Vietnam Museum Of Ethnology: Immerse In The Beauty Of Vietnamese Culture 2025

Table of Contents

1. Introduction about Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a remarkable institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam’s diverse ethnic groups. Located in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, the museum serves as a window into the country’s vibrant past and present, offering visitors an immersive experience and a deeper understanding of its diverse cultures.

Established in 1997, the museum stands as a testament to Vietnam’s commitment to preserving its cultural diversity and promoting intercultural dialogue. It serves as an important educational resource, research center, and cultural hub, attracting both local and international visitors who seek to explore the fascinating tapestry of Vietnam’s ethnic traditions, customs, and ways of life.

Museum of Ethnology

2.Open hours and fees of Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

2.1. Open hours

Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
The museum is typically closed on Mondays and New Year’s holiday.

2.2. Entrance fee

Adults: 40,000 VND
Students with valid ID: 15,000 VND
Children under 6 years old: free admission
Elderly people, people with impairments, and ethnic minorities: 50% discount

2.3. Interpretation fee

There are additional guides available in Vietnamese, English, and French.

In-house interpretation (in Vietnamese): 50,000 VND
Outdoor interpretation (in Vietnamese): 50,000 VND
Entire museum (in Vietnamese): 100,000 VND
In-house interpretation (English or French): 100,000 VND

3. How to get Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Address: Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam.

You have a few transportation options to reach the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi. The most convenient way is by taxi or ride-hailing service. Just hail a taxi or use a ride-hailing app, provide the museum’s address, and the driver will take you there.

Alternatively, you can take a public bus by checking the local routes and schedules. Look for buses heading to Cau Giay District or mentioning the museum as a landmark. The closest bus stops are usually “Bảo Tàng Dân Tộc Học”.

If you have a private car or motorcycle, use navigation apps or maps to guide you. Remember to consider traffic conditions and parking availability around the museum.

Plan your journey in advance, allowing sufficient time and considering potential traffic in Hanoi. For specific directions or recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact the museum or your accommodation.

4. Interesting Activities To Do At Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

There are many amazing things you can do and see at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology.

4.1. Trong Dong Building

The Trong Dong building takes up the full two-story structure, with a total size of up to 25000 m2. This structure is modeled after the bronze drum, which is a symbol of Vietnamese civilization.

On the first floor, you can explore a vast collection of over 15,000 ancient artifacts and 42,000 images describing daily life and ceremonial occasions such as weddings and funerals. These exhibits encompass diverse aspects of every ethnic group. Translations of the displays are available in French, English, and Vietnamese.

The second floor hosts exhibitions that cover a wide range of subjects, and these displays change annually.

4.2. Outdoor display area

The outdoor display area in the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers a captivating journey into the diverse cultural heritage of Vietnam. This open-air exhibition space showcases traditional houses and structures such as Gia Rai’s grave house, Hmong roofed house, Ede house, etc., representing various ethnic groups in the country. As visitors stroll through the area, they can immerse themselves in the authentic architecture, construction techniques, and interior designs of each house. The arrangement of the houses reflects the geographical distribution of the ethnic communities within Vietnam.

Cultural objects and artifacts on display provide further insights into these communities’ customs, traditions, and daily lives. Visitors can also witness traditional crafts and activity demonstrations, offering a hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural richness. The outdoor display area serves as a gateway to explore the vibrant ethnic tapestry and heritage of Vietnam, making it an essential stop for those seeking to delve into the country’s diverse cultural mosaic.

4.3. Southeast Asia exhibition area

Nestled within the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, the Southeast Asia exhibition area is housed in a captivating kite-shaped building. This unique architectural design serves as an emblem of the cultural treasures it holds within. Visitors step inside and are transported on a remarkable journey across Southeast Asia and beyond, guided by the theme “A Glimpse of Asia and Around the World.”

Museum of Ethnology

Within this exhibition area, an array of artifacts, images, and displays await, representing the diverse cultures and traditions of Southeast Asian countries and other parts of the globe. From traditional costumes and religious artifacts to musical instruments and everyday objects, the exhibits comprehensively explore the region’s cultural tapestry.

4.4. Water Puppet Show

Immersed in the cultural enchantment of Vietnam, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers a captivating Water Puppet Show, a traditional form of entertainment deeply rooted in Vietnamese heritage. Set within the museum’s premises, this mesmerizing performance brings to life the ancient art of water puppetry. Audiences are transported into a world of vibrant colors, intricate puppets, and rhythmic music as the show unfolds. Through the skillful manipulation of puppets on a water stage, the show depicts traditional folklore, rural life, and historical legends unique to Vietnam.

The Water Puppet Show at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology serves as a delightful window into the nation’s cultural legacy, offering visitors a memorable and immersive experience that celebrates the artistry and storytelling traditions of Vietnam.

Ticket price:

90,000 VND/adult
70,000 VND/child

5. Regulations of Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Photography: Do not use the flash when taking photos in the museum.
Food and Drinks: Consuming food and drinks inside the museum’s exhibition halls may not be permitted.
Smoking: Smoking is typically not allowed inside the museum premises.
Touching Artifacts: In order to preserve cultural artifacts, touching or handling exhibits may be prohibited.
Behavior and Respect: Visitors are expected to behave respectfully and responsibly during their visit.
Others: Do not bring animals inside the museum, and do not enter with weapons or anything that are combustible, explosive, or cause smoke.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi offers a captivating exploration of the country’s rich cultural heritage. With its diverse exhibits, including traditional houses, artifacts, and interactive displays, this will be a must-see place for visitors when visiting Hanoi. Do not forget to explore more about this beautiful city through the many interesting tours at Metta Voyage.