Building a cultural conservation area for Muong ethnic group in Luy Ai hamlet

6/7/2025 - 1:02:04 PM

Phong Phu commune, Tan Lac district of Hoa Binh province, is widely regarded as the cultural heartland of the Muong ethnic group. Among its many traditional communities, Luy Ai hamlet (formerly Ai hamlet) stands out as a rare location where the customs and way of life of the Muong Bi people remain largely intact.

Among its many traditional communities, Luy Ai hamlet (formerly Ai hamlet) stands out as a rare location where the customs and way of life of the Muong Bi people remain largely intact.

In a bid to preserve and promote this cultural legacy, Tan Lac authorities are working closely with relevant agencies to establish a Cultural Space Conservation Area for the Muong people in Luy Ai, linking heritage preservation with tourism development and efforts to improve local livelihoods.

Luy Ai is recognised as one of the oldest Muong villages in Hoa Binh province. It covers a landscape architectural area of approximately 4.95 hectares and is home to 34 households and 165 residents all of Muong ethnicity.

In 2008, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism officially recognised Luy Ai as a model traditional village of an ethnic minority group and designated it as a cultural representative of the Muong people. With its charming natural setting, nestled at the foot of the mountains, surrounded by rice fields, and bordered by a winding stream, the hamlet offers a serene glimpse into Muong heritage. Traditional stilt houses and a strong sense of community further enhance the authenticity of the village.

For decades, Phong Phu commune has hosted the Khai Ha Festival, a significant cultural event aimed at preserving and celebrating Muong identity. The festival has become a hallmark of Muong Bi, drawing visitors and enriching the region’s cultural profile.

The planned cultural space conservation area is expected to play a vital role in safeguarding the unique cultural values of the Muong people. It also serves as a foundation for developing distinctive tourism products that reflect local traditions and natural beauty, helping to build the Muong Bi brand while sustainably improving residents' quality of life.

According to Le Van Thach, Secretary of the Tan Lac district Party Committee, the detailed construction plan for the conservation area at a scale of 1:500 is nearing completion.

The Tan Lac District People's Committee has selected a consulting unit, conducted topographical surveys, prepared the planning documents, consulted with relevant departments and the local community, and reported the project to the Standing Board of the district PartyCommittee. The plan has been submitted to the district People's Council for approval.

Tan Lac district is also updating the general urban construction plan for Phong Phu (at a 1:5000 scale), which outlines development goals through 2040. Because both the general and detailed plans are being prepared at the same time, the Hoa Binh Department of Construction will issue an official response on the detailed planning of the conservation area once the broader Phong Phu urban plan is approved by the provincial government.

To ensure consistency across planning levels, Tan Lac district will formally approve the detailed conservation area plan only after the 1:5000 urban development plan receives provincial endorsement. This coordination is essential to align the specific features of the Muong cultural site with broader urban strategies.

Under provincial guidance, Tan Lac district is expediting final approval for the 1:500-scale detailed plan. Alongside this, several projects are being proposed or launched, including the construction of festival spaces and culinary areas, a Muong cultural preservation initiative, and restoration and infrastructure upgrades for Luy Ai hamlet. These efforts are designed to conserve one of the most iconic ancient Muong villages which are rich in customs, architecture, and cultural identity.

Ultimately, this initiative forms a critical part of the larger provincial effort to safeguard Muong heritage and reinforce the cultural foundation of Hoa Binh province, promoting sustainable tourism and economic development grounded in tradition.

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