You don’t have to travel far to find a peaceful riverside paradise. Just a few kilometers from the ancient town of Phố cổ Hội An lies Cẩm Thanh, a charming Vietnamese village recently honored by Forbes as one of the Top 50 Most Beautiful Villages in the World 2025.
What makes this small riverside village so special? Let’s explore.
Where Is Cam Thanh Village?
Cam Thanh is located about 4 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, now part of Hoi An Dong Ward, Da Nang City. The village is home to more than 100 hectares of nipa palm forest, serving as an important ecological buffer zone of the Cu Lao Cham – Hoi An World Biosphere Reserve.
The vast nipa palm forest stretches out like a natural “green wall,” protecting the village from tides and storms while providing a habitat for numerous aquatic species typical of estuarine ecosystems.
Basket Boat Ride Through the Nipa Forest – The Most Impressive Experience
According to Forbes, the most unforgettable experience in Cam Thanh is riding a traditional round basket boat through the nipa palm forest and watching local fishermen cast their nets.
Mornings in Cam Thanh begin with the peaceful rhythm of life along the small river winding through the village. Sitting on a round basket boat, slowly gliding beneath lush green palm canopies, you’ll hear:
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The gentle wind rustling through the leaves
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The soft splash of paddles in the water
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The calm rhythm of the river
It’s a simple yet deeply moving moment—one that feels like touching the very soul of this riverside community.
Community-Based Tourism – A Sustainable Development Model
Over the past decade, community-based tourism in Cam Thanh has flourished, transforming the village while preserving its authentic charm.
Once merely a fishing tool, the basket boat has become the symbol of Cam Thanh tourism. Visitors can:
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Try paddling a basket boat themselves
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Learn how to cast fishing nets
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Join traditional cooking classes
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Stay at riverside homestays
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Make handicrafts from coconut leaves, bamboo, and nipa palms
These seemingly simple experiences provide sustainable income for local residents while helping conserve the pristine nipa palm ecosystem.
Organic Farming Tourism – A Day as a Vietnamese Farmer
Beyond river-based activities, Cam Thanh also promotes organic agricultural tourism.
Visitors can experience:
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Planting rice
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Growing vegetables
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Riding water buffalo
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Joining the “A Day as a Farmer” program
These activities allow travelers to better understand rural Vietnamese life while supporting clean agriculture and strengthening the community’s connection to land and water.
Ranked Among the World’s 50 Most Beautiful Villages in 2025
A proud milestone for Cam Thanh is its ranking at No. 20 in “The World’s 50 Most Beautiful Villages 2025” by Forbes.
Notably, it is the only village in Vietnam included on this prestigious list—clear recognition of its ecological beauty and sustainable tourism development.
Why You Should Visit Cam Thanh When Traveling to Da Nang – Hoi An
If you are looking for:
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A peaceful eco-tourism destination
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Unique river experiences
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Authentic local cultural activities
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A green, refreshing escape
Then Cam Thanh is definitely worth adding to your Central Vietnam itinerary.
Need Advice on Cam Thanh Tours or Hoi An Travel Plans?
Cam Thanh is just minutes from Hoi An’s center, making it easy to combine with visits to the ancient town, nearby beaches, or attractions in Da Nang.
If you need itinerary advice, basket boat tour bookings, discounted entrance tickets, or hotel reservations in Hoi An – Da Nang, feel free to contact DanangTips for friendly and personalized support.
A memorable trip isn’t just about beautiful destinations—it’s also about planning your journey the right way.
(Photos by VTC News)
