- Location and Transportation to Bat Trang Pottery Village: Situated along the Red River in Gia Lam District, Hanoi, Bat Trang Pottery Village is conveniently located just 14 kilometers from the city center. To reach this cultural gem, travelers have various transportation options, including public buses, motorbikes, taxis, or shuttle buses provided by Bat Trang Village tours.
- By Bus: Public buses offer a cost-effective and convenient means of transportation. Travelers can catch bus no. 47A from Long Bien Transit Point on Tran Nhat Duat Street, reaching Bat Trang Ceramic Village in approximately 30 to 40 minutes for a mere 7,000 VND per ticket.
- By Motorbike: For those who prefer exploring on two wheels, a motorbike ride takes a shorter duration of 20 to 30 minutes from Hanoi city center. Following the road along the Red River bank after passing Long Bien Bridge or Chuong Duong Bridge will lead directly to Bat Trang Vietnam.
- By Taxi: Travelers can opt for the convenience of a taxi, either arranged through their hotel or personally booked.
- By Shuttle Bus: Those joining a Bat Trang Pottery Village tour need not worry about transportation, as it is typically included in the tour package, with hotel pickup provided.
- Historical Significance of Bat Trang Pottery Village: Acknowledged as the oldest ceramic making village in Vietnam, Bat Trang Pottery Village dates back to the 14th or 15th century, with roots believed to extend even further. Originating when Emperor Ly Thai To moved the capital to Dai La (present-day Hanoi), craftsmen settled in Bat Trang due to its proximity to the Red River and abundant white clay. Despite experiencing historical ups and downs, the villagers have preserved their ancestral traditions. Today, Bat Trang is a renowned brand in Asia, standing as a representative of Vietnamese fine arts with its world-famous ceramic products.
- Entrance Fee and Experiences at Bat Trang Pottery Village: Visitors to Bat Trang Pottery Village can explore its attractions without any entrance fee. Charges apply only for those participating in pottery workshops or making purchases. A pottery-making session typically costs around 20,000 VND, while handmade items can be acquired for an additional 35,000 – 50,000 VND per item. For those not on a Bat Trang Village tour, enjoying local cuisine in the village restaurants comes at an approximate cost of 1,200,000 – 1,500,000 VND for a meal with 6 – 8 dishes for 6 people.
- Attractions and Activities at Bat Trang Pottery Village:
- The Ancient Village: Featuring antique architecture and a nostalgic ambiance, Bat Trang’s ancient village offers a captivating exploration experience. Travelers can even ride a buffalo wagon to thoroughly discover the village.
- Pottery Market: A 6,000-square-meter market within the village showcases a wide array of excellent ceramic products, including household items, rockery miniatures, ornaments, ceramic pictures, and worship items.
- Bat Trang Pottery Museum: A haven for fine arts enthusiasts, the museum spans six floors displaying beautiful pottery, categorized into collections of distinctive styles. From ceramic products to the village’s history and contemporary art, the museum offers a comprehensive experience.
- Top Activities at Bat Trang Pottery Village:
- Explore Historic Pottery Kilns: Wander through the village to discover its iconic ancient pottery kilns, including the century-old “Lo Bau,” testaments to Bat Trang’s rich ceramic heritage.
- Hands-on Pottery Workshops: Engage in immersive pottery workshops led by skilled artisans, allowing visitors to create their own ceramic masterpieces and appreciate the craftsmanship involved.
- Delight in Bat Trang Flavors: Indulge in the diverse culinary offerings of Bat Trang, savoring local delicacies like “banh san nuong” and “banh te” at affordable prices (around 6,000 VND/piece). Don’t miss the exclusive dish of “canh mang muc,” a culinary specialty unique to Bat Trang.
