Discovering Hoi An Driftwood Village: Art from Flood-borne Wood

Hoi An Driftwood Village (located in Cam Thanh area, Hoi An, Da Nang - you should check Google Maps for the exact address as directional signs are sometimes not updated) is a quite unique art village in Central Vietnam: all the exhibited works are made from "driftwood" (củi lũ), pieces of wood washed away after each flood season, which artisans collect and breathe life into as sculptures, decorations, and everyday items.

I visited on a cool afternoon, and the first impression was a very "rustic" space: raw wood, earthen yards, greenery, and many open workshop corners for visitors to observe. Artworks are scattered throughout the premises: there are animals several meters high, exquisitely carved human faces, and even spontaneous abstract shapes. If accompanied by a village guide, you will hear the story behind each piece, where that specific log was found, how long it took to complete, and the environmental message the artisan wishes to convey. This is the part that makes the trip much more worthwhile than just walking around by yourself.

What I liked most was the practicality of the experience: you can stand next to an artisan at work, touch different types of wood with various textures and colors, and buy small items as souvenirs such as keychains, mini figurines, and wooden decorations, with prices quite affordable for a handmade product.

Note that opening hours are usually from 08:00–17:30; you should go in the afternoon when the sunlight slanting through the wooden works creates better photo angles. If you are in Hoi An Ancient Town, I often combine Driftwood Village with Bay Mau Coconut Forest or Thanh Ha Pottery Village in the same session to save travel time, as all three spots are within a radius of about 5-7km.