1. Where Is Binh Thuy Ancient House?
This ancient house is located at 142/144 Bui Huu Nghia Street, Binh Thuy Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City, Vietnam. It is about 8 km northwest of Can Tho city center and about 5 km southeast of Can Tho airport.
2. How Is Binh Thuy Ancient House Unique?
Binh Thuy Ancient House is an attractive historical and cultural destination. Built in the 19th century by the Duong family, one of the wealthy and powerful families of this land. It represents a unique combination of French architecture and traditional culture of Western Vietnam. With its majestic architecture and characteristic classical beauty, Binh Thuy ancient house has attracted many tourists because of its sophistication in every detail, from large windows, beautiful balconies to lush green gardens.
In addition, it is also a place where many cultural, artistic, and tourist activities take place, an ideal space for learning about the history and cultural traditions of the Southwest. When visiting Binh Thuy ancient house, you will experience a peaceful, beautiful space and discover colorful stories of the past.
Because of its precious cultural values, Binh Thuy ancient house was awarded the title of “national art relic” in 2009. When visiting Binh Thuy ancient house, you will be immersed in a wonderful nostalgic space. This is where you can travel back in time to the past, entering the rich life of wealthy Southern families.
3. When Is The Best Time To Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House?
The ideal time for you to plan a tour to Binh Thuy ancient house is in the dry season, from December to April of the following year. During this time, the weather in the Southwest region is usually warm and dry. It creates favorable conditions for sightseeing and exploration.
In particular, from January to April, the landscape around Binh Thuy ancient house will become more brilliant, with immense rice fields and blooming lotus fields, creating an extremely beautiful natural picture. In addition, the warm yellow sunlight will highlight the ancient architectural beauty of the house.
Besides, in the rainy season, from September to November. This is also an interesting time to explore Binh Thuy ancient house and combine it with enjoying other famous tourist destinations in Can Tho. Cai Rang floating market, Bang Lang stork garden, and Ba Bo flower village are attractive destinations. It creates a diverse and rich journey for visitors.
4. How To Get To Binh Thuy Ancient House?
The ancient house is located inside Binh Thuy market and near Binh Thuy ward People’s Committee. Starting from Can Tho City People’s Committee, you follow Nguyen Trai Street to the Northeast. On Nguyen Trai Street (QL91), you will meet Binh Thuy Bridge, after crossing the bridge, you will meet a 4-way intersection, turn left onto Bui Huu Nghia (to the market) about 500 m to get there.
Because the distance is not too far, only about 8 km, moreover, the traffic infrastructure in Can Tho City is quite complete. Therefore, you can easily travel to Binh Thuy ancient house by means of transport such as: motorbike, private car, bus or large tourist car.
5. Opening Hours And Ticket Prices To Visit Binh Thuy Ancient House
5.1 Opening hours:
With the following two time frames:
- Morning: from 8:00 am – 12:00 pm.
- Afternoon: from 2:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
5.2 Ticket prices:
- Entrance fee: 15,000 VND/person/turn.
6. History Of Binh Thuy Ancient House
Binh Thuy Ancient House is the oldest and most beautiful house in Tay Do. This is also one of the three famous ancient houses representing the culture of the Mekong Delta. It is famous as a house is owned by the Duong family with a very unique architecture. Can Tho currently has about 70 ancient houses but none are as outstanding as this house.
Binh Thuy Ancient House was built in 1870, by Mr. Duong Van Vi, the third generation of the Duong family. After 30 years of use, Mr. Vi had it built and renovated. After his death, his son Duong Chan Ky continued the construction, and it was not completed until 1911.
Up to now, Binh Thuy Ancient House is still an interesting place visited and checked in by many tourists. The house is beautiful, showing the aesthetic taste and sophistication of the owner of the house. This is an ancient house over 100 years old, which has been used as a setting for many major films.
Currently, it is one of the rare works that are still intact after a period of history. It is currently a witness to the cultural exchange period of 2 centuries and greatly supports the research work on culture and customs of the people of the West.
7. Discovering The Unique Architecture Of Binh Thuy Ancient House
Binh Thuy ancient house is famous for its unique architecture and the rich history of this place. The perfect combination of Vietnamese soul – Southern culture – Eastern and Western architecture and a bit of Chinese culture. It has created an impressive “masterpiece” in the hearts of every tourist who has ever set foot here.
7.1 Architecture outside Binh Thuy ancient house:
From the outside looking in, the first thing you will see is the gate fence designed with iron with concrete pillars as the main pillars right at the main entrance. So if you look at it at first glance, many tourists will mistake this for the fence of a modern house. So sometimes you even pass the ancient house without knowing and have to drive around there.
Passing through the main gate, going inside, you will encounter a three-door gate built in Chinese architectural style. The three-door gate is tilted to the right and has 4 large pillars, 2 cement pillars and 2 wooden pillars.
The beam system of the three-door gate is made of wood, with a roof covered with blue glazed tiles on top. On top, there are many vivid decorations such as: unicorns, goldfish, flowers and leaves. In particular, there are two large signs: one in Chinese is “Phuoc An Hieu” and one in Vietnamese is “Phu Tho Ho Duong”.
It is worthy visiting Binh Thuy ancient house
Standing from the yard looking at the exterior architecture of the ancient house, you will admire an extremely sophisticated architectural work. The sculptures from the pillars, the door arches to the house borders are all carved very meticulously.
Binh Thuy ancient house also impresses with two arched staircases leading into the house. If you pay attention, you will see two large lamps cast in bronze from the French period placed in front of the facade on both sides of the staircase.
In addition, Binh Thuy ancient house was built on a fairly high foundation. Do you know why? The reason this house is designed higher than other normal houses is to prevent flooding in the old Western region.
Another interesting thing is that during the construction of the main house, the owner, Mr. Duong, laid a layer of salt about 10cm thick under the tile floor. This is a folk experience that people in the South often apply in building houses. Because, laying salt under the floor is intended to both repel insects, making the house airy and avoiding evil spirits according to feng shui concepts.
7.2 Unique architecture inside the ancient house of Binh Thuy:
The architecture of the ancient house of Binh Thuy bears a strong East-West combination. This is a house that breaks the traditional 3-room rule familiar in the Southwest region with an area of 6,000m2, designed to be divided into 5 rooms.
The dark brick floor in the house was all imported from France. The front house, the middle house and the back house are built consecutively and separated by delicately carved wooden arches. The house contains many antiques that are decorated and arranged in a very symmetrical way. The living room is in a classic European style with a French Louis XV sofa set, a classic eucalyptus chandelier, etc.
Other spaces in an extremely luxurious ancient Vietnamese style include: a wine cup set from the Ming and Qing dynasties, a set of green-veined marble tables and chairs from Yunnan province in China, a 1.2m-high green-glazed jade vase, or an extremely luxurious porcelain tea set, etc. All of these created a prosperous family at that time that many people wished for.
One special thing that will make you admire and love the owner of the ancient house of Binh Thuy even more. That is, although the house has a mixture of Eastern and Western cultures, the place of worship in the house is still purely Vietnamese. This shows the sophistication and aesthetics of the owner of the Duong family: accepting new things but still preserving the soul of the nation.
7.3 Mysterious anecdotes about Binh Thuy ancient house, Can Tho
It would be a pity to come to Binh Thuy ancient house, Can Tho, without listening to the mysterious anecdotes here. In fact, not only Binh Thuy ancient house but also most of the famous ancient houses in the West such as: Huynh Thuy Le’s ancient house in Dong Thap, Cai Cuong ancient house in Vinh Long or Bac Lieu prince’s house in Bac Lieu,… They are all associated with extremely thrilling and attractive stories.
Now let’s learn about the anecdotes about Binh Thuy ancient house.
7.3.1 The house construction contract between the owner Duong Chan Ky and teacher Ba Nghia (also known as Mr. Lo Ban)
During the construction of this house with a history of hundreds of years, there is a fascinating legend that has been passed down to this day. That is the house construction contract between the owner Duong Chan Ky and teacher Ba Nghia, also known as Mr. Lo Ban.
According to rumors at that time, the Duong family’s business suddenly flourished “like a kite in the wind” after building this house. The reason was because there was a feng shui Lu Ban talisman placed somewhere in the house.
During the contract with Mr. Ba Nghia, Mr. Duong Chan Ky made a condition, which was difficult for Mr. Ba Nghia to follow. “If you build me a house that is more beautiful than others, then that’s needless to say, but the important thing is that I must become rich after finishing it.” Seeing this, Mr. Ba Nghia pondered: “Building a beautiful house for you is not difficult, but the problem is that in this profession, if the homeowner is rich, my fate will be ruined.”
After that, Mr. Chan Ky waved his hand and said: “Don’t worry, I guarantee you, every month I will provide you with a bushel of rice and three silver coins for the rest of your life.” Although the truth of this contract has not yet been verified, the fact that the Duong family quickly prospered is something that everyone can clearly see.
7.3.2 Priceless antiques “the longest pair of elephant tusks in Vietnam” at Binh Thuy ancient house
According to local people, in addition to the priceless antiques mentioned above, Binh Thuy ancient house also has a pair of elephant tusks that are considered the longest in Vietnam with a mysterious origin and fate.
The pair of elephant tusks above were bought by Mr. Duong Chan Ky in Saigon to “show off” the contempt of the French shop owner. He said that on one occasion when he went to Saigon to see some rice warehouses, he passed by Catinat Street, now Dong Khoi Street. Mr. Ky stopped by to see the stall selling animal specimens of a French shop owner and hunter.
Seeing an old man wearing a rustic-looking Vietnamese outfit, standing there fondling a pair of elephant tusks, this man shouted loudly: “Hey old man. This is not your place to play. If you accidentally scratch it, you will have to sell all your property and still not have enough money to pay me back”. At this time, Mr. Ky leisurely asked again: “How big is it? Why is it so fierce, young man? Tell me, let me hear it?”.
After that, he deposited a large sum of money and drove to Can Tho and returned 4,000 silver coins “con co” (Indochinese currency at that time) and bought the pair of tusks above. It is known that later, hearing that Mr. Ky bought the pair of giant tusks. The family of the young master of Bac Lieu also personally sent someone to Can Tho to bid to buy them back at double the price, but Mr. Duong refused to sell.
7.3.3 The story behind the 7 stone benches at Binh Thuy ancient house
In 1945, the French colonialists invaded our country, the provisional government at that time launched a nationwide resistance war. In December 1945, our army in Can Tho clashed with the French army, the South became a fierce resistance battlefield.
According to the story, at that time, the Viet Minh army ambushed and killed many French officers but also sacrificed all 7 revolutionary soldiers. To commemorate the heroic feats and sacrifices of the 7 soldiers, Mr. Duong Van Ngon built 7 sets of stone benches. Today, if you visit Binh Thuy ancient house, you can see these seven sets of stone benches in the left corner of the yard in front of the house.
7.4 Checking-in at Binh Thuy ancient house
With unlimited time tickets and beautiful, unique architecture. Binh Thuy ancient house is a Can Tho tourist destination that is very popular with tourists to visit, take photos, and check-in. Don’t miss the opportunity to create “old photos” with a nostalgic feel when you come here.
7.5 Rare orchid garden at Binh Thuy ancient house
Currently, Binh Thuy ancient house is owned by Mr. Duong Van Ngon – the 5th generation descendant of the house. Since 1980, Mr. Ngon has had a hobby of collecting orchids and cacti. Therefore, this place gradually became an orchid and cacti garden, gathering all kinds of rare species. Just like that, Binh Thuy orchid garden was born.
From here, the garden gradually became a meeting place for those who have a hobby and passion for flowers. In particular, the garden has a Mexican cactus that is over 40 years old, creating a highlight for the house. Every visitor coming here must stop by.
7.6 Binh Thuy Ancient House, Can Tho – the filming location of many famous films
With its historical value and unique architectural art, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Can Tho has become the main setting for many famous films at this time. Such as: The Beauty of Tay Do, Cong Tu Bac Lieu, Nhung duong duong phu sa, Dong song hoa trang, Bao U Minh, No doi, Bay am, Doi nu duc dong mua thu, …
These are classic films filmed at Binh Thuy Ancient House. It depicts the unique cultural values of our society at that time. And it also captivates the hearts of many Vietnamese people because of the love, gentleness, and generosity typical of the Southern region of Vietnam.
Particularly prominent among them is the world-famous film “The Lover” (1992) by veteran director Jean Jacques Annaud (France). With the participation of Luong Gia Huy and Jane March.
This film is based on a true story about the borderless love of a young man named Huynh. He is the son of a wealthy merchant in Sa Dec – now known as Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House – with a French female writer. The film has become a classic of world cinema.
8. Enjoying Can Tho Specialties When Visiting Binh Thuy Ancient House
When visiting Binh Thuy Ancient House, you will not only admire the unique architecture of the house. Listen to the thrilling stories surrounding this ancient house. You will also enjoy the specialties of this beautiful land. The delicious dishes to mention are: Nem nuong Cai Rang, linh fish hotpot with dien dien flowers, grilled snakehead fish, hotpot with fish sauce, hu tieu, banh xeo Can Tho, … When traveling here, you must definitely try these rustic and unique dishes.
9. Accommodation When Visiting Binh Thuy Ancient House
When visiting Binh Thuy ancient house, you can refer to some of the following accommodations:
- Anh Dao Mekong Hotel. Address: 85 Nguyen An Ninh, Tan An, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Holiday One Hotel. Address: 59-61-63-65 Pham Ngoc Thach, Cai Khe, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Nesta Can Tho Hotel. Address: 9C Tran Phu, Cai Khe, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Iris Hotel. Address: 224 30/4 Street, Xuan Khanh, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Muong Thanh Luxury Hotel. Address: Area E1, Con, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Hau Giang Hotel. Address: 34 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Tan An, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Magnolia’s Can Tho. Address: 79 Chau Van Liem Street, Tan An, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
- Kim Lan Hotel Can Tho. Address: No. 138A Nguyen An Ninh Street, Tan An, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.
10. Some Other Famous Tourist Attractions Near Binh Thuy Ancient House
The Western Capital is truly a land that makes visitors exclaim at the simple yet very attractive beauty here. In addition to Binh Thuy ancient house, Can Tho tourism has countless other beautiful and interesting places waiting for you to explore.
10.1. Binh Thuy Communal House
Near Binh Thuy ancient house is Binh Thuy Communal House – a tourist destination that combines spirituality and cultural exploration. The interesting thing is that the owner of Binh Thuy ancient house who used to contribute a lot of money to build this communal house.
Binh Thuy Communal House or Long Tuyen Co Mieu is the pride of the cultural and religious traditions of the Western Capital people. This is a valuable work of Vietnamese art and architecture during the land reclamation period of the Southwest region in the 19th century. Through the ups and downs of history, Binh Thuy Communal House still retains many unique architectural elements in the Mekong Delta river region.
10.2. Ninh Kieu Wharf
Ninh Kieu Wharf is a destination you cannot miss when traveling to Can Tho. You will have the opportunity to enjoy Western cuisine with famous Can Tho specialties at many bustling food courts and night markets.
In particular, Ninh Kieu Wharf also has a love bridge – Can Tho pedestrian bridge – extremely sparkling and bustling at night. It is similar to the architecture of the Anh Sao Bridge in Saigon. You can stroll on the bridge with friends to watch the night scene and check-in with a super cool background.
10.3. Con Son Tourist Area
Con Son consists of dozens of households raising fish rafts and growing fruit gardens for a long time. When you come here, you will be able to visit the garden landscape with cool green trees. In addition, there are special things that can only be found in Con Son. Such as: watching flying snakehead fish, watching fish eat rice, making traditional cakes and experiencing many interesting things in folk style, …
When you come to Con Son tourist area, you can hire a local tour guide to go with you or explore by yourself by walking around. When you like a fruit garden or a tourist area. Just buy a ticket with the ticket price here ranging from 15,000 – 30,000 VND/person/turn.
10.4. Ong Pagoda
Ong Pagoda is an ancient pagoda over 100 years old in Can Tho. This is a pagoda built by the Chinese with a special architectural style that remains intact as when it was first built. An ancient place with many beautiful angles for taking pictures.
10.5. Cai Rang Floating Market
Cai Rang Floating Market is the most famous tourist destination in Can Tho. It is one of the 10 most beautiful canals and is always in the top 3 most beautiful floating markets in Asia.
Sitting on a boat on Cai Rang River, you will visit hundreds of boats bustling with trading in the floating market. An interesting experience at Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho that you cannot – miss – is eating vermicelli soup, rice noodles with a cup of coffee or soy milk on the boat.
With updated and useful information about Binh Thuy ancient house in Can Tho. Origin Vietnam – a trusted tour operator, has just shared in the above article. Hopefully you will have a different perspective on the ancient houses in the Southwest region of Vietnam. These are not simply places to visit and check-in, but also destinations to help you explore the past and present culture of Mekong Delta region in Can Tho tour package.
