The traditional craft of making fish sauce in Nam O Village in Da Nang’s Lien Chieu District has been recognised as part of national intangible cultural heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

Vats of fish sauce at a production facility in the Nam O Village

To be recognised, the traditional craft has met national criteria relating to its reflection of local and community cultural identity, and the showcasing of cultural diversity and human creativity which have been preserved from generation to generation. In addition, it must prove a capability to maintain long-term survival, and be voluntarily nominated by the community that is willing to join in with efforts to preserve it.

The Nam O fish sauce making village has a proud history covering more than 400 years. It is one of a few traditional fish sauce making villages that still operate in the country.

The Nam O brand of fish sauce tastes very different from similar products from elsewhere in the country thanks to its special recipe (fish mixed with salt at the rate of 3/1).