Chu Dau Pottery Village

Concealed in the serene rural landscape of Hai Duong Province lies Vietnam's cultural best kept secret, the Chu Dau Pottery Village. Famous for its centuries-old ceramics, the quaint village offers visitors a rare opportunity to witness ancient 12th-century craftsmanship. If you are ready to venture off the beaten path and immerse yourself in Vietnam's vibrant cultural heritage, allow Asia King Travel to lead the way.

Entry of Chu Dau Pottery Village

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Why You Should Visit Chu Dau Pottery Village

Chu Dau is not only a testament to Vietnam's deep and rich cultural heritage, but also an oasis of beauty, creativity, and sweet inspiration. Wherever your interests lay - whether you are an art lover, a history buff, or simply someone who craves off-the-beaten-track adventure, this tranquil village is a welcome relief from Vietnam's city bustle and tourist-friendly destinations.

With each of Chu Dau's ceramics having a history attached to it, a visit here connects you with centuries of museums' Vietnamese artisans, who have mastered and passed down their skills over the years. From creating your own ceramics to listening to stories about the origin myth of the village, Chu Dau presents satisfying experiences that linger after you leave.

Vietnamese Artisan

The History of Chu Dau Pottery Village

Chu Dau Pottery Village itself was started in the 12th century during the Tran and Le dynasties. The 15th–17th centuries were its golden age when Chu Dau ceramics were exported across Asia and even Europe via the legendary Silk Road. The distinct feature of Chu Dau pottery is its graceful beauty, harmonious color, and subtle hand-painted motifs representing ancient Vietnamese philosophies, traditions, and nature.

The most significant revival of the village came in the later 20th century when there was a discovery of Chu Dau kilns and remains by Vietnamese historians and archaeologists. This revived interest created by rediscovery sparked interest in the art form and marked a genuine attempt at reviving ancient methods. Contemporary artisans in Chu Dau still make ceramics incorporating ancient motifs with modern appeal, guaranteeing Vietnam's cultural heritage.

History of Chu Dau Pottery Village

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Chu Dau Pottery Village is from October to April, when the weather is cool and dry. Ideal for strolling through the village, watching pottery demonstrations, and attempting hands-on workshops without the heat of Vietnam's summer. If you visit during the Tet holiday (Vietnamese Lunar New Year), you will find the village at its most festive, with decorations and cultural performances.

Best time to visit Chu Dau Pottery Village 

Attractions and Activities in Chu Dau Pottery Village

Pottery Making Demonstrations and Workshops

Part of the pleasure of a visit to Chu Dau is seeing master craftsmen at work. From the handling of the clay between the potter's hands on the wheel to hand-painting intricate designs, these demonstrations show the hand-craftsmanship and attention needed in traditional pot-making. Most workshops encourage visitors to try to make their own piece as well—a great souvenir and memory to take home.

Pottery Making Demonstrations and Workshops

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Chu Dau Pottery Showroom and Exhibition Hall

At the center of the village stands this exhibition hall housing a vast collection of Chu Dau pottery, old and new. Spectators can see exquisite vases, teapots, jars, and ornaments that bear the typical blue-and-white glaze or the evasive celadon green. The showroom features the history of Chu Dau pottery and is furnished with pieces unearthed from ancient shipwrecks.

Chu Dau Pottery Showroom and Exhibition Hall

Visit the Ancient Kilns

Do not miss to see the renovated ancient kilns, which were once in operation during the village's prime. The wood-fired ancient technique-built kilns are a testament to the ingenuity and the resourcefulness of earlier generations. Guided tours offer insights into the whole firing process and how it is used to obtain the unique hardness and coloring of Chu Dau ceramics.

Visit the Ancient Kilns

Village Walk and Cultural Exploration

Besides pottery, Chu Dau is a charming Vietnamese village with serene rice paddies, rural houses, and welcoming villagers. Drive or walk through the village at a relaxed pace to absorb its tranquil environment. You may walk through farmers tending in the rice paddy fields, playing with children, and seniors telling stories of the village.

Village Walk and Cultural Exploration

Dau Pagoda and Local Temples

Spiritual landmarks such as the Dau Pagoda give a glimpse of the religion and culture of the village. The temples, often adorned with ceramic statues and tiles, are peaceful places to admire and reflect on Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. They also give a richer meaning to the village's love for nature and creativity.

Dau Pagoda and Local Temples

How to get there

Chu Dau is situated in Thai Tan Commune, Nam Sach District, Hai Duong Province, and it takes just approximately 90 minutes to get there from Hanoi by car. Here are the most preferred ways of reaching it:

• By Bus: There are regular public buses running from Hanoi to Hai Duong City. Then you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi (xe om) to Chu Dau Village, 15 kilometers away.
• By Train: There are trains from Hanoi to Hai Duong Station, with a follow-up taxi ride of a few minutes to the village.

Conclusion

Visiting Chu Dau Pottery Village is not just a sightseeing tour but a venture into the cultural heart of Vietnam. To add meaningful local experiences to your Vietnam trip, allow Asia King Travel to tailor the ideal day trip or cultural excursion for you. With knowledgeable local guides, air-conditioned transportation, and attentive service, Asia King Travel makes your Chu Dau Pottery Village visit enlightening, engaging, and memorable.

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