What to Expect at the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: A Visitor’s Guide

If you're traveling to Hanoi and eager to understand Vietnam's rich cultural diversity, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a must-visit. This guide will help you make the most of your visit — what to see and do, to practical tips on getting there.

Why Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology?  

Located in Hanoi, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology offers a deep dive the lives, traditions, and heritage of Vietnam’s 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. With both indoor and outdoor exhibits, it's one of the most informative and engaging cultural stops in the country.

Whether you're a history lover, a cultural explorer, or simply curious, this museum delivers an eye-opening experience.

Highlights of the Museum’s Exhibition Buildings  

The museum is divided three fascinating areas:

The Bronze Drum Building  

Inspired by the shape of the ancient Đông Sơn drum, this two-floor building was designed by Tày architect Hà Đức Lịnh. Opened in 1997, it spans over 2,000 square meters and focuses on showcasing the rich heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic communities. Exhibits include traditional clothing, artifacts, photos, films, and carefully reconstructed living spaces. The layout follows nine main sections, offering a structured yet immersive cultural experience. Temporary exhibitions are also regularly held here.

The Kite Building  

This four-story modern structure takes its shape the traditional Southeast Asian kite. Constructed starting in 2007 and opened to the public in 2013, it expands the museum’s cultural reach beyond Vietnam. Permanent exhibitions highlight Southeast Asian culture, glimpses of Asia, Indonesian glass paintings, and global cultural themes. The building also houses a film screening room, auditorium, and educational spaces for hands-on activities.

The Green Architecture Garden  

Spanning 2 hectares, this outdoor space recreates 10 life-sized traditional homes representing various ethnic groups in Vietnam, such as the Cham tower, the Bahnar communal house, the Viet house, the Ede longhouse, and more. Built between 1998 and 2006, this area is shaded by lush greenery and features an artificial stream, offering both a peaceful environment and a vivid showcase of Vietnam’s architectural diversity.

Location & How to Get There  

Address: Nguyễn Văn Huyên Street, Cầu Giấy District, Hanoi

Distance Old Quarter: ~25 minutes by car or taxi

How to get there:

• Taxi or Grab: Convenient and affordable
• Bus: Bus number 14 or 12
• Bike rental: For adventurous travelers

Opening Hours & Ticket Prices  

Opening hours:

• Tuesday to Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
• Closed on Mondays

Ticket price:

• Adults: 40,000 VND (~$1.60 USD)

• Children & students: discounted rates available

• Extra fee for water puppet shows or camera use

Visitor Tips  

• Time needed: 1.5 – 2.5 hours

• Best time to visit: Morning or late afternoon (avoid midday heat)

• Combine with nearby attractions: Nghĩa Tân market, local coffee shops

• Bring: Water, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes

Don’t Miss the Gift Shop  

Pick up handcrafted souvenirs, books on Vietnamese culture, or textiles made by ethnic artisans — a meaningful way to support local communities.

For a more enriching and seamless experience, consider booking a guided tour with Asianway Travel. Each tour includes a professional guide who will walk you through the museum’s highlights, explain the historical and cultural significance of each exhibit, and help you connect more deeply with Vietnam’s ethnic heritage. It’s a great way to gain expert insights and enjoy personalized storytelling that brings the artifacts to life.