Exploring the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival: A must do in Hoi An and the cultural and spiritual beauty of the people of Quang

Renowned as an ancient land with unique cultural values, Hoi An is home to many attractions, including the Thanh Ha pottery village, which is a must do in Hoi An for those captivated by its refined traditional beauty. This heritage area preserves the treasured beauty of time and not only holds the long-standing pottery craft but also hosts the colorful Thanh Ha Pottery Festival, attracting many domestic and international tourists.

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is not only an attractive destination for Hoi An tourism but also a place to preserve and promote the traditional cultural values of the nation. When attending the festival, visitors feel as if they have stepped into another world, where time stands still, allowing them to fully experience the quintessence of Thanh Ha pottery village. Let's explore what makes this festival special if you plan to visit Hoi An!

Thanh Ha pottery village: A heritage area with treasured beauty of time

1. Exploring the serene beauty of Thanh Ha pottery village: A cultural heritage of Quang

Location: Pham Phan, Block 5, Thanh Ha Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province
Opening Hours: 08:30 – 17:30
Entrance Fee for Thanh Ha Pottery Village:

• Adults: 35,000 VND/ticket/visit (about $1.46 USD/ticket/visit)
• Children: 15,000 VND/ticket/visit (about $0.63 USD/ticket/visit)

1.1 Over 500 years old

Thanh Ha pottery village is known as a traditional pottery craft village with a history of over 500 years, dating back to the 16th century. The most glorious period of Thanh Ha pottery was during the 16th to 17th centuries when the village's products were dubbed "national specialties" and used as offerings to the king. Originally named Thanh Chiêm village, it was later renamed and moved to Hoi An city, where Thanh Ha pottery village has preserved and promoted its unique cultural values.

Through the ups and downs of history, the artisans here tirelessly strive day and night to preserve and develop the traditional pottery craft inherited from their ancestors. With skilled hands and a delicate artistic soul, they breathe life into each clay piece, creating exquisite pottery products that reflect the cultural imprints of their craft.

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Thanh Ha Pottery Village with a history of over 500 years

1.2 Cultural heritage of Quang

Today, Thanh Ha pottery products have transcended Vietnam's borders and reached international markets. For visitors traveling to Hoi An, exploring the pottery village is a must do in Hoi An, as they seek to admire, shop, and experience the unique pottery-making process. This is a testament to the vibrant life and irresistible allure of this traditional craft village.

In 2019, Thanh Ha pottery was recognized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. This recognition is a worthy acknowledgment of the great cultural and historical values that the pottery village has preserved and developed through generations.

With the efforts of local authorities and residents, Thanh Ha pottery village is continually developing, preserving, and promoting traditional values. The village is not only an attractive tourist destination but also a source of pride for the people of Quang, contributing to the richness of Vietnamese cultural identity.

1.3 A peaceful space

Located by the poetic Thu Bon River, about 3 kilometers west of Hoi An's ancient town, Thanh Ha pottery village resembles a peaceful rural painting nestled amid the bustling streets of Hoi An. With over 500 years of history, the pottery village captivates visitors with its ancient, serene beauty and an unexpectedly tranquil atmosphere.

Visiting Thanh Ha pottery village, tourists feel like they have entered another world, where time seems to slow down, allowing them to fully appreciate the beauty of the traditional pottery craft. The small tree-lined paths, moss-covered tiled houses, and stacked clay jars create a simple yet endearing rural landscape.

Notably, Thanh Ha pottery village is home to the largest ceramic park in Vietnam, covering an area of 6,000 square meters. Here, countless unique ceramic artworks are displayed, showcasing diverse styles and designs, from pottery vases and flower pots to exquisite decorative items.

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The tranquil space of Thanh Ha Pottery Village

2. Thanh Ha Pottery Festival: A symbol of culture and spirituality

2.1 The origin of the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival

According to legend, during the 17th and 18th centuries, as the port town of Hoi An flourished, the demand for pottery increased, leading to a vibrant development of Thanh Ha pottery. Thanks to the abundant clay resources from the Thu Bon River and the creativity and skilled hands of the locals, Thanh Ha pottery products gained fame far and wide.

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is held annually on the 9th and 10th days of the 7th lunar month (around the 8th of the solar month). It is a significant event for the pottery villagers to express their deep gratitude to their ancestors—those who established and preserved the traditional pottery craft. For visitors, attending the festival is a must do in Hoi An, as it provides a unique opportunity to honor the craft’s founders and to promote the villagers' pottery products to tourists, contributing to building a positive image and enhancing tourism in Hoi An.

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is held annually on the 9th and 10th days of the 7th month of the lunar calendar

2.2 The role of the festival in preserving traditional pottery craft

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival, also known as the Thanh Ha Pottery Craft Worship Festival, is a traditional cultural event deeply rooted in the history and spirit of the local people. The festival is organized to express sincere gratitude to the predecessors who devotedly passed down the pottery craft while reminding future generations of their responsibility to preserve and promote this unique cultural heritage.

With a lively and festive atmosphere, the festival attracts a large number of visitors who participate in and immerse themselves in various cultural and artistic activities. A notable highlight of the festival is the solemn and respectful rituals performed to honor those who have made significant contributions to establishing and developing Thanh Ha pottery.

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is not only a place to preserve and honor traditional cultural values but also an opportunity for local people to enjoy and relax after hard-working days. It is also a great chance to promote the image of Thanh Ha pottery and introduce it to international friends, contributing to the development of Hoi An tourism and the local economy.

3. Unique features of the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival

3.1 The rituals: Solemn and meaningful offerings

From early morning, the festive atmosphere envelops the pottery village. The festival begins with the ceremonial procession to honor the pottery founders, a distinctive and respectful event. The procession starts from the Lùm Bà Dàng shrine, parading through the village streets, attracting numerous locals and visitors along the way. The procession features vibrant flags, lively music, and a harmonious blend of drums and horns, creating a bustling and joyful atmosphere.

The highlight of the procession is the ceremonial palanquin carrying the pottery founder, lavishly decorated and respectfully carried by the strong young men of the village. Along the way, local residents prepare offering trays with fruits and cakes to pray for luck and peace.

After the procession reaches the Nam Diêu shrine, the solemn rituals commence. The offering trays are presented to the pottery founder, reflecting the villagers' heartfelt reverence and gratitude towards the ancestors who pioneered and preserved the traditional pottery craft.

Notably, the festival also features the activity of "offering the first batch of pottery." Local craftsmen present their finest pottery creations, handmade by themselves, as offerings to the craft's founder. This ritual symbolizes a wish for a new year of favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperous pottery-making.

Furthermore, the Worship of the Craft's Ancestor holds significant importance. It is an occasion for the descendants of the pottery village to express their deep gratitude towards the predecessors who played a crucial role in preserving and developing the traditional craft.

The offering ceremony follows a solemn and meticulous process, demonstrating respect and appreciation towards the ancestors. From cleaning and decorating the shrine to preparing offerings and performing the worship rituals, everything is carried out with care and attention.

The ceremony commences with the procession of the ancestor's tablet from the memorial house to the shrine. Following this, local dignitaries, along with the enthusiastic participation of locals and visitors, will offer incense and pray for a year of favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperous pottery-making.

The ancestor worship ceremony is not just a spiritual ritual; it is also a time for the villagers to unite, bond, and preserve their traditional cultural identity. The prayers resonate in the sacred space, symbolizing a promise from future generations to continue and elevate the Thanh Ha pottery craft to new heights.

The Ancestor Worship Ceremony for the Craft holds significant and special meaning

3.2 The festival: A vibrant display of joy

3.2.1 Lively and engaging traditional games

In addition to the immense cultural and spiritual values, the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival offers visitors a lively and exciting recreational space with many distinctive activities.

Visitors will immerse themselves in a joyful atmosphere with traditional folk games such as cockfighting, card games, and chess. These games not only provide moments of relaxation and entertainment but also allow guests to experience local culture and interact with the people here.

Notably, the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival features unique folk games that can only be found in the pottery village, such as throwing pottery bowls, darts, or exploring and combining clay pieces to create unique artistic works. This is an opportunity for visitors to unleash their creativity and create unforgettable memories at the festival.

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3.2.2 Create your unique pottery

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival not only brings visitors a vibrant atmosphere but also provides a fantastic opportunity to experience the unique art of pottery making. In this cheerful environment, creating your own pottery is a must do in Hoi An, as visitors can craft their pieces under the attentive guidance of skilled artisans.

Even if you have never tried pottery before, don't worry! The artisans are always ready to guide you step-by-step, from kneading the clay and shaping the products to decorating and finishing them. Under meticulous guidance, you will discover the secrets to crafting exquisite pottery that carries your personal touch.

Create pottery with your own hands, crafting unique pieces—an experience that is a must do in Hoi An!

3.2.3 Witnessing the intricate pottery techniques and talents of artisans

Participating in the Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is also an opportunity for visitors to admire the skilled pottery techniques of local artisans. Each pottery product undergoes numerous meticulous stages, from selecting materials, shaping, decorating, to firing in the kiln. Through the skilled hands and creative minds of Thanh Ha potters, lifeless clay transforms into unique artistic works that reflect local cultural values.

Witnessing the care, precision, and dedication of artisans as they craft each pottery item allows visitors to appreciate the profound love for their craft and the respect for traditional cultural heritage. This will undoubtedly be a memorable and meaningful experience on your journey to explore the Thanh Ha pottery village.

Witness the intricate pottery techniques and the talent of the artisans

3.2.4 Shopping and taking home meaningful pottery pieces

Thanh Ha Pottery Village is not only famous for its exquisite pottery products but also attracts visitors with its cultural beauty and the hospitality of the locals. A special gift that visitors will receive when touring the pottery village is a commemorative item presented as a sincere thank-you from the local people. This is a valuable cultural aspect, reflecting the respect and warmth of the Thanh Ha pottery villagers.

Moreover, visitors have the chance to explore the souvenir area displaying countless unique and delicate pottery products. This is where you can find meaningful souvenirs for yourself, friends, and loved ones. Thanh Ha pottery products not only hold practical value but also symbolize the traditional cultural beauty of this age-old craft.

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Shopping for Pottery Products in Thanh Ha Village during your Hoi An trip

4. Preserving and promoting the cultural beauty of Thanh Ha Pottery Village

The Thanh Ha Pottery Festival is a unique cultural highlight that enriches the cultural identity of Hoi An. At the festival, visitors have the opportunity to learn about the history and culture of the pottery village while enjoying exciting activities and tasting local specialties. Besides exploring the pottery village, engaging in the festival is a must do in Hoi An, as visitors should also contribute to preserving and promoting the beauty of Thanh Ha's cultural heritage.

Preserving and promoting traditional pottery crafts not only helps maintain Vietnamese cultural identity but also generates income for local people and promotes tourism development in Hoi An and the local economy. Hoi An Memories Land believes that with the efforts of everyone, the pottery village will always shine brightly in the cultural landscape of Vietnam, preserving invaluable traditional values for future generations.