Tam Thanh Mural Village: Everything to know before you go

Contents

The stunning artworks at Tam Thanh Mural Village (Source: Collected)

1. Overview of Tam Thanh Mural Village

Tam Thanh Mural Village, situated in Hoa Trung hamlet, Tam Thanh commune, is approximately 7 km away from Tam Ky City and 40 km away from Hoi An Ancient Town. This charming village lies between the sea and the Truong Giang River. 

Under a project by the Tam Ky City People’s Committee, the Korea Foundation, and the UN-Habitat in June 2016, the village’s 120 houses were adorned with murals depicting portraits, fish, still life, landscapes, and daily life. In 2017, Tam Thanh Village was honored with the Asian Townscape Award, which recognized it as a notable community art project.

2. Tam Thanh Village transport guide

2.1. Getting to the village

Determining how to get to Tam Thanh Mural Village depends on your starting point. If you are departing from another province in Vietnam, first you will need to get to Tam Ky City (by flight, train, or coach). Upon arrival, you can catch a motorbike taxi to the village.

If you are departing from the nearby Hoi An Ancient Town, you have a few more options:

• Taxi: A taxi ride from Hoi An to Tam Thanh Mural Village typically costs from 530,000 VND to 660,000 VND (23 USD – 29 USD) one-way. Most drivers are willing to negotiate a flat fee due to the distance. Ensure you get the driver’s contact information and arrange a pick-up time for the return trip, as this area lacks taxis.
• Coach: There are no coaches that will take you directly from Hoi An to Tam Thanh. You will need to hop on a coach that goes from Hoi An to Quang Ngai, ask the driver to drop you off somewhere in Tam Ky, then continue the journey from there.
• Private transport: If you have rented a motorbike and are feeling adventurous, you can ride to the village yourself. From Hoi An, make your way to Cua Dai Bridge and just follow Vo Chi Cong Road straight all the way to Tam Ky City. Eventually, you will reach an intersection that connects to Nguyen Tat Thanh Road. Turn left onto that road, cross the Truong Giang River, then turn right onto Thanh Nien Road. 2 more kilometers and you will arrive at Tam Thanh Mural Village.

The road to this charming village is very scenic (Source: Collected)

2.2. Getting around the village

Moving around Tam Thanh Mural Village is a breeze, as it requires no more effort than a leisurely stroll. The main road is well-paved and the small alleys are easy to navigate. To avoid the heat, it is best to visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, as the midday sun can be intense. This way, you can comfortably enjoy the village’s colorful murals.

3. Highlights of Tam Thanh Mural Village

3.1. Stunning art pieces

From the welcoming gate to the road markers, Tam Thanh Mural Village is a feast for the eyes. The walls are adorned with vivid murals of branches and flowers, breathing life into this seaside community. As you venture deeper, you will discover unique paintings on old walls depicting the daily life of the locals. The artists have also transformed objects like fishing boats, oars, and jars into captivating sculptures, adding to the village’s artistic charm.

3.2. A colorful basket boat road

This unique 1.5 km-long basket boat road features 111 old basket boats, each painted with a unique artwork, symbolizing the 111 years since Tam Ky’s establishment and the 11 years since its elevation to city status. The boats and oars are adorned with vibrant paintings by artists from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Quang Nam. These skilled artists have transformed these boats into colorful art pieces. Using specially mixed oil paints to withstand the weather, these artworks reflect the artists’ impressions of Quang Nam Province, along with its culture and people.

The murals at Tam Thanh Mural Village (Source: Collected)

3.3. A beautiful beach

Tam Thanh Beach is part of the over 50km-long coastal stretch from Cua Dai to Tam Hai in Quang Nam Province. This pristine beach retains its smooth white sand and tranquil water, unaffected by erosion.

3.4. Local experiences

In addition to fishing, Tam Thanh Mural Village also relies on fish sauce production. Approximately 20 small-scale family-owned facilities in the village produce fish sauce using traditional methods, without flavorings or preservatives. Visitors can sample the fragrant fish sauce, which is praised for its quality. Staying at a local homestay allows guests to immerse themselves in the peaceful rural ambiance, witness the art of fish sauce making firsthand, and indulge in fresh seafood dishes. For those seeking adventure, camping on the beach or joining the local fishermen on fishing trips are also memorable activities.

3.5. Historical relics

Tam Thanh Mural Village is home to two historical relics – Duc Ong Nam Hai Shrine and Ba Lau Hill. The shrine dates back to the reign of King Thanh Thai over 100 years ago. It is dedicated to Duc Ong Nam Hai, a figure revered by coastal communities nationwide for his legendary assistance to fishermen during storms at sea. The shrine underwent a recent restoration, which was funded with over 4.2 billion VND, affirming its cultural significance.

Duc Ong Nam Hai Shrine is worth visiting during a trip to Tam Thanh (Source: Collected)

4. Tourist attractions near Tam Thanh Village

In addition to the vibrant Tam Thanh Mural Village, Quang Nam Province beckons with many other attractions, such as the breathtaking Ban Than Cliff and the poignant Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue.

4.1. Ban Than Cliff

Located in Tam Hai commune, Nui Thanh district, Ban Than Cliff lies approximately 40 km southeast of Tam Ky City. Embraced by the river on three sides and the sea on the other, this natural marvel is renowned for its exquisite rock formations crafted by the relentless forces of waves and winds over centuries. These formations resemble various shapes such as whales, mushrooms, and even mythical creatures like sea monsters. Beyond its geological wonders, the area also boasts vibrant marine life and expansive coral reefs.

4.2. Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue

7.7 km away from the mural village stands the Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue. This monument serves as a tribute to mothers who endured the loss of children and grandchildren during the liberation of the country. Crafted from granite, the statue towers 18 meters tall and spans 120 meters wide. At the monument’s entrance, eight pillars are adorned with sculptures honoring heroic mothers nationwide and young female volunteers. Adjacent to these is a small exhibition displaying photographs and artifacts celebrating these noble figures. 

The Vietnamese Heroic Mother Statue (Source: Collected)

5. Tips for visiting Tam Thanh Mural Village

• When to visit: The best time to visit Tam Thanh Mural Village is during the day, when sunlight enhances the vibrant murals. Summer mornings offer ideal conditions for exploring every detail of the artworks and enjoying a leisurely stroll through the village.

• What to eat: After exploring Tam Thanh Beach, you can indulge in delicious seafood dishes, including the popular grilled mackerel. Summer is the season for these freshly caught fish, which are marinated lightly with salt, chili, lemongrass, and grilled over charcoal.

• What to pack: For a summer visit, you should pack essentials like sunglasses and sunscreen. Bring snacks and drinks, as the local shops may have limited supplies and no refrigeration. A tripod is handy for solo travelers to capture stunning photos at various picturesque spots throughout the village. Don’t forget to pack a towel and swimsuit to enjoy the beautiful, expansive coastline if you have the opportunity.
• What to buy: Don’t miss the chance to purchase local specialties such as fish sauce and dried fish to take home.

Tam Thanh Mural Village stands as a vibrant testament to the transformative power of art and community. These colorful murals have not only revitalized this coastal haven but also preserved the local heritage.

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