Thuy Khue Ward

What whispers echo from the ancient gates of Thuy Khue Ward? Here in Hanoi, nestled beside the shimmering West Lake, Thuy Khue Ward holds centuries of stories. Thuy Khue Ward isn’t just a place on the map. It’s a journey through time, where the echoes of ancient crafts and traditions mingle with the rhythm of modern life. Thuy Khue Ward was established in 1995. The ward boasts an area of 2.03 square kilometers. As of 2021, the population reached 14,063 people, creating a vibrant tapestry of life within this historic area. Imagine strolling down Thuy Khue street, a four-kilometer stretch punctuated by mossy, centuries-old village gates. Each gate, unique in size and design, stands as a testament to Thuy Khue Ward’s rich past. Many of these gates face West Lake, a reminder of the ancient villages that once graced its shores. Beyond the gates, life unfolds. The clatter of morning markets, the soothing clinking of teacups, children’s laughter, and the quiet concentration of elders engaged in chess games create a timeless scene. Despite the relentless march of urbanization, Thuy Khue Ward retains its tranquil charm. Thuy Khue Ward was also once renowned for its unique craft traditions. Yen Thai village, within the ward, was the heart of Do paper-making. This special paper, crafted from the bark of the Do tree, was prized for its durability. It graced the royal court in royal decrees and found its way into everyday life through books and folk art paintings like the renowned Dong Ho Paintings. The rhythmic pounding of Do paper production once filled the air, a sound that inspired poets and became a symbol of old Hanoi’s romantic charm. Within Yen Thai village, the Nguyen The family was known for producing the finest Do paper. Sadly, the family’s secret techniques died with the last successor. However, a project to restore traditional Do paper-making in Yen Thai village offers hope for the future. This initiative aims to preserve cultural identity and boost tourism. Today, Do paper lives on in art and souvenirs, a tangible link to Thuy Khue Ward’s artistic heritage. Thuy Khue Ward was also home to Trich Sai Village, famous for its exquisite Buoi silk. This silk, renowned for its lightness, softness, and resilience, was once a luxury enjoyed by the elite. Its meticulous production process involved four to five people working in harmony, a testament to the artistry and skill of the villagers. The distinctive quality of Buoi silk came from the careful selection of silkworm yarn. Only the finest threads were deemed worthy of becoming Buoi silk. Sadly, the Buoi silk trade faded in the 1950s, eclipsed by new materials and mechanized production. Yet, the embers of tradition were rekindled by Vu Thi Minh Hoang, a native of Trich Sai Village. Inspired by her grandmother’s stories, Hoang embarked on a mission to revive the lost art. With the guidance of artisan Phung Van Thiem, considered the last keeper of Buoi silk’s secrets, Hoang painstakingly rediscovered the intricate techniques. Thiem’s dedication to preserving this craft led to the opening of Lua Ha, a shop on Thuy Khue Street. Today, Lua Ha stands as the sole purveyor of Buoi silk, bridging the past and present. Hoang continues to innovate, creating new designs while honoring the legacy of her ancestors. Thuy Khue Ward. A place where history whispers through ancient gates, where the spirit of traditional crafts endures, and where the past and present intertwine to create a tapestry of timeless beauty.