Binh Thuy Ancient House: A Timeless Architectural Masterpiece in the Delta
Binh Thuy Ancient House (Nhà cổ Bình Thủy) represents one of Cần Thơ’s most treasured cultural landmarks. This beautiful mansion offers an exceptional look into the lives of the wealthy Dương (Duong) family during the colonial period. As a designated National Architectural and Artistic Monument, it draws visitors with its unique fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles.
Address: 144 Đ. Bùi Hữu Nghĩa, Bình Thuỷ, Bình Thủy, Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
I. History and Unique Architecture
The Dương family built the house around 1870, and subsequent generations have maintained it meticulously, making it one of the few ancient houses in the Mekong Delta to remain largely intact.
East-West Fusion: The building’s design clearly shows the influence of French colonial mansions. Its exterior features large arched windows, elegant iron arches, and a spacious front veranda. Conversely, the interior retains a traditional Vietnamese spatial arrangement, dedicating the middle compartments to the ancestral altar and adhering to strict Eastern feng shui principles. This combination creates a captivating and harmonious aesthetic.
Notable Features: You will notice original European touches, such as elegant chandeliers and the intricate floor tiles, which the family imported directly from France. The house stands on high foundations, reflecting a traditional adaptation to the Delta’s flooding.
II. Cultural Significance and Visitor Experience
The house is not merely a museum; it operates as a living piece of history.
Cinematic Fame: The ancient mansion gained cinematic fame after it served as the primary backdrop for several famous Vietnamese and international films, most notably the 1992 French film The Lover (L’Amant). Many visitors now seek out the specific corners and rooms featured on screen.
The Orchid Garden: Surrounding the house lies a tranquil and expansive garden (Vườn lan) famous for its diverse collection of beautiful, often rare, orchids and meticulously shaped bonsai trees. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through this botanical paradise.
Direct Family Connection: Descendants of the Dương family continue to reside in portions of the house and manage its operations. They often share fascinating anecdotes and historical insights with guests, providing a personal touch to the visit.
III. Essential Visitor Information
We advise travelers to plan their visit around the unique operational schedule of this private home.
Entrance Fee: The house is privately owned, so the small entry fee helps maintain the heritage site. Visitors currently pay approximately 15,000 to 20,000 VND per person to access the interior. Walking around the exterior garden is often free.
Opening Hours: The family typically opens the house in two shifts: a morning session (e.g., 8:00 AM–12:00 PM) and an afternoon session (e.g., 2:00 PM–6:00 PM), closing during the traditional midday break.
Respectful Conduct: We ask visitors to show respect for the private residence. This includes avoiding touching the antiques and removing hats or shoes before entering the main hall.
Getting There: The house is conveniently located about 15-20 minutes by taxi or motorbike from Cần Thơ city center, making it an easy addition to any itinerary.
Contact: For specific inquiries, you can call the family at a number like 0292.384.1127 (Please confirm the current number before calling).
