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| The worship ceremony at Ba Bun Shrine |
With a history spanning over 500 years of formation, preservation, and development, Van Cu rice noodle village has played an important role in shaping the reputation of the famous Hue Beef Noodle. Beyond its culinary value, the noodle-making craft of Van Cu is also a cherished memory, a part of the village’s soul, and a distinctive cultural identity of the local community.
Mr. Mai Van Xuan - Vice Chairman of Kim Tra Ward People’s Committee, informed that Van Cu rice noodle village produces an estimated 30 tons of fresh rice noodles per day for the market. On average, each household produces and sells about 200 kilograms of noodles daily, while the largest producers can reach 600-700 kilograms per day. During major holidays and the Lunar New Year, production can double or even triple, sometimes rising fourfold compared to normal days.
Van Cu rice noodles have earned their reputation and the trust of customers thanks to their smooth, delicate strands, clear white color, and naturally glossy surface. The noodles carry a fragrant rice aroma, are neither sour nor crumbly, and have a pleasant softness without being overly chewy.
During production, noodle makers do not use any additives. Rock salt is the only ingredient used to soak and wash the rice. It is also used to ferment the batter, helping remove impurities, disinfect, and reduce acidity. For this reason, Van Cu noodles can be kept in natural conditions for only about 24 hours. However, this very characteristic has become an advantage, reinforcing consumer trust and preference for the product.
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| A demonstration of traditional rice noodle-making using handcrafted tools at the ceremony celebrating the recognition of “Van Cu Rice Noodle Craft” as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in the category of Traditional Handicrafts |
With its significant contributions across various fields, Van Cu rice noodle village was recognized in 2014 as a “traditional craft village” by Thua Thien Hue Province (now Hue City).
On December 10, 2024, the Ministry of Cultural, Sports, and Tourism listed Van Cu rice noodle making craft to the list of National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Ba Bun Worship Ceremony takes place over 2 days, March 9 and 10, featuring a range of activities, including a cross-country marathon, culinary festival, and exhibitions of local agricultural products, along with bai choi game, the traditional Ba Bun worship ritual, and a boat race on the Bo River.