The village of Bat Trang is well known to those who have visited Vietnam, especially Hanoi. However, little is known about other villages in Vietnam known for producing pottery. Vietnam Ceramics lists 6 modern villages that are still able to preserve their traditional pottery techniques.
1. Bat Trang village (Gia Lam, Hanoi)
A village on the Red River 10 kilometers southeast of Hanoi. In the past, Bat Trang was a high mountain near the river. This location made it easy to make and transport pottery. Despite the passage of time, Bat Trang is still able to maintain the traditional manufacturing process and glaze color. The skilled hands of artisans shape white clay into high-quality and intricate goods that require an extensive and skilled manufacturing process. Today, Bat Trang has more than 600 production areas, mainly villagers.
The Red River, also known as the Hong River, is one of the most significant rivers in Vietnam. It is approximately 1,150 kilometers long and runs through the northern provinces of Vietnam before emptying into the Gulf of Tonkin. The river is the lifeline for millions of people in Vietnam and plays an essential role in the country’s economy and culture.
The Red River is considered one of the most fertile regions in Vietnam due to its alluvial soil, which is ideal for agriculture. Rice paddies are the primary crop grown in the region, and the Red River Delta is known as the country’s rice bowl, producing a significant portion of the rice consumed in Vietnam. Other crops grown in the region include vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
The Red River is also home to several endangered species, including the Red River dolphin and the Vietnamese pheasant. The river also supports various fish species, including catfish, carp, and tilapia, which are important for the region’s fishing industry.
The Red River has played a significant role in the history of Vietnam. The river valley has been inhabited for thousands of years, and the region was home to several ancient civilizations, including the Dong Son culture, which flourished in the region between the 3rd century BCE and the 3rd century CE. The region has also been the site of several major battles, including the Battle of Bach Dang in 938 CE, which saw the defeat of Chinese forces by Vietnamese General Ngo Quyen.
In the modern era, the Red River has been harnessed for hydroelectric power. Several dams have been constructed along the river, including the Hoa Binh Dam, which is the largest hydroelectric power plant in Vietnam. The river is also an important transportation route, with several ports along its banks.
Overall, the Red River is a crucial part of the Vietnamese economy, culture, and history. Its fertile valley has supported the livelihoods of millions of people for thousands of years, and its importance to the country is likely to continue for many years to come.
Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam and is located in the northern part of the country. With a population of over 7.5 million people, it is the second-largest city in Vietnam after Ho Chi Minh City. Hanoi has a rich history and culture, and it is known for its vibrant street life, ancient temples and pagodas, French colonial architecture, and delicious cuisine.
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Hanoi is the Old Quarter, which is the historic heart of the city. The Old Quarter is a maze of narrow streets and alleys lined with old buildings, traditional shops, and street vendors selling everything from food to souvenirs. Visitors can explore the Old Quarter on foot or by cyclo (a bicycle taxi), and sample the local street food, such as pho (noodle soup), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and bun cha (grilled pork with noodles).
Hanoi is also home to many historic landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which houses the embalmed body of Vietnam’s revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh. Other popular landmarks include the Temple of Literature, a Confucian temple and Vietnam’s first university, and the Hanoi Opera House, a French colonial-style building that hosts concerts and cultural events.
For those interested in Vietnamese history, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology and the Vietnam Military History Museum offer fascinating insights into the country’s cultural and military heritage, respectively.
Hanoi is also known for its beautiful parks and lakes, such as Hoan Kiem Lake and West Lake. These parks provide a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and visitors can take a leisurely stroll or go for a bike ride around the scenic lakes.
In addition to its cultural and historic attractions, Hanoi has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues scattered throughout the city. The city’s craft beer scene has also been growing in recent years, with many local breweries and taprooms offering a wide range of unique brews.
Overall, Hanoi is a fascinating city that offers a blend of ancient traditions and modern amenities. Its rich history, vibrant street life, and delicious cuisine make it a must-visit destination for travelers to Vietnam.
2. Phu Lang village (Que Vo, Bac Ninh)
Appearing around the same time as Bat Trang, however, the artisans of Phu Lang mainly focused on making household items out of red clay and carving them on turntables. Phu Lang also has a unique glaze color consisting of various shades of yellow. They call it eel skin glaze. They are also known for their strong 3D patterns. Phu Lang combines modern equipment with traditional skills to revitalize villages.
Red clay is a type of soil that is characterized by its reddish-orange color, which is caused by the presence of iron oxide. It is a common type of soil found in many parts of the world, including the southern United States, Australia, and Africa.
Red clay is formed from the weathering and erosion of rocks, particularly those that contain high levels of iron. Over time, the iron in the rocks is oxidized, which gives the soil its distinctive color. Red clay soils are generally low in organic matter and nutrients, and they have a high clay content, which makes them heavy and dense. The high clay content also makes red clay soils very sticky when wet and difficult to work with.
Despite its nutrient-poor characteristics, red clay soil can be used for agriculture, particularly for crops that are adapted to the soil’s heavy texture. Crops such as cotton, peanuts, and soybeans are commonly grown in areas with red clay soils. The heavy texture of the soil also allows it to hold water well, making it useful for dryland farming.
Red clay soils are also important for geologists, as they can provide important information about the history of the area where they are found. The presence of iron in the soil can indicate the presence of minerals or rocks that contain iron, and the texture of the soil can indicate the type of weathering and erosion that has occurred in the area over time.
In addition to its uses in agriculture and geology, red clay soil is also used for construction. The high clay content and dense nature of the soil make it a good material for making bricks, tiles, and pottery.
Overall, red clay soil is a unique type of soil that is characterized by its distinctive color and heavy texture. While it has limitations for certain types of agriculture, it is an important soil type for many crops and can provide important information about the history of the area where it is found.
3. Thanh Ha village (Hoi An, Quang Nam)
Bright red-orange in most shades, Thanh Ha pottery is light and spongy in texture. Due to the adoption of some special clay processing and operation techniques, the durability of its products is among the best in China, and the brightness is the same as that of glazes. When knocking Thanh Ha pottery, the pottery should emit a clear and soft echo. Products are often decorated with carved and floating motifs. Thanh Ha pottery has gained popularity in domestic and foreign (Canada, France, USA) markets in recent decades. Thanh Ha is also famous for its renovation works.
Hoi An is a picturesque town located in central Vietnam, on the banks of the Thu Bon River. It is a well-preserved example of an ancient trading port that dates back to the 15th to 19th centuries. The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it attracts thousands of visitors each year with its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful architecture.
Hoi An was once a bustling trading port that attracted merchants from all over Asia, Europe, and the Middle East. The town was an important stop on the Silk Road, and it was known for its production of silk, porcelain, and spices. Today, visitors can see the influence of these diverse cultures in the town’s architecture, food, and customs.
One of the most iconic features of Hoi An is its lanterns. The town is famous for its lantern-making tradition, and visitors can see colorful lanterns hanging from the streets and houses throughout the town. The annual Lantern Festival, held on the 14th day of each lunar month, is a celebration of this tradition and attracts thousands of visitors.
Hoi An is also known for its architecture. The town’s buildings are a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and European styles, and many of them have been well-preserved over the centuries. The Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century, is one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. Other notable buildings include the Quan Cong Temple, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and the Tan Ky House.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Hoi An is also known for its beautiful beaches. The town is located on the coast, and visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at the nearby beaches of Cua Dai and An Bang.
Hoi An is also a culinary destination, with a vibrant food scene that includes traditional Vietnamese dishes as well as international cuisine. The town’s famous street food is a must-try for visitors, and cooking classes are available for those who want to learn how to make traditional dishes.
Overall, Hoi An is a charming town that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and delicious cuisine make it a popular destination for travelers who want to experience the rich culture of Vietnam.
4. Bau Truc village (Binh Thuan)
Bau Truc village is famous for producing Cham pottery, so it is different from Bat Trang or Phu Lang pottery. During the Cham era, Bau Truc was dark brown and tended to be uneven in color due to the firing process. Rather than firing in a kiln like most potters, Bau Truc potters fire their wares outdoors, first by burning wood and then laying hay on top of it. Bau Truc ceramics are made from clay extracted from the Quao River and then mixed with sand. The clay is collected from the river only once a year, and each harvest takes half a month. The amount of clay used depends on the skill of the potter. During the clay-collecting season, locals store as much clay as possible for use throughout the year. A characteristic of Bau Thuan pottery is that it does not have a shiny glaze.
Binh Thuan is a province located in the southeastern region of Vietnam. It is known for its beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and fishing villages, making it a popular tourist destination.
The capital city of Binh Thuan is Phan Thiet, which is located on the coast and serves as the gateway to many of the province’s attractions. One of the most famous attractions in Binh Thuan is the Mui Ne sand dunes, which are a series of rolling sand dunes that stretch along the coast. Visitors can enjoy sandboarding and ATV rides on the dunes, as well as admire the stunning views of the sea.
Binh Thuan is also known for its beautiful beaches, including the popular resorts of Mui Ne, Ham Tien, and Hon Rom. These beaches offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as kiteboarding and windsurfing.
Fishing is an important industry in Binh Thuan, and visitors can see traditional fishing villages along the coast. The Phan Thiet fishing port is a bustling hub of activity, where fishermen bring in their daily catch and sell it at the local market.
In addition to its natural attractions, Binh Thuan has a rich cultural heritage. The Cham people, an ethnic minority group, have lived in the region for centuries and have left their mark on the province with their unique architecture, art, and traditions. The Po Sah Inu Towers, located near Phan Thiet, are a set of Cham towers that date back to the 8th century and are a testament to the Cham people’s architectural skills.
Binh Thuan is also home to several festivals throughout the year, including the Nghinh Ong Festival, which honors the sea goddess and is celebrated by fishermen along the coast.
Overall, Binh Thuan is a province that offers a diverse range of attractions, from beautiful beaches and sand dunes to traditional fishing villages and cultural heritage sites. It is a must-visit destination for those who want to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of Vietnam.
5. Bien Hoa village (Dong Nai)
Edge and Pottery is a combination of Cay Mai and French Art Deco. Standout products include cymbals, elephants and Buddha statues. The sides and pottery are lightweight and have an ivory interior. Today’s Bien Hoa pottery is not as popular as Bat Trang or Phu Lang, but it still has a place in the domestic and foreign markets.
Dong Nai is a province located in the southeastern region of Vietnam. It is a relatively small province but is a significant economic and industrial hub in the region, with a growing tourism industry.
The capital city of Dong Nai is Bien Hoa, which is the largest city in the province and is located about 20 kilometers northeast of Ho Chi Minh City. The city is a bustling commercial center and has a rich history, dating back to the Cham and Khmer civilizations.
One of the major attractions in Dong Nai is the Cat Tien National Park, which is located in the northern part of the province. The park covers an area of over 70,000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, tigers, bears, and many species of birds. Visitors can take guided tours of the park, hike along its trails, and stay in eco-friendly accommodations within the park.
Another popular attraction in Dong Nai is the Buu Long Pagoda, which is located in the town of the same name. The pagoda is known for its beautiful architecture, tranquil gardens, and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Dong Nai is also known for its traditional handicrafts, such as pottery, lacquerware, and silk weaving. Visitors can see artisans at work in local workshops and purchase handmade souvenirs to take home.
The province is also home to several industrial parks and manufacturing centers, which have played a significant role in Vietnam’s economic growth in recent years. The Long Thanh International Airport, currently under construction, is expected to further boost the province’s economic development.
In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, Dong Nai has a thriving food scene, with a wide range of local dishes and specialties. Some of the must-try dishes include banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancake), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and com tam (broken rice).
Overall, Dong Nai is a province that offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic growth. It is a fascinating destination for travelers who want to experience the diversity and dynamism of modern-day Vietnam.
6. Vinh Long village (Vinh Long)
The main ingredient is red clay, but the clay is contaminated with acidic sulphates, so every time it is made into a finished product, there will be some small white veins on the surface. Vinh Long pottery is usually large and is mainly exported.
Acidic sulphates, also known as acid sulphates or acid sulfate soils, are a type of soil that contains high concentrations of sulphuric acid. These soils are typically found in coastal areas, especially in regions with tropical or subtropical climates, and are formed when natural deposits of sulphur are oxidized by bacteria.
Acidic sulphates can have a significant impact on the environment and human activities. When disturbed, the soil can release large amounts of sulphuric acid, which can lead to soil and water pollution, as well as damage to crops and other vegetation.
The acidity of these soils can also affect aquatic ecosystems, as the acid can leach into rivers and streams and reduce the pH levels of the water. This can harm aquatic organisms and reduce the availability of nutrients for plant growth.
In addition to their environmental impacts, acidic sulphates can also pose a risk to human health. When the soil is disturbed, such as through excavation or construction activities, the release of sulphuric acid can cause respiratory problems and skin irritation. The acid can also corrode metal structures and machinery, leading to costly repairs and maintenance.
To mitigate the impacts of acidic sulphates, various methods have been developed, such as neutralization with lime or other alkaline materials, and the use of vegetation to absorb the excess acid. The management of acidic sulphates is also regulated by environmental laws and guidelines in many countries, with measures in place to prevent their disturbance or remediate affected areas.
Overall, acidic sulphates are a complex issue with significant environmental and health impacts. Their management requires careful planning and implementation of appropriate mitigation measures to ensure the protection of human health and the environment.
Vietnamese ceramics have a long history and are renowned for their unique style and beauty. The country’s ceramics are known for their delicate designs and intricate details, as well as their distinctive colors and shapes.
One of the most famous types of Vietnamese ceramics is the blue and white ceramics that are often adorned with intricate patterns of dragons, flowers, and landscapes. These ceramics were first produced during the 15th century in the town of Chu Dau and became popular throughout Asia.
Another popular type of Vietnamese ceramics is celadon, which is characterized by its pale green color and crackled glaze. Celadon ceramics were first produced during the 11th century in northern Vietnam and were highly prized by the royal court and wealthy merchants.
Vietnamese ceramics are also known for their unique shapes and forms, such as the “conical hat” ceramics that are modeled after the traditional Vietnamese hat worn by farmers and workers. These ceramics often feature intricate designs and are popular as decorative items or for serving food.
In addition to their beauty, Vietnamese ceramics also have practical uses, such as for cooking, storing food, or serving tea. Vietnamese ceramics are often made using traditional techniques and materials, such as local clay and wood-fired kilns, which add to their authenticity and appeal.
Overall, Vietnamese ceramics are a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. Their unique designs, colors, and shapes make them highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts around the world.
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