Nguyen Dinh Ban weaves bamboo basket boats in Hoi An City
For nearly six years, the riverside cottage of 79-year-old Nguyen Dinh Ban has become a unique destination for tourists eager to learn the traditional craft of weaving bamboo basket boats, an effort by Ban to preserve a fading cultural heritage.
On a warm afternoon in late April, Ban’s modest house in Cam Kim commune, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province, welcomed 11 visitors from France. They had come not just to observe, but to immerse themselves in a hands-on experience of this local craft, guided by Ban himself.
Wearing a gentle smile, Ban quickly familiarised himself with the guests, who would soon become his eager "students". Despite the language barrier, he was able to demonstrate each step through hand gestures, aided by a local interpreter.
Andie, one of the French visitors, took part in weaving a bamboo basket boat and was thrilled to complete the task.
Andie takes part in weaving a bamboo basket boat.
"It was certainly not easy, but I did it. I love trying out traditional local crafts – it’s both enjoyable and enriching," Andie shared.
Ban’s home is the only place in Cam Kim where visitors can witness and participate in the weaving of traditional bamboo basket boats. Each day, he typically receives between three and five tour groups, mostly from Europe and the United States.
After each session, visitors often offer him a small token of appreciation. His daily income ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 VND. Occasionally, he also sells handwoven souvenirs such as small baskets and trays.
"It brings me great joy to welcome tourists who truly appreciate traditional craftsmanship. Sharing my passion helps preserve our village’s cultural identity," Ban expressed.
With the demand for bamboo basket boats declining, this age-old craft is slowly disappearing. Nevertheless, Ban remains committed to sustaining his village’s weaving tradition and offering unique cultural experiences to visitors.
Foreign visitors at Ban's bamboo weaving classes.
According to Huynh Ngoc Hung, Chairman of the Cam Kim People’s Committee, artisans like Nguyen Dinh Ban play a vital role in preserving and promoting the commune’s traditional crafts to tourists.
Cam Kim is being developed as an ecological, cultural, and craft village tourism destination, with a special focus on preserving traditional trades.
