Tam Thang Mat Weaving – Traditional Handicrafts Beside the Ky Anh Tunnels in Tam Ky
When travelling to Tam Ky, you will think of Tam Thanh Beach or the historic Ky Anh Tunnels. But just a few kilometers away, in Tam Thang Commune, lies a quieter yet equally fascinating world – the centuries–old tradition of mat weaving. This craft, passed down through generations, is not only a livelihood but also a cultural treasure of Quang Nam.
The roots of Tam Thang mat weaving
Nestled along the fertile banks of the Truong Giang River, Tam Thang has long been known for its lush sedge fields. Locals learned to harvest and process sedge (cói) into mats that became an essential item in every household.
A traditional Tam Thang mat is sturdy, simple in design, and surprisingly elegant. Each mat carries the warmth of the sun that dried the fibers, the patience of hands that dyed and smoothed them, and the rhythm of the loom that brought it all together. For local families, weaving mats was not just work – it was a way of life.
More than just sleeping mats
Over time, as lifestyles changed, Tam Thang villagers expanded their creativity beyond traditional mats. Today, visitors will find a wide range of Quang Nam handicrafts made from sedge, such as:
Handbags and fashion totes
- Decorative trays, boxes, and placemats
- Household items like baskets and storage boxes
- Rustic interior décor, eco–friendly and sustainable
- Beautiful hat for shining free on the beach
These products, both practical and stylish, have found their way not only into Vietnamese homes but also into export markets abroad.
A cultural stop near the Ky Anh Tunnels
What makes Tam Thang especially attractive to travelers is the way it combines history with living tradition. A trip to the Ky Anh Tunnels offers a glimpse into wartime resilience, and just nearby, the mat weaving village shows how daily life continued in spite of hardship.
Here, you can watch artisans at work, listen to their stories about growing up with the loom, and even try weaving a few rows yourself. Many visitors enjoy picking up a small mat or a handmade sedge bag as a keepsake – a tangible reminder of Tam Ky’s culture that fits easily in your suitcase.
Why it matters today
In modern times, mat weaving provides stable jobs for local families and keeps a traditional craft alive. More importantly, when combined with community–based tourism, the craft adds depth to Tam Ky travel. Visitors do not just see a historical site; they also touch the everyday culture that shaped life here for centuries.
A journey to Tam Thang is more than a visit to the Ky Anh Tunnels. It is also a chance to experience the rhythm of a village where sedge mats are woven with care, where handicrafts carry the spirit of the land, and where Quang Nam’s heritage is still very much alive.
