(VOVWORLD) - Tong Ju village in Buon Ma Thuot city, Dak Lak province, has been recognized as a community tourism village. Officially designated last Friday, Tong Ju is the fourth village in Buon Ma Thuot to join the local community tourism network—a destination that offers a cultural experience unlike any other.
 On October 18, Dak Lak province recognized Tong Ju village in Ea Kao commune, Buon Ma Thuot city, as a community tourism village. (Photo: H Xiu/VOV)
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Just 12km southeast of Buon Ma Thuot city, Tong Ju is home to 470 households of predominantly Ede people, who have preserved their traditional long houses, water wells, and beautifully crafted Ede handicrafts for generations.
The village’s brocade weaving cooperative, established in 2003, continues to flourish with 45 skilled artisans creating intricate designs that tell stories of their heritage. Two years ago, 18 local families banded together to offer visitors a glimpse into the rich Ede culture by making musical instruments, brewing rice wine, sampling local cuisine, and listening to live performances of Ede music.
Ms. H Yam Buon Krong, a resident of Tong Ju village said “We’re very happy that Tong Ju village was recognized as a community tourism village by the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism. We’re delighted to welcome visitors to Tong Ju. This recognition means more opportunities to share our culture with friends from all over, and we look forward to introducing our rich Ede traditions."
 : People in the village are active and creative, creating many new and unique handicraft products to introduce to tourists (Photo: H Xiu/VOV) |
Dak Lak has established seven community tourism villages, which attract one million visitors a year, including international travelers. The province is calling for investment to make tourism a key economic sector by 2030, building on its rich cultural heritage.
Nguyen Thi Phuong Hieu, Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, said: "Dak Lak considers its culture a strength for boosting tourism and creating an unforgettable experience for visitors. We’re enhancing connections with neighboring regions so tourists can fully immerse themselves in the rich culture of the Central Highlands."
In addition to expanding its community tourism, Dak Lak is preserving the traditional values of its ethnic minorities.
Supported by this initiative, the province has revitalized craft villages, restored rituals, established clubs of brocade weaving, gong performances, and xoang dance, and organized classes to teach epics and local cultural traditions.
These efforts have promoted Dak Lak’s cultural heritage and encouraged local communities to engage in tourism by showcasing their traditions.