By aussiematesvietnam Exploring Nhat Tan Flower Village: Hanoi’s Hidden Gem
G’day mates! Aussie Mates here, coming to you from the bustling streets of Hanoi. After nearly two decades of calling Vietnam home, Tracy and I still manage to stumble upon breathtaking spots that leave us gobsmacked. One such place that’s become a favourite of ours is the stunning Nhat Tan Flower Village nestled along the Red River. If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam’s capital and want to escape the honking horns and chaotic traffic, this floral paradise is just the ticket.
[IMAGE:nhat-tan-village-overview]
This little-known gem sits in Tay Ho District, just a stone’s throw from the city centre, yet feels worlds away from the urban jungle. Over the years, Tracy and I have brought countless Aussie friends here, and they’ve all been blown away by the explosion of colours and the serene atmosphere. Let me walk you through everything you need to know about this gorgeous slice of Vietnamese countryside.
A Brief History of Nhat Tan Flower Village
Nhat Tan has been Hanoi’s premier flower-growing area for generations. The village dates back over 100 years, with farming families passing down their horticultural knowledge and techniques through the ages. The fertile soil of the Red River delta provides the perfect conditions for growing a stunning variety of blooms.
Back in the day, Nhat Tan was primarily known for its peach blossoms, which play a crucial role in Vietnamese Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations. These days, the village has diversified, growing everything from sunflowers to roses, daisies to lilies. The villagers have transformed their agricultural know-how into a thriving business and tourist attraction that draws visitors year-round.
[IMAGE:peach-blossoms-tet]
When to Visit for Maximum Wow Factor
While Nhat Tan is beautiful all year round, timing your visit can make a world of difference. Tracy and I have popped in during different seasons, and each offers its own unique charm. Here’s my two cents on when to visit:
- December to February (Tet season): This is when the peach blossoms steal the show. The entire village turns various shades of pink and red as families prepare the symbolic Tet flowers for sale across Hanoi. It’s absolutely magical, though be prepared for larger crowds.
- March to April: Post-Tet, you’ll find a gorgeous array of spring flowers including daisies and sunflowers. The weather’s not too hot yet, making it pleasant for a wander.
- October to November: The autumn flowers create a stunning tapestry of colours, and the temperatures are much more bearable than the sweltering summer months.
We’ve found early mornings (around 7-8am) are ideal for photography and beating both the crowds and the heat. If you’re like me and not exactly a morning person, late afternoons can be lovely too, with the golden hour lighting making the flowers look even more spectacular.
[IMAGE:sunflowers-field]
Getting There and Getting Around
Nhat Tan Flower Village is located about 8km from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, on the north bank of the Red River. After living here for close to 20 years, I’ve tried every transport option available, so here’s the lowdown:
- Grab or taxi: The easiest option for Aussie visitors. A 15-20 minute ride from the Old Quarter will set you back about 80,000-120,000 VND (roughly $5-8 AUD). Just show your driver “Làng hoa Nhật Tân” on your phone.
- Motorbike: If you’re brave enough to tackle Hanoi traffic, renting a scooter gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Tracy was terrified the first time, but now she’s a pro!
- Bus: The budget option. Bus #50 from Long Bien station will get you close, then it’s a short walk to the village.
Once there, the village is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking on dirt paths between the flower plots. The whole area can be covered in 2-3 hours at a leisurely pace.
What to See and Do
Nhat Tan isn’t just about snapping a few photos and leaving. There’s plenty to keep you occupied for half a day or more:
Flower Gazing and Photography: Obviously, the main attraction! The patchwork of colourful flower fields makes for Instagram-worthy shots at every turn. Tracy and I spent hours trying to capture the perfect sunset shot over the sunflower fields last autumn.
[IMAGE:flower-photography]
Meet the Farmers: The local growers are incredibly friendly and often happy to chat about their flowers (even with limited English). We’ve made friends with a lovely older couple who’ve been growing peach blossoms for over 50 years. They always offer us green tea when we visit during Tet season.
Flower Workshops: Some garden owners offer impromptu lessons in flower arranging or traditional Vietnamese gardening techniques. It’s a hands-on cultural experience you won’t find in many guidebooks.
Bicycle Tours: Rent a bicycle from nearby rental shops to explore the broader area, including the picturesque Red River banks. Tracy and I did this on our anniversary last year, and it was a ripper of a day!
Local Eats and Treats
Unlike touristy areas, Nhat Tan doesn’t have fancy restaurants, but that’s part of its charm. You’ll find several small local eateries and coffee shops dotted around the village. My recommendations:
- Try the local “chè” (sweet dessert soup) made with seasonal flowers and fruits
- Stop for a traditional Vietnamese coffee at one of the riverside cafés
- Sample “bún chả” (grilled pork with noodles) at small family-run spots
If you’re planning a longer visit, pack some water and snacks. The locals also sell fresh-cut flowers at incredibly reasonable prices – much cheaper than in the city. We often bring home a massive bunch of sunflowers for our apartment for less than $5 AUD.
[IMAGE:riverside-cafe]
Tips from a Long-Term Expat
After countless visits to Nhat Tan, Tracy and I have picked up a few insider tips:
- Bring cash – there are no ATMs in the village, and most places don’t accept cards
- Wear sunscreen and a hat – there’s limited shade among the flower fields
- Ask before photographing farmers or their private property – a simple gesture and smile usually does the trick
- Some farmers charge a small fee (10,000-20,000 VND) to enter their most photogenic fields, which is fair enough
- The paths can get muddy after rain, so proper footwear is essential
Final Thoughts: A Must-Visit Hanoi Experience
In a city known for its ancient temples, colonial architecture, and bustling streets, Nhat Tan Flower Village offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s a glimpse into rural Vietnamese life that few tourists experience, yet it’s so accessible from central Hanoi.
Tracy and I have visited dozens of times over our years in Vietnam, and each visit brings new discoveries and photographic opportunities. Whether you’re a green thumb, photography enthusiast, or just want a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, Nhat Tan deserves a spot on your Hanoi itinerary.
As we like to tell our visiting mates from Down