Ao Dai Museum

Built in 2014 from the vision of painter and designer Si Hoang, Ao Dai Museum quickly captured the attention of visitors. Centered around the iconic Ao Dai, the museum displays traditional outfits worn by Vietnamese women throughout the country’s long history.
This is the only museum in Vietnam dedicated to the theme of Ao Dai
Spanning 2 hectares, the museum’s space is designed in the style of ancient Hoi An houses and the rural architecture of Southern Vietnam, making it feel like a natural attraction right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Let’s join Asia King Travel on a tour around the museum to discover what makes it so special!
Ao Dai Museum is located at 206/19/30 Long Thuan Street, Long Phuoc Ward, Thu Duc City (a city within Ho Chi Minh City). It takes about 45 minutes to drive there from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. You can travel by private vehicle or opt for a taxi or ride-hailing service. For a more budget-friendly option, buses No. 76 and 88 also stop near the museum.
From downtown Ho Chi Minh City, take Hanoi Highway and turn right onto Le Van Viet Street heading east. Then, turn right onto Nguyen Van Tang Street and make a U-turn onto Nguyen Xien Street (don’t go straight or you’ll end up on the wrong way). Finally, turn left onto Long Thuan Street, cross the Tac River, and you’ll see Alley 206 leading to the museum.
A simple yet highly refined introduction wall
The museum is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, including public holidays. Admission is VND 50,000 per person. Students, university students, and children can enjoy a discounted rate of VND 30,000 per person. Children under 2 years old and people with disabilities are admitted for free. Special group discounts are also available for parties of 10 or more.
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A peaceful, airy space in the heart of the city unfolds the moment you step into the museum. Lush green gardens and tranquil ponds, along with wooden houses that recreate the serene countryside of Southern Vietnam, set the tone. Several ancient Hoi An-style homes add a touch of classical charm to the architectural complex. Many valuable artifacts on display have also been collected from Quang Nam Province.
A tranquil space outside the museum
Thanks to meticulous collection efforts, the museum currently showcases over 300 Ao Dai designs, reflecting a wide range of styles from past to present. Some pieces represent the early forms that later evolved into the modern Ao Dai, while others feature contemporary designs blending various fashion influences. You can also see Designer Si Hoang’s ao dai collection which has been awarded in international fashion competitions.
Also on display are traditional costumes worn by Vietnamese women during folk music performances. Most notably, the museum features Ao Dai once worn by remarkable Vietnamese women, each carrying its own story and historical significance.
You can also read the stories behind every Ao Dai
In addition to designing Ao Dai, designer Si Hoang also has a deep passion for Bau Truc pottery. The Cham people in Bau Truc Village, Ninh Thuan Province, still craft ceramics using techniques that date back thousands of years. Bau Truc Pottery Gallery at the museum showcases a blend of traditional Cham pottery and Si Hoang’s own creative ceramic works.
The museum also regularly hosts special exhibitions tied to events and holidays, offering visitors fresh perspectives on the Ao Dai. Many cultural diplomacy exhibitions between countries showcase stunning Ao Dai designs that creatively blend traditional Vietnamese elements with the traditional attire of other nations, leaving a lasting impression.
A collection inspired by the national flowers of ASEAN countries
Just admiring Ao Dai isn’t enough. Here, you’ll get the chance to sew one yourself. Skilled tailors will guide you step by step, and you’ll work with needle and thread to transform a simple piece of fabric into an elegant traditional dress. This hands-on experience not only teaches patience but also gives you a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind Vietnam’s iconic garment, helping you truly cherish the Ao Dai you’ve created.
For little ones who aren’t quite ready to handle scissors, don’t worry! They can still become budding designers by sketching their own Ao Dai on paper or decorating items like dresses, hats, and lanterns.
Some designs by children have been sewn into Ao Dai
Weaving coconut leaves is a popular pastime for children in Southern Vietnam. You can create adorable animal shapes or simple everyday items using just a few palm fronds.
When hunger strikes, head straight to the banh it cooking class. Banh it is a traditional Vietnamese treat made from glutinous rice flour, filled with savory pork or sweet mung bean, then wrapped in banana leaves. Each small, adorable cake you make will be steamed on the spot, ready for you to enjoy fresh and warm!
You’ll get to wear a beautiful Ao Dai of your choice, with friendly staff on hand to help you pick the right outfit and accessories for your age and style. Photos of you in traditional attire will look more stunning than ever, set against the museum’s peaceful, nostalgic backdrop.
Everything is perfect to create a beautiful photo
A visit to Ao Dai Museum offers you a wealth of knowledge and fascinating hands-on experiences. It’s the perfect day trip destination not too far from the city, yet full of charm and culture. So why not plan your visit now? Get in touch with Asia King Travel and let’s go!