Vietnam museum of ethnology: A complete travel guide

Vietnam is a land of breathtaking landscapes and vibrant traditions, home to 54 ethnic groups, each with its own unique customs, costumes and ways of life. To truly understand this cultural richness, a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi  is the perfect place.

This guide covers everything you need to know - highlights, tickets, opening hours and travel tips - to make the most of your visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

Start your cultural journey with Hanoi Voyages and uncover the stories behind Vietnam’s vibrant ethnic heritage.

Vietnam museum of ethnology: What you need to know

📍 Address: 01 Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay, Hanoi

⏰ Open hours: Every day from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m (closed on Mondays and during the Lunar New Year)

💸 Vietnam museum of ethnology entrance fee: approximately $1.5 /person (children < 6 years: free)

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, situated in Hanoi, is a captivating destination that celebrates the cultural diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. Though the project was initiated in the 1980s, the museum was officially established in 1995 under the Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences and funded by the Vietnamese government.

This museum of ethnology hanoi officially opened to the public in 1997, with a significant inauguration ceremony attended by Vietnam’s Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh and French President Jacques Chirac, underscoring its cultural and international importance.

How to get to Vietnam museum of ethnology

Located about 8 km from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is easy to reach by various means of transportation, depending on your time, budget and travel style.

By taxi or ride-hailing (Grab, Be, Xanh SM)

The most convenient option is to take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab. The journey takes around 20–30 minutes and costs approximately 80,000–150,000 VND ($3–6). It's a direct and comfortable choice, especially for first-time visitors.

By public bus

For budget travelers, Hanoi’s public bus system is a great option. Several buses stop near the museum, including routes 07, 12, 14, 38 and 39.

• From Hoan Kiem Lake, bus 14 provides a direct route.

• Tickets are inexpensive, costing just 7,000–12,000 VND (~$0.30–0.50).

By motorbike or bicycle

Adventurous travelers may enjoy riding a motorbike or bicycle to the museum. Motorbike rentals start at around 100,000 VND/day and the ride takes roughly 30 minutes. However, be cautious in Hanoi traffic, especially during peak hours.

From Noi Bai International Airport

By taxi, the ride from the airport to the museum takes about 22 minutes and costs $16–20.

Alternatively, you can take an airport bus to Cau Giay, then transfer to a local bus or taxi for the final stretch.

You can also read: Transportation in Vietnam: Best options for getting around

The architecture of Vietnam museum of ethnology

The museum is thoughtfully divided into three main areas: the Bronze Drum Building, the Kite-Shaped Building and the Architectural Garden. Each space brings a unique perspective on Vietnam’s ethnic diversity and regional heritage, making your visit both educational and unforgettable.

Bronze Drum Building

The Bronze Drum Building is the central highlight of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, designed by architect Ha Duc Linh and inspired by the ancient Dong Son bronze drum. Covering 2,000 m², it officially opened in November 1997.

This two-story building hosts the main permanent exhibition on Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, created with support from the French government and experts like Christine Hemmet and Véronique Dollfus. Through artifacts, photos, films and interactive displays, visitors can explore nine themed sections that vividly showcase ethnic culture and traditions. It also features temporary exhibition halls, a Children’s Discovery Room and a Sound and Image Room, making it suitable for all ages.

Kite-Shaped Building

Opened in 2013, the Kite Building (also known as the Kite-Shaped Building) is a modern, four-story structure located within the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology’s complex. It was designed by architects from Hanoi Construction University and modeled after a traditional Southeast Asian kite, symbolizing cultural connection and freedom.

This space is dedicated to Southeast Asian and international cultures, offering permanent exhibitions such as:

• Southeast Asian Culture

• A Glimpse of Asia

• Indonesian Glass Paintings

• A World Tour

Beyond the exhibitions, the building also features areas for educational workshops, film screenings and cultural events, making it a dynamic hub for discovering Asia’s diverse traditions beyond Vietnam’s borders.

Architectural Garden

The Architectural Garden, located outdoors in the museum grounds, spans over 2 hectares and offers a unique open-air exhibition of traditional Vietnamese architecture. It showcases 10 authentic houses from different ethnic groups across the country, such as:

• Stilt houses of the Tay and Thai people

• Communal longhouses of the Ede and Bana

• Cham homes

• Burial houses of the Giarai and Co Tu

Each house was built using traditional materials and methods, surrounded by lush greenery, water features and walking paths. This garden offers an immersive way to explore Vietnam’s architectural diversity while enjoying a peaceful, natural setting

At Hanoi Voyages, we offer other exciting tour packages that let you experience the best of Vietnam’s beauty and the charm of the Vietnam museum of ethnology . CHOOSE AN IDEA and we will plan your trip together!

North Vietnam tour 10 days Explore the serene beauty of Pu Luong, Ninh Binh and Ha Long Bay on an adventure through stunning landscapes	Vietnam 15 days beach extension Featuring a relaxing beach extension in Phu Quoc. Discover vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and serene shores	Vietnam tour 21 days Exploring Halong Bay, Phong Nha, the Mekong Delta and more. Experience culture, adventure and breathtaking landscapes!

In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!

Special activities and events in Vietnam museum of ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology goes beyond static displays by offering rich, hands-on cultural activities that bring tradition to life:

Traditional festival events

Held during major Vietnamese celebrations like Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year) and Tet Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival), these events allow visitors to experience authentic customs, traditional games, folk music and festive rituals that reflect Vietnam’s cultural spirit.

You can also refer: Top 9 Vietnam festivals: Must-see cultural celebrations & events

Live craft demonstrations

Watch talented artisans at work as they create:

• Embroidered carpets

• Bamboo and rattan handicrafts

• Folk toys such as tò he (colored rice powder figurines)

These sessions highlight the craftsmanship and cultural value behind everyday traditional objects.

Weekend water puppet shows

Offered on weekends, these performances showcase northern Vietnam’s unique folk art. Puppeteers perform on water, telling stories of rural life, legends and traditions, making it a delightful and educational experience for all ages.

For more details: Water puppet show in Vietnam: A unique cultural experience

Travel tips when visiting Vietnam museum of ethnology

To make the most of your visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, a few simple tips can help you stay comfortable, respectful and fully immersed in the cultural experience. From what to wear to how to interact with exhibits, here’s what you should keep in mind.

Dress comfortably and bring essentials

The museum includes both indoor and outdoor areas, so it’s best to wear comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan to explore the Architectural Garden. Don’t forget to bring a hat or cap and a bottle of water, especially during warmer months, as Hanoi can be hot and humid.

Suggested itinerary combination

To make the most of your day, consider combining your visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology with other nearby cultural attractions. This itinerary gives you a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s cultural depth - from ethnic diversity to ancient education and rural heritage.

• Temple of Literature (Van Mieu): An iconic historical site dedicated to Confucius and Vietnam’s first national university.

• Ho Chi Minh Museum & Mausoleum Complex: Discover the life and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh. This historical site includes the mausoleum, presidential palace, stilt house, and the One Pillar Pagoda.

• Quan Thanh Temple & West Lake (Ho Tay): Explore a beautiful Taoist temple and enjoy a walk along the largest lake in Hanoi, dotted with cafes and scenic views.

Respect the culture and exhibits

The museum represents the rich heritage of Vietnam’s ethnic groups, so please:

• Do not touch artifacts, traditional houses, or costumes unless invited.

• Be mindful in sacred spaces or religious areas, such as shrines or burial house models.

• Keep noise to a minimum to respect other visitors and maintain the atmosphere of learning.

The Museum of Ethnology Hanoi is more than just a place to view artifacts—it's a journey into the heart of Vietnam's cultural identity. With its engaging exhibitions, traditional architecture and interactive activities, this museum offers a meaningful experience for travelers of all ages.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or simply curious about Vietnam’s ethnic diversity, the Museum of Ethnology Hanoi is a must-visit. Plan your visit today with Hanoi Voyages and let Vietnam’s rich heritage come alive before your eyes.