Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village is steeped in tradition, and its charm is immortalized in the folk song:

“Green green, red red, yellow yellow / Every December, the village makes flowers.”

These exquisite flowers are handcrafted using colored paper, bamboo, and natural pigments, all of which are environmentally friendly. Beyond their aesthetic appeal, Thanh Tien paper flowers hold a special place in the hearts of Hue, representing a cultural and spiritual tradition passed down through generations.

The flowers’ vibrant colors, elegant designs, and durability make them not only beautiful but also practical. They are cost-effective, long-lasting, and embody solemnity and respect. Historically, they were an integral part of worship spaces (homes, temples, shrines, and altars dedicated to the Earth God and Kitchen God). The flowers were traditionally replaced only once a year during the Lunar New Year. As the village gears up for production every December (lunar calendar), visiting Thanh Tien offers a unique opportunity to witness the bustling activity and artistry of this centuries-old craft.

Villagers bring paper flowers to the Bao Vinh market

Artisans of the village are busy in the last days of the year

Thanh Tien villagers draw on locally sourced materials, including Bambusa longgissia sp.nov, and bamboo, to craft a variety of paper flowers. Through their imagination and skilled craftsmanship, they recreate blooms such as orchids, lilies, chrysanthemums, multiflora roses, and wild sunflowers. Among these, the paper lotus stands out as the most renowned. Revered as Vietnam's national flower, the lotus carries profound cultural and symbolic significance. Thanh Tien paper lotus flowers play a prominent role in major events such as the Hue Festival, Ao Dai Festival, and cultural exchange programs. They are also displayed in iconic locations like Hue Imperial City and the Nguyen Chi Dieu Memorial House in Thanh Tien Village.

Thoroughness in making every flower branch and bloom

The craft of making paper flowers is deeply ingrained in the lives of Thanh Tien villagers. According to local artisans, everyone in the village grows up learning the skill. From a young age, children practice folding delicate flower petals while sitting on their grandparents’ laps. However, as times have changed, only a few families continue to preserve this age-old craft. Among them, three establishments remain actively engaged in both producing paper flowers and offering hands-on experiences for tourists.

One such establishment is run by artisan Nguyễn Hóa. Alongside his wife, his three sons are also accomplished craftsmen. The eldest son, Nguyễn Hiếu, is an artisan with nearly two decades of experience, particularly in crafting intricate lotus flowers.

He notes that paper flowers have evolved over time. While they were traditionally used for worship in sacred spaces, they are now widely embraced as decorative items for homes and shops. This shift in demand has opened new opportunities for the craft to thrive. Today, the production of paper flowers is no longer confined to the lead-up to Tet but continues throughout the year.

Paper lotus flowers are a popular gift among tourists visiting Thanh Tien village

Thanh Tien paper flowers are often sold alongside effigies of Ông Táo (the Kitchen God), allowing families to replace and refresh their altar decorations in preparation for Tet.

During Tet, Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village not only plays a vital role in preserving the beauty of traditional Vietnamese culture but also provides additional income for residents. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the authentic atmosphere of a traditional Tet celebration, filled with warmth and meaning.