Vung Vieng village of Quang Ninh province emerges from behind rugged mountain peaks with its modest raft houses and bamboo boats floating gently on the water. There are no paved roads and no honking horns—only the sound of lapping waves and the steady rhythm of oars. Here, life is inextricably linked to the sea and has become the collective memory of generations.
Vu Van Hung, a long-time resident of Vung Vieng, told us, “The fishing village was established in 1968, when it was known as Cap Gie hamlet in Hung Thang commune. People came by boat and anchored here, gradually forming a floating community. It wasn’t until 2000 that raft houses appeared. In the early days, we often organized cultural exchanges to preserve Ha Long’s traditions. Women would perform traditional chants, folk songs, and ancient call-and-response duets.”
For those who have spent their lives here, Vung Vieng’s charm lies in its stunning scenery and in the simplicity of daily life. Free from the rush of modernity, the warmth and sincerity of its people remain intact.
Photographer Do Giang, who owns one of the most extensive photo collections of Vung Vieng, said, “This is undoubtedly one of Vietnam’s most authentic villages. The people here share a deep bond of kindness and genuine affection. They support each other, sharing everything – fish, vegetables, rice, and water. My experiences here have left a lasting impression on me. I truly love this place.”
Today, as tourism grows, traditional bamboo boats have become a means of livelihood and a way to bring visitors closer to our heritage. Nguyen Thi Thu Huyen, a tour guide at Vung Vieng, said, “As a tour guide, what keeps me connected to this place is the harmony between the landscape and the people. The locals are very genuine, and I want to help showcase their beauty to visitors. Bringing more tourists here improves their livelihoods.”
Tong Thi Nhung, a boat rower, said, “The natural scenery here is beautiful. I welcome visitors and row them around the village, usually doing two trips a day. I used to fish with nets, but I switched to tourism. It’s less physically demanding and provides a more stable income.”
Despite the changing world beyond its waters and the challenges of making a living, Vung Vieng retains its own rhythm—slow, quiet, and enduring. Without large-scale development or bustling services, the village preserves something rare – a feeling of serenity at the heart of a world heritage site.
