Artisan H Bowh Hmok, Le village, Lawsk commune, Dak Lak province, demonstrates traditional embroidery techniques to visitors at the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam. (Photo: Hai Ha/VOV)

Held in the Temple of Literature, the exhibition showcases the signature products of the traditional craft villages of Vietnam’s three ancient capitals – Thang Long, Hue, and Hoa Lu – and of the Central Highlands. Recreations of ancient workshops bring the past to life while showing off the creativity of contemporary artisans.

Each booth offers an interactive experience. Visitors can observe the process and then, guided by the artisans, try their own hand at spinning, weaving, or creating a piece of pottery, a lacquer painting, or a conical hat.

Chuong village conical hats are displayed at the Thang Long - Hanoi Festival. (Photo: Hai Ha/VOV)

Ta Thu Huong of the Chuong conical hat village in Hanoi, said: “I’m very proud to be preserving a cultural heritage that draws the attention of both domestic and international visitors. I’ve brought here a hundred designs and thousands of products.”

Do Hung Chieu, a lacquer artisan from Ha Thai craft village in Hanoi, said: “I want to introduce the refined beauty of Vietnamese lacquer art, especially Ha Thai lacquer, to a wider audience at home and abroad. At this festival, I’m sharing the essence of Vietnamese culture as expressed by the skilled hands of our artisans. Their work includes traditional puppets, all imbued with the spirit of Vietnamese folklore.”

Artisan Do Hung Chieu, Ha Thai lacquer craft village, Hong Van commune, Hanoi. (Photo: Hai Ha/VOV)

Visitors can talk to the artisans, hear the stories behind each craft village, and appreciate the cultural values that have been passed down through multiple generations.

Quynh Chau, a student from Nghe An province, said: “I’m really impressed by the ceramic and porcelain items. I knew Hanoi is home to many pottery villages, but seeing the artisans working here really made a strong impression on me. I think young people should take a greater interest in Vietnam’s traditional crafts so they won’t disappear.”

Craft workshops, performances, and a culinary space called “The Flavors of Hanoi” give visitors an even more comprehensive experience of the capital city’s cultural heritage.