Giap Nhat Village remains the only place in northern Vietnam that continues to preserve and develop the traditional craft of turban making —a headdress deeply embedded in the nation’s cultural identity. With a history of more than 400 years, and despite the absence of written records, the craft has been passed down through generations like a quiet yet enduring current, sustaining pride in Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
For the people of Giap Nhat, a turban is far more than a handcrafted item—it is a symbol of elegance and solemnity, inseparable from the image of Vietnamese men during festivals, ceremonial occasions, and traditional folk performances. Each turban reflects the artisan’s skill, patience, and dedication. Completing a single piece requires at least seven meticulous stages, from cutting fabric and attaching foam to folding the layers and hand-painting decorative patterns. Every coil is wrapped tightly and evenly to form the Chinese character “Nhan” (仁), a symbol of virtue, humanity, and noble character.
The turbans of Giap Nhat come in various styles for both men and women, serving diverse purposes. Traditional colors include black, red, and yellow, each representing different age groups and social ranks. Particularly, turbans made for the elderly are often embroidered with the character “Tho” (longevity) in raised thread as a wish for peace and long life.
In 2022, Giap Nhat’s traditional turbans were recognized as a provincial 3-star OCOP product, opening new opportunities for the craft - especially in linking it with cultural tourism and hands-on visitor experiences.
Amid the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, the turban-making craft of Giap Nhat continues to shine quietly, like a deep, resonant note in the symphony of Vietnamese culture. The village is not only a producer of exquisite handicrafts but also a spiritual anchor for the community - helping to safeguard and spread Vietnam’s cultural values far and wide.