In the flow of Vietnamese folk culture, the horse has long symbolized perseverance, loyalty, and an unceasing spirit of progress. As the Binh Ngo Year 2026 arrives, the image of the horse goes beyond ideas of speed or success; it embodies the aspiration to break through limits, the confidence to master one’s journey, and faith in bright, smooth new beginnings.
Welcoming spring at Cũi Lu Village, visitors do more than admire a collection of zodiac artworks—they are invited to listen to the cultural stories hidden behind the horse motif in Vietnamese folk life. Here, the horse is retold through a very different language: the language of reclaimed old wood brought back to life, of traditional lacquer techniques, and of artisans’ quiet hands devoted to preserving their craft.
Each creation, therefore, is not merely a handicraft product, but a vivid cultural imprint. The spirit of the new year is conveyed through every wood grain, every layer of subdued color, and every slow, deliberate shaping rhythm—inviting viewers to pause, feel, and carry these original emotions with them on their early-spring journeys.
A horse collection that tells stories of inner strength and character
More than a destination, Cũi Lu Village represents an artistic way of life—where handcrafted creativity blends seamlessly with cultural heritage and the uniquely gentle rhythm of Hoi An. In this space, every piece of aged wood, every lacquer layer, and every carved stroke carries the story of time, resilience, and original values preserved across generations.
The Binh Ngo Horse Zodiac Collection at Cũi Lu Village stands out as a special highlight. Beyond reinterpreting the folk image of the horse, each work reflects contemplation on character, inner strength, and new beginnings. From proud postures and restrained color palettes to traditional lacquer and hand-carving techniques, the collection opens a subtle dialogue between tradition and contemporary creativity—where the spirit of the new year is slowly, deeply, and inspiringly carved into form.
Van Giap Horse – Radiant strength and resilience
With its proud presence, intricately carved armor-like patterns, and luminous lacquer finish, Van Giap Horse radiates a powerful life force. The work evokes durability and steadfastness—a spiritual anchor for those stepping into the new year with hope and determination.
Giao Chi Horse – Opening a new chapter in 2026
Emerging from layers of traditional lacquer, Giao Chi Horse shines with refined gold-leaf details. It represents a harmonious connection between indigenous cultural values and contemporary living—a wish for a year of smooth progress, renewal, and pride.
Ma Kim Ngu – Where prosperity meets strength
The fusion of the horse and fish forms Ma Kim Ngu, a symbol of wealth, abundance, and balanced inner strength. With vibrant colors and a relaxed yet confident demeanor, the piece feels like a companion for building a fulfilling life in 2026.
Van Ma – Awakening prosperity
Delicate carved motifs on Van Ma carry the blessing of “everything going as wished.” Bringing Van Ma into one’s living space is also welcoming fresh energy—gentle yet enduring—opening a year of peaceful growth and positivity.
Egyptian Horse – A majestic spirit
Mysterious and powerful in presence, Egyptian Horse embodies resilience and a pioneering spirit. Decisive carvings, bold colors, and bronze fish details evoke abundance and flow—like a blessing for a steady, strong, and empowered journey through the new year.
Thanh Nha Horse – Welcoming spring, flowers blooming in prosperity
Beyond the meaning of “Ma dao thanh cong” (success on arrival), Thanh Nha Horse offers a softer, poetic expression. Blossoming flowers along the rising horse form convey the blessing “Flowers bloom, prosperity unfolds”—gentle yet radiant enough to illuminate Tet celebrations.
Touching craft village identity, returning to healing stillness at Cũi Lu Village
In the early days of the year, Cũi Lu Village settles quietly under the golden sunlight of Hoi An. From driftwood that once floated through many ups and downs, local artisans breathe new life into old materials—with patience, empathy, and deep love for their craft.
The village space is not noisy; instead, it opens as a necessary pause. Each carved stroke carries intention, offering wishes of steadiness and positive energy. Cũi Lu Village also connects multiple traditional crafts—from lacquer and carving to applied handicrafts—to create works of lasting cultural and artistic value.
At workshops in Cũi Lu Village, visitors do not merely observe—they actively participate in the creative journey. From selecting wood pieces and sketching ideas to learning basic carving techniques, painting, and finishing their own products, each step becomes a genuine “touch point” with local craftsmanship.
An afternoon here is enough for the soul to slow down—for children’s curious hands and visitors’ focused gazes to turn into cherished memories. This is how Cũi Lu Village tells its story: gently, persistently, and full of inspiration.
From the horse imagery symbolizing strength and leadership at Cũi Lu Village, the spirit of Binh Ngo 2026 spreads more broadly across Da Nang’s tourism landscape. It is a journey of returning to original values—where visitors discover authenticity, real experiences, and healing energy through nature, culture, and people.
In the Year of the Horse, let handcrafted touchpoints, quiet craft villages, and stories revived from old wood become motivation for new steps forward. Ngo nien dai phat – Tourism in full bloom: Da Nang is ready to open a year of growth, sustainability, and rich emotions for every journey.
DA NANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
