Lo Lo Chai and lessons on preserving ancient villages from neighboring countries.
The controversy at Lo Lo Chai, along with experiences from Japan, South Korea, and China, opens up new avenues for reconciling heritage preservation with modern life.
The construction of a two-story house with a concrete frame in Lo Lo Chai, Tuyen Quang (formerly Ha Giang) by the end of 2025 has sparked a heated debate about heritage preservation. Honored as the "World's Best Tourist Village" by UN Tourism, Lo Lo Chai now faces a major challenge in preserving its unique rammed-earth house architecture amidst modernization. Successful models from Japan, South Korea, and China offer valuable insights for Vietnam in addressing this issue.
Japan: Modern reinforcement beneath the natural crust at Shirakawago
The ancient village of Shirakawago in Gifu Prefecture is a prime example of integrating modern technology to protect traditional gassho-zukuri architecture. The steeply thatched-roof houses there face the risk of fire and rapid deterioration due to harsh weather conditions. Instead of outright prohibition, the Japanese authorities allow the reinforcement of steel structures and the installation of modern fire protection, electrical, and plumbing systems inside the buildings.
The key is to preserve the entire outer shell using natural materials. To support residents, Machizukuri community movements are implemented to share the expensive restoration costs. This approach helps Shirakawago ensure both safety and comfort for residents while preserving its original appearance, which has been recognized by UNESCO.
South Korea: Strict regulations and solutions for managing tourists.
Located in the heart of Seoul, the Bukchon Hanok Village, with its more than 600-year history, has chosen to modernize its interiors to maintain the vitality of its heritage. While amenities such as electric heating, soundproofing, and enclosed toilets have been incorporated, the facades of the hanok houses must retain their traditional proportions and architecture. The Seoul government plays a crucial role by providing grants and interest-free loans to support residents in repairing their homes.
In particular, to protect residents' lives from tourist overcrowding, Bukchon Hanok Village implemented a curfew from 5 PM to 10 AM the following morning starting in March 2025. Visitors violating the curfew may be fined up to 100,000 won (approximately $72 USD). This model helps prevent Bukchon Hanok from becoming a "dead museum," while maintaining it as a vibrant living space with high economic value.
China: Delineation of administrative zoning and benefit sharing in Anhui.
In Anhui province, the two ancient villages of Hongcun and Xidi have adopted a UNESCO-standard zoning management model. The core area of the heritage site is strictly preserved, allowing only restoration using traditional materials such as wood, rammed earth, and fired bricks. Meanwhile, buffer zones and peripheral service areas are permitted to develop modern infrastructure such as parking lots and hotels to reduce pressure on the ancient villages.
Local authorities also allocate a portion of the revenue from entrance fees to a conservation fund, supporting residents in improving their living environment and fire safety. Benefiting indirectly from homestay businesses and agricultural product sales, residents are further motivated to proactively protect their cultural identity and prevent illegal construction.
Lessons on authenticity and integrity
Looking at international experience, the key to preserving villages like Lo Lo Chai lies in two principles: authenticity and integrity. While allowing for interior modernization to ensure comfort is necessary, the exterior form and overall layout of the village must be strictly maintained. Most importantly, community participation and supportive financial mechanisms from the government will be the foundation for heritage to coexist with the development of modern society.
