Vietnam’s craft villages: A journey into traditional artistry

Vietnam’s craft villages are living museums of heritage, where skilled artisans preserve traditional craftsmanship passed down through generations. From the fine ceramics of Bat Trang to the elegant silk of Van Phuc, each village specializes in unique handmade products that reflect Vietnam’s cultural identity. Whether you’re fascinated by lacquerware, wood carving or rattan weaving, exploring these villages offers a deep dive into Vietnam’s artistry and craftsmanship.

Join us as we uncover the finest craft villages, where tradition meets creativity in every masterpiece.

Discover Vietnam: 7 must-visit traditional craft villages

Vietnam’s craft villages have thrived for centuries, stretching from north to south. Beyond their cultural significance, these villages offer unique travel experiences where visitors can witness traditional craftsmanship. Here are some of the most renowned craft villages in Vietnam.

Bat Trang pottery village

Nestled along the Red River just outside Hanoi, Bat Trang Pottery Village is Vietnam’s most famous ceramic hub, with over 700 years of history. The village is renowned for its high-quality ceramics, from traditional blue-and-white porcelain to modern designs, crafted by skilled artisans using time-honored techniques.

Visitors can explore family-run workshops, try their hand at pottery-making, and paint their own ceramic pieces as unique souvenirs. The Bat Trang Market is also a must-visit, offering a wide selection of handcrafted pottery, from elegant teacups to intricately designed vases. For a deeper understanding of the village's rich ceramic heritage, a visit to the Bat Trang Museum provides fascinating insights into traditional techniques, historical artifacts, and the evolution of pottery craftsmanship.

• Location: Bat Trang commune, Gia Lam district, Hanoi

• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m

• Ticket price: Free

Van Phuc silk village

Just outside Hanoi, Van Phuc Silk Village is Vietnam’s most renowned silk-weaving center, with a history spanning over a thousand years. The village is famous for its premium silk, known for its softness, durability and intricate patterns, crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Artisans can be seen skillfully operating wooden looms, meticulously crafting delicate silk fabrics by hand. Various workshops offer valuable insights into the weaving process, from spinning fine silk threads to dyeing them in vibrant patterns. At the village market, visitors can browse and purchase high-quality silk products, including scarves, ties, and the iconic áo dài.

• Location: Van Phuc Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi

• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

• Ticket price: Free

Dong Ho painting village

Nestled in Bac Ninh province, Dong Ho Painting Village is the heart of Vietnam’s traditional folk woodblock art, a craft that has been preserved for centuries. These paintings vividly depict rural life, legends and folk tales, using natural materials like dó paper and organic pigments derived from flowers, leaves and shells.

Wooden printing blocks are meticulously carved by artisans, with natural colors carefully layered to bring each artwork to life. Many workshops offer immersive experiences where participants can create their own Dong Ho-style painting, making it a memorable and culturally rich keepsake.

• Location: Song Ho commune, Thuan Thanh district, Bac Ninh

• Opening hours: 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

• Ticket price: Free

Quang Phu Cau incense village

Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of incense-making. Vibrant bundles of incense sticks, arranged in eye-catching displays, create a striking visual spectacle that has made the village a popular destination for visitors and photographers alike. Skilled artisans meticulously craft each stick, from selecting high-quality bamboo to mixing fragrant powders that give Vietnamese incense its distinctive aroma.

As visitors explore the village, they can watch craftsmen expertly dye, dry and bundle incense sticks using time-honored techniques. Many workshops offer hands-on experiences, allowing guests to try making their own incense. The colorful scenery and rich cultural heritage of Quang Phu Cau make it a fascinating stop for those seeking an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional craftsmanship.

• Location: Quang Phu Cau commune, Ung Hoa district, Hanoi

• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m

• Ticket price: 50,000 VND ~ $2 / person (photography fee)

Kim Bong carpentry village

Situated along the Thu Bon River near Hoi An, Kim Bong Carpentry Village has been a hub of fine woodworking for centuries. Famous for its intricate carvings and expert craftsmanship, the village has contributed to the restoration of Hoi An’s ancient houses, temples and pagodas. Artisans here specialize in everything from furniture to wooden statues, showcasing a deep-rooted tradition passed down through generations.

Walking through the village, guests can observe talented craftsmen using traditional tools and techniques to shape wood with precision. Several workshops host live demonstrations, providing a close-up view of the intricate woodcarving process. The tranquil riverside setting enhances the experience, making the exploration of this historic craft village even more captivating.

• Location: Trung Ha village, Cam Kim commune, Hoi An

• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

• Ticket price: Free

Tay Ho conical hat village

Nestled in Thua Thien Hue, Tay Ho Village is renowned for crafting Vietnam’s iconic conical hats, or nón lá. More than just a practical accessory, these elegantly woven hats symbolize Vietnamese culture and heritage. The artisans of Tay Ho use fine palm leaves, silk threads, and bamboo frames to create lightweight yet durable hats, some featuring intricate patterns or poetic verses pressed between the layers.

A visit to the village offers a glimpse into this delicate craft, as skilled artisans meticulously stitch and shape each hat by hand. Visitors can observe the process up close, learn about the cultural significance of nón lá, and even try making their own under expert guidance.

• Location: Phu Ho Commune, Phu Vang District, Thua Thien Hue

• Opening hours: 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m

• Ticket price: Free

Dinh Yen mat weaving village

Situated in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Dinh Yen Village has upheld its traditional mat-weaving craft for over a century. Using vibrant reeds harvested from local fields, skilled artisans weave intricate, durable mats that have long been an essential part of Vietnamese households. These mats, often featuring striking colors and geometric patterns, are not only practical but also a reflection of the region’s rich artistic heritage.

In Dinh Yen, artisans expertly weave colorful reeds on handlooms, showcasing remarkable speed and precision. The village becomes particularly enchanting in the evening when mat weaving unfolds under the warm glow of oil lamps, creating a captivating atmosphere. Tourists can also experience the craft firsthand and bring home a beautifully woven mat as a cherished keepsake.

• Location: Dinh Yen Commune, Lap Vo, Dong Thap

• Opening hours: 07:00 - 22:00

• Ticket price: Free

For an immersive cultural experience, consider a Vietnam tour that takes you through the country’s renowned craft villages, where you can witness skilled artisans at work and even try your hand at traditional crafts.

Tips for exploring Vietnam’s craft villages

Visiting Vietnam’s craft villages is a rewarding experience, offering a closer look at the country’s artisanal heritage. To make the most of your trip, keep these key tips in mind:

• Choose the right way to visit: Guided tours provide expert insights, while independent travel allows for a more flexible experience.

• Respect local customs: Some workshops require visitors to remove shoes before entering, and asking for permission before taking photos is always appreciated.

• Support local artisans: Buying directly from craftsmen ensures fair compensation and helps preserve traditional skills. Avoid excessive bargaining, as handmade products take time and effort to create.

• Try hands-on activities: Many villages offer workshops where visitors can experience pottery-making, silk weaving or wood carving firsthand.

• Identify authentic products: Look for handmade details, traditional materials, and artisan certifications to distinguish genuine craftsmanship from mass-produced imitations.

Vietnam’s craft villages are more than just places of production - they are the heart of Vietnam’s artistic soul, where history, culture and craftsmanship intertwine. Each village tells a unique story through its time-honored techniques, from intricate wood carvings to delicate silk weaving. By visiting these villages, travelers not only gain insight into Vietnam’s rich heritage but also support local artisans in keeping their traditions alive.

If you’re seeking an authentic cultural experience, immerse yourself in the world of Vietnam’s craft villages. Plan your visit with Hanoi Voyages today and take home a piece of Vietnam’s artistry!