Just a few kilometers from Hoi An’s Ancient Town, Tra Que Vegetable Village – World’s Best Tourism Village offers a peaceful escape into Vietnam’s traditional farming culture. This charming village is famous for its organic herbs and vegetables, grown using centuries-old techniques without chemicals. More than just an agricultural hub, it’s also a top eco-tourism destination where visitors can experience farming, cooking, cycling, and relaxation.

If you're looking for an authentic and hands-on experience, Tra Que is the perfect place for a day trip from Hoi An. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from what makes it special to top experiences, local food, and travel tips.
 

Overview Of Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tra Que Vegetable Village is a peaceful farming village just a few kilometers from Hoi An’s ancient town. It is famous for its high-quality organic vegetables, grown using traditional methods without chemicals. The village has been around for nearly 400 years and has played a vital role in supplying fresh produce to Hoi An and surrounding areas.

What makes Tra Que Vegetable Village special is the way farmers nurture the land. Instead of using artificial fertilizers, they use a type of seaweed from the nearby De Vong River. This natural method not only keeps the soil rich and fertile but also gives the vegetables a unique, fresh taste that you won’t find anywhere else.

Walking through the village, you will see rows of green herbs and vegetables used in typical Vietnamese dishes such as basil, lettuce, and perilla leaves, grown with care. The villagers still use traditional tools, and the farming techniques have been passed down for generations. The community takes great pride in preserving their culture and way of life, which is why Tra Que has become a model for sustainable agriculture in Vietnam.

If you want to see a different side of Hoi An beyond its ancient streets, Tra Que Vegetable Village is a must-visit. The village offers a chance to slow down, connect with nature, and appreciate the hard work that goes into growing food in a traditional, eco-friendly way.

Entrance Fee: 35,000 VND
 

World’s Best Tourism Village

Tra Que is not just an agricultural village—it is also a thriving tourism village that welcomes visitors who want to experience traditional Vietnamese farming life. In 2024, Tra Que Vegetable Village was officially recognized as one of the World’s Best Tourism Villages by the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO). This prestigious title highlights the village’s commitment to sustainable tourism, cultural preservation, and environmental protection.

Among 55 villages worldwide, Tra Que was Vietnam’s sole representative, making it a significant achievement for the country. The UNWTO selected Tra Que based on several key factors, including its ability to maintain cultural heritage, support local communities, promote eco-friendly tourism, and develop rural economies.

Experiences At Tra Que Vegetable Village

Cycle through the countryside

One of the best ways to experience Tra Que is by cycling through the peaceful countryside. The ride from Hoi An to Tra Que takes about 15 minutes and takes you through scenic rice paddies, lotus ponds, and quiet village paths. As you pedal through, you can see locals tending to their fields, water buffalo grazing, and farmers transporting fresh produce to the market. Cycling here is relaxing and easy, with flat terrain and little traffic, making it a great activity for families and casual riders.

Be a farmer for a day

If you want to truly understand the daily life of Tra Que’s farmers, you can join them in the fields. You will get to wear a traditional Vietnamese conical hat (nón lá), grab a hoe, and learn how to prepare the soil, plant herbs, water the crops, and even harvest vegetables. Farmers here still use organic methods, fertilizing their crops with river seaweed and watering them by hand. This hands-on experience helps you appreciate the effort behind Vietnam’s fresh and flavorful produce.

Join a cooking class

Food lovers will love the chance to cook with fresh ingredients straight from the garden. Many local families and restaurants in Tra Que offer cooking classes, where you can learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes like: Bánh xèo (Vietnamese crispy pancakes) and Gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls). The best part? You pick the ingredients yourself before cooking, ensuring that every dish is as fresh as possible. The experience ends with a delicious meal that you made yourself!

Enjoy an herbal footbath

After a day of exploring, you can relax with a traditional herbal footbath. Farmers in Tra Que believe in the healing power of herbs, and many use their homegrown plants to create soothing footbaths. This experience typically involves soaking your feet in warm water infused with lemongrass, ginger, and basil, helping to relieve fatigue and improve circulation. It’s a simple but deeply refreshing way to unwind and connect with local traditions.

Watch the sunset over the fields

As the day ends, find a quiet spot in the village and watch the sunset over the vegetable fields. The soft golden light creates a magical atmosphere, making it the perfect moment to slow down and enjoy the beauty of rural Vietnam. Don’t forget to treat yourself with a basil seed tea, a refreshing and slightly sweet drink that is both delicious and good for digestion. Sipping this traditional drink while watching the sky change colors is the perfect way to end your visit.
 

What To Eat At Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tam Huu (Three-friend Rolls)

Tam Huu is one of the signature dishes of Tra Que. The name means "three friends", referring to the three main ingredients:

• Shrimp (provides a sweet and savory taste)
• Pork (adds richness and texture)
• Fresh herbs (grown in Tra Que, giving the dish a fragrant and refreshing taste)

Instead of being wrapped in rice paper like regular spring rolls, Tam Huu is carefully tied together with scallions, making it light, fresh, and full of natural flavors. You dip it in nước chấm (Vietnamese fish sauce) for an extra burst of flavor. This dish represents the balance of flavors in Vietnamese cuisine—sweet, salty, sour, and umami.

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Crispy Pancakes)

Banh xeo is a crispy, savory pancake made from a turmeric-flavored rice batter, filled with:

• Shrimp
• Pork
• Bean sprouts
• Tra Que herbs

What makes Bánh xèo in Tra Que special is the freshness of the ingredients. The vegetables and herbs come straight from the village’s organic gardens, giving each bite an extra burst of flavor. You eat it by wrapping a piece of the pancake in rice paper or lettuce, adding herbs, and dipping it in nước chấm. The mix of crunchy, savory, and fresh flavors makes it a must-try dish.

Mi Quang

Mi Quang (Quang Noodles) is one of the most famous dishes from Central Vietnam, and it tastes even better in Tra Que because of the fresh vegetables and herbs. The dish consists of:

• Thick, yellow rice noodles
• Pork, chicken, or shrimp
• Peanuts and crispy rice crackers
• A small amount of rich, flavorful broth
• Lots of fresh herbs and vegetables from Tra Que

Unlike pho, Mi Quang has just enough broth to coat the noodles, making it less soupy and more flavorful. It’s a perfect balance of textures—chewy noodles, crispy crackers, tender meat, and crunchy peanuts.

Where to Eat in Tra Que

Many family-run restaurants and homestays in the village offer these local dishes, often as part of a cooking class. Some great places to try include:

• Baby Mustard Restaurant – Serves fresh, organic dishes made with ingredients straight from the farm.
• Tra Que Water Wheel – Offers cooking classes and a great selection of local food.

How To Get To Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tra Que Vegetable Village is located about 3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, making it very easy to reach. Here are the different ways to get there:

By Bicycle – The Most Scenic Option

• Time: ~15 minutes from Hoi An
• Cost: 20,000 – 50,000 VND per rental
• Why choose this? The road from Hoi An to Tra Que is flat, quiet, and surrounded by rice fields, making it an enjoyable ride. This is the best way to experience the countryside at your own pace.
• Where to rent? Most hotels and homestays in Hoi An offer free bicycles or rent them at a low price.

By Motorbike – Fast and Convenient

• Time: ~10 minutes from Hoi An
• Cost: 100,000 – 150,000 VND per day for rental
• Why choose this? If you want more freedom and plan to visit other places after Tra Que, a motorbike is a great option. The road is smooth and easy to navigate.
• Where to rent? You can rent motorbikes from Hoi An’s Old Town, hotels, or local rental shops.

By Taxi – The Easiest Option

• Time: ~5 minutes from Hoi An
• Cost: 50,000 – 80,000 VND (depends on distance and traffic)
• Why choose this? This is the best choice if you don’t want to drive. Simply book a local taxi from Hoi An.
• Recommended taxi companies: Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun Taxi​.

When Is To Visit Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tra Que Vegetable Village is open year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the weather and your preferences.

Best Months: February – August (Dry Season)

• Why? The weather is dry, sunny, and warm, making it perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, farming, and cooking classes.
• Best months for photography: March and April, when the village is green and full of life.

Rainy Season: September – January

• Why visit? The village is still beautiful, and you can experience local life even in the rain. Plus, there are fewer tourists.
• Downside: It can be muddy, so bring a raincoat and proper shoes if you visit during this time.

Best Time of Day to Visit

• Morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM): The best time to join farming activities, as the weather is cool and farmers are actively working in the fields.
• Late Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM): The best time for photography, sunset views, and a relaxing tea break.
• Avoid midday (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM) if possible, as it can be very hot.

If you want a full-day experience, start in the morning with a farming activity, have lunch at a local restaurant, and then join a cooking class or cycle around in the afternoon.
 

Tips For Visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village

Visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village is a unique experience, but a little planning will help you make the most of your trip. Here are some useful tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit:

1. Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

• If you join the farming experience, expect to get muddy, so wear light, breathable clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
• Wear comfortable shoes or sandals, especially if you plan to walk around the village.

2. Bring Cash

• Some local restaurants and vendors don’t accept credit cards, so bring some Vietnamese Dong (VND) for food, drinks, and souvenirs.
• Entrance to the village is free, but some activities like farming and cooking classes have fees.

3. Book Tours or Classes in Advance

• If you want to try farming, a cooking class, or an herbal foot bath, it’s best to book in advance through local tour operators or your hotel.
• Many Hoi An tour agencies offer Tra Que half-day tours, often combined with cycling or basket boat rides.

4. Respect the Local Farmers

• Tra Que is a working village, and farmers are busy with their daily routines.
• Always ask before taking photos of people. Most farmers are friendly, but it’s polite to show respect.
• Support the local community by buying food or drinks from village restaurants.

7. Stay Hydrated

• Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, especially if you plan to cycle.

8. Combine Your Visit with Nearby Attractions

• After exploring Tra Que, visit An Bang Beach (just 2 km away) for a swim or seafood meal.
• If you love photography, head to Cam Thanh Coconut Village for a fun basket boat ride through the palm forest.

Conclusion

Visiting Tra Que Vegetable Village – World’s Best Tourism Village is a fantastic way to experience Vietnam’s rural life and traditions. Whether you want to try your hand at farming, enjoy a cooking class, or simply relax in the beautiful countryside, Tra Que has something for everyone.

If you're planning a trip to Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to explore this incredible village. Book a tour with us today to enjoy a hassle-free, immersive experience with expert local guides. Let’s make your journey to Tra Que unforgettable!

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