Vietnam is home to a vibrant handicraft tradition that reflects the country’s diverse cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship. Shopping for these handmade items not only supports local artisans but also offers travelers a unique way to bring a piece of Vietnam’s culture back home. Here’s a guide to some of the best Vietnamese handicrafts and where to find them.
Silk Products
Where to Buy: Van Phuc Silk Village (Hanoi), Hoi An Silk Village, Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City)
What to Look For: Silk scarves, traditional ao dai (Vietnamese dress), pillowcases
Vietnamese silk is known for its fine quality and rich colors, with a weaving tradition that dates back centuries. In Van Phuc Silk Village near Hanoi, you’ll find high-quality silk products directly from local artisans, while Hoi An Silk Village offers an immersive experience where you can learn about the silk-making process from worm to fabric. For a quick buy, markets in major cities also offer a range of beautiful silk products.
Lacquerware
Where to Buy: Hanoi Old Quarter, Binh Tay Market (Ho Chi Minh City), traditional craft villages
What to Look For: Lacquered boxes, trays, wall art, jewelry
Lacquerware is one of Vietnam’s most iconic crafts, characterized by its vibrant colors and intricate designs. This art form involves coating wood items with lacquer made from tree resin, followed by inlaid mother-of-pearl or eggshell detailing. You can find unique lacquer pieces in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or explore specialized shops and villages where artisans create everything from trays to decorative wall art.
Ceramics and Pottery
Where to Buy: Bat Trang Village (Hanoi), Thanh Ha Village (Hoi An)
What to Look For: Vases, tea sets, bowls, incense burners
Bat Trang Village, located just outside of Hanoi, is a must-visit for ceramics lovers. Known for its high-quality clay and detailed designs, Bat Trang produces beautiful vases, bowls, and tea sets that showcase traditional Vietnamese patterns. Thanh Ha Village in Hoi An is another excellent destination for pottery, where you can watch artisans shape, fire, and paint each piece by hand.
Bamboo and Rattan Products
Where to Buy: Phu Vinh Village (Hanoi), craft shops in Hoi An and Hue
What to Look For: Baskets, trays, furniture, decorative items
Bamboo and rattan weaving is a long-standing craft in Vietnam, known for its sustainable, eco-friendly appeal. Artisans in Phu Vinh Village near Hanoi create intricate baskets, trays, and even furniture. These pieces are lightweight, durable, and add a touch of rustic charm to any space. Markets and specialty shops in Hoi An and Hue also offer a variety of woven items perfect for souvenirs.
Embroidery
Where to Buy: Sapa, Da Lat, craft markets in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
What to Look For: Tablecloths, pillowcases, wall hangings, bags
Embroidery is a traditional art form in Vietnam, especially in regions like Sapa, where ethnic minority groups produce beautiful hand-embroidered textiles. These pieces often feature intricate patterns inspired by nature and local folklore. Da Lat is another embroidery hotspot, known for its skillful craftsmanship and high-quality textiles. Look for delicately embroidered table linens, bags, and wall hangings at local markets.
Dong Ho Paintings
Where to Buy: Dong Ho Village (Bac Ninh Province), Hanoi craft shops
What to Look For: Traditional folk art prints featuring Vietnamese folklore and scenes of daily life
Dong Ho paintings are a unique form of Vietnamese folk art, created using woodblock printing techniques on handmade do paper. The paintings often depict scenes from Vietnamese folklore, rural life, or symbolic animals. You can buy authentic Dong Ho prints from Dong Ho Village or specialized craft shops in Hanoi, where artisans keep this traditional art alive.
Conical Hats (Non La)
Where to Buy: Chuong Village (near Hanoi), markets in Hue and Hoi An
What to Look For: Traditional conical hats, personalized hats with unique embroidery
The non la, or conical hat, is one of Vietnam’s most recognizable cultural symbols. Artisans in Chuong Village near Hanoi have been crafting non la for generations. These hats, made from palm leaves and bamboo, are both functional and symbolic. Some versions even include intricate embroidery or hand-painted designs. You’ll also find quality hats at local markets in Hue and Hoi An.
Tips for Shopping Vietnamese Handicrafts
- Look for Authenticity: Visit craft villages or specialized shops to ensure authenticity and support local artisans.
- Bargain Respectfully: Haggling is common in Vietnam, especially in markets. Polite negotiation can lead to a fair price.
- Mind the Weight: Handicrafts like ceramics can be heavy, so plan your luggage space accordingly.
- Respect Craftsmanship: These items are often made by hand with great skill—show appreciation for the artisan’s time and effort.
Conclusion
Vietnam’s handicrafts offer not only beautiful keepsakes but also a deeper connection to the country’s culture and traditions. Whether you’re picking up a lacquer box or a silk scarf, each piece has a story to tell, reflecting the skill and heritage of the artisans who crafted it. Happy shopping!
