Deeply rooted in the history of Thang Long-Hanoi, Ba Dinh District is one of the Capital's most historically rich areas.

Originating in the mid-11th century under the name Thap Tam Trai (Thirteen Villages), Ba Dinh today is a harmonious blend of the old and the new, making it a highly appealing tourist destination.

In particular, traditional OCOP (One Commune, One Product) products are a focus for Ba Dinh District as it strives to make its local culture and image more attractive to visitors.

In June 2024, the Hanoi People's Committee officially designated Ngu Xa bronze casting   and Hang Than banh com (green rice cake) making as "Hanoi Traditional Crafts".

Later, in early August 2024, t another 10 OCOP products from the district were rated three stars, mostly from four producers specializing in banh com and other green rice-based products on Hang Than Street. To date, Ba Dinh District boasts 26 OCOP-certified products with ratings of three stars or higher, seven of which have achieved a four-star rating.

Hang Than Street green rice: a timeless legacy

When it comes to Hanoi’s banh com (green rice cake), the name "Banh com Hang Than" (Hang Than Street green rice cake) is the first choice for shoppers. The designation of banh com as a Hanoi traditional craft is a testament to the exceptional quality of the products from this area.

Com (green rice) cakes made by Nguyen Ninh shop. Photo: The Hanoi Times

Established in 1865, the Nguyen Ninh shop at No.11 Hang Than Street is the oldest brand. The Nguyen Duy family patriarch was the inventor of this delicacy.

The name "Nguyen Ninh" stands for the cake's origin from the Yen Ninh Village, which used to encompass Hang Than Street and was part of Yen Thanh Commune outside of ancient Hanoi.

The cakes, which were first offered for sale at Dong Xuan Market, quickly gained fame throughout the city for their fragrant and delectable flavor that perfectly embodied the very essence of Hanoi’s autumn.

Through six generations of cake making, Nguyen Ninh has preserved its reputation and excellence thanks to a unique family recipe passed down exclusively within the family for more than 150 years.

Nguyen Duy Anh, a seventh-generation heir of the family and current owner of the Nguyen Ninh brand, expressed his pride in the recognition of banh com as a Hanoi traditional craft.

“I’m proud that banh com is now one of Hanoi's traditional crafts. I always tell my children to make the cake with their hearts, as it is a legacy entrusted to us by our ancestors,” he told the Hanoi Times.

“Quality must come first for the Nguyen Ninh brand to represent Hanoi's culinary culture and resonate with Vietnamese and international friends,” he added.

To date, there are more than 50 shops on Hang Than Street specializing in traditional sweets, with a primary focus on green rice-based products.

Building on the techniques passed down by skilled artisans, younger generations with a passion for traditional crafts continue to innovate and produce diverse and high-quality products that have become beloved Hanoi specialties, appreciated by both residents and visitors alike.

“As someone who follows the traditional craft of my ancestors, I am very proud that Hang Than banh com is recognized as a Hanoi traditional craft,” said Vu Hong Nhung, owner of the Phuc Duc shop at No.65A Hang Than Street.

“Starting with traditional recipes, we’ve been able to innovate and modernize our products to ensure that they're safe to eat and meet customers’ preferences,” she said.

In addition to its certified OCOP products, Ba Dinh District has numerous other potential offerings, especially in the culinary sector. Recent surveys estimate that the district has 50-60 potential products for the OCOP program.

Ngu Xa bronze casting: a centuries-old craft

Known for OCOP product development, Ba Dinh is also home to numerous intricate traditional crafts that once contributed to the construction of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

Established in the 17th century, the Ngu Xa bronze casting craft is considered one of the four most elite crafts in the Thang Long-Hanoi region.

A young artisan crafts a bronze statue at Ngu Xa Traditional Bronze Casting Company. Photo: The Hanoi Times

For more than 400 years, generations of Ngu Xa artisans have persevered through historical and social upheaval, determined to preserve their craft and ensure their legacy endures.

Today, the bronze casting craft is carried on and developed by the Ngu Xa Traditional Bronze Casting Company with a production facility in Ba Dinh District’s Yen Phu Ward, and a showroom at No.178 Tran Vu Street.

The company produces high-quality handcrafted bronze products, and it boasts two OCOP-certified four-star products and has received numerous domestic and international awards.

Using proprietary techniques passed down through generations, the company has successfully upheld and advanced the bronze casting tradition. Notably, four family members of Director Bui Thi Minh have been honored as Hanoi Artisans.

“I’ve been doing this job for 50 years, and I truly love bronze casting. It’s a noble and treasured profession,” Minh told the Hanoi Times.

“Our Ngu Xa bronze products have a distinct soul. Because they’re handmade, they carry immense cultural values. To achieve that cultural depth, we artisans must dedicate our hearts and give our utmost to the craft,” she added.

Minh also expressed concern about educating younger generations about Hanoi's traditional crafts. She hopes local artisans will receive support in their efforts to develop training facilities to ensure the craft is preserved for future generations.

Nguyen Dan Huy, Chairman of the Truc Bach Ward People's Committee, said local authorities are working on the gradual restoration and development of traditional crafts in the area, creating new opportunities for businesses and artisans.

“We will create a center to promote traditional crafts, OCOP products, and local specialties, providing visitors with a place to explore and purchase these unique offerings,” he said.

“We hope local craft businesses and artisans will continue to invest in and collaborate with Truc Bach Ward to make our area an attractive tourist destination.”

In addition to green rice and bronze casting, Truc Bach Ward is also known for its culinary specialties such as pho cuon (rolled noodles), frog hotpot, and flower-infused teas. The ward is encouraging local organizations and individuals to revive and develop the once-famous Truc Bach silk weaving craft.

These prospective products are being cultivated for OCOP certification to enhance their commercial value, promote the district’s cultural and historical identity, and boost revenue for local businesses and the district’s economy.