Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

"Uncover diverse traditions and ethnic histories."

4.1/5
(140) Rating (40) Reviews
View 375 Tour Packages

Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Overview

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Bảo tàng Dân tộc học Việt Nam) in Hanoi is a premier cultural attraction dedicated to showcasing the rich traditions and lifestyles of Vietnam’s 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. Located in Cầu Giấy District on Nguyễn Văn Huyên Street, approximately 8 km northwest of the Old Quarter, the museum occupies a sprawling 43,799 m² site. It combines indoor and outdoor exhibits, and serves as both a research center and vibrant cultural hub :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}.

How to Reach Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

You can reach the museum via taxi, motorbike, or public transport. A taxi from the Old Quarter takes 20–30 minutes and costs roughly 80,000–150,000 VND :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. Public buses (07, 12, 38, 39) stop nearby; a ticket is about 7,000 VND :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. Motorbike and bicycle rentals are popular; free parking is available onsite, with overflow at Nghĩa Đô Park for a small fee :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.

Weather

Hanoi has a subtropical climate: summers (May–September) are hot and humid (25–35 °C), and winters (December–February) cool and dry (10–20 °C). Thankfully, the museum is fully air-conditioned—ideal for a comfortable indoor retreat year-round :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

Timing

The museum is open from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Tuesday through Sunday; it’s closed on Mondays and during major Lunar New Year holidays :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}. Most visitors spend 2–3 hours touring the indoor galleries, outdoor architecture garden, Southeast Asia “Kite” building, café, and craft areas :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.

Why Famous for Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi?

Recognized as one of Asia’s top museums, the museum is celebrated for its immersive storytelling and preservation of Vietnam’s ethnographic diversity :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}. Its key features include:

  • The Bronze Drum Building, shaped like a traditional Đông Sơn drum, holds over 15,000 artifacts documenting daily life, rituals, costumes, and tools of the ethnic groups :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
  • An outdoor Architecture Garden featuring ten full-scale traditional houses—Tay stilt house, Ede longhouse, Hmong house, Bahnar communal house, and more :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.
  • The modern Kite Building, opened in 2013, focuses on Southeast Asian cultures with rotating exhibits and educational facilities :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

Entry and Visit Details about Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

Admission: Adults 40,000 VND; students 15,000 VND; children 6–18 at 10,000 VND; under‑6s and disabled free; seniors and ethnic minorities get half-price discounts :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.

Facilities: • Audio-guides in Vietnamese, English, French (50k–100k VND) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}. • Optional camera permit (~50k VND). • Café/restaurant (Trúc Lam) offering local dishes. • Craft shop selling souvenirs made by ethnic artisans. • Lockers, wheelchair access, free Wi‑Fi, accessible restrooms :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

History & Architecture

The museum was officially inaugurated on 12 November 1997 during the Francophonie Summit, following its planning since 1987 :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}. Designed by Tay architect Hà Đức Linh and interior by French Véronique Dollfus, it blends cultural symbolism with modern design :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}. The Kite Building added in 2013 represents Southeast Asian unity through its kite shape :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.

Things to Do at Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

  • Browse the Indoor Exhibits: Bronze Drum Hall features artifacts, costumes, masks, tools, multimedia displays, and maps :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.
  • Explore the Architecture Garden: Step inside traditional homes, stroll through lush gardens with artificial streams, see functioning rice mills :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
  • Visit the Kite Building: Discover Southeast Asian cultures, rotating theme exhibitions, film rooms, and educational activity spaces :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.
  • Attend Performances: Enjoy weekly water puppet shows, traditional music (Ca Trù, Quan họ), folk games, and cultural festivals during New Year and Mid-Autumn :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}.
  • Hands-on Workshops: Try calligraphy, brocade weaving, basketry, and pottery under expert guidance :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}.
  • Relax & Shop: Dine at Trúc Lam café, purchase authentic crafts—textiles, puppets, accessories :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}.

Facts about Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

  • Established: 1997, land area ~44,000 m² :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}.
  • Collection: ~30,000 artifacts and 42,000 photos; 2,000 m² indoor and 20,000 m² outdoor exhibition space :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}.
  • Annual visitors: ~500,000 :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}.
  • Bronze Drum and Kite buildings represent cultural symbolism with innovative architecture :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}.
  • Exhibits information in Vietnamese, English, French; guides in other languages available, plus multilingual brochures :contentReference[oaicite:28]{index=28}.

Tips for Visiting Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hanoi

  • Arrive early on weekdays to avoid crowds :contentReference[oaicite:29]{index=29}.
  • Allocate 3–4 hours to experience indoor, outdoor, performances, and workshops fully.
  • Use audio guides for immersive learning; guided tours offer deeper insight.
  • Wear comfortable shoes—outdoor grounds are expansive and uneven.
  • Bring water and sun protection for outdoor areas, and a camera permit if you plan to photograph exhibits.
  • Pick up multilingual brochures at reception for help navigating exhibits :contentReference[oaicite:30]{index=30}.
  • Check the museum’s calendar for special events during holidays.
  • Combine your visit with other attractions in Cầu Giấy or a half-day tour including the Old Quarter.

Conclusion

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is not merely a museum—it’s a vibrant, living celebration of cultural diversity. Its thoughtful exhibits, authentic architecture, dynamic performances, and educational programs create a profound, immersive experience. Whether you're an academic, culture lover, family, or traveler, this museum offers unparalleled insight into Vietnam’s ethnic heritage. A visit here is an enriching journey through the customs, history, and artistry that make Vietnam’s many communities unique.

Book Hanoi Tour Packages

3D/2N - Hanoi Stop Over
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 146/person
View Details
Hanoi Luxury City Full Day - Join Group Tour
1 Days/ 0 Night
Hanoi 1 Day Tour Handicraft Villages
1 Days/ 0 Night
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Paradise Peak Cruise Tour
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 1265/person
View Details
Hanoi Discovery
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 700/person
View Details
Mai Chau Cycling Tour 5 Days
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 469/person
View Details
Vietnam Tour Package - Cheapest Vietnam Tour Package
1 Days/ 0 Night
Starting Price 42999/person
View Details
2 Night 3 Days Vietnam Sapa Tour with TripNest Holiday
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 820/person
View Details
Oasis Bay Classic 2 Days 1 Night
2 Days/ 1 Night
Starting Price 239/person
View Details
Sapa Trekking Tour
3 Days/ 2 Night
Starting Price 205/person
View Details
6 Night/ 7 Day - Vietnam Tour
7 Days/ 6 Night

7 Days Luxury Tour Da Nang & Hanoi

Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi - Da Nang
Starting Price 40984/person
View Details
Vietnam Adventure - 6N - 7D
7 Days/ 6 Night
Starting Price 39999/person
View Details
Vietnam Romantic Escape Tour
6 Days/ 5 Night
Starting Price 49999/person
View Details
Vietnam Adventure Quest Tour
7 Days/ 6 Night

Vietnam Adventure Quest Tour

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hoi An - Ha Long - Hanoi
Starting Price 40631/person
View Details
Wonders Of Vietnam Package
7 Days/ 6 Night
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
5N 6D Best Vietnam Itinerary Tour
6 Days/ 5 Night

5N 6D Best Vietnam Itinerary Tour

Da Nang - Hoi An - Ha Long - Hanoi
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Vietnam - 5 Nights - 6 Days Tour
6 Days/ 5 Night

Vietnam - 5 Nights - 6 Days Tour

Da Nang - Hoi An - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
The Love Path - Romantic Trip 6N - 7D
7 Days/ 6 Night

The Love Path - Romantic Trip 6N - 7D

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hanoi
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Vietnam Honeymoon Escape
6 Days/ 5 Night
Starting Price 1500/person
View Details
Ahead-7D 6N- Hanoi- Halong- Danang
7 Days/ 6 Night

Ahead-7D 6N- Hanoi- Halong- Danang

Da Nang - Hoi An - Ha Long - Hanoi - Ha Noi
Starting Price 125000/person
View Details
8 Night - 9 Days Vietnam Highlights Tour
9 Days/ 8 Night

8 Night - 9 Days Vietnam Highlights Tour

Da Nang - Hoi An - Ha Long - Hanoi
Starting Price 72000/person
View Details
Vietnam 10D - 9N Tour Hanoi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City
10 Days/ 9 Night

Vietnam 10D - 9N Tour Hanoi - Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Ha Long - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Vietnam North Heritage To South Paradise Love Story 7N - 8D Tour
8 Days/ 7 Night
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Vietnam Heritage Journey Tour
14 Days/ 13 Night

14 Days Ho Chi Minh City & Da Nang & Hue & Hoi An & Ben Tre & Dong Hoi & Ha Long & My Tho & Ninh Binh & Hanoi Luxury Tour Package

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hue - Hoi An - Ben Tre - Dong Hoi - Ha Long - My Tho - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
Starting Price 1780/person
View Details
Hanoi- Ho Chi Minh City- Phu Quoc in 11 Days
11 Days/ 10 Night

Hanoi- Ho Chi Minh City- Phu Quoc in 11 Days

Hanoi - Ha Long - Ho Chi Minh City - Phu Quoc Island
Starting Price 1150/person
View Details
Deluxe 11-Day Highlights Of Vietnam Tour
11 Days/ 10 Night

11 Days Ho Chi Minh City & Hoi An & Ben Tre & Ha Long & Lao Cai & Ninh Binh & Hanoi & Mekong Delta Luxury Tour Package

Ho Chi Minh City - Hoi An - Ben Tre - Ha Long - Lao Cai - Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Mekong Delta
Starting Price 1080/person
View Details
10 Night - 11 Days Vietnam Tour Package
11 Days/ 10 Night

11 Days Da Nang & Hanoi Luxury Tour Package

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Phu Quoc Island - Hanoi
Starting Price 66400/person
View Details
Vietnam Backpacking 7 N 8 D
8 Days/ 7 Night
Starting Price 60000/person
View Details
8D7N  - HANOI - HALONG  - DA NANG - HO CHI MINH
8 Days/ 7 Night
Starting Price 58999/person
View Details
07 Nights 08 Days Vietnam Tour with Hoi An
8 Days/ 7 Night

07 Nights 08 Days Vietnam Tour with Hoi An

Ho Chi Minh City - Hanoi - Hoi An - Da Nang
Starting Price 50500/person
View Details
Vietnam - Cambodia - Laos Exploration Tour
21 Days/ 20 Night

Siem Reap & Phnom Penh & Ho Chi Minh City & Da Nang & Hue & Hoi An & Vientiane & Luang Prabang & Can Tho & Ben Tre & Ha Long & Lao Cai & My Tho & Hanoi Tour Package - 21 Days Luxury

Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hue - Hoi An - Vientiane - Luang Prabang - Can Tho - Ben Tre - Ha Long - Lao Cai - My Tho - Hanoi
Starting Price 2175/person
View Details
Grand 19-Day Vietnam - Cambodia Tour
19 Days/ 18 Night

19 Days Siem Reap & Phnom Penh & Ho Chi Minh City & Hue & Hoi An & Ben Tre & Ha Long & Lao Cai & Ninh Binh & Hanoi & Mekong Delta Tour Package - Luxury

Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Ho Chi Minh City - Hue - Hoi An - Ben Tre - Ha Long - Lao Cai - Ninh Binh - Hanoi - Mekong Delta
Starting Price 1900/person
View Details
Viet Nam By Road Package Tour 15 Days 14 Nights
15 Days/ 14 Night
Starting Price 2234/person
View Details
20 Days Explore Indochina Odyssey Package Tour
20 Days/ 19 Night

20 Days Luxury Cantwell & Hanoi Tour Package

Hanoi - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City - Phnom Penh - Siem Reap - North Pole - Cantwell - Llandudno
Starting Price 2228/person
View Details
Vietnam - Cambodia - Bali 14N Package
15 Days/ 14 Night

Bali & Da Nang Tour Package - 15 Days Luxury

Bali - Siem Reap - Phnom Penh - Ha Noi - Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Hoi An - Ha Long - Hanoi
Starting Price 99875/person
View Details
Oceania Far East Mysteries Tour
39 Days/ 38 Night

39 Days Bangkok & Goa Budget Tour Package

Shanghai - Hiroshima - Kyoto - Hong Kong - Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City - Bangkok - Ko Samui - Singapore - Goa City - Mumbai
Starting Price 11549/person
View Details
Classic Vietnam Three Weeks Tour
21 Days/ 20 Night
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Authentic Vietnam Adventure - 15 Days Tour
15 Days/ 14 Night
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
The Essence Of Vietnam - 15 Days Of Exploration Tour
15 Days/ 14 Night

15 Days Da Nang & Hanoi Budget Tour Package

Ho Chi Minh City - Da Nang - Ninh Binh - Hanoi
Starting Price Price on request
View Details
Vietnam Classic Tour
16 Days/ 15 Night

16 Days Can Tho & Ha Long Tour Package Luxury

Hanoi - Can Tho - Ha Long - Hoi An
Starting Price 1603/person
View Details

Tour Packages From Hanoi

Hanoi Reviews

Latest Hanoi Tour Reviews

  • Akanksha Shah
    5/5
     
    I recently traveled to Vietnam with Hipsters Holidays, and the entire experience was exceptional. From the beginning, their team was quick to respond, always available with 24x7 support, and ensured everything was well-coordinated. The hotels selected were clean, hygienic, and comfortable, with smooth check-ins and great service. Transfers were punctual, vehicles well-maintained, and every detail was thoughtfully arranged. What stood out most was their constant communication and quick replies, making me feel cared for throughout the journey. Hipsters Holidays provided not just a trip, but a truly stress-free and memorable experience. Highly recommended! ...more
  • ARMAN
    5/5
     
    Overall it was a nice experience.. little bit issue with food where vegitarian food was a big issue. Some issue with Hanoi hotel. It was a good clean but very big rooms . give a 5 star. Was like a 3 star. Also fill that whatever we got was not what we paid.. it was look that the profit of travel triangle and booking agents was very high. (Looking towards price over there of hotel, food and cab.) Cruise was a best in all. ...more
  • Shah Alam, Malaysia
    2/5
     
    From the moment we departed from KUL to return, the assistance provided by VCP was excellence. Always responded positively. The treatment and tour in Hanoi are beyond our expectations, over and above. Hotel accommodations are good, depending on your budget but when requested for an upgrade they handled it professionally. ...more
  • ying k
    2/5
     
    Had an amazing Hanoi City tour with a tour guide who was very patience and gave his best to explain the history behind all the places we went. Lunch was delicious! On Monday, Ho Chi Min Mausoleum is close so better to choose other dates for tour. If you want to visit a few places within Hanoi City in one day, I would recommend this tour ...more
Chat with Expert
TourTravelWorld!
We have some impressive deals for you. Which place are you planning to visit?
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Great! When are you planning to go?

Have you finalized your trip dates?
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Which city is the starting point of your travel?
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Looks great! Please share your Email id so that we can contact you.
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Please provide your contact number.
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
May we know the number of travelers?
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Share your Hotel Star Preference?
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Provide your per person estimated budget for the trip.
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Your NAME would help us to serve you better.
Today, 11:46 AM
TourTravelWorld!
Enter OTP code sent on your mobile.
Today, 11:46 AM
Thank You
We have received your requirements and will get back to you shortly!
Today, 11:46 AM

Popular Post