Thanh Ha Pottery Village is an unmissable stop for those who love to explore traditional values when visiting Hoi An. Located beside the poetic Thu Bon River, this craft village has existed and developed for over 500 years, becoming the cradle of Quang-style earthenware art. Join Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery in exploring this craft village through exciting experiences in the article below!
Overview of Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Thanh Ha Pottery Village lies peacefully on the banks of the Thu Bon River, about 2–3 km from Hoi An Ancient Town, with a history of over 500 years. It was once a renowned pottery production center in Quang Nam, contributing to the formation of a distinctive cultural identity of old Hoi An.
Historically, Thanh Ha Pottery Village was established around the 16th century by groups of potters migrating from Thanh Hoa and Nghe An. They settled along the Thu Bon River and developed traditional handmade pottery. In the 17th–18th centuries, as Hoi An port flourished as a major trade hub, Thanh Ha pottery saw significant growth, with products not only used domestically but also exported to Asian and European markets.
In the 19th century, production gradually shifted to the Nam Dieu area, which had better clay and easier access. During the 20th century, the pottery craft faced difficulties due to the emergence of modern materials and fierce competition, but thanks to the determination of the villagers, the craft was preserved through generations. In particular, in 2019, Thanh Ha pottery was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage, marking a meaningful milestone in preserving and promoting the traditional values of the village.Despite many ups and downs, the village retains its rustic charm and traditional handcrafted pottery techniques.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices (Updated 2025)
If you’re planning to visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village in 2025, please check the opening hours and ticket prices below to better plan your trip.
| Location | Adults | Children | Notes |
| Thanh Ha Pottery Village | 35,000 VND | 15,000 VND (under 1.2 meters) | Free admission for children under 1.2 meters |
| Terracotta Park | 50,000 VND | 30,000 VND (ages 3–14), free <3y | Applies to both domestic and international visitors |
Notes:
- The ticket includes entry to the village, watching artisans work, and visiting historical sites like Xuan My Communal House and the craft founder areas.
- Some places also offer small souvenir gifts with the ticket.
- Tickets are valid for 24 hours from the first use.
- For groups of 8 or more people or those using internal electric vehicles, free tour guide support may be available while maintaining regular ticket prices.
How to Get to Thanh Ha Pottery Village
To begin your journey of discovering Thanh Ha Pottery Village, it’s helpful to know the most convenient ways to travel from Hoi An Ancient Town to this riverside village along the Thu Bon River.
The distance is only about 2–3 km, and below are two popular routes favored by visitors for their ease and scenic views.
- Route via Hung Vuong – Duy Tan Streets: From the center of Hoi An Ancient Town, follow Hung Vuong Street, then turn onto Duy Tan Street. Continue straight for about 500 meters, and at the first intersection, turn left as directed, you’ll arrive at Thanh Ha Pottery Village. This route is easy to follow and suitable for motorbikes, bicycles, and private cars.
- Route along the Thu Bon River: Alternatively, you can choose the riverside road running along the Thu Bon River, heading from the Ancient Town towards National Highway 1A. On this route, you’ll pass through the Thanh Ha fish market area, and after a short distance further, you’ll reach the village. This path is airy, shaded, and ideal for those who want to enjoy riverside scenery along the way.
Best time to visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village
The best time to visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village is from February to April. This period features dry, cool weather with minimal rainfall – perfect for sightseeing, hands-on pottery experiences, and taking memorable photos. If you’re planning to visit Hoi An during the dry season that lasts until around August, it’s still a good time to visit the village. However, avoid the midday heat and prioritize early morning or late afternoon visits for a more comfortable experience.
Meanwhile, from September to January, it’s the rainy season, with slippery roads and a higher risk of flooding. If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to prepare carefully.
Unmissable experiences at Thanh Ha Pottery Village
When you arrive at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, you’ll have the opportunity to explore many meaningful and exciting activities. Below are experiences no one should miss to fully appreciate the charm of this 500-year-old craft village.
Watch skilled pottery wheel techniques by Village Artisans
One of the most memorable experiences is witnessing firsthand the skillful pottery wheel techniques of the artisans. Each movement of their hands shows precision, patience, and craftsmanship passed down through generations. Bowls, vases, jars, and other pieces are shaped entirely by hand, reflecting the rustic yet distinctive style of Thanh Ha pottery. Observing this process allows you to deeply feel the artisans’ passion and the cultural values preserved for over 500 years.
Make pottery with the artisans
While at the village, you should try your hand at shaping clay and creating your own piece on the spinning wheel. With guidance from the artisans, you can make a small bowl, animal figure, or charming flower vase. Touching the clay and seeing your creation take form is both relaxing and delightful, especially when shared with friends or family.
Visit traditional kilns and the Terracotta Park
As you stroll through the peaceful village, you’ll come across traditional wood-fired kilns still in use. Here, pottery is fired at high temperatures, producing signature colors like deep red, brownish yellow, and pale pink, hallmarks of Thanh Ha craftsmanship.
Continue your exploration by visiting the Terracotta Park, located right within the village. This space is like a miniature clay world, showcasing iconic architectural works recreated in vivid and detailed clay form. The harmony between traditional pottery art and creative design offers a fascinating and memorable experience.
Discover the ancient village and pottery culture
Exploring the ancient village and pottery heritage feels like stepping into a nostalgic Central Vietnam setting. You’ll enjoy walking on red-brick paths, passing moss-covered old roofs—each corner carrying traces of time.
Don’t forget to visit Xuan My Communal House, where stories about the village’s history and the potters’ legacy are kept. If you visit during a festival, you may witness traditional events tied to pottery, gaining a deeper appreciation of the cultural rhythm and pride of the local community.
Try fun traditional folk games
Participating in fun folk games is also a worthwhile experience at Thanh Ha. Some locations in the village organize traditional games such as pot smashing, speed pottery contests, or two-person pottery wheel challenges. If you’re visiting with friends or young children, this will surely be a joyful and unforgettable moment.
Relax and enjoy light local refreshments
After exploring, you can stop by a small roadside shop to enjoy herbal tea or refreshing sugarcane juice with some local snacks. The quiet village ambiance, with the faint scent of fired clay in the air, helps you feel at ease, like you’ve briefly escaped the busy city to enjoy a peaceful momet.
Notes for visiting Thanh Ha Pottery Village
To ensure a smooth visit with meaningful experiences at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, you should keep in mind a few simple tips below.
- Clothing and Preparation: Wear comfortable clothes and shoes or sandals that are easy to walk in, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking in the village. Bring sunscreen, a hat, an umbrella or a light raincoat, and some drinking water to stay hydrated under the hot sun.
- Safety Notes: Avoid getting too close to the kilns, as high temperatures can cause burns. When taking photos or observing the artisans at work, maintain a respectful distance and ask for permission to avoid disrupting their work.
- Opening Hours and Visitor Volume: The village is usually open from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Tickets are valid for the entire day and allow multiple entries. If you visit on weekends or holidays, it’s best to arrive early or book a tour in advance to avoid crowds and reduce wait times.
- Special Events: If you visit on the 9th or 10th day of the 7th lunar month, you’ll have the chance to attend the Pottery Founder’s Anniversary Festival. This traditional event features folk rituals, craft-related games, and a festive atmosphere rich in local cultural identity.
Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery – A Riverside Retreat by the Thu Bon River
We hope this article has provided you with helpful information about Thanh Ha Pottery Village to plan a truly fulfilling trip to Hoi An. If you’re looking for a place that offers both convenient access and premium relaxation, Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is undoubtedly an ideal choice. Thanks to its central location, the hotel allows you to easily explore Thanh Ha Pottery Village and other famous destinations in the Ancient Town.
After a day of immersing yourself in traditional culture, it’s wonderful to return to a room that is both comfortable, luxurious, and artistically inspiring. The design blends refined Asian and European elements, inspired by the romantic love story of Sotaro Araki and Princess Ngoc Hoa. The hotel also features top-tier amenities, including:
- Wakaku – a 5-star Japanese restaurant
- Faifo Cafe – offering a diverse buffet of Vietnamese and international dishes
- The Deck – the highest rooftop bar in Hoi An
- River Bar, The Attic Bar, a luxurious spa, and a range of unique on-site cultural experiences
Every moment of your stay at Hotel Royal Hoi An Gallery is marked by thoughtful hospitality, while opening up many opportunities to connect with and discover the charm of the ancient town.
Wishing you a journey full of inspiration and unforgettable memories in Hoi An!
