Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: the country's 54 peoples, access and hours (2026)
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology presents the country's 54 officially recognised ethnic groups, with everyday objects, costumes, musical instruments and, in the garden, reconstructed traditional houses. It is in Cau Giay district, west of the centre: this is a half-day outing, not a quick stop. Allow 2 to 3 hours. According to the museum's official website, the adult ticket is 40,000 VND; the museum opens from 8:30 to 17:30 and closes on Mondays and during Tet. It combines well with the Vietnamese Women's Museum and the Fine Arts Museum in a 2-day stay.
Highlights
The garden of houses
In the park, life-size houses of several peoples (stilt house, communal house, highland dwelling) can be visited from the inside. It is the most pleasant part, especially in dry weather.
The Trong Dong building
The main building, shaped like a bronze drum, holds the permanent galleries: the country's peoples, costumes, ritual objects, tools, musical instruments. Texts are in Vietnamese, English and French.
Costumes and basketry
Display cases show embroidered outfits and woven or plaited objects of the minorities of the north and the highlands. They are good preparation for a trip to Sapa or Ha Giang.
Temporary exhibitions and daily life
Depending on the period, themed exhibitions complete the route (crafts, beliefs, festivals). They change regularly: check the programme at the entrance.
Practical info
Tips
- Adult ticket 40,000 VND, 20,000 VND for children and students, 10,000 VND for some social-rate holders, according to the museum's official website consulted in October 2026. Guided visits are offered (about 50,000 VND in Vietnamese, 100,000 VND in English or French according to one travel guide), plus a surcharge for using a camera. Water puppet shows are held in the park, with a separate ticket according to guides: check times on site. The museum is away from the centre: bring water and plan the return trip by Grab.
How to get there
Nguyen Van Huyen street, Cau Giay district, Hanoi, about 8 km from Hoan Kiem Lake. By Grab or taxi, 25 to 30 minutes from the Old Quarter depending on traffic; buses also serve the area. The entrance is on Nguyen Van Huyen street.
Opening hours
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