Thanh Ha Pottery Village – Where Clay Tells Stories
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is a must-see in Hoi An, where you can explore a traditional craft village and experience authentic pottery making.
Nestled just 3 kilometers west of Hoi An’s ancient town, Thanh Ha Pottery Village stands as a living testament to centuries of Vietnamese craftsmanship and cultural richness. With a history stretching back over 500 years, this traditional pottery village offers visitors a unique window into the art, history, and daily life of the region. Whether you are a culture enthusiast or simply looking for an authentic experience, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is a must-visit destination in Hoi An.
Origin, History, and Meaning of the Name
Historical Background
Thanh Ha Pottery Village has a history of over 500 years, dating back to the 16th century. The craft of pottery was first established in Thanh Liem village before gradually relocating to the present-day Thanh Ha area. This transition was driven by skilled craftsmen migrating south from northern provinces such as Thanh Hoa and Nghe An, bringing with them their traditional ceramic techniques.
The village's golden age occurred during the 16th and 17th centuries when Thanh Ha ceramics were not only favored by locals but also offered as tribute to the royal court and exported to countries like Japan, China, and Spain. Its prosperity was closely linked to the flourishing Hoi An Port — once a bustling international trade hub — and the abundant, high-quality clay sourced from the banks of the Thu Bon River.
However, during the 18th and 19th centuries, the village experienced a significant decline. Economic fluctuations, wars, and competition from industrialized crafts contributed to the downturn in production. By the 20th century, Thanh Ha pottery faced the risk of disappearing altogether. Fortunately, thanks to the dedication of local artisans and the support of the local government, the village was revived and has since regained its status as an essential part of Hoi An’s cultural and tourism landscape.
The Meaning Behind the Name
The name “Thanh Ha” is more than just a geographical label — it embodies the heritage and spirit of this traditional craft village. For local residents, Thanh Ha pottery is not merely a handmade product; it is a cultural symbol, where "earth is transformed into soul." Each piece of clay is carefully shaped and fired to create artworks that reflect the artisans' skill, sensitivity, and passion.
The Cultural Value and Heritage of Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is more than just a centuries-old craft village — it is a vibrant cultural symbol of Hoi An and Quang Nam Province. In 2019, the traditional pottery craft of Thanh Ha was officially recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. This prestigious title honors the historical, artistic, and cultural significance that the village has preserved and nurtured over the past five centuries.
Thanh Ha ceramics have made a remarkable contribution to shaping the ancient architecture of Hoi An. The rooftops, tiles, and bricks that give the Old Town its distinctive charm were largely crafted using materials from Thanh Ha. These handmade elements are essential in maintaining the authenticity and traditional aesthetics of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Beyond physical artifacts, the village holds a rich reservoir of folk knowledge and craftsmanship. Local artisans continue to pass down age-old skills — from kneading and shaping the clay to firing it in traditional kilns — all done without molds, relying solely on their hands, intuition, and years of experience. As artisan Nguyen Van Hoa, who has worked in the village for over four decades, shared:
“Each piece of pottery carries the soul of the maker. It’s not just clay — it’s memory, tradition, and pride.”
Thanh Ha stands today as a living symbol of Quang Nam’s artisanal spirit, reflecting the resilience and creativity of its people. Despite the challenges of time, modernization, and economic shifts, the village has stayed true to its roots. The dedication of local potters has helped breathe new life into the craft, turning it into a meaningful cultural tourism experience that appeals to both domestic and international visitors.
Being recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage is not only a great honor, but also a profound responsibility. For the community of Thanh Ha, this designation serves as both a source of pride and a driving force — encouraging future generations to continue preserving the craft, innovating within tradition, and sharing the unique story of Thanh Ha pottery with the world.
Thanh Ha is a living testament to enduring tradition and a source of pride for the people of Quang Nam. It preserves and passes on age-old values, contributing to the unique cultural charm that defines Hoi An today.
The Traditional Pottery-Making Process in Thanh Ha Village
Natural Clay – The Heart of Thanh Ha Pottery
What makes Thanh Ha pottery truly special is the fine yellow clay, sourced directly from the banks of the Thu Bon River. This clay is collected from a depth of 50 to 100 cm, where it’s clean, pure, and naturally pliable — ideal for shaping durable, beautiful ceramic pieces. Locals often say, “The river gives us more than water — it gives life to our craft.”
Step-by-Step: A Craft Rooted in Tradition
Unlike modern factory-made ceramics, Thanh Ha pottery is still crafted almost entirely by hand, following methods passed down for generations. Here’s how a simple lump of clay becomes a piece of living art:
🔸 Clay Preparation
Once the clay is collected, it’s carefully cleaned to remove impurities, then kneaded over and over again until it reaches the right level of softness and elasticity. This step is crucial — as artisans say, “If the clay isn’t happy, the pottery won’t smile.”
🔸 Shaping
Using a traditional kick-wheel, artisans mold each item by hand — no molds, no shortcuts. This part demands skill, intuition, and years of experience. Every curve and line must be felt and formed with precision. Watching a potter work is like watching a dancer: smooth, focused, and deeply connected to their material.
🔸 Drying & Refining
After shaping, the pottery is left to dry naturally under the sun. Once firm, each piece is refined by hand: edges are smoothed, proportions adjusted, and details perfected — all by touch and sight. No two pieces are ever exactly alike.
🔸 Glazing (for tiles and roofing materials)
Some products like bricks or tiles are glazed with a mix of natural materials such as copper, lead, hematite, and kaolin. This not only adds a glossy finish but also protects the piece from the elements and increases durability.
🔸 Firing
Finally, the pottery is fired in traditional brick kilns fueled by wood. This stage requires constant attention. Skilled artisans monitor the smoke color and check test pieces to ensure the right temperature is maintained. It's a delicate balance — too hot, and the piece cracks; too cool, and it won’t harden properly.
More Than Craft — A Cultural Soul
The traditional pottery process in Thanh Ha is not just manual labor — it’s a form of art that takes patience, precision, and passion. Every step is infused with care and tradition, creating pieces that reflect the cultural soul of Quang Nam.
As one young artisan, Ms. Linh, shared:
“I learned from my father, who learned from his father. When I touch the clay, I feel like I’m touching the past — and shaping the future.”
Thanh Ha pottery isn’t just about products — it’s about stories, connection, and the enduring spirit of craftsmanship that continues to shape the identity of Hoi An today.
Types of Thanh Ha Pottery Products
One of the most fascinating things about visiting Thanh Ha Pottery Village is seeing the incredible variety of pottery created by the local artisans. The village produces more than 40 types of items — from traditional household goods to intricate decorative pieces — all crafted with care and pride.
1. Traditional Everyday Pottery
These are the kinds of items that have been made for generations in Thanh Ha Pottery Village, including water jars, teapots, incense burners, candle holders, and various other tools used in daily life and spiritual rituals. What makes them unique is their shape — wide open mouths, slender necks, rounded shoulders, and gently tapered bottoms. Many of these pieces have a raw, natural finish or are decorated with patterns like zigzags or flowing wave designs.
2. Decorative and Artistic Pottery
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is also known for its finely crafted decorative ceramics. These include statues of deities, wall lamps, vases, boxes, masks, and even miniature architectural models. Many are adorned with Chinese characters, geometric patterns, or glazed with a soft, egg-shell-like finish that gives them a refined yet earthy appeal.
“I was amazed by the detail on the ceramic masks,” said Marcus, a visitor from Singapore.
“They weren’t just souvenirs — they looked like something you’d find in an art gallery. I brought one home for my living room, and it’s always a conversation starter.”
3. Other Unique Creations
Beyond household and decorative items, Thanh Ha Pottery Village also produces practical materials such as yin-yang roof tiles, bricks for traditional buildings, and even symbolic ceramic items like miniature Tao stoves or urns. These products reflect not only craftsmanship but also deep cultural traditions that are still alive today.
Every piece of pottery from Thanh Ha Pottery Village carries a story — of the hands that made it, the village that nurtured it, and the culture that it continues to represent.
Visiting Experiences at Thanh Ha Pottery Village
A trip to Thanh Ha Pottery Village offers more than just sightseeing — it’s a deep dive into a living craft tradition. Nestled along the peaceful Thu Bon River, this charming village welcomes visitors with hands-on activities, cultural immersion, and the warm hospitality of its artisan community.
Explore the Village and Traditional Pottery Process
Wandering through Thanh Ha Pottery Village, you’ll feel like stepping back in time. Traditional houses line the narrow paths, and the scent of clay and wood-fired kilns fills the air. Visitors can watch skilled artisans shaping clay entirely by hand — a captivating process that has remained almost unchanged for centuries.
With the help of local guides and on-site exhibits, you’ll learn about the village’s 500-year history, its cultural significance, and the techniques passed down through generations.
“It was fascinating to see how every step — from kneading the clay to firing the final piece — was done with such care,” said Emma, a visitor from the UK. “The artisans were so welcoming and happy to answer questions.”
Try Making Pottery Yourself
One of the highlights for many travelers is the chance to sit at a traditional potter’s wheel and try making pottery under the guidance of a local artisan. Don’t worry if you’ve never touched clay before — it’s all about the experience!
“I made a small bowl with the help of the potter, and even though it was a bit lopsided, it felt amazing to take something home that I actually made myself,” shared Jason from Canada. “It’s not just a souvenir — it’s a memory.”
After the session, you’ll get to take your handmade piece with you as a special keepsake.
Shop for Unique Ceramic Souvenirs
Before leaving, don’t forget to browse the local pottery shops. From tiny figurines to vases and household items, the products come in all shapes and sizes. They’re beautifully crafted, lightweight, and make meaningful gifts for family and friends.
“I picked up a hand-painted incense holder and a glazed mask — both so affordable and so unique,” said Lisa, a traveler from Singapore.
Join Traditional Cultural Activities
If you visit during special times of the year, you might get to witness the vibrant Thanh Ha Pottery Festival, held on the 10th day of the first and seventh lunar months at Nam Dieu Temple. This is a chance to see the village come alive with music, food, and folk games.
Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy bài chòi — a traditional Vietnamese folk performance that combines singing, poetry, and storytelling. It’s a lively and unforgettable cultural experience.
Visit Thanh Ha Terracotta Park
Just a short walk from the village is Thanh Ha Terracotta Park — the largest terracotta park in Vietnam. Home to hundreds of artistic ceramic sculptures, the park features miniature replicas of famous architectural landmarks, interactive exhibits, and a museum showcasing the evolution of Thanh Ha pottery.
“I didn’t expect to see a model of the Colosseum and the Sydney Opera House — all made from clay!” laughed Thomas from Germany. “It was a great mix of fun and learning.”
This “living museum” is the perfect final stop to round out your day in Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
How to Get There & Useful Tips for Visiting Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Address: Pham Phan Street, Thanh Ha Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province.
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is located about 2–3 km west of Hoi An Ancient Town, peacefully nestled along the poetic Thu Bon River.
Opening Hours
The village is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 or 5:30 PM, depending on the season.
It’s best to plan your visit within this time frame to enjoy the full experience.
Entrance Fee
- Adults: 35,000 VND/person
- Children: 15,000 VND/person
The ticket includes access to several experiences: exploring the craft village, visiting the Xuan My communal house, the ancestral pottery temple, watching artisans at work, and even trying your hand at making pottery.
Transportation Options
- Bicycle: A favorite among visitors who enjoy fresh air and scenic roads. Rental price is around 50,000 VND/day.
- Motorbike: Convenient and flexible, rentals cost about 80,000–100,000 VND/day.
- Taxi or ride-hailing services (Grab, etc.): A quick ride from the Ancient Town costs around 50,000–70,000 VND.
- Cyclo: A traditional and leisurely way to travel, perfect for sightseeing along the old streets and riverbanks.
- Boat: Some tours offer river cruises along the Thu Bon River, giving visitors a unique and memorable arrival experience.
Travel Tips
- Visit in the early morning (8:30–10:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 3:00 PM) to avoid heat and large crowds.
- Combine your visit to Thanh Ha Pottery Village with nearby attractions like Hoi An Ancient Town, the Japanese Covered Bridge, or other traditional craft villages for a more complete trip.
- If you're traveling in a group of 8 or more people, you can request a free local guide at the ticket booth to better understand the village’s history, craft techniques, and daily life.
- Opting for electric shuttle service to the village grants free admission, making it a convenient and budget-friendly choice.
Conclusion
Thanh Ha Pottery Village is not just a place — it’s a journey through time, tradition, and craftsmanship. With over 500 years of history, the village proudly preserves the cultural and artistic legacy of Quang Nam through its handmade ceramics, time-honored techniques, and vibrant community spirit.
For those seeking to dive deeper into Vietnam’s heritage, this is a destination you simply cannot miss. Whether you’re watching a master potter at work, creating your own clay masterpiece, or simply soaking in the peaceful riverside atmosphere, Thanh Ha Pottery Village offers an experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.
So why not add it to your travel plans? Come and shape your own story — quite literally — in one of Hoi An’s most meaningful and memorable craft villages.
