Discovering Kim Lan Pottery: A Unique Cultural Heritage
Welcome to Kim Lan village, one of the most fascinating destinations in Hanoi, where traditional cultural values and unique pottery art of Vietnam are preserved. Kim Lan pottery is not just a craft; it is also an important part of Vietnam’s intangible cultural heritage. In this article, we will take you on a journey to explore Kim Lan pottery, from its historical origins to the exciting experiences you cannot miss when visiting this place.
Historical Origins of Kim Lan Pottery
Kim Lan pottery has a long history, dating back to the 7th century. Archaeological excavations at the Hàm Rồng site have revealed that this pottery tradition has existed for centuries, with products considered valuable as early as the 8th century. However, in the 18th century, the craft faced a decline due to competition from imported goods.
Since 1977, the residents of Kim Lan have made efforts to revive this traditional craft. By the 1990s, the village had around 750 active pottery kilns. Unfortunately, competition from foreign products led to a decrease in the number of kilns. To rejuvenate the craft, some households transitioned to gas kilns, enabling Kim Lan pottery to thrive once again.
Cultural and Economic Significance
Kim Lan pottery not only brings significant economic value to the locality but also embodies deep cultural significance. The pottery products here are noted for their simplicity, harmony, and practicality. They serve not only domestic needs but also find markets in countries like Japan and South Korea.
Currently, Kim Lan village has over 300 active pottery kilns, attracting thousands of workers and contributing approximately 500 billion VND annually to the local economy. The village boasts 17 artisans, including one outstanding artisan and seven artisans from Hanoi. Notably, three Kim Lan pottery products have been recognized by the Vietnam Guinness World Records.
Ceremony for Recognition as National Intangible Cultural Heritage
On March 15, 2025, a ceremony was held to officially recognize Kim Lan pottery as a national intangible cultural heritage. Mr. Trương Văn Học, Deputy Chairman of Gia Lâm District People’s Committee, emphasized the importance of preserving and promoting cultural heritage values during his speech. This recognition not only motivates sustainable tourism development but also enhances the value of the traditional craft of Kim Lan.
Travel Guide to Kim Lan Pottery Village
Location and Opening Hours
Kim Lan village is located in Kim Đức commune, Gia Lâm district, Hanoi. Visitors can easily access the pottery village by various means of transportation.
- Address: Kim Lan Pottery Village, Kim Đức Commune, Gia Lâm District, Hanoi.
- Opening Hours: The village is typically open for visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily.
Transportation Options
- Motorbike: If you enjoy exploration, you can rent a motorbike in Hanoi to ride to the pottery village.
- Taxi: You can book a taxi or use ride-hailing services like Grab to reach the village.
- Bus: Several bus routes pass through the Gia Lâm area. You can check the information at bus stations to choose a suitable route.
4.3. Notable Attractions
- Kim Lan Pottery Museum: This museum showcases unique pottery products and the history of Kim Lan pottery development.
- Creative Design Center: Here, visitors can participate in pottery-making classes and experience the production process.
- Historical Sites: Visitors can explore Miếu Bản, Đình Kim Lan, and Chùa Kim Lan, which preserve many cultural and historical values.
4.4. Experience Participation
Visitors can engage in pottery-making activities at the Creative Design Center. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn about traditional pottery techniques, from kneading clay to shaping and decorating products.
5. Cultural Activities and Special Events
During the recognition ceremony, Gia Lâm district organized many special cultural activities, including pottery exhibitions, traditional art performances, and folk games. These activities not only attract tourists but also provide local residents with opportunities to interact, learn, and preserve traditional cultural values.
Useful Travel Tips
Recommendations for Visitors
- Book in Advance: If you wish to participate in pottery-making activities, make sure to book in advance to ensure availability.
- Bring a Camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture beautiful moments during your trip.
- Learn from Artisans: Engage in conversations with artisans to gain deeper insights into the pottery production process and the history of Kim Lan pottery.
Best Times to Visit
The ideal time to visit Kim Lan village is during spring or autumn, when the weather is cool and pleasant. Additionally, you can participate in various traditional festivals throughout the year to experience the local culture.
Potential for Sustainable Tourism Development
With the recognition as a national intangible cultural heritage, Kim Lan pottery holds great potential for sustainable tourism development. Gia Lâm district has clearly identified the goal of developing tourism linked to the preservation of cultural heritage and traditional crafts.
Local businesses can collaborate with organizations both domestically and internationally to promote the cultural value and craftsmanship of Kim Lan. The development of tourism will not only generate income for the community but also raise awareness about preserving cultural heritage.
Conclusion
Kim Lan pottery is not only a traditional craft but also an essential part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. This recognition helps preserve the craft while creating numerous opportunities for local community development. Kim Lan pottery is on a strong growth trajectory and promises to become one of the most intriguing destinations for both domestic and international tourists, while preserving and promoting the traditional cultural values of the nation.
Contact Information
For more information, please contact:
Gia Lâm District People’s Committee
Phone: (024) 3938 2413
Email: info@gialam.gov.vn
Website: www.gialam.gov.vn
foto: Bao Nhandan
