quang Ninh province, which is renowned for its pearl cultivation.
How to Get to Vung Vieng Village?
Travelers can try a local rowing boat or kayak to visit Vung Vieng Village, which is normally offered by overnight cruise in Halong Bay. The journey takes about an hour, and along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the bay’s limestone cliffs and clear waters.
What to Do in Vung Vieng Village
The village offers bamboo boat rides, where local villagers row visitors through the floating houses and fishing areas, showcasing traditional fishing practices.
You can also try fishing with local nets, or participate in workshops to learn about fish farming and pearl cultivation.
Kayaking is a popular option, allowing you to paddle around the floating homes and marvel at the karst scenery up close.
Cua Van Fishing Village
Where is Cua Van Village?
Cua Van Fishing Village is situated in Hung Thang Commune, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province, roughly 20 kilometers from Tuan Chau Tourist Pier. Positioned between Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, it’s home to over 176 families whose main livelihood is fishing.
How to Get to Cua Van Village?
Reaching Cua Van is straightforward, as it’s a popular stop for most Halong Bay cruises. Tours often include this village as a destination, departing from Tuan Chau Marina. Some cruises also offer the option of an overnight stay, giving travelers more time to explore the village’s cultural and natural offerings.
What to Do in Cua Van Village
Explore Cua Van Floating Culture Center: Visitors can learn about the traditional life and culture of the bay’s fishing communities. The center features exhibits on the village’s history, fishing techniques, and environmental conservation efforts.
Kayaking: offers an eco-friendly way to explore the village and its surrounding waters.
Enjoy activities with the local fishermen like sailing, sunset watching, listening to traditional songs, and night squid fishing. The residents are warm and welcoming, making every interaction memorable.
Ba Hang Fishing Village
Where is Ba Hang Village?
Ba Hang Fishing Village is located near Thien Cung Cave, a famous cave in Halong Bay, and nestled next to Dau Go Island, about 3 km south of Tuan Chau International Port. Unlike the larger villages of Vung Vieng and Cua Van, Ba Hang is small and intimate, with just a few dozen residents.
How to Get to Ba Hang Village?
Ba Hang can be reached by boat from the main Halong Bay cruise routes, typically as a quick stop on tours departing from Tuan Chau Harbor. The village is close to the bay’s iconic caves and karsts, allowing visitors to explore multiple sites in a single tour.
What to Do in Ba Hang Village
For adventurous travelers, kayaking is a fantastic way to explore Ba Hang’s beauty at your own pace. Paddle through the emerald waters, taking in the stunning limestone cliffs, lush landscapes, and refreshing air around you.
If you prefer a relaxing experience, hop on a rowing boat to glide through Ba Hang Cave. Boating allows you to fully enjoy the scenery with hands free for photos, capturing the marvels of this captivating spot.
Update after Yagi Typhoon
Unfortunately, because Yagi Typhoon in September, severe damage affected 33 preserved floating homes across Cua Van, Vung Vieng, Ba Hang, and the Cua Van Floating Cultural Center. Facilities supporting local rowing and kayaking services were also heavily impacted. Recovery policies are currently being implemented to restore normalcy to local life and tourism.
Planning Your Visit to Halong Bay’s Villages
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Halong Bay’s fishing villages is from October to April, when the weather is mild and pleasant. During this period, you’ll have the best chance of calm seas and clear skies for exploring the villages.
- Respect Local Customs: These fishing villages are home to families and communities who rely on tourism and fishing for their livelihoods. It’s important to respect their homes, refrain from littering, and avoid feeding wildlife.
- Consider Eco-Friendly Tours: Some tour operators focus on sustainable tourism, offering tours that support local communities while minimizing environmental impact. Choosing these tours can help preserve the beauty and culture of Halong Bay’s fishing villages.
Halong Bay’s fishing villages offer a unique experience, blending natural beauty with cultural depth. From learning about traditional fishing techniques to gliding through floating homes on bamboo boats, visiting these villages is a journey into the heart of Halong Bay’s heritage.
