Thanh Ha Pottery Village offers a charming glimpse into Vietnam’s centuries-old craft tradition. Unlike many tourist spots, Thanh Ha is alive with artisans actively shaping clay into functional and decorative pieces. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned pottery lover, the tours here provide authentic hands-on experiences that are both fun and educational. For instance, the Pottery Workshop with Locals offers a chance to make your own ceramic piece while chatting with local artisans. It’s a wonderfully relaxed way to connect with traditional craft in a peaceful setting.
Of the many options, I personally like tours that combine culture with engaging activities—like the Cycling Tour of Countryside Villages—which takes you through scenic farmland, visits to local homes, and a hands-on pottery lesson. These experiences stand out because they let you see local life firsthand without the crowds and commercialism often found elsewhere. This guide highlights nine of the best ways to explore Thanh Ha, each with its own unique appeal and level of involvement.
Quick Overview
Our list features hands-on pottery workshops, cultural cycling tours, and boat trips. Whether you want to create your own pottery piece, explore the countryside by bicycle, or enjoy a relaxing boat ride along the Thu Bon River, there’s something here for every interest and schedule. Prices vary from as low as $4.82 for a quick pottery session to $54 for a full-day adventure that includes lantern making and boat rides. Each tour offers a different way to engage with Thanh Ha’s rich craft traditions and rural charm. Now, let’s get into the details.
1. Thanh Ha Village: Pottery Workshop with Locals
Starting at just $8 per person, this pottery workshop offers an intimate, hands-on experience in the heart of Thanh Ha. Over about 30 minutes, you’ll learn traditional techniques directly from local artisans. The workshop emphasizes no prior experience required, making it accessible for all ages and skill levels. You get to practice hand-building ceramic items, and most importantly, you get to take home your creations.
This workshop is praised for its warmth and family-run atmosphere—“The couple running this is so cute and happy” says one reviewer. The instructor guides you through making two different pieces, often resulting in laughter and memorable photos. For a modest fee, you gain a genuine insight into Vietnamese pottery methods. Plus, your handmade pieces are a meaningful souvenir.
Bottom line: This is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, fun activity that results in tangible keepsakes and genuine cultural exchange.
2. Hoi An: Experience Pottery Making With Local Craftsmen
For around $4.82 per person, this short but immersive pottery activity lets you meet local craftsmen and learn their craft firsthand in Thanh Ha. Lasting about 20 minutes, the experience is refreshingly straightforward but rich in detail—visitors get to see how traditional Vietnamese pottery is made and, of course, try their hand at shaping clay.
What makes this tour stand out is the chance to gain insights into local techniques and life, often with minimal language barriers. The reviews highlight kindness and smiles as the universal language, emphasizing the authentic, friendly atmosphere. Many participants leave with photos and their own miniature ceramic piece as a memory.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick, meaningful craft experience at great value.
3. Hidden Gems in Countryside of Hoi An
This 4-hour cycle tour, priced at $28 per person, takes you off the beaten path into the scenic countryside. It’s perfect for those who want more than just pottery—they’ll visit local homes, watch women spin clay by foot, and learn how rice noodles are made over a fire. The tour also includes a visit to a traditional Banh My Hoi An bakery and a weaving homestead.
What makes this experience special is the chance to fully integrate into rural Vietnamese life, gaining insight into everyday crafts and food. Vinh, the guide, is especially praised for his knowledge and passion, making the ride both educational and uplifting. The cycling is manageable for most, with stops to rest and observe.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for active travelers eager to combine scenery, local life, and craft activities in one memorable morning.
4. Hoi An: Explore Traditional Thanh Ha Pottery Village
At just $22, this comprehensive tour offers a deep dive into Thanh Ha’s traditional pottery. It includes visiting the village, Xuan My Temple, and participating in a pottery-making class. It’s an ideal choice if you want a balanced mix of sightseeing and hands-on activity. The tour highlights are the chance to see villagers creating pottery and the opportunity to make your own piece.
This tour is well-suited for travelers who appreciate cultural sites but want to actively participate. The guide points out the distinctive techniques and history, enriching your understanding of the craft. It’s also a quieter experience compared to larger group tours, making it perfect for those wanting a more relaxed pace.
Bottom line: Great for visitors wanting a compact, authentic pottery experience combined with local village exploration.
$22 per person
5. Experience Making Pottery with Local Craftsman in Local Home
For only $6, this personalized workshop offers a half-hour hands-on pottery activity in a local home. It emphasizes traditional, unique techniques and provides a peaceful environment to learn and practice. You’ll not only see the craft but also get to take your handmade piece home as a personal souvenir.
The tour is ideal for travelers who want a more intimate experience than larger workshops. It’s suited for all skill levels and promises a friendly, family-style atmosphere. Some reviews note the warmth and patience of the host, making it a memorable, authentic activity.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a quiet, genuine connection with local artisans without a large crowd.
6. Entry Ticket: Boat trip to Pottery and Carpentry Village
Costing $28 for a group of up to two, this 3-hour boat tour glides along the Thu Bon River, combining visits to Thanh Ha Pottery Village and Kim Bong Carpentry Village. The boat ride offers a relaxing way to see multiple craft villages without walking or cycling, with picturesque views along the river.
The tour provides insight into traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship, along with opportunities to observe artisans at work. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a laid-back, scenic experience with cultural highlights, without the physical exertion of cycling or walking.
Bottom line: A good option for those who want a leisurely, scenic overview of Thanh Ha and Kim Bong’s craft traditions.
$28 per group up to 2
7. from Da Nang: Hoi An Instagram Cafe Tour with Rooftop View
This tour, priced at $47, combines cultural exploration with social media-friendly spots. It includes visits to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Tropical Coffee, the Ancient Town, 92 Station rooftop, and the Night Market, capped with a lantern boat ride. It’s perfect for Instagram lovers wanting a visually-rich experience.
Highlights include making your own pottery, relaxing at a tropical-themed café, and catching sunset views from a stylish rooftop. The tour is fast-paced but offers a well-rounded introduction to Hoi An’s most photogenic sites.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a lively, picture-perfect afternoon with some hands-on activities and great photo ops.
$47 per person
8. Lantern Making, Pottery Making, Basket Boat Ride, Buffalo Ride
At $54 per person, this full-day adventure offers a comprehensive look at local rural crafts. It includes pottery-making, lantern crafting, riding a round basket boat, and even a buffalo ride. The tour is packed with activities and insights into village life, with a personal local guide explaining each part.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety of experiences—it’s a full immersion into Thanh Ha and Coconut Village’s traditional crafts and rural scenery. Reviews mention how engaging and educational the activities are, especially the lantern and pottery making.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking for a full-day, interactive cultural tour with lots of variety.
$54 per person
9. Thanh Ha: Experience Making Pottery With Local Craftsmen
Similar to tour #5 but slightly longer and with a focus on traditional, unique methods. For just $6, you’ll learn how to hand-make pottery and bring home your own masterpiece. The experience is relaxed, friendly, and designed for all skill levels, emphasizing peace and tranquility.
Reviews mention the opportunity to see traditional techniques and learn a new skill in a welcoming environment. It’s perfect for travelers who want a meaningful craft activity without a rush.
Bottom line: Suitable for those seeking a peaceful, engaging pottery experience with a personal touch.
$6 per person
How to Choose the Best Tour for You
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, interests, and time. If you want a quick, fun activity, the Pottery Workshop with Locals or Making Pottery in Local Home are great picks. For a full day of exploration, the Lantern and Craft Village Tour offers a comprehensive experience.
Travelers seeking scenic views and a relaxed pace might prefer the boat trip along the Thu Bon River, while those with a passion for photography will love the Instagram Cafe Tour. For active visitors, cycling through the countryside is a rewarding way to see local life firsthand.
Booking early is wise, especially for popular activities like the Cycling Tour of Countryside Villages or full-day adventures, to secure a spot during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Thanh Ha Pottery Village offers a rich mix of cultural, hands-on, and scenic experiences. For intimate craft lessons, tours like the Pottery Workshop with Locals are hard to beat for genuine connection. For those with limited time, quick workshops or scenic boat trips provide memorable insights without a big time commitment.
Travelers interested in a more active, immersive day should consider the cycling or full-day craft tours. Whatever your style, these experiences help you understand Thanh Ha’s tradition beyond just looking at souvenirs—making your visit truly meaningful. Be sure to book early, and enjoy creating your own piece of Vietnam’s pottery legacy.