This is according to a joint project implemented by the province’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The bridge, along with the tour Countryside markets on festive days, has attracted a large number of domestic and foreign tourists, especially during Hue Festival. 

In another effort to help Thua Thien-Hue develop community based tourism, JICA chose Phuoc Tich, a 500-year old village in Phong Hoa commune, Phong Dien district, to launch the Upholding the community’s role in sustainable development through tourism project. 

With many communal houses, pagodas, Champa relics sites and nearly 40 ancient houses, Phuoc Tich has attracted the attention of many visitors and travel agencies.

The agency has also organised a programme to help the ancient village restore pottery, with the participation of over 20 local residents, mostly artisans. 

Another community based model of tourism can be seen in An Tay ward in Hue City, which helps to raise income and generate jobs for local people. 

Ngo Hoa, the Permanent Vice Chairman of the Thua Thien-Hue People’s Committee, said community based tourism helps to promote Hue’s culture and local products, especially handicrafts. 

The model is expected to help the province reach its target of welcoming three million visitors by 2015, he said.