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Tra Que Vegetable Village Travel Guide – Taste of Herbs Experience

Tra Que vegetable village is a famous village in Hoi An, Vietnam, known for its long history of vegetable growing and traditional organic farming methods.

Tra Que herb village has existed since the 15th century. The name “Tra Que” comes from a special type of aromatic herb, with a flavor similar to cinnamon, which is grown extensively in the village.

Tra Que Hoi An village is located in Cam Ha Commune, about 3 km northwest of the ancient town center.

With an area of over 40 hectares and a history of cultivation spanning hundreds of years, this village is famous for its typical aromatic herbs, where visitors can experience the unique agricultural culture of Quang Nam land.

What is traditional farming in Tra Que?
What is an organic herb garden experience?
When will we go to traditional farming in Tra Que?
What time does the Tra Que village tour open?
What does the Hoi An vegetable village guide offer?
Tickets to visit the Tra Que cooking class experience
What can we eat in a vegetable village in Hoi An?
What should you prepare when going to Tra Que herb Village?

1. What is a Tra Que Village?

Tra Que is a charming and unique destination located just a short distance from the popular tourist town of Hoi An, Vietnam. Here’s what makes it special:

Organic Farming: Tra Que has a long history of organic farming that uses traditional methods and natural fertilizers like seaweed. This results in incredibly flavorful and healthy vegetables.
Hands-on Experience: Visitors can participate in various farming activities, such as planting, watering, and harvesting crops. It’s a great way to learn about traditional farming techniques and experience rural life in Vietnam.
Culinary Delights: Many families in the village offer cooking classes where you can prepare local dishes using the fresh ingredients from the gardens. You can then enjoy the delicious meal you helped create.
Cultural Immersion: Tra Que offers a glimpse into the traditional Vietnamese way of life. You can interact with the friendly locals, learn about their customs, and experience the peaceful atmosphere of the countryside.
Picturesque Scenery: The village is incredibly picturesque, with rows of vibrant green vegetable plots, herb gardens, and surrounding countryside. It’s a great place to take photos and save your memories.

If you are interested in more tours, please see more:

Tra Que Tour – Experience Farming and Cooking Class

Tra Que Cycling Tour And Coffee Class & Workshop

Hoi An Coconut Forest and Tra Que cooking class

2. How to come to the organic herb garden?

Tra Que herb village is conveniently located just a few kilometers from the center of Hoi An, making it easily accessible. Here are the most common ways to get there:

By bicycle: a popular and eco-friendly option, allowing you to enjoy the scenic countryside at your own pace. Many hotels and guesthouses in Hoi An offer free bicycle rentals, or you can easily rent one from a local shop for a small fee. The ride to Tra Que is relatively flat and easy, taking about 20-30 minutes.
By motorbike: If you prefer a faster mode of transportation, you can rent a motorbike in Hoi An. This will get you to Tra Que in about 10-15 minutes.
By taxi or motorbike taxi: This is the most convenient option, especially if you’re short on time or don’t feel comfortable cycling or driving a motorbike. You can easily hail a taxi or motorbike taxi anywhere in Hoi An. It takes about 10-15 minutes to get here
Private car rental: the best solutions for to who need a private car for families or groups when joining the tours in Hoi An or Danang.
By organized tour: Many tour operators in Hoi An offer day trips to the village, which often include transportation, a guided tour of the village, and sometimes even a cooking class. This is a great option if you want to learn more about the village and its traditions.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, the journey to the village is a pleasant one, offering glimpses of rural Vietnamese life and beautiful scenery.

3. When to go to traditional farming in Tra Que?

Village is a great place to visit year-round, as it always has something to offer. However, certain times of the year might be more ideal depending on your preferences:

Best time to visit:

February to April and September to December.

These months generally have the most pleasant weather in Hoi An, with cooler temperatures and less rain. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities like cycling, walking through the fields, and participating in farming activities. The vegetables are also usually lush and vibrant during these periods.

Other times to consider:

May to July:

This period can be quite hot and humid, but it’s also when many vegetables are in their peak season. If you don’t mind the heat, you can see the gardens at their most productive and perhaps even participate in harvesting.
August: This month can still be quite warm, but it often sees less rain than other summer months. It can be a good time to visit if you want to avoid the heaviest downpours.

January:

While it’s technically the dry season, January can sometimes have cooler temperatures and even some light rain. It can still be a pleasant time to visit, but be prepared for potentially unpredictable weather.

Time of day:

Early morning (5:00 AM – 7:30 AM): This is a great time to see the farmers at work, tending to their crops and harvesting vegetables. The air is also cooler and fresher in the morning.
Late afternoon (after 4:00 PM): This is another good time to visit, as the temperatures start to cool down and the light becomes softer, making for beautiful scenery. You can also catch the sunset over the fields, which is a truly breathtaking sight.
Things to keep in mind:
Weekends and holidays: Tra Que can be more crowded on weekends and holidays, so if you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting on a weekday.

Weather:

Hoi An can experience occasional rain and even typhoons, so it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you go.

4. What time does the Tra Que village tour open?

Tra Que vegetable village doesn’t have official opening hours in the traditional sense. It’s a working village where farmers tend to their fields, not a tourist attraction with set operating times.

However, if you want to see the village at its most active, here’s what you should know:

Early morning (5:00 AM – 7:30 AM) is the best time to visit. This is when the farmers are out in the fields, planting, watering, and harvesting. You’ll get to see them at work and experience the village’s vibrant atmosphere.
Late afternoon (after 4:00 PM) is another good option. The temperatures start to cool down, and the light becomes beautiful for photos. You might still see some farmers working, although it might be less busy than in the morning.

5. What does the Hoi An vegetable village guide offer?

Tra Que vegetable village offers a delightful blend of experiences that go beyond just seeing a garden. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect:

1. Immersive Farming Experience

Hands-on Activities: Get your hands dirty and participate in various farming tasks like raking seaweed fertilizer, planting, watering, and harvesting vegetables. This provides a unique insight into the traditional farming methods used in Tra Que.
Learn about Organic Practices: Discover the village’s commitment to organic farming, using natural fertilizers like seaweed and compost. Understand the benefits of these methods and how they contribute to the flavorful produce.
Meet the Farmers: Interact with the friendly locals and learn about their daily lives, their passion for farming, and the traditions passed down through generations.

2. Culinary Delights

Cooking Classes: Participate in cooking classes and learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes using the fresh ingredients from the gardens. Enjoy the fruits (and vegetables!) of your labor with a delicious meal at the end.
Fresh Produce: Sample the incredibly flavorful vegetables and herbs grown in Tra Que. You might be surprised by the difference in taste compared to conventionally grown produce.
Local Specialties: Try some of the local dishes made with the village’s fresh ingredients, such as “Cao Lau” noodles or “Banh Xeo” crispy pancakes.

3. Cultural Immersion

Explore the Village: Wander through the vibrant green fields, herb gardens, and charming pathways of Tra Que. Take in the peaceful atmosphere and appreciate the beauty of the countryside.
Learn about Local Traditions: Gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese rural life and the cultural significance of farming in the community.
Connect with the Community: Interact with the villagers, learn about their stories, and experience their warm hospitality.

4. Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Herbal Foot Baths: Treat your feet to a relaxing herbal foot bath using traditional herbs grown in the village. This is a great way to unwind after a day of exploring and farming.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Tra Que offers a refreshing escape and a chance to reconnect with nature.

5. Unique Experiences

Cycling through the Village: Explore the surrounding countryside by bicycle, enjoying the scenic views and fresh air.
Sunset Views: Catch a breathtaking sunset over the fields, creating a magical and unforgettable moment.
Festivals: If you’re lucky enough to visit during a festival, you can experience the vibrant celebrations and traditions of the village.

6. Ticket to visit the Tra Que Vegetable Village

The entrance fee to Tra Que vegetable village is quite reasonable, allowing you to experience the unique charm of this place without breaking the bank.

The current Tra Que vegetable village entrance fee is 35,000 VND per person. This fee covers your basic entry to the village, allowing you to explore the fields, wander through the gardens, and soak in the atmosphere.

Keep in mind that this fee is primarily for general access. If you want to participate in specific activities like Tra Que cooking classes or Tra Que farming experiences, those might have separate costs associated with them.

7. What to eat in Tra Que herb Village?

Tra Que vegetable village is a foodie’s paradise, especially if you love fresh, organic flavors! Here are some must-try dishes and drinks you should experience during your visit:

Dishes

Tam Huu (Three Friends) Spring Rolls: This is a Tra Que specialty! Instead of traditional rice paper, these spring rolls use fragrant basil leaves to wrap pork, shrimp, and green onions. They’re then dipped in a sweet and sour fish sauce. It’s a burst of fresh flavors in every bite!
Banh Xeo (Crispy Pancakes): These savory pancakes are made with rice flour and filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. They’re served with a generous helping of fresh herbs from Tra Que, which you wrap in rice paper and dip in a peanut sauce.
Mi Quang (Quang Noodles): This is a regional favorite, and Tra Que’s fresh vegetables make it even better! Thick rice noodles are served in a flavorful broth with pork, shrimp, and a variety of herbs.
Cao Lau: Another Hoi An signature dish, Cao Lau features thick noodles, pork, and a unique blend of herbs and spices. The fresh vegetables from Tra Que add an extra layer of flavor to this already delicious dish.
Local Salads: With an abundance of fresh greens, Tra Que is the perfect place to try some local Vietnamese salads. Expect a mix of lettuce, herbs, and perhaps some shredded chicken or pork, all dressed in a light and refreshing vinaigrette.

Drinks

Sweet Basil Seed Drink: This refreshing drink is made with basil seeds grown in Tra Que. It’s a great way to cool down on a hot day and is also said to have health benefits.
Fresh Juices: With all the fresh fruits and vegetables around, you can’t go wrong with a freshly squeezed juice. Try a carrot, tomato, or mixed vegetable juice for a healthy and delicious treat.

Experiences

Tra Que cooking class: Many tourists choose Hoi An cooking class at Tra Que vegetable village where you can learn to prepare these dishes yourself using the fresh ingredients from the garden. This is a fun and interactive way to experience the local cuisine.
Farm-to-Table Meal: Some restaurants in Tra Que offer a true farm-to-table experience, where you can enjoy a meal made with the vegetables grown right in front of you.

8. What should to prepare when going to the organic herb garden experience?

A trip to Tra Que organic herb garden is a fun and immersive experience, but a little preparation can make it even better. Here’s a list of things to prepare for your water, after farming you may very thirsty and tired. Water is the useful bottle on these moment.

Clothing and Footwear

Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, potentially on uneven ground and maybe even getting a little muddy. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must. Avoid sandals or flip-flops that might not offer enough protection or support.
Light Clothing: Hoi An’s weather can be warm and humid, especially during the dry season. Wear light, breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable. Cotton or linen fabrics are good choices.

Bring a hat or cap, cause the weather will be very hot.

Sunscreen: Sun protection is essential, even on cloudy days. Apply sunscreen liberally before you go and reapply throughout the day.

Insect Repellent: While insects aren’t usually a major problem, it’s always a good idea to have insect repellent on hand, especially if you’re visiting in the late afternoon or evening.
Optional: Clothes you don’t mind getting dirty: If you plan to participate in farming activities, you might get a little muddy. Consider wearing clothes that you don’t mind getting dirty, or bringing a change of clothes.

Other Essentials

Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial, especially in the heat. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.
Small Backpack or Bag: To carry your essentials, such as your water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, camera, and any souvenirs you might purchase.
Camera: Tra Que is a very photogenic place. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery, the vibrant vegetables, and the friendly locals.
Cash: While some places might accept cards, it’s always a good idea to have some Vietnamese Dong (VND) on hand for entrance fees, small purchases, tips, and any food or drinks you might want to buy.
Hand Sanitizer: Useful for keeping your hands clean, especially if you’re participating in farming activities.
Optional: Local Snacks: While there are places to eat in Tra Que, you might want to bring some snacks with you, especially if you’re visiting during the hottest part of the day.

Optional Extras

Rain Gear: If you’re visiting during the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a light rain jacket or poncho.
Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun.