If you think that visiting Can Tho City is only to shop in the floating markets, bicycle around the orchards or drift along canals under shades of water coconut trees, think again. Tourists have just got to spend time stopping by the Thom Rom craft village to know more about the fascinating ancient craft of fishing net weaving and the daily life of fishermen.
The village belongs to Thuan Hung Commune, Thot Not District, Can Tho City. Founded two decades ago, the village is named after nearby bridge Thom Rom. From Can Tho heading to An Giang Province, tourists drive about 35km to reach the village on the left of National Road 91A.
The village has about 70 households involved in the art of weaving fishing nets to sell for locals and around the delta. There are numerous types and sizes of nets.
With the rainy season coming, visitors will see the whole village overwhelmed by nets and bustling with the productive artisans.
Near the village is a fish market. When the sunset comes around 6 p.m. the market is heaving as fishermen bring their catch of fish, turtles, snakes, clams and eel to sell the next morning.