Bát Tràng Ceramic Village — The Timeless Pottery Village near Hà Nội

Bát Tràng Ceramic Village, located on the banks of the Red River in Gia Lâm District, just 14 km from central Hà Nội, is Vietnam’s oldest and most famous pottery village. With a history stretching back over seven centuries, this village continues to attract both domestic and international visitors with its blend of traditional craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and unique travel experiences.

How Bát Tràng Ceramic Village Is Unique?

Founded during the Lý Dynasty, Bát Tràng has survived the ups and downs of history for more than 600 years, preserving its name and craft. Thanks to the local high-quality white clay and skilled artisans, the village became renowned for its distinctive glazes, designs, and durability.

Today, Bát Tràng ceramics are appreciated not only across Vietnam but also exported worldwide. Products range from household wares, worship items, fine art pottery, building ceramics, to decorative pieces. Visiting Bát Tràng means experiencing both a living craft tradition and a popular cultural destination of Hà Nội.

Top Things To Do in Bát Tràng Ceramic Village

1. Bát Tràng Ancient Village

Wander the old village streets lined with ancient-style architecture and narrow alleys, offering plenty of atmospheric photo opportunities. For a truly local touch, take a buffalo cart ride and soak up the rustic Vietnamese atmosphere of centuries past.

2. The Ancient House of Vạn Vân

A remarkable architectural site that displays antique ceramics, blue-glazed kettles, dragon vases, and pottery molds dating back before the 15th century. The house comprises three ancient wooden homes, some more than 200 years old, relocated from Thai Bình and Nam Định provinces.

3. Bát Tràng Communal House

Facing the Red River, the communal house is dedicated to the village’s guardian deity (Thành Hoàng) and serves as the venue for festivals, rituals, and traditional games. Visit during festival time for a lively and colorful cultural experience.

4. Ceramic Clay Yard — Hands-on Pottery

No trip is complete without trying pottery yourself. For as little as 30,000 VND, you can try your hand at shaping clay, but spending about 100,000 VND allows you to create, paint, and glaze your own masterpiece, guided by skilled local potters. Your creation will be dried, fired, and ready as a personal souvenir.

5. Bát Tràng Pottery Market

A bustling market with hundreds of ceramic stalls, selling everything from tea sets, jars, and vases to art decorations and religious items. Prices are surprisingly affordable, making it the perfect spot to shop for unique souvenirs.

Nearby & combine with

Bát Tràng is easy to combine with a longer Hà Nội day: Long Biên Bridge, the Old Quarter, or a boat ride on the Red River for different perspectives and more photo opportunities. Several full-day tour operators also pair Bát Tràng with other craft villages or city highlights.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

Bát Tràng can be visited year-round. However, for a more festive experience, come between 8–13 February (lunar calendar) to coincide with the communal house festival. Always check the weather forecast before your trip, as many activities take place outdoors.

How to Get There?

• By Bus: the most budget-friendly option. Take Bus 47A from Long Biên Bus Station (near Trần Nhật Duật Street) directly to Bát Tràng.
• By Motorbike / Taxi / Car: A quick 20–30 minute ride from Hà Nội’s Old Quarter. Perfect for those who prefer flexibility.
• By River Cruise: On weekends, Red River boat tours include stops at Bát Tràng, offering a scenic way to approach the village.

What to Eat in Bát Tràng?

Although the ceramics are the “main dish,” you can still enjoy tasty local snacks and street food in and around the market:

• Bánh tẻ (rice cake with meat filling)
• Cassava cakes & potato cakes
• Squid and bamboo shoot soup
• Sugarcane juice

For heartier meals, small family-run restaurants near the market serve noodles, hotpots, and local specialties.

Final Notes

Bát Tràng is both a living workshop and a living museum. For photographers, culture-seekers and souvenir hunters alike, Bát Tràng offers hands-on craft experiences, centuries of ceramic heritage, and atmospheric streets lined with studios and stalls. Plan a morning or half-day visit, bring curiosity, and let the makers show you how centuries of ceramic culture are still shaped by hand today.