In the serene early spring, the peaceful Da Sy Blacksmith Village, nestled in Ha Dong District, Hanoi, resonates with the rhythmic clang of hammer on metal. The air is filled with the soothing sound as artisans work with unwavering precision and skill, honed through generations of practice.
Simon Vandromme, a French tourist, was captivated by the village’s craftsmanship during his visit. He eagerly joined a knife-making workshop, donning protective gloves and focusing intently on the task at hand. With careful concentration, he extracted a heated blade from the oven and placed it under the power hammer. “This is my first time visiting a metalsmith village abroad,” he shared, clearly impressed by the experience. “I can feel the passion of Da Sy’s artisans – their precision and skill with each strike make this place truly unique.”
Simon Vandromme personally experienced each step of the knife-forging process at Da Sy Blacksmith Village. Photo: Hoang Huy, Khanh Van/The Hanoi Times
As a professional horseshoe smith in France with a decade of experience, Simon was intrigued by Vietnam’s metalworking techniques. He actively participated in key steps such as pressing, heating, and bending the metal, bringing each creation to life. “The combination of fire, metal, and movement in this space ignited my creativity and made it an unforgettable experience,” he expressed.
## Explore the Ancient Art of Blacksmithing in Da Sy
Da Sy Metalsmith Village, renowned for its traditional handmade knives and scissors, is located in Kien Hung Ward, Ha Dong District, just over 10 kilometers from the heart of Hanoi. Known as the “Top Knife and Scissors Village of Thang Long,” it is easily accessible by car, motorbike, or bus.
With a rich history spanning over 500 years, the village exudes an enchanting, old-world charm. Ancient temples dedicated to its blacksmith ancestors stand the test of time and serve as venues for traditional festivals. As you approach the village, the rhythmic hammering fills the air, arousing curiosity. A glimpse into the workshops reveals skilled craftsmen transforming lifeless iron bars into exquisite blades.
Le Ngoc Lam, owner of Le Lam Metalsmith Workshop, carries on a legacy of five generations of craftsmen. He reminisced about the challenges that led some families to forsake the trade. After years in the construction industry, he returned to his roots. “Blacksmithing is not just a means of livelihood; it is an art and a cultural heritage that we strive to preserve and pass on,” he asserted. “I hope that future generations will cherish and take pride in this tradition.”
To keep up with modern demands, the metalsmiths of Da Sy have embraced innovative machinery. This integration has enhanced efficiency, expanded design possibilities, and improved quality while upholding traditional craftsmanship. According to Lam, this modernization has been pivotal in sustaining the trade while enhancing livelihoods and income.
Lam also recognizes the potential of tourism for the village. “We aim to do more than just preserve our craft; we want to share it with visitors so they can appreciate the process of creating these unique handmade products,” he explained. “During festivals and holidays, we welcome a large number of international tourists who eagerly participate in the forging process.”
Blacksmith Lam enthusiastically guides visitors through each step of the knife-forging process.
## A Cultural Immersion Experience
Da Sy, nestled in the heart of Hanoi, is not only a hub for high-quality forged products but also an ideal destination for those seeking cultural immersion. By seamlessly blending tradition with modernity, the village is emerging as a model for community-based tourism. Visitors can delve into the art of blacksmithing, learning and appreciating the time-honored techniques.
## Preserving a Timeless Craft
With its deep-rooted history, blacksmithing in Da Sy is more than just a trade; it is an integral part of the village’s cultural identity. Despite the passage of time, the passion and innovation of its artisans have kept the craft alive, transforming Da Sy into a distinctive experiential destination. Traditional craft villages like Da Sy serve as a bridge connecting international visitors to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
“Exploring traditional craft villages is of utmost importance to me,” shared Maud, Simon’s sister and a student at Hanoi Architectural University. “They embody the profound cultural values of Hanoi, and I wanted my family to experience them. Da Sy allowed us to understand the true beauty of Vietnamese blacksmithing.”
Lam hopes that through these immersive experiences, visitors will foster a deeper appreciation for the craft and help promote the metalsmith tradition, putting Da Sy on the map for cultural tourism in Hanoi.
Through the workshop, Simon and his family gained a deeper understanding of the art of blacksmithing and Vietnam’s rich traditional culture.
The dedication of artisans like Lam allows visitors to not only acquire unique souvenirs but also to learn about traditional craftsmanship. Under Lam’s guidance, Simon crafted his own knife, witnessing the intricate techniques of Vietnamese blacksmithing firsthand. The joy and pride he felt upon completing his creation after two hours of hard work were indescribable.
Simon’s journey to Da Sy deepened his appreciation for the craft and fostered a connection to the local culture, making his visit truly memorable.
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