Ngu My Thanh: The Beauty of Hue Fishing Village Life by Tam Giang Lagoon

Ngu My Thanh is located in Quang Loi commune, Quang Dien district, about 15-20 km northeast of Hue city center. This fishing village was established in the early 19th century, originally inhabited by land-based households. Later, fishermen from Phu Vang and Phu Loc came to fish, and seeing that the lagoon region was rich in shrimp and fish, they stayed, forming a floating hamlet named My Thanh. In 1990, the local government encouraged residents to settle on land, naming the village Ngu My Thanh, marking a transformation from an uncertain life on the water to a more stable life.

Tam Giang Lagoon, where Ngu My Thanh is situated, is the confluence of three major rivers: the Perfume River, Bo River, and O Lau River, creating a vast brackish water lagoon area with a diverse ecosystem. The scenery here possesses a pristine, peaceful beauty, with small boats gently gliding across the water, casting fishnets, and lush green mangrove forests. The life of Ngu My Thanh villagers is closely connected to the lagoon, from fishing activities to traditional cultural practices, weaving a waterway picture full of Hue charm.

From a simple fishing village, Ngu My Thanh has transformed into the first mural village in Thua Thien Hue thanks to a community project carried out by the Center for Community Research and Development along with student volunteers since 2019. The walls of single-story houses were dressed in a "new coat" with dozens of colorful paintings, depicting the daily life of fishermen, from images of boats and fishnets to lotus ponds and flower gardens.

These murals not only beautify the landscape but also convey environmental protection messages, encouraging limits on catching rare aquatic species, especially those in the red book. This combination of art and humanistic significance has made Ngu My Thanh an ideal check-in spot for nature and art lovers.

Ngu My Thanh floating market is a unique feature of the lagoon region, taking place from 4:00 AM to 7:00 AM. Unlike the noisy floating markets of the Mekong Delta, the market here has a rustic, intimate charm. Boats laden with greasyback shrimp, rabbitfish, spinefoot fish, squid, crabs... continuously dock, creating a bustling yet peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the buying and selling scene, chat with fishermen, or buy fresh, delicious seafood at affordable prices.

Watching Sunrise and Sunset on Tam Giang Lagoon

Tam Giang Lagoon is famous for its picturesque sunrise and sunset views. In the early morning, from 4:30 AM to 6:00 AM, the first rays of sunlight paint the water yellow, harmonizing with the image of fishermen pulling nets. In the late afternoon, a deep purple sunset settles over the lagoon, creating a romantic, poetic setting. For a complete experience, you can rent a boat (around 250,000 - 300,000 VND/hour) to drift along the lagoon, sightsee, and take photos.

Experiencing SUP Paddling and Water Activities

SUP (Stand Up Paddle) boarding is a popular activity in Ngu My Thanh. Visitors can paddle on their own, weaving through mangrove forests or aquaculture areas to feel the serenity of the lagoon region. Additionally, you can participate in authentic local activities such as clam digging ("đạp trìa"), traditional trap fishing ("đổ nò"), casting nets, or weaving nets with local fishermen.

Savoring Lagoon Specialties

Cuisine at Tam Giang Lagoon is a highlight not to be missed. Dishes made from fresh seafood like native shrimp, giant freshwater prawns, rabbitfish, blue crabs, or spinefoot fish savory pancakes (bánh xèo cá kình) all boast rich, rustic flavors. If traveling on a tour, you will enjoy meals prepared by the organizer. If traveling independently, visit eateries near Con Toc boat station or purchase fresh seafood to cook yourself at your homestay.

The best time to explore Ngu My Thanh is from February to October (the dry season), especially from April to September when the weather is pleasant and suitable for outdoor activities. To catch the sunrise, arrive between 4:30 AM and 6:00 AM; to watch the sunset, visit in the late afternoon.

How to Get There

From downtown Hue, you can travel to Ngu My Thanh by motorbike or car via BT8B road to Sia town, then ask for directions to the mural village. The route is about 15-20 km, taking about 30 minutes. If traveling on your own, you can rent a motorbike for 120,000-150,000 VND/day.

Travel Tips

• Bring necessary items: Hat, sunscreen, light jacket to protect your skin during boat trips.
• Respect the environment: Do not litter, keep the lagoon area clean.

Exploring Ngu My Thanh fishing village is not only a journey to a peaceful countryside along Tam Giang Lagoon, but also an opportunity to deeply feel the rustic beauty of Hue fishermen's life. Amidst floating fishing boats, vibrant fish markets, and a simple way of life filled with warmth, this place resembles a vivid canvas of coastal culture.

For those who love nature and wish to experience a different side of Hue beyond temples and ancient monuments, Ngu My Thanh will surely be a memorable stop, where every step is not just about exploring landscapes, but also touching the cultural depth and soul of the Ancient Capital land.