Bat Trang Pottery Village, located on the banks of the Red River in Gia Lam District, about 13 kilometers South-East of Hanoi center, is a captivating destination that offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s rich ceramic heritage. With a history spanning over six centuries, this village has been a hub for pottery making, attracting visitors from all over the world to witness the artistry and skill of its talented artisans.
From exploring ancient architecture to participating in hands-on workshops, Bat Trang Pottery Village promises an immersive and unforgettable experience for your family vacation in Vietnam.
History of Bat Trang Village
Situated in the Bat Trang commune of Gia Lam district in Hanoi city, the Bat Trang Pottery Village is a traditional porcelain and pottery village with a rich history that spans over seven centuries. The inception of this village can be traced back to the 14th century during the reign of the Ly Dynasty.
The village was recognized for its production of bricks and tiles. However, in the 15th century, it transitioned to pottery-making, becoming a hub of artistic innovation. The village started producing ceramics that were not only used for daily household purposes but also served as decorative items.
Today, Bat Trang Pottery Village stands as not only a center for traditional ceramic craftsmanship but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors flock to the village to experience pottery-making firsthand, making it a vibrant hub of cultural exchange.
Decorating ceramic products (Photo: Baodautu.vn)
How to get to Bat Trang Pottery Village
Bat Trang Pottery Village, a charming locale situated on the banks of the Red River in the Gia Lam District of Hanoi, is a mere 13 kilometers from Hanoi city center. There are several transportation options available to reach this destination:
- By Bus: Public buses are a popular choice due to their affordability and convenience. From the city, you can take the bus to the Long Bien transshipment point. At the beginning of Tran Nhat Duat, there is bus 47A moving from Long Bien bus station to the village of Bat Trang. The journey by bus takes approximately 30 – 40 minutes and costs only 7,000 VND (0.3USD) per ticket.
- By Motorbike: For those who like to explore the streets, building a Vietnam motorbike tour is an interesting option. It takes about 30 minutes to travel from Hanoi city center to Bat Trang Pottery Village. You can use Google Maps to get there.
- By Taxi: Opting for a taxi provides a comfortable and hassle-free journey to Bat Trang Village. You can request your hotel receptionist to book a taxi for you, or you can book one yourself.
Tourist attraction in Bat Trang Village Pottery
Join pottery-making classes
If you’re looking for a more enriching experience, we recommend participating in pottery-making classes in Bat Trang Village. These classes provide a hands-on opportunity for you to create your own unique ceramic pieces. You’ll gain deeper insights into the intricate process of pottery production, from shaping the clay to firing the finished pieces.
Paradise Travel customers make pottery by themselves
Shop for unique ceramic products
Bat Trang Pottery Village is a treasure trove of distinctive ceramic items. As you explore the village, you’ll find an array of beautifully crafted products. From elegant bowls and plates to charming teapots, decorative lamps, and even exquisite jewelry—all made by skilled artisans—there’s something for every art lover.
Explore local culture
Beyond its pottery art, Bat Trang Village exudes a unique folk cultural charm. Take a leisurely stroll through the village to discover hidden gems.
Don’t miss out on Bat Trang ancient village, a structure boasting unique architecture that still preserves the rare ancient charm of old Hanoi. Here are two main sites you can’t afford to overlook:
- Van Van ancient house: Leaving a mark with over 200 years of history, this house is likened to a masterpiece of art. Its impressive ceramic patterns, dragon vases, blue enamel teapots, and stamped clay molds all leave visitors in awe at first sight.
- Bat Trang communal house: Dedicated to Thanh Hoang, this is where major festivals are often held throughout the year.
Another must-visit location is the Bat Trang Ceramic Museum. Upon setting foot in the museum, you’ll likely be overwhelmed by the intricately crafted, monumental structure. A distinctive feature of the museum’s design is its seven massive spiral-shaped rotating blocks, representing seven hands shaping clay pottery.
Unique Bat Trang Ceramic Museum
The museum not only boasts unique architectural highlights but also offers many engaging activities to experience, such as observing ceramic products and learning about prominent pottery units and artisans in Bat Trang, or participating in pottery making and painting.
Ticket prices for the Bat Trang Ceramic Museum are as follows:
- Entrance fee: 50 000 VND (2USD) per person.
- Pottery molding experience: 70 000 VND (2,8 USD) for adults, 50 000 VND (2 USD) for children.
- Enjoying tea and admiring artworks at the Huong Sa Art House: 40 000 VND (1.6 USD) per person.
- Renting traditional costumes at the Huong Sa Art House: 100 000 VND (4 USD) per time.
- Combo 1 – Artistic Impressions: 189 000 VND (7,55 USD) per person.
- Combo 2 – Essence Space Experience: 249 000 VND (9,95 USD) per person.
Opening hours for the Bat Trang Ceramic Museum: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Monday – Friday) and 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Saturday – Sunday).
Indulge in local cuisine
After your tour, treat yourself to the flavors of the countryside. Visit local eateries and cozy cafes within the village. Sample traditional dishes that showcase the region’s culinary heritage. Whether it’s a hearty bowl of pho or a delicate rice paper roll, the local cuisine is sure to delight your taste buds.
Prices
Bat Trang Pottery Village does not charge an entrance fee. You only need to pay if you want to shop, enjoy food, or participate in activities within the pottery workshops.
Feel free to have lunch in Bat Trang Pottery Village at an approximate price of 25 000 – 30 000 VND (1USD – 1.2USD) per meal.
The average cost for participating in activities within the pottery workshops is around 35 000 – 50 000 VND (1.4 USD – 2USD)/items depending on the size and type of product.
Tips for visiting Bat Trang pottery village
Here are some things to keep in mind:
- The road to the pottery village can be dusty, so if you’re traveling by motorbike, remember to bring sunscreen and a sun-protective shirt.
- When exploring the historic sites in the pottery village, dress appropriately and avoid making noise.
- When purchasing items at Bat Trang pottery market, tourists should be careful when moving around to avoid knocking over or breaking ceramic products.
Some types of household and decorative items in Bat Trang
Travel to Vietnam, Bat Trang Pottery Village offers a unique insight into Vietnam’s rich ceramic heritage. This vibrant cultural exchange center attracts global visitors who immerse themselves in pottery-making, explore the diverse range of ceramic products, and engage with local culture and cuisine. As a symbol of Vietnam’s artistic tradition, Bat Trang Pottery Village is an unforgettable destination for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and curious travelers alike.
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