Hanoi Dong Ho Painting Village & Clay Statue Making Village

If you’re after a glimpse into Vietnam’s traditional craftsmanship, a tour of Dong Ho Painting Village and Clay Statue Making Village offers a fascinating window into centuries-old folk art. This carefully curated experience combines artistic discovery with genuine encounters with local artisans, making it perfect for those interested in culture, history, and handcrafted art.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the detailed process of creating Dong Ho paintings—from carving woodblocks to mixing natural colors—gives you a newfound respect for Vietnamese folk art. Second, meeting artisans like Phung Dinh Giap at Clay Statue Village adds a personal, human touch, revealing the dedication behind each handcrafted figure. Lastly, the chance to see these vibrant, meaningful pieces in their cultural context makes this an enriching half-day adventure.

That said, it’s worth noting that this experience involves quite a bit of walking and standing, which might not suit everyone. The 5-hour duration is relatively relaxed, but be prepared for some time on the move. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a meaningful, hands-on cultural experience that’s both educational and visually captivating.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: Learn about traditional techniques used in Dong Ho painting and clay statue making.
• Cultural significance: Discover how these artworks reflect Vietnamese beliefs, wishes, and stories.
• Artisan encounters: Meet and interact with local craftspeople committed to preserving these arts.
• Natural materials: See how earth, seashells, and coal are transformed into vibrant colors.
• Durability & tradition: Understand how sticky rice paste keeps Dong Ho paintings lasting through time.
• Value for money: At $53, this tour offers a comprehensive cultural experience with expert guides.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins with a pickup in Hanoi, typically with a private group arrangement. This personalized setup means you’re likely to enjoy a more relaxed, intimate atmosphere compared to larger coach tours. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, which is ample time to enjoy both villages without feeling rushed.

Transportation is organized for convenience, allowing you to focus entirely on the sightseeing and learning. The tour is available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, and others, which means the guidance is tailored to your language preferences.

The Charm of Dong Ho Painting Village

Located along the southern bank of the Duong River Dyke, Dong Ho Painting Village has been a hub of folk art since the 11th century. This long history means you’re walking through a place where tradition is woven into everyday life.

What to expect here?
You’ll learn about the intricate process of making Dong Ho paintings. Artisans carve detailed woodblocks, which are then used to produce images that carry deep meanings—wishes for luck, scenes from daily life, or stories from Vietnamese folklore. The process is surprisingly sustainable, using natural materials like earth, seashells, coal, and even charcoal to produce vibrant, earthy hues.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this art form is the use of sticky rice paste, which coats the paintings and helps them withstand sunlight and time. This technique means the paintings are durable keepsakes, not just decorative pieces.

Themes and symbols:
Dong Ho paintings often depict themes like “Jealous Fight,” “A Market Day,” or “The Frog Teacher”, each reflecting cultural values or humorous stories. These images are not only beautiful but also serve as storytelling tools that preserve cultural narratives and customs.

Authentic experience:
Visitors have noted that local artisans are eager to share their stories and techniques, making each visit feel personal. Several reviews highlight how the artisans regard their crafts as a vital part of Vietnamese identity, showcasing pride and dedication.

Visiting Dong Khe Village and Meeting Phung Dinh Giap

Next, the tour takes you to Dong Khe Village, where Clay Statue making is still a living tradition. You’ll meet artisan Phung Dinh Giap, who has devoted his life to creating traditional clay figures.

The process:
You’ll see how clay is carefully dug, prepared, and shaped into figures representing Buddha, children, turtles, birds, and old men. The painstaking craftsmanship involves shaping, painting, and sometimes adding small accessories. Each piece holds cultural significance, often linked to festivals like the Mid-Autumn Festival, where toys and figurines played an important role.

According to reviews, Giap’s family is passionate about keeping this craft alive. Visitors can observe the entire process, from digging the clay to the final painting, gaining a real appreciation for the skill involved. One reviewer appreciated the chance to see how traditional figures are made from scratch and described Giap as a dedicated artisan with a warm personality.

Cultural context:
Clay statues symbolized more than toys—they represented spiritual and cultural values. This tour helps you understand the cultural significance of these figures, especially their role in community festivals and daily life.

The Experience’s Highlights and Practical Details

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Why is this tour valuable?

• Learning craftsmanship up close: Watching artisans at work provides insight that photos or exhibitions simply can’t offer.
• Understanding cultural symbolism: Each painting and statue has stories and beliefs behind it, enriching your appreciation.
• Natural and sustainable methods: Seeing how traditional colors are made from earth, seashells, and coal connects you to eco-friendly art practices.
• Interaction with local artisans: Personal conversations with craftspeople like Phung Dinh Giap deepen the experience and foster authentic connections.

What about the logistics?

The tour is priced at $53 per person, which includes transportation, guide, and entry to both villages. Considering the depth of experience and the chance to see artisans working firsthand, the cost is quite reasonable—especially for travelers keen on cultural authenticity over superficial sightseeing.

The guided nature of the tour, available in multiple languages, ensures you’re not only observing but also understanding the stories behind each piece. On top of that, the flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind should your plans change.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility challenges. However, expect some walking and standing during visits, so comfortable shoes are recommended. It’s best suited for travelers interested in handmade arts, Vietnamese culture, or history, and those wanting an interactive experience outside typical tourist spots.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

Participants mention the personalized nature of the tour, with guides providing detailed explanations about the process and history. One reviewer said, “The artisans eagerly shared their techniques, and it was like stepping into a living museum.” Others appreciated the hands-on aspect, especially at the clay village, describing it as a “rare glimpse into traditional craftsmanship.”

Some noted the importance of being prepared to stand or walk fairly comfortably for about two hours at each village, as well as to absorb the cultural stories shared by the artisans.

If you’re craving a meaningful dive into Vietnamese folk traditions and enjoy engaging with local artisans, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of education, culture, and authentic craftsmanship. It’s ideal for travelers who appreciate hands-on experiences and want to see how traditional art forms are kept alive today.

While it’s a short, focused trip, the depth of insight you gain about Dong Ho paintings and clay statues makes this a worthwhile investment. Plus, the chance to meet passionate artisans like Giap adds an irreplaceable personal touch.

For anyone eager to connect with Vietnam’s cultural roots beyond bustling streets and tourist sites, this experience is a genuine treasure.

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes organized transportation from Hanoi, making it convenient to focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.

How long do the visits to each village last?
You’ll spend about one hour at Dong Ho Painting Village and around two hours at Dong Khe Village, allowing ample time to observe, learn, and interact.

Can I see the actual process of making paintings and statues?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to show you the full process—from carving woodblocks and mixing colors to shaping clay figures—giving you an inside look at these traditional crafts.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most likely, yes. However, due to some walking involved and the focus on craftsmanship, it’s best suited for those comfortable standing and walking for periods.

What are the themes of Dong Ho paintings?
They often depict themes like luck, daily life scenes, and popular stories—such as “Jealous Fight” or “The Frog Teacher”—which reflect Vietnamese culture and beliefs.

Is this tour good for photography?
Yes, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to photograph artisans at work, vibrant paintings, and charming statues, especially during the process demonstrations.

Can I buy the artworks directly from the artisans?
While not explicitly stated, it’s common at such tours for artisans to sell their works or offer them as souvenirs, so don’t hesitate to ask if interested.

This tour provides a wonderful opportunity to witness Vietnam’s vibrant folk arts firsthand, gain cultural insights, and meet passionate artisans. Whether you’re an art lover or a curious traveler, it’s a meaningful way to spend half a day exploring Vietnam’s creative soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: