Hoi An is not only famous for its ancient town and charming architecture, but also for its traditional handicraft villages, where local artisans have preserved their skills for generations. Visiting these villages offers a unique opportunity to experience authentic Vietnamese culture and witness how handmade products are created with care, precision, and creativity.
Explore the Traditional Craft Villages of Hoi An - Where Culture Comes to Life
Beyond its lantern-lit streets and ancient architecture, Hoi An is a living museum of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Nestled along the Thu Bon River, this charming town is surrounded by centuries-old craft villages, where artisans continue to preserve and pass down their skills through generations.
Visiting these villages offers a meaningful cultural experience - an opportunity to step into the daily lives of locals, see how handmade products are created, and even try making your own. Here are some of the most famous and authentic craft villages in Hoi An:
1. Tra Que Vegetable Village
Just a few kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, Tra Que is a tranquil farming village known for growing organic vegetables and herbs. The farmers here still use traditional methods – no chemicals, just seaweed, manual labor, and lots of care.
What you can do:
- Take part in farming activities: raking the soil, planting, watering with traditional watering cans.
- Learn how to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes using fresh herbs from the garden.
- Enjoy a peaceful countryside atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and photography.
2. Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Located about 3km west of Hoi An, this village has been making pottery since the 16th century. The clay from the Thu Bon River is shaped into pots, bowls, figurines, and more - all by hand or with foot-powered wheels.
What you can do:
- Watch skilled artisans create pottery using traditional techniques.
- Join a pottery workshop and make your own ceramic item.
- Visit the Thanh Ha Terracotta Park to explore pottery models of world-famous landmarks.
3. Kim Bong Carpentry Village
A short boat ride from Hoi An across the river brings you to Kim Bong Village - home of master woodworkers who built much of the old architecture in Hoi An and nearby temples. Their work includes furniture, statues, boats, and intricate carvings.
What you can do:
- Watch carvers and carpenters at work in small, family-run workshops.
- Learn about the tools and methods used to create traditional Vietnamese woodwork.
- See examples of old wooden boats and shipbuilding techniques.
4. Lantern-Making Workshops
Hoi An is famous for its colorful silk lanterns - symbols of prosperity and happiness. Local families have been making lanterns for decades, and you can find many workshops around the town where you can join in.
What you can do:
- Learn how to make your own lantern from bamboo, silk, and wire.
- Decorate your lantern and take it home as a unique souvenir.
- Discover the cultural meaning behind different lantern shapes and colors.
