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When travelers take home Vietnam’s handicrafts as gifts for family and friends, they aren’t just carrying ordinary souvenirs—they’re bringing back a piece of Vietnam’s soul. Each item encapsulates the rich cultural heritage and artistic tradition that has been preserved and perfected over thousands of years. From delicate conical hats to intricate ceramic art, these beautiful, sophisticated handicrafts offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s deep-rooted traditions. Each piece is a work of art, crafted with meticulous care by artisans who pour their heart and soul into every detail, making them perfect mementos of any Vietnam discovery travel.
Vietnamese handicrafts are more than just items; they are a testament to the country’s enduring cultural heritage. Through centuries of creativity and craftsmanship, local artisans have developed techniques that have been passed down through generations. These crafts have become some of the most significant cultural treasures in Vietnam’s history. Whether it’s the vibrant colors of Dong Ho paintings or the elegant designs of lacquerware, each craft reflects the unique aspects of Vietnamese culture and traditions, adding depth and authenticity to your Vietnam discovery travel experience.
Discovering the best places to buy these handicrafts is an experience not to be missed. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, exploring Vietnam’s vibrant craft scene offers a deeper understanding of the country’s cultural richness. Vietnam discovery travel not only lets you witness these artistic treasures but also allows you to take home a piece of Vietnam’s heritage. Below, we explore some of the most iconic Vietnamese handicrafts and where to find them.
1. Dong Ho Folk Paintings
Dong Ho Folk Paintings are a traditional genre of Vietnamese art that has captivated both locals and international art lovers for centuries. Known for their simplicity, strong vitality, and vibrant themes, these paintings offer a rustic reflection of local life. Each artwork depicts the idyllic beauty of Vietnam’s villages, symbolizing the hopes and aspirations for a healthy and prosperous life. Common themes include good luck symbols, folk allegories, and popular stories from Vietnamese history.
What sets Dong Ho Folk Paintings apart is the meticulous process of creating them. The paper, known as Dó paper, is made from the bark of the Dó tree. After undergoing a complex preparation process, the paper is coated with Ho Diep powder, giving it a unique texture that enhances the artwork’s colors. The vibrant colors themselves are derived from natural materials: red from beetle shells, yellow from turmeric, black from charcoal, and green from tea leaves. These natural pigments are mixed and applied to wood blocks, which are then pressed onto the paper to create the final image.
Where to buy:
To experience the art of Dong Ho paintings firsthand, visit Dong Ho Village in Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, located just 20 minutes from Hanoi. Here, you can witness the traditional painting process and purchase authentic artworks as meaningful souvenirs. If a visit to Bac Ninh isn’t possible, you can find Dong Ho paintings at various handicraft shops on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street or in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.
2. Dó Paper Crafts
Dó Paper, or poonah paper, is not just an ordinary sheet of paper—it represents a rich cultural heritage that has been preserved for generations. Unique to Vietnam, Dó paper is made from the bark of the Dó tree, which is harvested by artisans in northern villages. The paper-making process involves up to 100 meticulous steps and can take up to a month to complete. This traditional craft results in a durable, fabric-like paper that is highly valued for its quality.
Dó paper is not only used for Dong Ho paintings but also for making notebooks, sketchbooks, calendars, and other paper products. These items make thoughtful gifts, especially for those who appreciate fine craftsmanship. The texture and durability of Dó paper give it a unique charm that sets it apart from other types of paper.
Where to buy:
For an immersive experience, consider taking a Dó Paper tour in Hoa Binh Province, where you can visit a traditional Dó paper village and even try your hand at making your own paper. If you prefer a more convenient option, you can find Dó paper products at Collective Memory Store, Craft Link Store, and other souvenir shops on Hang Gai and Hang Bac Streets in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
3. Lacquerware Art
The art of lacquerware, known as Son Mai, is a traditional Vietnamese craft with roots tracing back to China in the first century CE. This intricate art form involves coating objects with layers of lacquer, which is derived from the resin of the lacquer tree. The resin, mixed with colored pigments and solvents, is applied in multiple layers, each of which is left to harden and then sanded down to create a smooth, glossy finish. In some cases, materials such as eggshells and gold leaf are embedded in the lacquer to create stunning decorative effects.
Lacquerware is an integral part of daily life in Vietnam, used in everything from household items to elaborate decorative pieces. The durability and beauty of lacquerware make it a popular choice for gifts and souvenirs. High-quality Vietnamese lacquer, particularly from Phu Tho in the north, is renowned for its rich color and smooth finish.
Where to buy:
For the best lacquerware, visit Ha Thai Village, located 17 km south of Hanoi. This village is famous for its lacquerware production, and you can find a wide variety of items ranging from furniture to jewelry boxes. In Hanoi, you can also visit shops like Marena Hanoi at 28 Nha Chung Street, Anh Duy Lacquer at 25 Hang Trong Street, and Minh Tam at 2 Hang Bong Street, all located in the Old Quarter. In Ho Chi Minh City, popular spots for lacquerware include Ben Thanh Market and shops along Pham Ngu Lao, Hai Ba Trung, and Dong Khoi Streets.
4. Local Silk Products
Vietnamese silk is world-renowned for its quality, softness, and durability. This 100% natural fabric comes in various types, including Lismore bud silk and satin silk, both of which are commonly found throughout the country. While silk products can be found in many parts of Vietnam, the finest and most authentic items come from traditional craft villages.
One of the most famous silk-producing villages is Van Phuc in Ha Dong District, Hanoi. This ancient village, with over 1,200 years of history, is known for its sophisticated weaving techniques. In the past, Van Phuc silk was reserved for royalty and aristocrats, and even today, the village continues to produce high-quality silk that is both cool in summer and warm in winter.
In the south, Duy Xuyen Village in Hoi An, which has been producing silk for over 300 years, offers a wide range of silk products. Here, visitors can observe the entire silk-making process, from the silkworm to the finished fabric.
Where to buy:
For the best silk products, visit Van Phuc Village in Ha Dong District, where you can purchase authentic silk items and learn about the traditional weaving process. In Hanoi, silk boutiques can be found along Hang Gai Street in the Hoan Kiem District. In Hoi An, head to Duy Xuyen Village to explore local markets and tailor shops offering high-quality silk. Other notable silk-producing villages include Tan Chau Village in An Giang Province and Nha Xa in Ha Nam Province.
5. Traditional Pottery
Vietnamese pottery, with its earthy charm and elegant design, has been famous for centuries. What sets Vietnamese ceramics apart is their high-quality glaze and a wide range of colors, including blue, brown, white, and green. Modern techniques and the creativity of artisans have led to the development of new designs and decorations that are highly sought after both in Vietnam and abroad.
Vietnamese ceramics are divided into three main categories: household items, worship items, and decorative pieces. Bat Trang Village, located just outside Hanoi, is the most famous pottery village in Vietnam. Here, visitors can explore the daily market where artisans display their ceramics straight out of the family kiln.
Where to buy:
A visit to Bat Trang Village is a must for pottery enthusiasts. In addition to browsing the many ceramic stores along the village’s streets, don’t miss the Bat Trang Porcelain and Pottery Market, where you can even try your hand at making your own pottery. In central Vietnam, Bau Truc Village in Ninh Thuan Province is another famous pottery-making destination. For those visiting Hoi An, the Reaching Out shop offers beautiful ceramics and tea cups made by disabled artisans.
6. Non La (Palm-Leaf Conical Hat)
The Non La, or palm-leaf conical hat, is one of Vietnam’s most iconic symbols, alongside the traditional Ao Dai dress. The image of Vietnamese men and women wearing these hats while working in the rice paddies or engaging in outdoor activities is familiar to many foreign travelers. The Non La is not only a practical item for protection from the sun and rain but also a cultural symbol deeply rooted in Vietnamese tradition.
One of the best places to learn about and purchase Non La is Chuong Village, located on the outskirts of Hanoi. Here, generations of artisans have meticulously preserved the craft of making these traditional hats. The materials used to make a Non La come from various regions: palm leaves from Quang Binh Province, silk thread from Trieu Khuc Village, and bamboo from Hoa Binh Province.
Where to buy:
Visit Chuong Village in Phuong Trung Commune, Thanh Oai District, Hanoi, to learn how Non La hats are made and to purchase some of the finest examples. For those who prefer to shop in the city, Non La hats can also be found at Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City.
7. Ethnic Brocade Textiles
Brocade is a cultural symbol of the ethnic minority people in Vietnam’s northern mountainous regions and the Central Highlands. The fabrics, woven by hand on traditional looms, are made of cotton, linen, or hemp and often feature intricate geometric patterns and vibrant colors. Each pattern and design is unique to the specific ethnic group, and the weaving process can take weeks or even months to complete.
Brocade textiles are not only used for clothing but also for making bags, scarves, wallets, and other items. These textiles are perfect gifts for those interested in ethnic culture and traditional crafts.
Where to buy:
To explore and purchase brocade products, visit the local markets in ethnic minority villages in the northern highlands, such as Sapa or Mai Chau, as well as in the Central Highlands. For a more convenient option, visit handicraft stores such as Tohe Style and Craft Link in Hanoi.
8. Conclusion
Embarking on a Vietnam discovery travel journey offers you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural tapestry through its exquisite local crafts. From bustling markets to traditional villages, each experience unveils authentic treasures waiting to be explored and cherished. Don’t miss the chance to bring home a piece of Vietnam’s heritage. For personalized travel tips and assistance, connect with us via WhatsApp and let us help you plan an unforgettable Vietnamese adventure.
