Than Nong tower, the World’s largest rice grain-shaped tower made from 1,012 stone mortars

THAN NONG TOWER – A STONE TOWER WITH A RICE GRAIN SHAPE

Dong Do Techcom Co., LTD initially operated in driver training and vehicle inspection services but has since expanded into ecological services and physical and cultural experiences across a 20,000-square-meter area. The Dong Do Village Cultural and Ecological Tourism Area is situated in Lam Thao Commune, Luong Tai District, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam. This ecological area features a variety of versatile services, with a highlight being the ecological stone garden, which houses over 3,000 artifacts related to stone mortars and ancient stone pillars. These artifacts have been meticulously collected by Mr. Tran Van Toan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dong Do Techcom Co., LTD, over the past several decades, with the aim of restoring the historical ambiance of the Northern countryside.

The Dong Do Village Cultural and Ecological Tourism Area.

A standout feature of this area is the construction of the Thần Nông Tower, which has set a record in Vietnam and Asia for having 1,012 ancient stone mortars shaped like rice grains. This unique design symbolizes the cultural heritage of the Northern region.

“This place recreates the civilization of rice cultivation and encapsulates the essence of the Northern region, allowing visitors from near and far to learn about it. Students can also draw inspiration from such works. I chose the name Than Nong Tower to connect it with rice and grain. The character of Than Nong (Agricultural Deity), whom I have studied and evaluated, is a historical figure. I wish the best for Vietnamese farmers, especially in my homeland of Lâm Thao, Luong Tai District, Bac Ninh Province, hoping for their development, abundant harvests, and good fortune” – shared Mr. Toan.

The Than Nong Tower, shaped like a grain of rice, is constructed from 1,012 ancient stone mortars from the collection of Mr. Tran Van Toan, with the design and support of architect Nguyen Sanh, a renowned artist known for his work in researching and restoring ancient cultural spaces.

Than Nong Tower – A masterpiece from stone mortars.

Inside the Than Nong Tower, stairs are designed in the shape of vertically arranged rice grains, allowing movement up and down. Around the tower, various stone objects, such as stone mortars, stone pillars for rice threshing, and stone grinders for processing rice and grains, are displayed to showcase tools closely associated with wet rice agriculture. A representative of the organization stated that the tower is equipped with a dynamic sound and lighting system that allows the colors to change, symbolizing the transformation from green rice grains to ripe, golden ones.

The Thanh Nong Tower is divided into 5 floors symbolizing the five elements: Metal – Wood – Water – Fire – Earth, with a sound system and colors creating a vibrant space at night.

Along with the Than Nong Tower, the ecological stone mortar garden in the Dong Do Village Ecological Area preserves and recreates the essence of wet rice culture from the ancient Northern Delta region. Visitors can immerse themselves in the traditional setting and enjoy the distinctive flavors of rural cuisine. Additionally, they have the opportunity to learn about and experience the culture and history of the wet rice civilization through attractions like the Rice Culture Museum, the Village Market, and the Agricultural Experience Garden, all located in the area surrounding the Than Nong Tower.