Museum of Ethnology: A gateway to Vietnam's diverse cultures

Entrance to the Bronze Drum Building of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Photo courtesy of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

History and significance

Established to research, preserve, and promote Vietnam's cultural diversity, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology was officially inaugurated on Nov. 12, 1997, during the Francophonie Summit in Hanoi. The ceremony was attended by Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh and French President Jacques Chirac.

The museum preserves over 29,000 artifacts, including 25,000 highlighting Vietnam's ethnic communities. Its exhibitions aim to foster unity and equality among ethnic groups, promoting national pride and cultural understanding. Recognized as one of Asia's best museums, it has received numerous accolades for its contributions to education and tourism.

Architecture and exhibitions

The museum features three main sections:

Bronze Drum Building

This two-story structure, inspired by the Dong Son bronze drum—a symbol of Vietnam's ancient Bronze Age Dong Son civilization—opened in 1997. It showcases artifacts, traditional clothing, and recreated living spaces from Vietnam's ethnic groups, offering visitors a detailed look at their daily lives.

Garden of Architecture

Completed in 2006, this outdoor area spans 2 hectares and features 10 traditional houses representing various ethnic groups, such as the Tay stilt house and Cham communal house. Surrounded by greenery and a tranquil artificial stream, it provides a serene atmosphere for exploration.

Kite Building of the Vietnam Museum of Ethonology. Photo courtesy of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Kite Building

Opened in 2013, this four-story building focuses on Southeast Asian cultures. Permanent exhibits like "A Glimpse of Asia" are complemented by rotating displays and educational activities.

Location and accessibility

The museum is located at 1 Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, about 8 kilometers from Hanoi's city center.

Getting there:

- Taxi or ride-hailing services: Readily available for convenient transport.

- Bus: Routes 07 and 38 stop near the museum.

- Motorbike: A popular choice for locals and tourists.

A section of the Garden of Architecture at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology. Photo courtesy of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Admission and hours

The museum is open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (closed Mondays and during the Lunar New Year holiday).

Admission:

- Adults: VND40,000 (US$1.6)

- Students: VND15,000.

- Children (6–18): VND10,000.

- Free for children under 6.

Visitor guidelines

To ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit:

- Avoid touching exhibits or using flash photography.

- Do not bring food, drinks, or large items into exhibition areas.

- Keep the premises clean by disposing of litter in designated areas.

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology stands as a vibrant testament to the country's cultural diversity. With its comprehensive exhibits and engaging activities, it offers visitors a deeper understanding of Vietnam's rich heritage. Whether you are exploring traditional architecture or learning about ethnic traditions, the museum provides an unforgettable experience.