Hanoi is a city rich in history and culture, with centuries-old traditions still alive today. One of the most fascinating cultural experiences you can have is a visit to the Bat Trang Pottery Museum. Located in Bat Trang Ceramic Village, this museum is more than just an exhibition space. It is a living tribute to Vietnam’s rich ceramic heritage.
Visitors can explore exquisite pottery displays, interactive workshops, and a stunning architectural design inspired by the potter’s wheel. If you love history, art, or hands-on experiences, this museum is a must-visit.
1. Getting to Bat Trang Pottery Museum
The Bat Trang Pottery Museum is located in Bát Tràng Village, Gia Lâm District, Hanoi, about 19 km from the city center. You can reach the museum by:
- Motorbike or Car: Take Chương Dương Bridge, then follow Long Biên – Xuân Quan Road until you see signs for Bát Tràng Village.
- Bus: Several buses stop near the museum, including 47A, 47B, 08A, 08B, 34, 40, and 31.
- Private Tour: Joining a guided tour can enhance your experience, offering local insights and convenience.
Opening Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM
- Saturday & Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Fees (2025):
- General admission: 60,000 VND
- Art exhibition: 90,000 VND
- Pottery-making experience: 70,000 VND (adults), 50,000 VND (children under 1.3m)
- Tea ceremony: 90,000 VND
- Combo packages range from 189,000 VND – 249,000 VND, including guided tours, pottery-making, and traditional performances.
2. Highlights of the pottery museum
2.1. Unique architecture inspired by the Potter’s Wheel
The museum is a modern architectural marvel, designed to resemble the swirling motion of a potter’s wheel. Its seven interconnected structures rise in a spiral, representing the continuous evolution of the ceramic craft. The curved walls and earthy tones blend seamlessly with the surrounding village, creating a harmonious mix of tradition and modernity.
2.2. Exploring the museum’s five levels
The first floor: The Pottery Plaza & Open-Air Exhibition
As soon as you step into the museum, you are greeted by a spacious pottery plaza connected to the Bắc Hưng Hải River. This area is designed to be an open-air exhibition space, showcasing the finest ceramic products created by Bát Tràng artisans.
Highlights of the 1st floor – Bat Trang Pottery Museum:
✔ Artisan Market – Browse through hundreds of ceramic products, from traditional household pottery to modern ceramic art. You can purchase souvenirs or watch live pottery demonstrations by master craftsmen.
✔ Outdoor Cultural Events – The plaza often hosts festivals, traditional performances, and pottery fairs, allowing visitors to experience Vietnamese folk culture.
✔ Interactive Art Installations – Various ceramic sculptures and installations are placed throughout the space, allowing for great photo opportunities.
The second floor: A Journey Through Bát Tràng’s History
This floor takes visitors on a historical journey through the evolution of Bát Tràng ceramics. The exhibits are arranged chronologically, showcasing how pottery-making techniques have changed over time.
Highlights of the 2nd floor – Bat Trang Pottery Museum :
✔ Ancient Bát Tràng Artifacts – The display features centuries-old ceramics from different dynasties, including the Lý, Trần, Lê, and Nguyễn periods. You can see how the designs and techniques evolved from simple earthenware to intricate glazed ceramics.
✔ Traditional Kiln Models – Learn how ancient kilns were used to fire pottery at extremely high temperatures. The museum features detailed replicas of historical kilns, explaining how different firing methods create glossy, matte, and crackled glaze finishes.
✔ Interactive Learning Area – Visitors can touch and compare different types of ceramics, understanding how variations in clay, glaze, and temperature affect the final product.
The third floor: Contemporary Ceramic Art & Exhibitions
This floor is dedicated to modern ceramic artists and serves as a platform for contemporary ceramic innovations. Unlike the historical focus of tầng 2, this floor highlights how pottery continues to evolve in the modern era.
Highlights of the 3rd floor – Bat Trang Pottery Museum:
✔ Contemporary Ceramic Artworks – The exhibits feature abstract and experimental ceramic pieces, blending traditional techniques with modern artistic expression.
✔ Exclusive Art Auctions – Some of the displayed works are available for purchase through silent auctions, making this a great opportunity for collectors.
✔ Artist-in-Residence Program – The museum collaborates with local and international ceramic artists, occasionally hosting live demonstrations and workshops.
The fourth floor: Rooftop Café & Relaxation Space
After exploring the museum’s extensive exhibits, visitors can take a break at the rooftop café, which offers a breathtaking view of the Red River and Bát Tràng Village.
Highlights of the 4th floor – Bat Trang Pottery Museum:
✔ Panoramic Views – The outdoor terrace offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and photography.
✔ Vietnamese Coffee & Herbal Tea – The café serves locally brewed coffee, herbal teas, and traditional Vietnamese snacks, providing a cozy and authentic experience.
✔ Check-in & Photo Opportunities – The unique architecture of the museum, combined with the skyline view, makes this a prime Instagram-worthy location.
The fifth floor: Tea Ceremony & Cultural Performances
The fifth floor offers a deeper cultural experience, combining tea appreciation with traditional Vietnamese performances. This is the soulful and artistic section of the museum.
Highlights of the 5th floor – Bat Trang Pottery Museum:
✔ Vietnamese Tea Ceremony – Learn about the art of tea drinking in Vietnam, including the significance of different tea types, brewing methods, and tea etiquette.
✔ Traditional Music & Performances – This space frequently hosts live performances of chèo (Vietnamese opera), quan họ (folk singing), chầu văn (spiritual music), and tuồng (classical drama).
✔ Event & Workshop Space – The museum collaborates with cultural organizations to hold artistic workshops, ceramic-themed discussions, and poetry readings.
The Floor G: Hands-on Pottery Workshop & DIY Experience
For those who want a truly immersive experience, the ground floor (Tầng G) is where visitors can become ceramic artists for a day. This floor is one of the museum’s most exciting attractions, allowing guests to create their own pottery piece under the guidance of skilled artisans.
Highlights of the floor G – Bat Trang Pottery Museum:
✔ Make Your Own Pottery – Visitors can shape, carve, and glaze their own ceramic product, which will be fired in a kiln and available for pickup later.
✔ Fun for All Ages – Whether you are an adult or child, this hands-on experience is both educational and entertaining. Many families and school groups visit specifically for this activity.
✔ Personalized Souvenirs – Unlike store-bought souvenirs, the pottery you create here is unique and personal, making it a perfect memento of your trip.
No matter your interests, the museum offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, art lover, or hands-on explorer, each level provides a unique perspective on the beauty of Bát Tràng ceramics.
The Bat Trang Pottery Museum – More than just a tourist attraction
Visiting the Bat Trang Pottery Museum is a journey through Vietnam’s rich artistic heritage. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or just looking for a fun, hands-on experience, this museum offers something for everyone. Take home not only a piece of ceramic art but also a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s timeless craftsmanship.
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FAQ – Bat Trang Pottery Museum
You can travel by motorbike, car, or bus (bus routes 47A, 47B, 08A, 08B, 34, 40, and 31). A guided tour is also a great option.
General admission is 60,000 VND. There are additional fees for pottery workshops, tea ceremonies, and exhibitions.
It is open from 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM (weekdays) and 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (weekends).
Yes! The museum offers hands-on pottery workshops where you can create your own ceramic piece.
Yes! The rooftop café offers stunning views and serves traditional Vietnamese drinks. There is also a restaurant offering local cuisine.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring the exhibits, workshops, and café.
Absolutely! Kids will love the pottery-making experience and interactive displays.
For general entry, no reservation is needed. However, for pottery workshops or guided tours, booking in advance is recommended. You can also get your free tour guide at Hanoi Free Private Tour Guide for a personalized cultural experience!
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