The last blacksmith in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.

Nestled within the bustling heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you will stumble upon the last bastion of traditional blacksmithing at 26 Lo Ren. Here, Mr. Nguyen Phuong Hung, the stalwart blacksmith, presides over the city’s last traditional blacksmith shop. As the world around him has embraced modern tools, the once vibrant and bustling Lo Ren street has gradually lost its former glory, becoming less busy and more of a relic of the past.

Over the years, many individuals have steered away from traditional blacksmithing and have started engaging in ironwork, using modern tools and methods. However, Mr. Hung stands as a testament to the past, continuing to remain true to his roots as a traditional blacksmith. There’s no denying that the work is physically demanding and tough, but Mr. Hung draws immense satisfaction and joy from it. For him, it’s not just about the work, but rather about keeping a long-standing family tradition alive and well.

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Mr. Hung’s work continues to be valued by those who understand and appreciate the skill, dedication, and love that goes into each handcrafted piece. He remains hopeful that someone, perhaps a younger generation blacksmith, would pick up the mantle and carry on the tradition, keeping the spirit of traditional blacksmithing alive amidst the changing tides.

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