Hanoi is advancing its rural tourism, blending rich cultural heritage, agricultural traditions, and eco-tourism to foster sustainable growth and preserve local identity.

Hanoi, with its vibrant cultural history, long-standing traditions, and diverse rural landscapes, is making significant strides in developing its rural tourism sector. This is in line with the country’s broader rural development initiatives aimed at fostering economic growth, preserving cultural heritage, and ensuring sustainability. The capital is steadily advancing its rural tourism strategy, ensuring that tourism is not just a tool for economic development but also a means to preserve its unique identity.

In August 2022, the Vietnamese government approved the Rural Tourism Development Program under Decision No. 922/QĐ-TTg as part of the New-Style Rural Development Strategy for 2021–2025. This ambitious program sets the stage for promoting rural tourism as a key economic engine for local communities while improving the quality of life for rural residents. In response, Hanoi’s surrounding districts have enthusiastically embraced rural tourism, focusing on agriculture, traditional crafts, and local culture. The goal is to offer authentic experiences that showcase Hanoi’s rich rural heritage, which continues to evolve as part of the city’s modernization efforts.

One of the key initiatives emerging from this new program is the focus on hands-on, experiential tourism. For example, Bat Trang Pottery Village in Gia Lam District offers visitors the chance to create their own pottery, learning the ancient craft that has been passed down through generations. Meanwhile, Duong Lam Ancient Village in Son Tay has turned into a hub for community-based tourism, where tourists can immerse themselves in traditional Vietnamese rural life, interact with locals, and experience the village’s rich historical significance. In Dong Anh District, Vinh Ngoc Commune has emerged as a premier eco-tourism destination, attracting visitors keen on nature walks and exploring the pristine environment of the Red River Delta. Similarly, Dan Phuong District has integrated agri-tourism with resort services, offering a blend of agricultural activities and relaxation in the countryside.

The growth of rural tourism in Hanoi is not limited to a few districts; it extends to several other notable attractions that embody the essence of rural life. The Huong Son Scenic Complex in My Duc District, for example, is a haven for eco-tourism enthusiasts, with its lush landscapes, sacred temples, and the famous Perfume Pagoda. In addition, Hanoi’s farm-tourism sector has gained traction, with establishments like White Goat Farm and Countryside Farm in Ba Vi District offering tourists a unique opportunity to experience farm life while enjoying the natural beauty of the region. These sites not only help in preserving traditional farming practices but also provide an educational experience for visitors who want to learn about sustainable agriculture.

In line with the national strategy, several rural communes in Hanoi have successfully turned tourism into a driving force for local development. Hong Van Commune in Thuong Tin District is a prime example. Once known for its agricultural activities, the commune has transformed into a thriving craft village specializing in ornamental plants. This shift towards tourism has enabled Hong Van to attract tens of thousands of visitors annually. Both domestic and international tourists now flock to the village, drawn by its unique offerings of handcrafted products and its picturesque rural setting. The influx of visitors has provided steady income streams for many local families, proving the economic potential of rural tourism.

Duong Lam Village, recognized in 2006 as Vietnam’s first ancient village to be designated a National Historical and Cultural Site, has also integrated tourism into its community life. Residents of Duong Lam warmly invite visitors to experience the authentic rural lifestyle, offering traditional meals made from locally sourced ingredients and showcasing handmade crafts that reflect the village’s centuries-old heritage. The integration of tourism has not only provided financial benefits to the village but has also helped preserve its unique cultural identity.

On March 4, 2022, the Hanoi People’s Committee further cemented the city’s commitment to rural tourism with the introduction of Plan No. 73/KH-UBND. This plan provides a detailed roadmap for the development of the agricultural and rural tourism sector through 2025, emphasizing sustainable practices that align with Hanoi’s long-term rural development goals. The plan outlines initiatives aimed at enhancing the quality of tourism services, promoting eco-friendly tourism, and encouraging local communities to actively engage in the development process. By fostering partnerships between the government, local communities, and tourism operators, the plan aims to create a robust rural tourism industry that benefits all stakeholders.

Hanoi’s rural tourism development is not only a key component of the city’s growth but also a crucial part of Vietnam’s broader effort to achieve sustainable development. By showcasing its rural heritage, supporting local economies, and preserving its cultural and natural landscapes, Hanoi is setting an example for how rural tourism can be a force for good, balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation.

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