In the remote northern village of Lung Ri, nestled in the mountainous region of Tu Do Commune, Quang Hoa District, Cao Bang Province, the Nung ethnic people have long been known for their skill in crafting yin-yang tiles, also called trough tiles. This ancient craft has weathered many changes, and today, only a few households continue to uphold this tradition.
Situated approximately 30 kilometers from downtown Cao Bang City, Lung Ri Village rests on the mountainside and is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of making yin-yang tiles - Photos: Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa
Despite the economic challenges posed by modern industrial tile production, the artisans of Lung Ri remain dedicated to their craft. They work tirelessly, day and night, to produce yin-yang tiles, not only to sustain their livelihood but also to keep this centuries-old tradition alive and share it with visitors.
In recognition of their efforts to preserve this unique cultural heritage, the People’s Committee of Cao Bang Province officially designated Lung Ri as a traditional craft village earlier this year.
The yin-yang tile roofs are a defining feature of the village, adding to its unique charm and creating a picturesque beauty that sets Lung Ri apart
The process of making yin-yang tiles requires a series of meticulous steps, starting with preparing round molds…
… and skillfully kneading the clay to achieve the perfect texture
Step by step, artisans shape the tiles, giving form to the yin-yang design through a time-honored process passed down for generations
The finished yin-yang tile consists of two complementary tiles - one facing up (yin) and the other facing down (yang). Traditionally, these tiles have different shapes
However, in Lung Ri, both the yin and yang tiles share the same trough-like, curved shape, leading to them being referred to as “trough tiles”
In addition to witnessing the tile-making craft, visitors to Lung Ri Village can soak in the peaceful and serene atmosphere of the countryside
Text & photos by Nguyen Khanh Vu Khoa
