Dong Ho Painting Village in Bac Ninh: Discover Vietnam’s Timeless Folk Art

Dong Ho Painting Village, with its centuries-old tradition, is a cultural treasure that preserves the beauty of Vietnamese folk art. Known as the birthplace of Dong Ho woodblock paintings, this craft village has long been admired for its vibrant colors, unique printing techniques, and symbolic depictions of daily life, beliefs, and festive traditions.

Today, Dong Ho is not only a living museum of traditional art but also an appealing tourist destination near Hanoi. Visitors can explore family workshops, witness artisans creating paintings by hand, and discover a cultural heritage that has shaped Vietnamese identity for hundreds of years. On your Hanoi travel journey, don’t miss Dong Ho Painting Village, one of Vietnam’s most famous craft villages.

1. What is Dong Ho painting? Where is Dong Ho Painting Village?

Dong Ho painting is a traditional folk art in Vietnam, with its origins traced back to Dong Ho Village in Bac Ninh Province. In the past, Dong Ho paintings were commonly sold during the Lunar New Year, and people often purchased them to adorn their homes for the holiday. Over time, these paintings have evolved into cherished expressions of traditional artistic beauty, collected and displayed within homes on various occasions.

Dong Ho folk painting carries both decorative and artistic values while maintaining a rustic simplicity that is easy to understand. They are intimately connected with the life of the people in the Northern Delta region of Vietnam. Dong Ho paintings encompass a wide array of patterns, genres, and subjects, reflecting nearly everything about Vietnamese people.

Dong Ho Painting Village (Làng tranh Đông Hồ) is located in Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, about 35 km northeast of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Travelers can reach the village in 45-60 minutes by car, motorbike, or guided tour. Thanks to its convenient location, Dong Ho is often included in a day trip from Hanoi, combined with nearby cultural sites and villages.

2. The Long-Standing History of Dong Ho Paintings

Visiting the village, travelers will be introduced by local artisans to the history of Dong Ho painting. Originating in the 17th century in Dong Ho Village, Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, this traditional craft has been preserved for more than 400 years.

According to historical records, around 1945, Dong Ho Village had 17 clans, all of which were engaged in the art of making paintings. After many ups and downs, today only two families continue the craft: the families of artisans Nguyen Dang Che and Nguyen Huu Sam.

3. What Makes Dong Ho Paintings Unique?

There are several reasons that make the art of creating Dong Ho folk paintings unique and recognized as Vietnam's intangible cultural heritage.

3.1 Painting paper

The first distinctive feature about Dong Ho paintings is the paper used for printing. This paper is made from "dó" tree bark, possessing characteristics of being soft, thin, porous, and able to absorb colors without smudging. Due to its moisture-resistant quality, "dó" paper prevents artworks from becoming damp and moldy, ensuring their relatively long lifespan.

The paper's surface is brushed with a layer of starch resin mixed with crushed pearl shells, imparting luminous and shimmering lines on it. It offers a tactile sensation when touched, radiating a sparkling brilliance and attracting the eye when viewed under light.

3.2 Painting colors

The colors used in Dong Ho paintings are entirely natural, sourced from plants without any artificial mixtures. There are only four basic colors: black from charred bamboo leaves, green from indigo leaves, yellow from umbrella tree flowers, and red from red stone or wood.

Depending on preferences and the desired intensity of the painting, artisans will either deepen or lighten certain details. Because these colors are entirely derived from nature, the painting's simple pigments are distinctively long-lasting and carry the fragrance of their natural constituents, setting them apart from other types of paintings.

3.3 Layout

Another remarkable aspect of Dong Ho paintings is that they do not embrace impulsive or abstract drawing. Instead, each painting features a clear layout. Typically, artisans draw inspiration from daily life to make relatable strokes that convey deep insights into life. The composition of the painting is meticulously arranged with a high level of artistic intention, paying meticulous attention to each detail, essentially encapsulating a layered narrative within a single artwork.

4. Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Dong Ho Painting Village

4.1 Watch Artisans at Work

Step into the village workshops to see artisans carving woodblocks and hand-printing paintings, layer by layer. This meticulous process reveals the patience and creativity passed down through generations.

4.2 Learn How to Make a Dong Ho Painting with Local Artisans

In addition to admiring Dong Ho paintings, visitors can also take part in the painting-making process to better understand the uniqueness of this traditional craft. Under the guidance of skilled artisans in Dong Ho Painting Village, Bac Ninh, you can create your own lively and beautiful artwork to take home as a memorable souvenir.

4.3 Explore Traditional Folk Themes

Dong Ho paintings are famous for their themes that reflect Vietnamese rural life, humor, and beliefs. Iconic works include “The Pig with Plenty”, symbolizing prosperity, and “The Rat’s Wedding”, a witty social satire. Each piece carries cultural meanings and folk wisdom.

4.4 Meet the Distinguished Artisans of Dong Ho Painting Village

When visiting Dong Ho Painting Village, travelers have the opportunity to meet master artisans such as Nguyen Huu Sam and Nguyen Dang Che. Through their stories, you can learn about the village’s history and discover the unique features of this centuries-old traditional craft.

Artisan Nguyen Huu Sam is one of the two remaining artisans who continue to preserve the traditional craft of Dong Ho painting in the village.

4.5 Buy Authentic Dong Ho Paintings

Before leaving, visitors can purchase handmade Dong Ho paintings as meaningful souvenirs. Buying directly from artisans not only supports their craft but also brings home a piece of Vietnam’s intangible heritage.

Dong Ho Painting Village is more than an art destination-it’s a journey into the heart of Vietnam’s folk traditions. From watching artisans hand-print paintings to discovering the cultural stories behind each design, every moment here offers a unique glimpse into centuries-old craftsmanship.

Whether you’re an art lover, a cultural traveler, or simply seeking an authentic experience near Hanoi, Dong Ho Painting Village deserves a special place on your itinerary.

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For travelers who want both comfort and convenience, Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, modern facilities, and a relaxing spa-perfect after a day trip to Dong Ho Painting Village.

Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

From the hotel, you can easily join a tour or take a short ride to Bac Ninh Province, where Dong Ho Painting Village is located. After exploring the village’s centuries-old folk art and cultural atmosphere, you’ll return to the city center within an hour. Staying here also puts you within walking distance of Hanoi’s highlights such as Hoàn Kiếm Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dong Xuan Market, and the Hanoi Opera House-making it easy to combine your Dong Ho visit with a broader Hanoi cultural journey.

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