Discover Binh Thuy Ancient House, a 150-year-old architectural masterpiece in Can Tho that beautifully blends Eastern and Western design. A timeless landmark preserving the cultural essence of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta – and a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Southern Vietnam.
A cultural symbol of Can Tho City
Nestled peacefully on Bui Huu Nghia Street in Binh Thuy Ward, just five kilometers from downtown Can Tho, Binh Thuy Ancient House is a magnet for travelers who love heritage architecture and want to learn about the traditional lifestyle of Southern Vietnam.
The house was built in 1870 by the Dương family, one of the most prominent and wealthy clans in the Mekong Delta during the late 19th century.
Over the course of more than a century, this architectural treasure has remained remarkably intact, preserving not only its structure but also countless valuable antiques. Many visitors affectionately describe it as a “hidden gem” of Can Tho – both elegant and dignified amid the city’s modern rhythm.
A unique East-meets-West architecture
The first impression upon arriving at Binh Thuy Ancient House is its fascinating harmony between French colonial design and traditional Asian aesthetics.
Passing through an intricately crafted iron gate, visitors enter a spacious 6,000-square-meter garden filled with bonsai trees, flowers, and small ponds that evoke a sense of peace.
The house itself consists of five rooms and two roofs, built with solid brick walls and raised about one meter above the ground – a smart feature typical of Southern Vietnamese homes, designed to protect against flooding and humidity.
The exterior reflects French villa architecture with round pillars, arched windows, and elegant balconies, while the interior follows Eastern geomantic principles such as the five elements and four directions – each section serving a symbolic purpose in balance and harmony.
Exquisite interior details
Stepping inside feels like entering a living museum of Vietnamese art and heritage.
Antique wooden furniture is carved with extraordinary precision. Ancestral altars in gold lacquer, European chandeliers, porcelain vases, and intricate mirrors blend seamlessly, creating an atmosphere of grace and refinement.
The high ceilings and yin-yang tiled roof allow cool air to circulate naturally – a testament to the builders’ ingenuity and their deep understanding of tropical architecture.
A reflection of Southern Vietnamese spirit
More than just a historical building, Binh Thuy Ancient House reflects the heart and soul of Southern Vietnamese culture.
Every object, motif, and corner tells a story about hospitality, respect for family, and the emotional richness of the Mekong people.
Visitors often linger to take in the subtle harmony of light through old wooden shutters, the scent of aged timber, and birds singing in the garden. It’s a place where time seems to slow, inviting contemplation and calm.
During local festivals, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), Doan Ngo Festival, or the Khmer boat races, the neighborhood comes alive with colorful celebrations, offering a vibrant taste of Delta life.
Visitor information
- Address: 144 Bui Huu Nghia Street, Binh Thuy Ward, Can Tho City
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM – 6:00 PM (daily)
- Entrance Fee: 20,000 – 30,000 VND per person
Guided tours are available for those who wish to learn more about its history, and the house can also be booked for photography or wedding shoots (for an additional fee).
History of the Duong Family – Guardians of a Heritage
Binh Thuy Ancient House has belonged to six generations of the Duong family. Among them, Mr. Duong Van Vy played the most important role in its construction and preservation.
The Duong family was known not only for their prosperity but also for their passion for education and the arts. Their vision to blend Western and Vietnamese architecture produced a one-of-a-kind masterpiece that stands as a proud symbol of cultural fusion.
Through wars and social changes, the descendants of the Duong family have meticulously maintained the property, ensuring that it remains both a historic monument and a living expression of Vietnamese identity.
A famous film location
Thanks to its timeless charm, Binh Thuy Ancient House has served as a backdrop for numerous Vietnamese and international films.
Most notably, French director Jean-Jacques Annaud chose it for his 1992 film The Lover (L’Amant) – a cinematic classic that brought global attention to the beauty of the Mekong Delta.
It has also appeared in well-known Vietnamese productions such as Nguoi Dep Tay Do, No Doi, and Dong Song Hoa Trang, making it a favorite spot for filmmakers, photographers, and travelers seeking authentic heritage scenes.
Recommended stay: Victoria Can Tho Resort – A riverside oasis
After exploring Binh Thuy Ancient House and the city’s heritage sites, nothing completes the journey like relaxing in a peaceful, luxurious riverside setting.
Located right on the banks of the Hau River, Victoria Can Tho Resort embodies the timeless elegance of Indochine architecture. Surrounded by tropical gardens and featuring a large riverside pool, the resort offers refined rooms, exceptional dining, and five-star service.
Guests can enjoy authentic Mekong cuisine at Spices Restaurant, rejuvenate with spa treatments, or join the resort’s curated local tours, including sunset cruises, floating market visits, and cycling trips around Son Islet.
Victoria Can Tho Resort is more than a place to stay; it’s an essential part of the Mekong cultural experience – where travelers can fully immerse in the tranquility and charm of Southern Vietnam.
Binh Thuy Ancient House stands as one of Can Tho’s most iconic landmarks — a place where architecture, culture, and history intertwine beautifully. Every detail tells a story of human craftsmanship, cultural exchange, and enduring heritage.
If you’re planning a trip to Can Tho, take time to visit this remarkable house and step back into a world of elegance and tradition. And to make your journey even more memorable, stay at Victoria Can Tho Resort, the perfect blend of heritage and modern comfort — where you can unwind and experience the soul of the Mekong Delta in its most graceful form.
