Loc Yen Ancient Village is located in Thanh Binh Commune, Danang City, about 60 km northwest of Chu Lai Airport and around 90 km southwest of Danang International Airport. True to its name, the village offers a sense of tranquility, with the poetic landscape characteristic of the central uplands.
Loc Yen is one of four representative ancient villages of Vietnam recognized as a National Heritage Site (2019). The village charms visitors with its nearly two-hundred-year-old traditional houses nestled along mossy stone lanes and shaded beneath lush, year-round fruit gardens. Together, they form a quintessential rural landscape that embodies the gentle, peaceful beauty of Vietnam’s countryside.
A MARK OF EARLY SETTLEMENT AND THE JOURNEY OF PRESERVING TRADITION
Loc Yen Village was formed in the late 18th century during the Nguyễn Lords’ southward expansion. According to village genealogies, during the Tây Sơn era, an ancestor from Tam Ky brought his family and fellow villagers to reclaim this land and establish a settlement—originally named Loc An, later changed to Loc Yen.
Across roughly seven generations, the village has maintained its traditional lifestyle, with various clans living harmoniously on the land their ancestors cultivated. Despite historical ups and downs, Loc Yen still preserves nearly intact the customs and cultural imprints of its earliest days.
THE DISTINCTIVE BEAUTY OF TRADITIONAL WOODEN HOUSES AND MOSSY STONE LANES
Loc Yen is renowned for its cluster of ancient houses preserved within a serene rural setting. Today, the village still has eight traditional wooden houses (in the Quang Nam ruong architectural style, with three bays and two wings) dating from over 100 to nearly 150 years old.
Built primarily from jackfruit wood—a durable local material—the houses were crafted by the skilled carpenters of Kim Bong Village. After centuries, their beams, pillars, and finely carved wooden details remain intact, reflecting the craftsmanship of artisans of the past.
Most unique is the system of stone lanes, stone wells, and stone fences surrounding the gardens—carefully assembled from local mountain stones. Over time, rain and sun have painted these winding paths in shades of moss, creating a picturesque harmony between architecture and nature.
Most old houses rest against gentle hills and face wide fields or lush gardens, catching cool breezes while maintaining strong geomantic balance—a testament to the quiet yet distinctive beauty of the central Vietnamese uplands.
A SPACE THAT PRESERVES MEMORIES AND VIETNAMESE VILLAGE VALUES
The value of Loc Yen Ancient Village lies not only in its old houses but also in its rich cultural heritage, preserved through generations. Each house is a living space that holds precious memories of clans and the village community. Local residents cherish the heritage left by their ancestors, maintaining a lifestyle marked by simplicity, sincerity, and harmony.
The village has been preserved naturally: traditional customs, landscapes, and architectural forms remain present in daily life.
In September 2019, Loc Yen was recognized as a National Heritage Site, affirming its unique cultural and historical value. Today, the village stands as a symbol of rural Quang Nam—where scenic beauty, architectural heritage, and the hardworking spirit of its people come together. Loc Yen remains a “living museum” of Quang Nam’s countryside, inviting younger generations and visitors to explore its enduring past.
EXPERIENTIAL ACTIVITIES
A visit to Loc Yen allows travelers to immerse themselves in a peaceful and culturally rich rural setting. Moss-covered stone paths lead visitors through cool, green gardens toward centuries-old wooden houses tinged with the patina of time. Guests may enter certain ancient houses, meet the homeowners, and listen to stories of village life—gaining a closer understanding of local culture.
Beyond sightseeing, many immersive activities await. Visitors are invited to enjoy fresh seasonal fruits directly in local gardens—such as lòn bon, mangosteen, oranges, and tangerines—and may even pick the fruit themselves. Guests can also participate in preparing rustic dishes like Vietnamese bánh xèo, enjoying their freshly cooked creations.
Cultural experiences such as folk games and demonstrations of traditional craftmaking (e.g., weaving with areca palm sheaths) are also offered.
One particularly fascinating “treasure” of Loc Yen is its mysterious rotating table: place your hands on it, focus your intention, and the table gently rotates in the direction you imagine—an experience that never fails to delight visitors.
After exploring the village, guests can rest under the roof of an old house, sip green tea, breathe in the fresh countryside air, and embrace the peaceful rhythm of village life. The hospitality and sincerity of the Loc Yen people leave a lasting impression on visitors.
With all these charms, Loc Yen Ancient Village is a truly unique destination—where travelers can journey back in time to discover heritage while enjoying an authentic cultural and ecological experience in Quang Nam.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Location:
Loc Yen Ancient Village, Thanh Binh Commune, Danang City.
– ~60 km northwest of Chu Lai Airport
– ~90 km southwest of Danang International Airport
Opening hours: Open all day.
Entrance fee: Free; small fees may apply for fruit picking, food experiences, or visiting certain ancient houses.
Best time to visit:
– February – April: mild weather, lush scenery
– June – August: peak fruit season, vibrant gardens
– September: pleasant weather and the anniversary of its National Heritage recognition
Amid modern life, Loc Yen Ancient Village remains remarkably serene and authentic. A visit here offers peaceful moments and genuine rural experiences—gentle reminders of a slower, more harmonious way of life. Loc Yen welcomes every visitor warmly, leaving many longing to return.
DANANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
