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Nestled in the heart of Nha Phu Lagoon, Khanh Hoa province, Ha Lien village is a rare destination that still retains the rustic charm and distinctive culture of a Vietnamese fishing village. With approximately 400 years of history, Ha Lien village is like a peaceful landscape painting amidst the vast expanse of water, carrying within it the authentic stories of the lives of its inhabitants. Quoc Bao, a freelance photographer from Nha Trang, had the opportunity to visit one early Sunday morning, as the sunlight touched the water, painting the simple rooftops golden.
Ha Lien village impresses with its rows of houses featuring bright red tiled roofs.
Bao shared: “From the moment I entered the village, I felt the peaceful atmosphere and the hospitality of the people. They were not only welcoming, but also very simple, living close to nature and deeply connected to the fishing profession.”
Indeed, Ha Lien village has a simple life, closely tied to aquaculture and shrimp and crab fishing. The ponds surrounding the village are not only a source of livelihood but also beautify the landscape, providing photographers like Bao with opportunities for unique creations.
The total residential land area in Ha Lien is approximately 2 hectares. Currently, the village has about 330 households with 1,200 inhabitants.
An exploration of Ha Lien wouldn't be complete without experiencing the village market, a gathering place for locals every morning. Bao immersed himself in this rhythm of life, strolling around the small stalls selling vegetables, fresh produce, and simple breakfast dishes. "The village market is small but has everything you need, and the prices are much cheaper than in the city," he shared. The afternoon market is less bustling but still has its own charm, creating a gentle, rustic rhythm of life typical of a fishing village.
Due to its unique geographical location surrounded by rivers, almost every household in Ha Lien village owns a boat.
He was also particularly impressed with the unique natural scenery of Ha Lien. The village is located right next to Nha Phu Lagoon, a vast area of nearly 1,500 hectares connecting Nha Trang Bay and Van Phong Bay. The lagoon here is considered an ideal place for aquaculture and the development of a natural ecosystem. Thanks to this prime location, Ha Lien boasts abundant aquatic resources and has become a favorite destination for restaurants, tourists, and photography enthusiasts alike.
There is only one road leading into Ha Lien village, winding through aquaculture ponds, giving a feeling of "floating" as the entire village is surrounded by water. The villagers use boats as their primary means of transportation, and even when not needing to travel far, the boats are neatly moored in front of their houses, an integral part of their lives.
They usually gather at a small market right in the middle of the village – where vegetables, fresh produce, and breakfast items are sold early in the morning.
Upon arriving in Ha Lien, Quoc Bao felt as if he had stepped into a not-so-distant past. He not only found stunning photo opportunities but also witnessed the locals' deep appreciation for the land and water of this place. The simplicity, gentleness, and close connection with nature make this fishing village an ideal destination for those who want to explore the beauty of rural culture and landscapes, especially for photographers eager to capture tranquil and authentic moments.
Many photographers also come to this village to find inspiration.
Nha Phu River viewed from above.
It can be said that Ha Lien is not only a destination but also a moment of nostalgia and peace, where people and nature naturally harmonize.
