BÁT TRÀNG

Despite being only about 15 kilometers away from the heart of Vietnam’s capital, Bát Tràng feels like a world apart, peaceful, slow-paced, and deeply rooted in tradition. The village is more than famous among Vietnamese but just like every other places I talk about here, it is one that is often overlooked by most foreign visitors, making it even more rewarding to discover.

Along the curve of the Red River, Bát Tràng is best known for its centuries-old ceramic tradition. The village dates back over 700 years, its origins often traced to the Lý dynasty, when skilled potters from Bồ Bát village (Ninh Bình) relocated here, attracted by the area's fine white clay. Since then, Bát Tràng has flourished as a center of ceramic artistry, exporting its work not only throughout Vietnam but around the world.  

As usual, what struck me most wasn’t just the craftsmanship, it was the atmosphere. The first thing we notice after stepping in was the quiet. Less honking, no traffic chaos, none of the usual mess of Hanoi. It really feels like another city. That's what I've been looking for in Bat Trang, the kind of place where we can instinctively slow down our pace. Roaming into the neihborhoods charming streets full of plants and showcasing ceramics or the narrow brick walls alleys, sometimes allowing only one person to pass at a time, among the ceramics workshops is worth the trip alone.

LThe village is quite small but here’s plenty to see in Bát Tràng and it never feels crowded, even visiting during the touristic high-season. I'd just reccomend going on week day if possible. One essential stop is the Bát Tràng Pottery Museum, an impressive structure inspired by a rotating potter’s wheel. Inside it showcases a rich collection of ceramics, from rustic household items to refined artworks, and even offers pottery-making experiences for visitors.

Before leaving, I also really recommend stopping by Chùa Tiêu Dao, a beautiful temple located just north of the old town. Nearly as old as the village itself, the temple stands out for its distinctive five-story pagoda and remarkable use of Bát Tràng ceramics. Statues, walls, pillars, and even parts of the roof are entirely decorated with locally crafted ceramic pieces. It's a perfect place to continue admiring the skill and creativity of the artisans through both spiritual and artistic expression