Ha Giang: The story of a 97-year-old woman preserving the soul of the Lung Tam linen weaving craft.
Images of Ms. Sung Thi Co diligently painting with beeswax on linen fabric have attracted over 12 million views, becoming an emotionally resonant highlight for tourists exploring Ha Giang.
At the Lung Tam Linen Weaving Cooperative (Quan Ba, Ha Giang), there is a living symbol of resilience and the essence of H'Mong culture: Mrs. Sung Thi Co. At 97 years old, she is not only the longest-serving worker but has also become a social media phenomenon after a video of her friendliness and diligence garnered over 12 million views on international platforms.
Cultural symbols of the Hmong people on the rocky plateau.
Every day, from 7 a.m. until dusk, Mrs. Co walks 200 meters from her house to her workshop. Despite her hands being crippled by age, her beeswax drawings remain straight and precise without the need for a ruler. Her intense concentration makes many visitors feel as if she lives in a world of her own, a place where only linen and traditional patterns exist.
The art of beeswax painting is meticulously handcrafted.
The Hmong people's beeswax painting technique requires patience and skillful artistry. Ms. Co often sits beside a large stove used for boiling flax fibers, utilizing the heat to keep the beeswax in a liquid state, ensuring smooth and continuous lines. Throughout her 84 years in the profession, she has passed on her knowledge to many generations of women in the region, preserving their cultural identity.
Ms. Vang Thi Mai, the cooperative manager, shared that Mrs. Co is a rare case of someone who has maintained her mental acuity and ability to work at nearly 100 years old. She refuses to take a lunch break because she believes that working helps keep her mind sharp and her limbs comfortable.
A must-see stop on the Ha Giang Loop route.
The Lung Tam Cooperative was established in 2001 with the goal of preserving the traditional linen weaving craft. Currently, it has become a familiar stop for international tourists before embarking on the challenging "Ha Giang loop" route. Visitors come here not only to buy exquisite handcrafted products but also to witness firsthand the meticulous work process of artisans like Mr. Co.
Practical information for tourists:
- Location:Lung Tam Linen Weaving Cooperative, Lung Tam Commune, Quan Ba District, Ha Giang Province.
- Distance:It's about a two-hour drive from the center of Ha Giang ward.
- Ideal time to visit:Visit us from 8 AM to 5 PM daily to observe the artisans at work.
- Experience:Learn about the linen weaving process, beeswax painting, and shop for authentic brocade products.
