For generations, along the gentle Thu Bồn River, Kim Bồng Carpentry Village (Hội An Ward, Đà Nẵng City) has been renowned for its traditional woodworking, house construction, and boatbuilding craft. The rhythmic sounds of chisels and saws by the river are not merely echoes of labor. They form a melody of creativity, shaped by the skilled hands and enduring spirit of the artisans.
According to ancient records, boatbuilding in Hội An dates back centuries, rooted in the town’s vibrant maritime trade. From small river boats to large vessels built to brave the open sea, each creation is a work of art - rustic yet refined. One of the most sacred traditions preserved by Kim Bồng craftsmen is the “painting of the boat’s eyes” ritual, performed before launching a vessel. These painted eyes are more than decoration; they symbolize faith, fortune, and the very soul of the boat, helping it “see the way, avoid danger, and seek calm waters.” Many artisans regard this act of “opening the eyes” as breathing life into their creation - a perfect blend of craftsmanship, spirituality, and folk artistry.
Despite the passage of time, the craft of boatbuilding in Kim Bồng endured as a symbol of resilience and pride for the people of this heritage land. Today, under the vision of sustainable cultural development, it is being preserved and introduced as a unique experiential tourism product. Visitors can explore riverside workshops, witness the intricate process of shaping wood, and listen to stories about the “boats that carry the soul of the river.”
Amid the modern flow of life, Kim Bồng’s traditional boatbuilding does more than preserve an ancient craft. It tells the story of people who live in harmony with water, who respect nature, and who create from heritage. It reflects the enduring spirit and boundless aspiration of the people of Hội An, ever ready to set sail toward new horizons.
