Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is a leading museum in Hanoi dedicated to the 54 officially recognized ethnic groups of Vietnam. The museum offers a comprehensive look at the country's cultural diversity through indoor and outdoor exhibits. The indoor galleries feature detailed displays of traditional clothing, tools, musical instruments, religious artifacts, and everyday objects from various ethnic communities. The outdoor area is a highlight, with life-size replicas of traditional houses from different ethnic groups, including the stilt houses of the Thai and the longhouses of the Ede. Visitors can walk through these structures and imagine daily life. The museum also hosts cultural performances and demonstrations, such as water puppet shows and traditional crafts. It's an educational and immersive experience that provides deep insight into Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry.

Don't miss

• Indoor galleries with artifacts from all 54 ethnic groups
• Outdoor traditional houses, including a Bahnar communal house and a Hmong house
• Water puppet performances (check schedule)
• Interactive exhibits like trying on traditional costumes
• The museum's research library for deeper study

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit Vietnam Museum of Ethnology

Cheapest way in(Private) Hanoi War Sites Tour4.9★ · 119 travelers3–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$5 per personSee dates →Most bookedHanoi Jeep Tour: Food, Culture and Fun by Vietnam Army Jeep5★ · 17,162 travelers~4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$50 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleHa Noi City Full Day guided Tour with Lunch4.9★ · 307 travelers~8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$45 per personSee dates →

Know before you go

• The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, 8:30-17:30. Closed on Mondays and Vietnamese public holidays.
• Photography is allowed, but no flash inside the galleries. Some special exhibits may restrict photos.
• Audio guides are available in multiple languages, including English, French, and Vietnamese.
• Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking both indoors and outdoors.

A bit of history

The museum was founded in 1995 and opened to the public in 1997. It was built with support from French and Vietnamese experts. The outdoor exhibition area was added in 2006, expanding the museum's ability to showcase traditional architecture.