Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, located in Hanoi, is one of the most prominent museums in Vietnam that showcases the country’s diverse ethnic groups and their cultures. The museum features extensive exhibits, artifacts, and information on the traditions, customs, and daily lives of the 54 recognized ethnic groups in Vietnam. It’s a great place to visit if you want to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups.
What to see and experience
The museum is divided into two main sections, including an indoor exhibition and an outdoor display of traditional houses of different ethnic groups.
Indoor exhibition
The indoor exhibition at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, photographs, and multimedia presentations that provide insight into the lifestyles, customs, and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
You can explore the museum’s permanent exhibitions that are divided into different sections, including the Introduction Hall, the Vietnam Ethnic Groups, and Southeast Asian Cultures. Each section contains fascinating displays that highlight the unique cultural features of various ethnic groups.
In the Vietnam Ethnic Groups section, you can learn about the daily life of different groups through dioramas of their traditional houses, clothing, and tools. There are also exhibits showcasing religious practices, wedding customs, and other important ceremonies. The Southeast Asian Cultures section features displays on the similarities and differences between Vietnam and other countries in the region.
Throughout the indoor exhibition, there are interactive displays and informative panels with both Vietnamese and English descriptions, making it an educational experience for both locals and international visitors.
Outdoor exhibition
The outdoor exhibition area is a replica of a traditional village and covers a vast area of the museum grounds.
There are over 10 traditional houses on display, each showcasing the distinct architecture, interior design, and living style of a different ethnic group. You can enter the houses, explore the interior, and learn about the cultural practices, beliefs, and customs of each group. Additionally, there are other exhibits such as a water puppet theater, a communal house, a village gate, and a stone path, which provides insight into the daily life and social organization of the people.
The outdoor exhibition also features activities and workshops where you can learn how to make traditional crafts, musical instruments, and agricultural tools. There are also performances of traditional music and dance that you can enjoy.
Visiting Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is located in Hanoi, about 8 kilometers from the city center. It is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm. The entrance fee is 40,000 VND (about 1.75 USD) for adults and 15,000 VND (about 0.65 USD) for children under 16 years old.
To get there, you can take a taxi or a Grab (the Southeast Asian version of Uber) from the city center. Alternatively, you can take bus number 14 or 38 from Hoan Kiem Lake, which will take you directly to the museum.
The museum is a must-visit for travelers interested in learning about the cultural diversity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups. It is particularly interesting for families with children, as there are many interactive exhibits and activities. The museum also offers guided tours in English and French, which can enhance the visitor’s understanding and appreciation of the exhibits.
When visiting the museum, it is important to note that photography is not allowed inside the indoor exhibition hall. Additionally, there is a small café on site where you can grab a snack or a drink.
