Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Celebrating a Timeless 500-Year Pottery Legacy
Are you seeking a tourist spot around Hanoi? Well, Bat Trang ceramic village is a choice. Visiting this pottery village promises a day and a deep dive into Vietnam's cultural heritage spanning thousands of years showcased through ancient artifacts and historical remnants. Moreover, you can engage in crafting quality items tailored to your liking. So why delay? Allow us to furnish you with all the details, for this adventure!
1. History Of Bat Trang Village: Ceramic Art With Kaolin
Historical records indicate that the pottery village of Bát Tràng was founded during the Lý dynasty (1009–1225). Then five groups of potters—the Tran, Vuong, Nguyen-Le, and Phạm families—relocated to what's now known as Bát Tràng village, in Hà Nội. This area is abundant with clay.
![Panorama of Bat Trang pottery village seen from above](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-1.jpg)
Kaolin clay, also known as clay, plays a crucial role in ceramics due to its mineral content necessary for the production process. This type of clay offers heat resistance, ensuring the durability of pieces during high-temperature firing and making it an ideal raw material for ceramics. Utilizing these resources, they established the ceramics workshops.
![Kaolin is an ideal raw material for ceramics](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-2.jpg)
Despite enduring over 500 years of history and facing challenges over time, Bat Trang village has managed to retain its allure and stands as the oldest and most esteemed ceramic hub in the country.
2. Ceramic Manufacturing Process In Bat Trang
![The Ceramic Manufacturing Process in Bat Trang](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-3.jpg)
>>> For a more precise description:
-
Combustion in furnaces
Initially, potters used straw and bamboo to fuel the first kilns. Afterward, they started using a combination of different types of wood to burn ceramics. Later, coal dust from Quang Ninh became the main raw material for combustion, while firewood was only used to light the kiln.
Currently, 100% of ceramic-producing households in Bat Trang use gas kilns, electric kilns, and tunnel kilns (continuous kilns).
-
Ceramic glaze
Bat Trang ceramic glaze is processed and mixed by craftsmen according to specific standards. The most commonly used ingredient is ash yeast, made from rice husk ash from Que village and Luong village (Nam Ha), mixed with white clay and quicklime. These traditional glazes produce many beautiful colors on Bat Trang's famous ceramic products.
![Products after being glazed](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-4.jpg)
-
Rituals and Firebending
Artisans often perform prayer rituals to ensure the successful burning of the oven. The success of combustion is based on the control of fire, following the principle of gradually increasing the temperature until reaching the highest point, and then slowly decreasing after cooking.
Now, the modern use of gas and electric kilns makes the process faster and less painful for potters.
-
Product processing
Traditional Techniques: Bat Trang uses a turntable to shape the products.
Modern Improvements: Currently, craftsmen have added a motor to the turntables to save labor and increase efficiency.
![Bat Trang Finished Ceramic Products](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-5.jpg)
3. Must-Sees When Visiting The Village
-
The old village of Bat Trang
Old Bat Trang village is always an attraction that tourists cannot ignore because of its unique architectural beauty. Only two works are not to be missed in the ancient village of Hanoi:
- Van Vit's ancestral house: Standing for more than 200 years, this ancient house is a valuable heritage work. The texture of ceramic decoration is enormous; jars in the form of pieces, brass doors, items for investment, and the other earthenware of Uncle Ban, he always remembered everything of tourists when entering Bat Trang. Do not miss visiting the house of Tho family pottery production if you have the opportunity to visit Bat Trang.
Exterior image of the former house of Van Van
Bat Trang temple: The temple of Bat Trang was built in 1720. The temple, more than a spiritual place, is a place that preserves the ethereal heart of the ancient village. The temple contributed to a cohesive community and close family. Every year the temple organizes traditional festivals, which take place from the 13th to the 15th day of the second lunar month, to organize the worship of the gods and celebrate the love of the land, the tradition, and the history of the local community.
![The temple plays a vital role in strengthening community ties and bringing families together](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-7.jpg)
-
Bat Trang Pottery Market
If you want to buy some nice ceramic items to give as gifts, you can visit the authentic Bat Trang Ceramic shop, which is only about 100 meters from the bus stop. Most ceramic products, such as plates, utensils for religious rituals, decorations, cups, and bowls, are available at fairly affordable prices with a wide variety of designs.
In the market, there is also a small ceramic courtyard where tourists can observe and record the intricate process of pottery-making by the famous artisans.
![You will find plenty of ceramic products at abodable prices](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-8.jpg)
-
Bat Trang Pottery Museum - an exceptional cultural space
Upon entering the Bat Trang Pottery Museum, visitors will find the striking design of the visitor center, which has been skillfully and creatively designed to resemble a fancy spiral that reflects the village of Bat Trang. It is a modern structure made up of seven large spirals working together harmoniously in a strategic mesh formation, thus forming the idea of a flow. The museum demonstrates contemporary design using local fired bricks and symbols to showcase a fusion of culture and innovation in architecture.
![An exhibition in the Bat Trang Pottery Museum](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-10.jpg)
The Bat Trang Pottery Museum is a combination of museum spaces, a café, and a pottery workshop space that integrates a strong relationship between the village for you to explore, learn, and participate in ceramic workshops, giving you a glimpse of Vietnamese art and culture.
Entrance fees:
- Entrance ticket: 50,000 VND per person.
- Clay modeling experience: 70,000 VND per adult, 50,000 VND per child.
- Tea tasting and appreciation of the works at the Thiền Trà Hương Sa Art House: 40,000 VND per person.
- Traditional costume rental at Thien Tra Huong Sa Art House: 100,000 VND per session.
- Combo 1 - art mark: 189,000 VND per person.
- Combo 2 - Craft Space Experience: 249,000 VND per person.
![Museum entrance ticket](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-12.jpg)
Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (Monday to Friday) and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday).
-
Try to become an "amateur craftsman" at the pottery workshop
Most visitors who visit Bat Trang Village particularly enjoy the experience of creating clay and ceramic objects with their own hands. You will be carefully guided by the craftsmen on the use of clay and the manipulations on the potter's wheel. Once finished, your artwork will be baked, so you can take it home. This way, you will have a truly meaningful memory of your trip to Bat Trang Pottery Village!
![Come and create clay and ceramic objects with your own hands!](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-13.jpg)
The Great Pottery Workshops in Bat Trang:
In hamlet 3: Đại Việt, Vạn An Lộc, Lý Mậu and Mai Linh
In Hamlet 5: Hùng Lan and Minh Quang
-
Bat Trang's last traditional kiln: Guardian of the ceramic heritage
Historically, Bat Trang Village once had more than 20 traditional wood-fired kilns. The technological transition from wood to gas, however, sparked a steady decline for the once-vibrant traditional models.
Today, there is only one kiln remaining, the Song Hong B kiln with an area of 1,030 square meters, specifically Mrs. Ngan Hai's "Lo Bau." The kiln has not been operational for nearly 30 years, since it was last fired in 1990.
With a passion for ceramic art, Ms. Hai chose to maintain her kiln despite the space it occupies, and she considers herself fortunate to have continued to keep this relic alive. For her, it is about preserving a piece of Bat Trang's ceramic heritage.
![The Sông Hồng B oven](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-14.jpg)
As a living museum, the kiln represents a tangible experience for visitors to see the history of Bat Trang's centuries-old craft. The kiln is a massive draw for tourists, turning the former kiln style into a beautiful museum piece for others to enjoy and learn from.
![This former pottery kiln has become a tourist destination to discover the history of ceramic crafts](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-15.jpg)
-
Local gastronomy to discover
Bamboo and Squid Soup (canh măng xào mực): A specialty of Hanoi, made with fresh bamboo, squid, and natural seasonings like fish sauce, salt, pepper, and coriander. This dish offers a delicious and authentic dining experience.
![Bamboo and squid soup (canh măng xào mực)](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-16.jpg)
Sautéed Kohlrabi with Squid (su hào xào mực): A Vietnamese dish combining crunchy kohlrabi and tender squid, sautéed with oil, garlic, onion, and spices.
Bach Nhat Wine: Vietnamese wine made from herbs and plants, with a passionate aroma and unique flavor. Perfect for holidays and special events.
![Bach Nhat Wine is the traditional Vietnamese wine made from herbs and plants](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-17.jpg)
Wolf Flower Tea (chè hoa sói): Vietnamese drink, especially near the Bat Trang Ceramics Museum. Made from fresh wolf flowers, it offers a characteristic aroma and sweet flavor.
Sticky Rice with Sweet Soup (xôi chè): A North Vietnamese dish consisting of sticky rice with green beans and a sweet soup, offering a mild and nutritious flavor.
![Xoi Che is a popular Vietnamese dessert with a mild and nutritious flavor](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-18.jpg)
4. Itinerary To Visit Bat Trang Village In One Day
- Here is the itinerary for a day of sightseeing near Hanoi that visitors can check out:
- 7:45 am - 8:30 am: The bus departs for the pottery village of Bát Tràng
- 9:00 am: Visit and pottery experience at the manufacturing and glazing workshop
- 11:30 am: Rest and lunch at a local restaurant
- 1:30 pm: Shopping at Bát Tràng market; visit to Bát Tràng Temple
- 16:00: Return by bus to central Hanoi
![The Bat Trang village festival usually takes place during the second lunar month](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-19.jpg)
5. How To Get To Bat Trang Village?
The village of Bat Trang is situated on the banks of the Red River in the Gia Lam district, on the outskirts of the city of Hanoi, about 15 km away. As for foreign tourists who desire to visit this village from Hanoi, there are several choices:
-
Taxi or private car
In the most comfortable and flexible form, you can book a taxi or hire a car with a driver from Hanoi. This mode of transport provides comfortable seats for most and the convenience of being able to move as desired. The journey total is about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
-
Bus
You can catch a bus at many stops in the area around the Old Quarter of Hanoi to Long Bien transfer station. From here, you can catch bus number 47 to head towards Bat Trang Pottery Village. The cost is 7,000 VND for a one-way ticket.
![Bus 47A takes you to Bat Trang](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-20.jpg)
>>> Note: The 47A bus is in service every day from 05:00 to 21:00, with stops every 10 minutes. You can download the Moovit app or BusMap Hanoi to locate buses and easily follow routes.
-
On an organized excursion:
Many travel agencies offer day trips to Bat Trang Village from Hanoi. These tours often include round-trip transportation by bus or minivan, as well as a guided tour of the village and its pottery workshops.
6. Practical Tips For A Successful Visit
- Wear sneakers to make it easier to move.
- Visitors should be careful when moving around as this place sells many ceramic objects, which are very fragile.
- The space of Bat Trang pottery village is quite large. If you are travelling in a large group, especially with the elderly and young children, you must make the round trip by electric vehicle.
- Ceramic items are prone to chipping at the bottom and edge. Therefore, you should carefully inspect the ceramic before buying it.
![Many quality products are sold in Bat Trang Village](/pic/blog/images/bat-trang-ceramic-village-21.jpg)
Conclusion
All in all, Bat Trang stands as a testament to the thousand-year history of ceramics in Vietnam, as well as a hub of creativity and culture. Traveling through its alleys, strolling through its numerous workshops, and admiring the works of master craftsmen—these are all genuine, rewarding, and unforgettable experiences. Beyond being an attractive tourist destination, Bat Trang is a place that symbolizes the point where art meets tradition and is a melting pot of living heritage in Vietnam.
>>> Read also:
- Quang Phu Cau Incense Village and Vietnamese Worship Culture
- An Exceptional Visit to the Temple of Literature
- The 8 Best Things To Do in Hanoi
- Train Street in Hanoi: Complete Guide by Locals 2024
Quiz: Do you really know about Vietnam?
![Image Form Gift](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/67bcfd6e-e114-4195-8048-eea5a1c2abf6-w.800-q.80.jpg)
![<div class=fs18>Mrs. DUONG Thi Lan</div>Travel Consultant](/pic/reviews/226c2dac-350c-4f69-b162-dc4dc7f275b0.png)
![12 Best Restaurants and Places to Enjoy Cuisine in Hanoi [2024 UPDATED]](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/a2f55edf-0a8c-4ffe-b690-c3f1845ccaa5-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![The 8 Best Things To Do in Hanoi: A Complete Guide For First-Time Visitors!](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/76692b8b-8020-4dd3-b8ff-fcf2691478cb-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Top 15 Museums in Hanoi: Discover Vietnam Through Its History and Culture](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/caa9c29e-1703-450a-af62-a26c52633a8a-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Train Street in Hanoi: Complete Guide by Locals 2024](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/a051bdce-d0a8-43e4-b9c6-d12b250c62b8-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Dont Visit Tam Coc, Vietnam Without Knowing These 9 Essentials!](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/4f5ce035-f99d-4455-91d7-c58a658def8f-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Ninh Binh Travel Guide: 6 Essential Tips For First-Time Travelers](https://kampatour.com/pic/blog/cbd558da-e9ed-42b1-8fd6-542bfdc1690f-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Time to Visit Vietnam: The Ultimate Weather Guide](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/d01b3dbf-e55b-4ed3-b531-23be8c361e34-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Best Vietnam SIM Card for Tourists 2024: All You Need To Know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/12467b01-7d18-47d4-8d7b-6080d7584f02-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Cultural Immersion Through Homestays in Vietnam with Local Hosts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/f4d0940b-6240-4a5a-8b67-251ca2952b01-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![How to Travel to Vietnam? Your Ultimate Guide to Reaching Vietnam!](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/bb0ee7fe-b2da-4353-a78a-8a14dc1ecb38-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Travel insurance Vietnam 2024: FULL advice from local experts](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/e3900759-eb3d-47c1-8407-36bdf27a6e80-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Ultimate Vietnam Travel Tips: Plan Your Perfect Trip](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/aaafc36f-942f-4324-9489-377d2cc7b13d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Unlocking Vietnam: Visa Guide for African Travelers 2024](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2cfab5c8-7ca7-4da2-9024-5a4ae46caf21-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam E-Visa 2024: Your Gateway to Seamless Travel](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/9ae60b83-7143-4541-b48d-86dca097b8a1-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Tourist Map 2024: Your Most Complete Guide to Regions](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/b2e95615-5f21-4623-b301-f4406ca64cf7-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam Visa Exemption 2024: All you need to know](https://kampatour.com/pic/news/2f11b2f8-b70b-44c1-8636-e7b8dd46645b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/fa272018-f44d-442c-a61f-7b82dce336b2-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/c05458d4-f7bd-4d8a-ac50-f2a4f357e461-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/1fdc001c-15a1-4dfa-9519-7fe0ba4fcca0-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/4776f463-60f3-4857-9170-664fdefb6065-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/9e44b2ef-e921-456e-a016-16147dfb425d-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/81786ae1-8ae6-450d-9ff8-1820e878eff0-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b0fc9719-f5ed-4cfa-babb-eea49c5078d9-w.100-q.80.jpg)
![10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/6af9fac3-2be3-4a50-bba3-584ea06c315b-w.360-q.80.jpg)
10 Days, 10 Colors: A Journey from South to North Vietnam
Discover Vietnam's vibrant diversity from south to north in 10 days. Start on the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and end at the majestic waters of Halong Bay; each stop promises a unique adventure. With this tour, you can explore breathtaking destinations and experience the diverse cultures of Vietnam. Each destination on this South to North Vietnam expedition is handpicked to showcase the country's iconic beauty, ensuring you create lasting memories.
![7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b631c036-28a0-4b39-a18b-56e1ce09a81e-w.360-q.80.jpg)
7-Day Scenic North Vietnam Trekking
Set off on a captivating 7-day trekking adventure through the majestic landscapes of North Vietnam. Trek through Dong Van, navigate winding paths, and explore traditional villages, all while marveling at the extraordinary natural beauty. Traverse the Nho Que River, witness the stunning Ban Gioc Waterfall, and discover the allure of the Cao Bang region amidst the rich tapestry of mountains, valleys, and picturesque rice terraces. Ideal for those who love adventure and are sportive.
![Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/fa272018-f44d-442c-a61f-7b82dce336b2-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Exotic Northeast Vietnam 10 Days
Escape the ordinary and lose yourself in the magic of exotic North Vietnam for 10 days trekking, where breathtaking landscapes unfold around every bend and vibrant cultures of ethnic minorities of S-shaped country color your every encounter. This carefully curated tour will take you beyond the usual tourist trail and delve into the heart and soul of this captivating corner of Vietnam. Our 10-day tour program offers a unique journey through history, culture, and natural wonders.
![Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/c05458d4-f7bd-4d8a-ac50-f2a4f357e461-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Exploration from Northern to Central Vietnam in 12 days
This budget-friendly 12-day itinerary from the North to the Central regions of Vietnam is sure to captivate you. We have thoughtfully balanced this tour to combine structured activities with free days for personal discovery and leisure. Experience overnight stays with local families in Bac Ha, evenings on traditional junk boats in Halong Bay, vibrant weekly markets, scenic hiking trails, and more. This tour offers a gateway to Vietnam's spirit and heritage, all within a concise 12 days!
![Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/1fdc001c-15a1-4dfa-9519-7fe0ba4fcca0-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Natural Highlights of North Vietnam in 5 Days
Embark on an easy and accessible Vietnam tour with this North Vietnam itinerary 5 days, perfect for everyone. Explore the natural beauty of Mai Chau, Pu Luong Nature Reserve, and Ninh Binh, often dubbed 'Halong Bay on land,' before concluding your journey in Hanoi. Immerse yourself in vibrant rice terraces, explore traditional Thai villages, and cruise the serene waters. Let this adventure ignite your soul, leaving you with lasting memories of this captivating region. This Northern Vietnam itinerary 5 days is ideal for discovering the charm and beauty of northern Vietnam.
![The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/4776f463-60f3-4857-9170-664fdefb6065-w.360-q.80.jpg)
The Best of Northern Vietnam in 7 Days: All-Inclusive
Embark on a 7-day adventure highlighting North Vietnam to explore the magnificent landscapes of Halong Bay, Ninh Binh (often referred to as "Halong Bay on land"), and the breathtaking northern rice terraces. Engage with the exotically beautiful high plateaus, valleys, and settlements. This route, a haven for photographers, offers endless opportunities to capture stunning vistas that epitomize the serene and rugged landscapes of the region.
![Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/9e44b2ef-e921-456e-a016-16147dfb425d-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Travel to Northern Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days
Two of the destinations that cannot be missed that year are Vietnam and Thailand. This trip to Vietnam and Thailand in 14 days will give you excellent experiences and best moments. You will have the opportunity to discover the northern part of Vietnam in a profound way. Visit destinations, monuments and heritage in Hanoi, Ninh Binh and Halong Bay. Enjoy Thai cuisine and learn more about its culture, as well as the daily life of local people.
![Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/81786ae1-8ae6-450d-9ff8-1820e878eff0-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam in 12 Days: From the North to the South
This 12-day Vietnam from North to South itinerary is meticulously designed for travelers to start their adventure in the vibrant capital, Hanoi, and conclude in the dynamic Ho Chi Minh City. Our comprehensive tour takes you through Vietnam's enchanting central region, including the historic city of Hue and the charming town of Hoi An. Along the way, you'll explore the rich tapestry of cultural and natural wonders, all wrapped in an unforgettable 12-day journey through Vietnam.
![Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks](https://kampatour.com/pic/tour/b0fc9719-f5ed-4cfa-babb-eea49c5078d9-w.360-q.80.jpg)
Vietnam’s North to South Highlights in 2 Weeks
Our Vietnam 2-week itinerary from north to south offers an overview of the country's three main regions, shaped like an S. To the north, you will visit Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital, experience both the maritime and terrestrial beauty of Halong Bay, and make an excursion to the splendid mountains of Sapa. In the center, explore the ancient imperial city of Hue and the charming old town of Hoi An. The journey concludes in the south with visits to Ho Chi Minh City and the vibrant Mekong Delta. Below are our program suggestions for a comprehensive Vietnam 2-week itinerary in Vietnam.