(TITC) – Vinh Son, a distinctive traditional craft village now situated in Vinh Tuong Commune, Phu Tho Province, is renowned for its more than 200-year history of snake raising. The village’s origins lie in the age-old practice of hunting wild snakes among the local people. Over time, this subsistence activity gradually transformed into an organised form of animal husbandry, eventually shaping Vinh Son into one of Vietnam’s most unique and long-standing craft villages. For generations, the trade has not only preserved a rare cultural identity but also ensured stable livelihoods for the community.
Vinh Son Snake-Raising Village is over 200 years old
Today, Vinh Son is home to over 600 households engaged in snake farming, making it one of the largest snake-raising communities in the country. Local farmers invest in well-designed and secure enclosures, burrows, and breeding facilities to ensure optimal conditions for the snakes. Scientific and technological advances have been increasingly applied, helping to improve breeding efficiency, enhance product quality, and reduce risks in the farming process. The village primarily produces two categories: commercial snakes for consumption and breeding snakes supplied to other farms. In addition, traders purchase snakes for producing traditional medicinal and artisanal goods, contributing to a diverse range of products that sustain the village’s reputation.
Among the most noteworthy products are snake wine and snake balm, both traditionally believed to have medicinal properties. Shed snake skins are collected and used in traditional medicine, while snake venom is supplied to pharmaceutical companies for research and medical applications. Snake leather is fashioned into accessories such as belts and wallets, and snake bile continues to be used as an ingredient in remedies for asthma and digestive disorders. In 2021, the family of Nguyen Tien Sy was awarded a provincial three-star OCOP certification for their traditional snake balm, further affirming the craft’s cultural and economic value.
Recognising the village’s tourism potential, local authorities in Vinh Tuong Commune have made concerted efforts to promote craft-village tourism. Through close collaboration with travel agencies and the Vinh Son Snake-Raising Village Association, both domestic and international visitors are encouraged to discover this rare cultural heritage. Plans are underway to establish a concentrated zone for snake farming and processing, including designated breeding areas, production workshops, and a dedicated tourism service zone. This will feature a market for sightseeing, tasting, and purchasing snake-based products, offering visitors an integrated and immersive experience.
Tourists visiting Vinh Son today can enjoy activities unavailable elsewhere. A guided tour through the farming areas introduces them to various snake species, many of which are increasingly rare in the wild. Adventurous visitors may even observe snakes in defensive postures at close range, offering an exhilarating experience. In addition, tourists can learn about the complete snake-farming process, from feeding and caring to breeding. Some may witness snakes laying eggs or watch local farmers handle snakes with bare hands, a skill that reflects centuries of accumulated knowledge and practice.
One of the highlights of a visit to Vinh Son is the opportunity to participate in cooking demonstrations featuring nutritious snake-based dishes, followed by tasting sessions. Before leaving, visitors can purchase an array of processed products such as snake balm, snake wine, or other medicinal items to use at home or give as meaningful gifts.
Thanks to continuous support from local authorities, Vinh Son Snake-Raising Village is gaining increasing recognition among travellers. The village welcomes an average of around 100 visitors each month, and its products are frequently showcased at trade fairs and exhibitions across and beyond the province. With its rare combination of tradition, biodiversity, and cultural authenticity, Vinh Son stands as a remarkable example of Vietnam’s enduring craft heritage.
Tourism Information Technology Center
