Hoi An Museum of Folk Culture: Preserving the Heart of the Ancient Town
The Museum of Folk Culture (Bao Tang Van Hoa Dan Gian Hoi An) provides an intimate look at the rich intangible and tangible heritage of the local people in the Quang Nam province region. It occupies the largest two-story wooden house in Hoi An Ancient Town, offering a unique cultural experience that complements the area’s historical trading narrative. Visitors gain a deeper understanding of the customs, crafts, and daily life that have defined the community for centuries.
I. The Unique Architecture and Setting
The building itself is an important historical artifact. It is a sprawling house, approximately 57 meters long, featuring a rare dual entrance that opens onto both Nguyen Thai Hoc Street (Duong Nguyen Thai Hoc) and the riverside Bach Dang Street (Duong Bach Dang).
Building Design: The house showcases the traditional residential architecture of a wealthy merchant. Walk through the spacious rooms and courtyards, admiring the preserved wooden elements and decorative carvings. The upper level provides an excellent vantage point for viewing the architecture and the bustling street below.
Exhibition Space: The museum officially opened in 2005, and it dedicates its large floor space to displaying the region’s cultural depth.
II. The Four Themed Exhibitions
The museum organizes its collection of nearly 500 artifacts into four primary themes, ensuring a comprehensive overview of local folklore and community life.
Folk Visual Arts: Examine various sculptures, wood carvings, ceramic reliefs, and paintings. These pieces illustrate the artistry and spiritual beliefs of the local people.
Folk Performing Arts: Learn about traditional cultural performances. The exhibits feature costumes, masks, and dioramas that highlight unique practices like the Mua Thien Cau (Heavenly Dog Dance) or Bai Choi (a traditional folk game).
Traditional Craft Villages: Discover the skills that sustained the ancient town. This section displays tools and artifacts related to traditional medicine, fishing, farming, and renowned local crafts, such as Kim Bong carpentry and Thanh Ha pottery.
Folk Activities: View objects and photographs that recreate scenes of daily activities, from wedding customs to traditional clothing, allowing visitors to visualize life in a bygone era.
III. Essential Visitor Details and Tips
Plan your visit efficiently by confirming key operational details.
Address: 33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street (Duong Nguyen Thai Hoc), Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province, Vietnam.
Phone: You can contact the museum at (+84) 235 3910 948.
Operating Hours: The museum is open daily, typically from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM, making it one of the ancient town’s attractions with longer hours. However, note that the museum usually closes on the 20th of every month for professional maintenance.
Entrance Fee: The Museum of Folk Culture is included in the Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance Ticket. Foreign visitors purchase this ticket for approximately 120,000 VND, and it grants access to five designated heritage sites within the Old Town. Therefore, plan your day to maximize the value of this single ticket.
Visitor Advice: Allow approximately one hour for a relaxed visit. Because the entire house is wooden, wear comfortable shoes, and remember that taking photos is encouraged.
