Vietnam is home to a rich tradition of handmade crafts, with lacquerware (sơn mài) standing out as one of the most exquisite. This art form involves applying multiple layers of natural resin, then polishing the surface to create a deep, glossy finish. Traditional lacquerware designs feature motifs of animals, fish, and intricate scrollwork, often enhanced with eggshell or mother-of-pearl inlays. You’ll find lacquer used on furniture, boxes, chopsticks, bangles, and decorative panels. In recent years, contemporary lacquerware has embraced modern pop culture themes, including colorful artwork featuring Mickey Mouse, Tintin, and Batman.

A newer trend in Vietnamese lacquerware is the use of synthetic lacquer, producing bright, metallic finishes on bowls, vases, and home décor pieces. While not for purists, these vibrant creations make for eye-catching souvenirs.

Vietnamese artisans also craft intricate bronze, brass, and jade sculptures, available as carvings, figurines, and jewelry. In Huế, finely made brass and copper teapots are particularly popular. When it comes to porcelain and ceramics, Vietnam offers everything from delicate teacups to life-sized ceramic elephants, though the latter might be a challenge to bring home! Another unique find is aromatic cinnamon and camphor wood boxes, which add a fragrant touch to your collection.

For a more cultural keepsake, consider purchasing a water puppet figurine—a nod to Vietnam’s famous water puppet theater (múa rối nước)—or a traditional musical instrument, such as the đàn bầu (monochord) or đàn tranh (zither).

Ethnic Minority Handicrafts

Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, particularly in the Central Highlands and northern regions, produce some of the most vibrant handmade textiles and crafts. Their handwoven fabrics, often adorned with shimmering gold threads, are sold in lengths or crafted into purses, shoulder bags, and accessories. Skilled artisans from these regions also specialize in basketwork, creating bamboo backpacks, baskets, mats, and even musical pipes.

For the widest variety of ethnic handicrafts, head to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, where markets and specialty shops offer a broad selection. If you’re traveling to Sa Pa in northern Vietnam, you’ll find Hmong-made textiles, embroidered bags, and traditional skullcaps, as well as woven fabrics available in local markets throughout the northern mountains.

Wherever you go in Vietnam, the country’s rich tradition of handmade crafts ensures that you’ll find unique, locally made souvenirs that reflect its artistic heritage.