Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An — Attraction in Hội An

Stepping off the busy streets of Hoi An and into Thanh Ha Pottery Village was like entering a time machine. The air hung heavy with the scent of damp clay and wood smoke, and the gentle hum of conversation replaced the usual thrum of motorbikes. Following the narrow lanes, I was captivated by the sight of families working together in open-air workshops, their hands shaping formless clay into beautiful pots, vases, and intricate figurines.

One particular workshop caught my eye. A wizened old woman, her face etched with the lines of a life spent working the earth, patiently demonstrated the potter's wheel to a young girl. Their concentration was absolute, a silent language passing between them as the girl's tentative movements coaxed the clay into a wobbly but proud creation. I was invited to try my own hand at the wheel, and let me tell you, it's not as easy as it looks! The misshapen lump that emerged from my efforts was a testament to the skill of these artisans.

Despite my lack of pottery prowess, the experience was incredibly rewarding. There's something deeply satisfying about witnessing a centuries-old tradition kept alive, and even participating in a small way. Thanh Ha Pottery Village isn't just a tourist destination; it's a thriving community where history and artistry intertwine. If you're looking for a glimpse into the heart of Vietnamese culture, this hidden gem is definitely...

A nice mountain pass, easily to travel on a scooter or motorcycle (or car). I see some reviews stating you should get a semi automatic or manual but we breezed through with a scooter, it’s really no big deal. The road is calm, as all traffic travels through the toll-roads (much quicker). You’ll only encounter other tourists or petroleum-trucks and cattle transports (too smelly to go through the tunnels, apparently - the actually hose down the trucks halfway through and at the end, check out the water systems while you’re there). The road shows some nice views of Da Nang and the valley, so it is a nice trip, sure. What isn’t nice is when you travel from Hue to say, Da Nang or Hoi An, the road before and after the Hai Van pass. Those long stretches of road are uneventful and pretty lame. I recommend this pass if you are in the neighbourhood or if you are travelling on motorcycle as is, going out of your way for it on a basic tourist trip is not truly worth it in my opinion. On a side note, there is an other trail through the pass, which is a lot crazier. This trail does require some skill and a manual motorcycle. It shows similar epic views but with added adrenaline. EDIT: I seem to have misunderstood, the alternative trail is a trail around Saigon somewhere. Not through the Hai Van pass. You can stray from the main road through the pass though if you’re looking to spice it up (...

It was VERY disappointing the way the place is presented. There are 2 ticketed parts to this village but that is not made clear at the outset. One is the commercial part where the potters make their gear and sell it. Pottery classes are run here too. The second is the museum. As you arrive you are directed to buy tickets at 35k per person. It is not clear that this does not incude entry to the museum. So you then have to walk past the museum into the alleyways of the village, where you are constantly being cajoled to come in and buy or try. I dont recall ever having been in a situation, as a tourist, of having to pay for this experience!! So having had enough of this we head for the museum where we lean that we need to pay another 50k. No regrets there. I would advise that if you are not there for a meet & greet of the potters, and to pick up some gifts, just do the museum. Get there early so you can spend time before the heat gets too uncomfortable. I regret spending 30 minutes wandering the village as i could have enjoyed more time in the museum. A comment to those running the show: this sure is a strange commercial model you are running. Have people go through the museuem FIRST, then funnel them out through the village, where they can enjoy some drinks or lunch (at the existing places- they look good), have a breather and then check out the local pots and chat...