Thanh Ha Terracotta Park – A Living Museum of Clay Artistry
Thanh Ha Terracotta Park stands as a unique artistic haven located adjacent to the 500-year-old Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Lang Gom Thanh Ha). Although technically situated in the Quang Nam province (part of the larger, unified administrative area with Da Nang), it serves as a key cultural attraction easily accessible from both Hoi An Ancient Town and Da Nang. The park celebrates the traditional craft of the region, offering visitors a deep dive into the history, techniques, and artistry of Vietnamese ceramics.
I. History, Architecture, and Cultural Significance
The park originated from the vision of architect Nguyen Van Nguyen, who aimed to preserve and promote the village’s endangered craft. Since its opening in 2011, it has become Vietnam’s largest terracotta park.
The Kiln Buildings: The park’s central architecture reflects the traditional pottery kilns (lo gom) found in the village. Two main buildings symbolize the ‘opening’ and ‘closing’ kilns, which represent the Eastern philosophy of Yin and Yang. These structures house the park’s main museum and exhibition spaces.
Preserving Heritage: The museum section dedicates its space to showcasing the history of the Thanh Ha village and other traditional pottery communities across Vietnam. You discover the tools, techniques, and distinctive products that define this rich, centuries-old craft. Furthermore, displays highlight the history of Sa Huynh and Cham pottery, which predates the arrival of the Viet people.
II. Iconic Sculptures and Interactive Experiences
The outdoor exhibition area provides the park with its most famous and photogenic feature.
Miniature World Wonders: Artisans meticulously recreated dozens of famous global architectural landmarks using terracotta clay. You observe miniature versions of the Eiffel Tower, the Sydney Opera House, the Statue of Liberty, and many other wonders from around the world. Consequently, this area provides striking backdrops for photography and offers a playful sense of global travel in one spot.
Hands-On Workshops: Visitors actively participate in the pottery-making process. Skilled local artisans instruct you on using the potter’s wheel to shape your own piece of clay. For a small additional fee, you take home your finished product as a unique souvenir.
III. Essential Visitor Information
Planning your cultural trip is easy, given the park’s convenient location and straightforward ticketing.
Location: Nam Dieu, Thanh Ha Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam. (Approx. 3 km west of Hoi An Ancient Town).
Operating Hours: The park typically opens daily from 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM.
Entrance Fee (Adult): You pay an admission fee of 50,000 VND (approx. $2.00 USD) for adults, which grants access to the entire park, including the miniature wonders and museum.
Entrance Fee (Child): Children’s tickets cost 30,000 VND.
Pottery Experience Fee: The hands-on pottery activity costs an additional 40,000 VND per person.
Access: The most popular way to reach the park is by bicycle or motorbike from Hoi An Ancient Town, allowing you to enjoy the peaceful rural scenery along the Thu Bon River (Song Thu Bon).
