Da Sy Forging Village: Preserving Centuries of Forging Craft

Where is Da Sy Forging Village

Nestled by the Nhue River in Kien Hung Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi, Da Sy Forging Village lies around 10-15 kilometers from the city center. Today, around 800 households in the village still practice the craft. 

Da Sy's forging products are diverse, known for their durability and sharpness, with items ranging from knives, scissors, hoes to shovels and construction tools. The village takes pride in creating knives so sharp they can "cut through iron."

The gate to Da Sy Forging Village in Hanoi 

The name "Da Sy" translates to "Village of Scholars," a nod to its rich history, not only in forging but also in producing many learned individuals who excelled in academia and government service.

Interesting Facts

There are many fascinating aspects to Da Sy Forging Village:

• According to village elders, the blacksmithing craft has existed since the reign of the 18th Hung King, dating back to before the Common Era (the Hung King period in Vietnam lasted from 2879 to 258 BCE).

• However, it wasn't until the 12th or 13th century that the trade evolved into a professional craft, producing more refined and intricate items.

• The village has undergone several name changes over the centuries, from Se, Dan Khe, and Huyen Khe, to Dan Sy, before finally adopting the name Da Sy in the mid-18th century.

Da Sy Forging Village Communal House during the Lunar New Year

• During the feudal era, Da Sy was home to 11 doctoral scholars, including a dual-national laureate, whose names are inscribed at the Temple of Literature.

• Many prominent figures hail from the village, from doctors and scholars to generals and laureates. Notable individuals are Dr. Hoang Trinh Thanh, who served four kings and established educational gardens, Dr. Hoang Don Hoa, a renowned physician who created 208 remedies to save lives, etc.

• The village still preserves 38 royal decrees granted to its scholars.

• Da Sy’s forged items are famous across Vietnam and are even exported to neighboring countries such as Laos and Cambodia.

How to Get There

Only 12 km from the heart of the city, Da Sy Forging Village is within convenient reach, no matter if you prefer public transit or a private ride.

People interested in discovering Da Sy Forging Village

Things to Do

Though highly valued, Da Sy’s forging trade faces challenges today, as younger generations are less inclined to pursue the labor-intensive craft. Most blacksmiths still practicing are older.

Visitors get to experience blacksmithing at Da Sy Forging Village

In an effort to preserve its age-old craftsmanship, Da Sy Forging Village has opened its doors to tourism, welcoming visitors to discover its heritage and blacksmithing skills.

• Visit traditional blacksmith workshops run by locals.

• Try your hand at crafting your own item under the guidance of a skilled blacksmith—perhaps even engrave your name on it as a keepsake. Today, with the help of modern machinery, even women can now participate in this physically demanding job.

• Purchase practical household items as unique local souvenirs.

• Stroll around the village, visit its typical sites of ancient temples, communal houses, the pond, and the shrine of the revered physician Hoang Don Ha.

Travel Tips

• The village hosts an annual festival from the 12th to the 15th of the lunar calendar's first month, with a grand procession every five years (the most recent grand procession took place in the spring of 2023). The celebrations include lion dances, dragon boat races on the village pond, and traditional singing and dancing.

The traditional village festival in Da Sy is held to honor those who have contributed to the village, pay tribute to the deities, and offer prayers for blessings and prosperity

• Currently, visitors to Da Sy Forging village do not need to pay entrance fees.

• Although the village lies within Hanoi, it is in a less crowded suburban area. This allows visitors to enjoy a tranquil, hassle-free experience during their visit.

• While the village's architecture reflects the modest lives of working-class residents, ancient structures like the temples and communal houses retain their historical charm.

• Visitors may consider joining a guided tour for more in-depth insights and assistance when interacting with local blacksmiths. Typically, a half-day visit is sufficient, with tour prices around $20 USD per person.

Want to explore further? Check out our post about old villages in Hanoi!

Here is an essential introduction to Da Sy Forging Village—a place that has kept the flames of its blacksmith tradition burning strong for centuries. For more insights into other craft villages or details on Vietnam tours, feel free to explore our website for valuable tips to enhance your journey. Don't hesitate to leave a message for our team if you need any Vietnam travel advice or assistance.