Just a short boat ride from Cai Rang Floating Market, Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory (Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory) offers travelers a rare opportunity to step inside a living Mekong Delta tradition. This family-run workshop turns simple rice into silky noodles through a fascinating, hands-on process that visitors can watch—and even join. In this complete Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory travel guide, you’ll discover how Can Tho’s most famous noodles are made, when to visit, what to try (don’t miss the “rice noodle pizza”), and how to include this stop in your floating market itinerary.
An overview of Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory
A glance at Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory
- Location: 476, 14 Lo Vong Cung, An Binh Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City
- Setting: Traditional family-run workshop along Rau Ram canal
- Size: 5,000 square meters (1.2 acres)
- Distance from Can Tho: 7-8 kilometers / 20 minutes
- Distance from Cai Rang Floating Market: 2 kilometers / 5-10 minutes by boat
- Entry: FREE (food and products extra)
- Time needed: 1-1.5 hours
- Peak hours: 5:30-8:00 AM (post-floating market tours)
- Language: English, French, German (Mr. Huynh Ngoc Diep)
- Best known for: Handmade rice noodles, “rice noodle pizza,” hands-on cultural experience
A glance at Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
Why travel to Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory Matters
What makes Sau Hoai special extends beyond the noodle-making:
- Genuine Family Operation: The Huynh family—particularly Mr. Sau Hoai and his multilingual son Huynh Ngoc Diep (who speaks English, French, and German)—personally guide visitors through their compound, sharing stories, techniques, and family history.
- Hands-On Participation: Unlike “watch from behind the rope” factory tours, Sau Hoai encourages active involvement. You’ll touch, create, and understand the labor behind every bowl of noodles you’ve eaten.
- Cultural Innovation: The famous “rice noodle pizza” wasn’t a cynical invention for tourists—it emerged organically when Western visitors jokingly compared the round, crispy fried noodle cakes to pizza.
- Strategic Location: At just 2 kilometers from Cai Rang Floating Market, Sau Hoai fits perfectly into Mekong Delta itineraries, making it an easy and worthwhile add-on to floating market tours.
Make and taste your own noodles at Sau Hoai Factory
Understanding the Rice Noodle Tradition
Rice noodles (hu tieu) are fundamental to Vietnamese cuisine, but not all rice noodles are created equal. Sau Hoai specializes in hu tieu bot loc—tapioca-infused rice noodles that are chewier, more transparent, and have a different texture than common rice noodles.
The traditional production process requires:
- Precise timing: Each steaming cycle lasts exactly 20 seconds
- Temperature control: Rice husk-fired furnaces provide steady, controllable heat
- Technique: Lifting delicate steamed sheets requires skill developed over the years
- Patience: Sun-drying takes 2-3 hours depending on the weather
- Craftsmanship: Cutting noodles to a consistent width by machine-calibrated settings
When done right, the noodles are smooth, springy, and have a satisfying chew. When done wrong, they tear, clump, or turn mushy. The difference between good and great is measured in seconds and centimeters.
When to Visit Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
Best Time of Day
- Early morning (5:30-8:00 AM): This is peak production time when the factory is most active. Can Tho tour groups arrive during this window after visiting Cai Rang Floating Market at sunrise.
- Midday (11:00 AM-1:00 PM): Vietnamese tourists typically arrive during this period, often by motorbike. Production continues but at a slower pace.
- Afternoon (2:00-5:00 PM): Quietest time with minimal production activity. If you arrive independently in the afternoon, you might find only 1-2 people making noodles, but they’ll often demonstrate the process for a small tip.
Strategy: If you’re combining with Cai Rang Floating Market (recommended), you’ll naturally arrive in the early morning when the factory is busiest—this is ideal.
Best Season
Sau Hoai operates year-round, making noodles every day regardless of season. However:
- Dry season (December-April): Easier for sun-drying noodles, more consistent production schedules, better for walking around the outdoor areas
- Rainy season (May-November): Production continues but drying takes longer and may happen under cover. The tropical garden is greener and lusher.
- Festivals and holidays: Expect larger crowds during Vietnamese Tet (January/February), April 30, and September 2. Book ahead if visiting during these periods.
Getting to Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
By Boat (Most Common)
Nearly all visitors arrive by boat, typically as part of a Cai Rang Floating Market tour.
From Ninh Kieu Wharf:
- Charter a boat or join a group tour
- Travel time: 30-40 minutes to reach the factory directly
- Most tours visit Cai Rang Floating Market first, then continue to Sau Hoai
From Cai Rang Floating Market:
- Just 5-10 minutes by boat
- The factory sits along Rau Ram canal with easy boat access
- Look for the signage and docking area
Boat tour logistics: Most floating market tours include Sau Hoai as a standard stop. Verify when booking.
By Motorbike or Car
From Can Tho International Airport:
- Head down Vo Van Kiet Street – At large roundabout, turn right onto Le Phuoc Tho Street – Turn left onto Nguyen Van Linh Street (continue 3 km) – Turn right onto Hoang Quoc Viet Street – At street’s end, turn right onto Provincial Road 923
- Continue 2 km—factory is on the right
From Can Tho city center:
- Follow directions toward Cai Rang Floating Market (don’t cross Rau Ram Bridge)
- Turn right into the village (about 500m on a two-lane road) – Look for “Sau Hoai” signage
Parking: Available on-site (small area)
Google Maps: Search “Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory” or use coordinates if provided
By Taxi or Grab
Simple and affordable from Can Tho center (60,000-100,000 VND). Electric taxi service (Xanh SM) also available.
The Complete Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory Experience
The Noodle-Making Process (The Main Attraction)
- Step 1: Rice Preparation
- Step 2: Batter Creation
- Step 3: Steaming
- Step 4: Sun-Drying
- Step 5: Cutting and Finishing
Your participation: You’ll typically get to try spreading batter, lifting steamed sheets (with guidance—it’s tricky!), and operating the cutting machine. Expect to laugh at your first attempts. Even locals need practice.
Natural colors: Sau Hoai makes colorful noodles using natural dyes from vegetables and fruits—spinach for green, beetroot for pink, pumpkin for orange, butterfly pea flower for blue. These aren’t just pretty—they showcase traditional preservation of natural ingredients.
Tasting the Famous “Rice Noodle Pizza”
This is Sau Hoai’s signature dish and an unexpected highlight.
What it is:
- Base: Plain rice noodles pressed into a large, flat circle and deep-fried until golden and crispy
- Topping: Tender pork braised in coconut water, drizzled with coconut milk-fresh milk sauce, topped with a sunny-side-up egg and crushed roasted peanuts
- Served with: Tangy or spicy chili sauce on the side
Why it works: The combination of crunchy noodle base, savory-sweet pork, creamy sauce, rich egg yolk, and nutty peanuts creates addictive layers of texture and flavor. It’s simultaneously Vietnamese and vaguely Italian, familiar yet completely unique.
Other dishes available:
- Fried rice noodles: Simple, crispy, seasoned with stock powder and pepper
- Rice noodle soup: Rich coconut water broth with pork bones and tenderloin
- Stir-fried mixed rice noodles: Flavorful noodles with vegetables and protein
- Traditional pho: With homemade noodles and hearty broth
Pricing: Very affordable—expect 30,000-60,000 VND per dish
Exploring the Family Compound
The 5,000-square-meter property offers more than just noodles.
Front area:
- Shop selling packaged noodle products, coconut candies, dried fish, handicrafts
- Reception area with family photos and history
- Small display of traditional tools
Production area (behind):
- An active workshop where noodles are made
- Giant clay jars, bamboo drying racks, rice husk furnaces
- Open-air setup allowing you to observe the entire process
Tropical fruit garden:
- Small orchard with mango, guava, and other fruit trees
- Peaceful walking paths
- Photo opportunities
The famous monkey bridge:
- 2.5-meter-long bamboo bridge (single pole with handrail)
- Traditional Mekong Delta crossing style
- Test your balance while family members laugh and photograph your attempts (It’s harder than it looks!)
Family home:
- Heirloom display showcasing Huynh family heritage
- Antique rosewood furniture
- Vintage items: oil lamps, rotary telephones, tiny black-and-white TV
- Brings Vietnamese history to life
-
Exploring the family compound of Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
Shopping for Souvenirs
Available products:
- Fresh rice noodles (various colors and types)
- Dried rice noodles (easy to transport)
- Crispy rice noodle snacks
- Coconut candies
- Dried fish
- Coconut vodka (free tasting!)
- Traditional handicrafts
Pricing: Reasonable but slightly higher than markets (tourism markup, but not excessive)
Tips: Fresh noodles don’t travel well internationally. Dried noodles and candies make better gifts.
Homestay Option
Sau Hoai offers six rooms for overnight guests (with plans to expand to 20 rooms).
What you get:
- Simple, clean rooms with comfortable beds
- Half-board (dinner and breakfast included)
- Evening meal features local specialties, sweets made from coconut, palm sugar, sticky rice, mung beans
- Breakfast on-site
Best for: Travelers seeking authentic rural experience, budget-conscious visitors, those who want to fully immerse in noodle-making culture
Cost: Very affordable (exact prices vary—typically 200,000-300,000 VND per person with meals)
Atmosphere: Rustic charm, minimal amenities, quiet evenings (can be lonely if you’re the only guest)
Travel tips to visit Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
Cost & Entrance
Entry fee: FREE (one of the best things about Sau Hoai)
Additional costs:
- Food: 30,000-60,000 VND per dish
- Herbal tea: 10,000 VND/bottle
- Products: Varies by item
- Tips: Optional but appreciated for demonstrations (20,000-50,000 VND)
Tour packages: If coming with a Can Tho tour, the factory visit is typically included with your floating market journey.
Time Needed
- Quick visit: 30-45 minutes (observe process, minimal participation)
- Standard visit: 1-1.5 hours (includes hands-on noodle-making and eating)
- Extended visit: 2-3 hours (add fruit garden, detailed exploration, multiple food items)
Most visitors spend about 1 hour—enough time to make noodles, try pizza, and browse the shop.
What to Wear & Bring
- Comfortable casual clothes you don’t mind getting dirty (flour dust is inevitable)
- Closed-toe shoes (not required but practical around production area)
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen—much of the area is outdoors)
- Cash (no credit cards accepted)
- Camera (the process is very photogenic)
- Small bag for purchases
- Mosquito repellent (if visiting fruit garden or staying overnight)
Language
- Mr. Huynh Ngoc Diep (Sau Hoai’s son) speaks English, French, and German fluently
- Other family members speak primarily Vietnamese
- Demonstrations are visual, so language barriers are manageable
- Most tour groups include guides who translate
Combining Rice Noodle Factory Can Tho with Other Activities
Classic Combination in Can Tho Tour
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Can Tho Floating Market & Fruit Garden Tour: Mekong Tropical Sense
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Cai Rang Floating Market Tour | Amazing Can Tho of Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Can Tho Rural Tour: Cai Rang Floating Market and Rural Cycling
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Floating Market & Hands-On Can Tho Cooking Class Tour: From Market to Feast
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Attractions in Mekong Delta
Free Itineraries
Cultural morning:
- Can Tho Floating Market & Fruit Garden Tour: Cai Rang Floating Market → Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory (by boat or motorbike) → Seasonal Tropical Fruit Garden
Family-friendly day:
- Can Tho City tour: Cai Rang Floating Market → Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory → Fruit orchard visit (Son Islet or other)
DIY cycling tour:
- Can Tho Rural Tour: Cai Rang Floating Market → Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory → Explore local villages → Return
Combine with Other Can Tho Destinations
- Cai Rang Floating Market
- Rau Ram Canal Network
- Can Tho City Center / Ninh Kieu Wharf
- Binh Thuy Ancient House
- Ong Temple (Guangzhou Assembly Hall)
- Can Tho Museum
- Munirensay Pagoda (Khmer Temple)
- My Khanh Tourist Village
- Son Islet (Cồn Sơn)
- Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary
- Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery
Book your authentic Rice Noodle Factory Tour
Get your free personalized Mekong itinerary - Leave your info and our local expert will respond within 5 minutes to help you design your most authentic trip:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory
What is Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory?
A traditional family-run rice noodle workshop where you watch and participate in handmade noodle-making from rice to finished product. Located 2 km from Cai Rang Floating Market.
How much does Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory cost?
FREE entry. Food 30,000-60,000 VND, souvenirs extra. Usually included in floating market tour packages (200,000-400,000 VND total).
What is rice noodle pizza?
Crispy fried rice noodles topped with braised pork, egg, peanuts, and coconut sauce. Sounds weird, tastes amazing. Signature dish created from tourist-local interaction.
Is English spoken at Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory?
Yes. Mr. Huynh Ngoc Diep speaks English, French, and German. Process is visual so language barriers are manageable.
What should I bring when I go to Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory?
Cash (no cards), camera, comfortable clothes (expect flour dust), sun protection. That’s it.
Can I visit Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory without a tour?
Yes, but tours are easier. Most combine with Cai Rang Floating Market for better value and arrive during peak production time.
Is it too touristy at Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory ?
It’s popular (hundreds visit daily), but the noodle-making is genuinely traditional and the family sincerely passionate. Tourist-friendly without being fake.
