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Dong Ho Village has long been a famous tourist destination nationwide. Discover the traditional craft village and try your hand at painting with Klook Vietnam!
Dong Ho Village is a traditional craft village with a history of over 400 years, located not far from Hanoi. It's a place where you have the opportunity to explore the essence of Vietnamese culture through Dong Ho paintings, the country's ancient folk art.
When visiting Dong Ho Village, travelers not only admire beautiful works of art but also have the chance to learn about the traditional painting production process and converse with talented artisans. It's a truly memorable experience, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Vietnam's unique cultural heritage. #teamKlook, follow the content below to understand more about this village!
What Are Dong Ho Paintings?
Dong Ho Paintings, or Dong Ho folk woodcut paintings, are a unique traditional art form in Vietnam. Originating from Dong Ho Village in Bac Ninh province, this art form has existed for centuries and has become an integral part of the nation's cultural heritage.
Dong Ho paintings are often crafted by hand, featuring vibrant colors and natural materials. Unlike other painting styles, Dong Ho paintings are created by printing stencil patterns onto paper rather than traditional brushstrokes. The themes of this art form often focus on rural landscapes, traditions, and people, carrying humanistic and educational meanings.
What Material are Dong Ho Paintings Made On?
Dong Ho paintings stand out not only for their refined and stylized lines but also for the unique materials used. These paintings are typically printed on 'diep' paper, a special handmade paper using traditional methods.
Diep paper is made from the bark of the dó tree, with an additional layer of diep coating. The diep layer is created from the shell of the diep clam, a thin shellfish often found in the sea. Artists grind the diep shell, mix it with hồ - cooked from brown rice, glutinous rice, or arrowroot powder - and use a soft bamboo brush to spread it onto the paper. The artists use the bamboo brush to create flowing patterns and highlight the natural beauty of the diep shell. The quality of diep paper plays a crucial role in enhancing the vibrant colors and characteristics of Dong Ho paintings.
Dong Ho paintings are 'drawn' on paper using woodblock prints. The types of wood chosen by artists are typically jackfruit wood, thị wood, and golden wood. These woods have abundant flesh and smooth grain, ensuring an even and sharp print. Each painting is produced by printing from multiple wooden blocks, each corresponding to a different color. The colors in the paintings are entirely natural, extracted from materials such as diep shells, bamboo leaf ash, palm leaf ash, flower pollen, lipstick stones, and redwood. Each painting usually features a maximum of four basic colors, unmixed, corresponding to the number of woodblocks and ensuring fresh and vivid colors.
History of Dong Ho Paintings
Dong Ho Paintings, an enduring cultural heritage of Vietnam, have undergone various ups and downs over 400 years. The Dong Ho painting style emerged around the 16th century and evolved through different periods.
The 19th to mid-20th century is considered the golden age of Dong Ho Village paintings. Before 1945, there were 17 family lines engaged in the craft. However, post-August Revolution, the art nearly vanished. It wasn't until 1992 that efforts to revive this traditional craft began. Currently, only two family lines continue the art: those of artisans Nguyen Dang Che and Nguyen Huu Sam.
The value of Dong Ho paintings has been revitalized since they were recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2013. Dong Ho Village paintings are not just artworks but an integral part of Vietnam's cultural heritage. Today, these paintings are found in many museums and attract attention from numerous artists and researchers.
Meaning of Dong Ho Paintings
Dong Ho paintings are more than visually pleasing artworks; they are symbols of the spirit and culture of the Vietnamese people.
What makes Dong Ho paintings unique is their simplicity in lines and natural colors. They reflect the spiritual and material life of people, portraying dreams of happy family life, a just society, and creating a warm and vibrant artistic space.
Dong Ho Paintings serve as not just an art form but a robust bridge between the past and the present, aiding in preserving and transmitting the traditional cultural heritage of the nation. They symbolize love and pride for Vietnam's cultural legacy, enriching the spiritual life of the Vietnamese people and making it more valuable.
Explore Traditional Dong Ho Painting Village with Klook Vietnam
Where is Dong Ho Painting Village?
Dong Ho Painting Village is situated along the Duong River in Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, Vietnam. It is approximately 16km from the city center of Bac Ninh and a little over 35km from Hanoi. Formerly known as Mai Village, it lies adjacent to the Duong River, inspiring a local folk verse:
'Oh lady with the green waistband
If you want to marry, come to Mai Village with me,'
Mai Village, with its customs and traditions,
Boasts a cool river for bathing and the craft of making paintings.
Renowned Dong Ho Paintings
Travel Tips for Exploring Dong Ho Painting Village
Guide to Independent Travel to Dong Ho Painting Village
Dong Ho Village is just about 35km from the center of Hanoi. #teamKlook can easily plan a weekend getaway or holiday excursion here:
- By Bus: Opt for budget-friendly travel by taking bus route 204 to Ho town. From there, hop on a motorbike taxi for a short ride to Dong Ho painting village.
- Private Vehicle: If you prefer comfort and flexibility, drive yourself to Ho village. From Hanoi, follow National Highway 5 to Phu Thi intersection, then proceed on National Highway 18B, turn into Sui street and Keo market, then go to Dau market. Turn right and drive 3km further to reach Dong Ho painting village.
Explore convenient transportation services on Klook Vietnam:
- Hire a Private Car by the Hour in Hanoi
- Self-Drive Car Rental in Hanoi
- Super Value Transportation Service
- International Airport Nội Bài Transfer Service
Best Time to Travel to Dong Ho Painting Village
If #teamKlook is planning an impressive trip to Dong Ho painting village, consider these ideal times:
- January to March: Northern Bắc Ninh enters the lively festival season at the beginning of the year, offering a chance to experience the unique culture of the painting village and the Quan Ho region.
- April to May: During this time, Bac Ninh experiences a dry season, ideal for leisurely visits to Ho village.
- December: This month sees vibrant mustard flower blooms, adding vitality and a romantic touch to your memorable trip to Ho village.
Tourist Activities in Dong Ho Painting Village
1. Capture Moments with Traditional Dong Ho Paintings
For photo enthusiasts and Instagram lovers, Dong Ho painting village is the perfect spot that #teamKlook shouldn't miss.
Here, you can freely capture impressive Ho paintings with rustic yet vivid and meaningful drawings. Beyond photographing the paintings, turn them into stylish backgrounds to create retro-style photos for yourself. Visit Ho village and get ready for a photo shoot with a unique touch!
2. Admire Ancient Dong Ho Paintings
At the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum, you can admire over 100 artifacts and ancient Dong Ho paintings, each carrying the imprint of time and this traditional craft.
Indulge in famous artworks such as 'Mouse Wedding,' 'Worshipping the Ancestors,' 'Rooster with Rose,' 'Prosperity and Wealth,' or 'Buffalo Herder Playing Flute' to immerse #teamKlook in the unique world of Dong Ho paintings. The vibrant images and ethnic identity portrayed in each stroke will make your journey to Dong Ho painting village more memorable and enjoyable.
3. Join the Bac Ninh Dong Ho Painting Festival
If #teamKlook has the chance to visit Dong Ho painting village in Bac Ninh from 14th to 16th of the lunar month, don't miss the opportunity to participate in this unique painting festival. The festival in Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh, is a highlight of the year and perfect for spring travel.
Every year, this festival attracts crowds of tourists to enjoy the colorful and exciting atmosphere in Dong Ho painting village. You'll admire unique paintings and have the chance to meet talented artists. It's a truly special experience, allowing you to gain a deeper understanding of art and culture in the Bac Ninh folk singing region.
4. Meet and Chat with Artisans in Dong Ho Painting Village
When visiting Dong Ho painting village, #teamKlook will have a special opportunity to meet and chat with talented artisans like Master Nguyen Huu Sam and Master Nguyen Dang Che. These are the people who hold the secrets and history of this traditional craft.
Engage in a conversation with them, and you'll discover more about the inspiration and creative techniques behind the unique Dong Ho paintings. They might share insights into the painting process, the significance of each detail, and the symbols within the artworks. This is a valuable opportunity to delve into the cultural and artistic nuances of Dong Ho painting village, fostering a deeper connection with Vietnam's traditional heritage.
5. Learn Dong Ho Painting with Guidance from Artisans
One of the unique experiences in Dong Ho painting village is learning to paint with guidance from skilled artisans. #teamKlook will have the chance to create a painting from start to finish, guided by these talented artists.
Under the dedicated guidance of experienced artisans, you can express your imagination on the canvas and create a unique piece of art, reflecting the beauty and cultural essence of Vietnam. In the end, you'll receive a distinctive painting, a testament to your dedication and creativity—a memorable souvenir from your trip to Dong Ho painting village.
Famous Tourist Destinations Near Dong Ho Painting Village
1. Phu Lang Ceramic Village
Phu Lang Ceramic Village, situated in Phu Lang commune, is one of Vietnam's renowned traditional ceramic villages. With over 700 years of history, this village is famous for its unique ceramic products, ranging from household items to exquisite art pieces.
The Phu Lang ceramic products are known for their iridescent glaze, intricate patterns, and the distinctive combination of ceramic and wood. Visiting Phu Lang Ceramic Village, #teamKlook will have the opportunity to explore the traditional ceramic-making process, from shaping to firing. Don't miss the chance to create your own handmade ceramic painting, a unique souvenir from your visit to this ceramic village.
2. Dau Pagoda
Dau Pagoda, located in Thanh Khuong commune, Thuan Thanh district, is one of the famous tourist destinations near Dong Ho painting village. Dau Pagoda holds significant historical and cultural value, recognized as a Special National Monument.
With its unique architecture and diverse religious influences, Dau Pagoda serves as an important Buddhist center, attracting both followers and culture enthusiasts. Here, #teamKlook has the opportunity to admire Buddha statues and deities, explore the ancient Hoa Phong tower, and immerse themselves in a peaceful atmosphere.
3. But Thap Pagoda
But Thap Pagoda, an ancient temple in Bac Ninh, is a fascinating spiritual and cultural destination near Dong Ho painting village. Built in the 17th century, But Thap Pagoda still retains its ancient charm.
Within the temple, #teamKlook can explore the thousand-handed, thousand-eyed Guanyin Bodhisattva statue and many other precious Buddha statues. Additionally, the Bao Nghiem Tower is an important location in the pagoda, dedicated to venerating Monk Chuyet Chuyet. Exploring But Thap Pagoda will provide you with a spiritual experience and insights into the unique history and culture of Bac Ninh.
4. Phat Tich Pagoda
Phat Tich Pagoda, located in Phat Tich commune, Bac Ninh, is a sacred temple blending Indian Buddhist culture and Vietnamese folk beliefs. Built in 1057 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong, the temple is a precious historical and cultural relic.
Here, you'll find a solid jade statue of Amitabha Buddha covered in gold leaf and exquisitely carved spiritual animals. Phat Tich Pagoda is also associated with many myths and ancient history. The temple festival on the 4th day of the lunar New Year is an occasion to commemorate King Ly Thanh Tong, attracting numerous visitors to celebrate culture and spirituality. In spring, blooming peonies add an extra touch of excitement to the festival.
5. Dinh Lang Dinh Bang Communal House
Located in Dinh Bang village, Tu Son town, Dinh Bang Communal House is one of the most beautiful ancient structures in Vietnam. This communal house worships three nature deities and six village founders. Since 1948, locals have also honored the eight kings of the Ly dynasty here.
Dinh Bang's architecture is stunning, featuring a worship area with six rows of precious ironwood columns and a soaring curved roof. The interior decorations are diverse and intricate, adorned with depictions of dragons, phoenixes, pine trees, apricot blossoms, bamboo, and various cultural symbols. The communal house also preserves numerous valuable horizontal lacquered boards and golden inlaid parallel sentences.
Dong Ho Paintings, an ancient art form existing for over 400 years, is a unique cultural heritage that needs preservation and development. Traveling to Dong Ho painting village is an opportunity for #teamKlook to explore the cultural beauty of the ancient Northern region. Check out 23 hotels in Bac Ninh and 28 Exciting Weekend Getaways Near Hanoi for convenient trip planning!
Discover the distinctive cultural charm with Dong Ho paintings with Klook!
