Huynh Kim and the Art of Macrame in Hoi An

In a small, cosy workshop in the heart of Hoi An, Huynh Kim – a slender, soft-spoken young man – has been meticulously reviving an ancient craft that captivates visitors: Macrame.

Within just a few square metres, Kim Macrame breathes life into strands of rope, creating vibrant pieces rich in Vietnamese cultural identity.

Huynh Kim in his workshop at 11 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hoi An

From keychains, decorative rugs, and coasters to plant hangers, lampshades, wall frames, clothing, and handbags, his intricate knotting technique has gained recognition from restaurants, hotels, resorts, and especially foreign tourists.

An art work of Macrame by Huynh Kim

Kim discovered his passion for macrame in high school after a friend’s introduction. Although he studied logistics at university, he continued to pursue Macrame, mastering knotting techniques and selling his work online by his second year, receiving positive feedback.

Foreigners love Macrame.

Macrame, dating back to the 13th century, is a distinct knotting art that requires no machinery. Kim’s designs, inspired by Vietnamese heritages, showcase his love for his homeland while introducing its culture to global visitors. His workshop allows visitors to craft their own Macrame pieces, often sparking an appreciation for sustainability and nature.

Macrame souvenirs at Kim workshop

In his tranquil workspace, Kim patiently knots a dress adorned with lotus and cloud patterns for a foreign client. Under his skilled hands and vivid imagination, lifeless cords transform into artistic expressions of both practical value and profound cultural essence.

Source: QNO – en.baoquangnam.vn – Apr 2, 2025

My Son named a top religious destination by Wanderlust

My Son Sanctuary (Duy Xuyen district, Quang Nam province) has been selected among the top 11 most impressive religious destinations in Vietnam, according to recommendations by the British travel magazine Wanderlust for tourists exploring Vietnam.

A bird’s eye view of My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary, recognised by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site in 1999, exemplifies how a local society has adapted to external influences, particularly the Hindu architectural art of the Indian subcontinent.

This heritage site serves as a religious tourism destination, offering visitors the opportunity to explore unique historical, cultural, and artistic architecture. It is also part of a broader landscape of forests, streams, and the distinctive ecological environment of Vietnam’s central mountainous region.

Other destinations listed by Wanderlust include Thien Mu Pagoda (Hue), One Pillar Pagoda (Hanoi), Temple of Literature (Hanoi), Huong Pagoda (Hanoi), Jade Emperor Pagoda (Ho Chi Minh City), Thich Quang Duc Memorial (Ho Chi Minh City), Bai Dinh Pagoda (Ninh Binh), Tam Chuc Pagoda (Ha Nam), Van Thuy Tu Temple (Binh Thuan), and the Cao Dai Holy See (Tay Ninh).

According to Wanderlust, the sites on the list reflect the religious and cultural life of Vietnam, showcasing the fusion of local Vietnamese traditions with Indian and Chinese influences. Some of these destinations are also recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Source: QNO – en.baoquangnam.vn – Apr 2, 2025 

Quang Nam launches Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate tourism route

On March 8, the Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee officially launched a new tourism corridor: Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate at the Quang Nam International Travel Conference 2025.

Quang Nam’s officials and an representative from the Vietnam National Authority of Tourism chair the conference.

According to Vice Chairman of Quang Nam provincial People’s Committee, Phan Thai Binh, this 100km three-destination journey integrates three unique cultural and natural landmarks: Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary – two UNESCO world heritage sites, and Dong Giang Heaven Gate Ecotourism Site featuring Vietnam’s highest concentration of natural waterfalls.

So, the new tourism route as a blend of architecture, history, and culture.

The Ngoc Rong glass bridge at Dong Giang Heaven Gate Ecotourism Site.

To support this initiative, the Quang Nam Department of Construction has approved a new interprovincial bus route connecting Hoi An, My Son, and Dong Giang Heaven Gate.

Delegates perform the ceremony to announce the Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate tourism corridor.

Speaking at the conference, the Quang Nam provincial Party Secretary, Luong Nguyen Minh Triet, highlighted the Hoi An – My Son – Dong Giang Heaven Gate heritage route as the province’s first official intra-provincial tourism route, linking key destinations and expanding regional connections.

Source: QNO – en.baoquangnam.vn – Mar 10, 2025