Discover the Top 5 Traditional Craft Villages in Vietnam: Where Heritage Becomes Handcrafted Art

Discover the Traditional Craft Villages in Vietnam: Where Culture is Handcrafted.Beyond Vietnam’s vibrant cities and stunning natural landscapes lies a quieter, deeply cultural realm — the traditional craft villages in Vietnam. These timeless communities are guardians of heritage, where artisanal techniques are passed down through generations and where ordinary materials are transformed into extraordinary works of art. Step into a world where Vietnam’s culture is crafted by hand and explore five of the most remarkable traditional craft villages in Vietnam.

1. Dong Xam Village – A Traditional Craft Village in Vietnam for Silver Engraving

Located in Hong Thai Commune, Dong Xam Silver Village boasts over 600 years of legacy in silver engraving. Established in the late Tran Dynasty, the village has become a cradle for Vietnamese silver craftsmanship, producing breathtakingly intricate silver artworks using traditional tools like chisels and hammers.

Here, the “chạm” engraving technique stands out as the pinnacle of skill, demanding absolute precision. A single slip can destroy days of work — a testament to the artisans’ commitment to perfection. Visiting Dong Xam means witnessing silver transformed into masterpieces, each reflecting centuries of cultural pride.

Top things to do in Dong Xam Village:

• Visit Dong Xam Temple, a highlight of this traditional craft village in Vietnam, to learn about the silver carving heritage.

• Join the Dong Xam Festival (1st–3rd day of the 4th lunar month) featuring boat racing and traditional chèo and ca trù singing.

• Discover and shop for exquisite handcrafted silver souvenirs that showcase the artistry of traditional craft villages in Vietnam.

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2. Dong Tam – A Traditional Vietnamese Craft Village for Shrimp Trap Weaving

Nestled in Yen Bai’s Phuc An Commune, Dong Tam Village is renowned for its shrimp trap-weaving tradition dating back to the 1970s. This communal craft involves all generations, showcasing the resilience and teamwork of rural Vietnamese life.

What makes Dong Tam special is its emphasis on quality and aesthetic value. Each shrimp trap is woven with meticulous care, making them both functional and visually appealing. This blend of artistry and practicality has earned Dong Tam’s products acclaim across the region.

Top experiences in Dong Tam Village:

• Join a weaving workshop and craft your own trap with local artisans.

• Enjoy a boat ride on Thac Ba Lake and see the traps in action.

• Join a cultural exchange session to learn the Dao ethnic group’s folk dance — an enriching highlight of Vietnam’s traditional craft villages.

3. Dong Trieu – Explore Traditional Ceramics in a Pottery Village of Vietnam

Just 60 km from Ha Long City, Dong Trieu Ceramics Village is a hidden gem for lovers of traditional pottery. Though younger than villages like Bat Trang, Dong Trieu is known for its handcrafted ceramic art that blends elegance with authenticity.

Here, “heavy fire” ceramic techniques are still in use, relying on wood-fired kilns that create natural, rich glaze variations. This hands-on, traditional approach ensures each piece carries a distinct personality and lasting durability.

Must-do activities in Dong Trieu Village:

• Watch the entire pottery-making process, from clay shaping to kiln firing.

• Try your hand at making and painting your own ceramic piece.

• Purchase unique ceramics such as teapots, plates, and vases at fair prices in one of the traditional craft villages in Vietnam.

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4. Sa Huynh Salt Village – A Coastal Traditional Craft Village in Vietnam

Located along the sun-soaked coast of Quang Ngai, Sa Huynh Salt Village is one of Vietnam’s most visually stunning and culturally rich destinations. With over 110 hectares of glimmering salt fields, Sa Huynh offers a mesmerizing blend of natural beauty and traditional salt harvesting.

The ancient process begins by channeling seawater into shallow fields, where it undergoes a three-sun drying method. As water evaporates, large white salt crystals form — pure, clean, and essential to Vietnamese cuisine. The result is a shimmering landscape that captures the soul of coastal Vietnam.

Highlights of a visit to Sa Huynh Village:

• Walk through the salt fields at sunrise or sunset for unforgettable photo opportunities.

• Harvest salt with local farmers and learn this age-old trade.

• Taste local dishes made with freshly harvested sea salt for a unique culinary experience.

5. Doi Tam Drum Craft Village – The Beat of Tradition in Ha Nam

With over 1,000 years of history, Doi Tam Village is the heartbeat of Vietnam’s traditional drum-making culture. Located in Ha Nam Province, this village is famed for producing drums used in festivals, temples, and traditional performances nationwide.

Crafting a Doi Tam drum involves multiple specialized tools and steps. Each drum is made from carefully selected wood and buffalo hide, shaped and tuned by hand to produce a deep, resonant sound that’s become a symbol of Vietnamese culture.

What to experience in Doi Tam Drum Village:

• Watch the drum-making process from raw materials to final tuning.

• Try playing a traditional drum under the guidance of local artisans.

• Attend a live drum performance during festivals — a truly unforgettable cultural experience in one of the traditional craft villages in Vietnam.

Why You Should Visit Traditional Craft Villages in Vietnam

From silver engraving and ceramic pottery to salt harvesting and drum making, these traditional craft villages in Vietnam are living museums of cultural artistry. Each village tells a story of heritage, community, and timeless dedication to craftsmanship. Visiting them offers a unique travel experience that connects you deeply with Vietnam’s heart and soul.