Vietnamese Women's Museum
Stories of resilience, heritage, and grace.
4.4 ⭐ (5.8K)
Introduction
Vietnamese Women's Museum (Bảo tàng Phụ nữ Việt Nam) is a cultural institution in Hanoi's Hoan Kiem district that documents the roles and contributions of Vietnamese women throughout history. Through a modern and often deeply personal collection of artifacts, costumes, and stories, the museum offers perspectives on women's significance within the family, their participation in national conflicts, and the diversity of their cultural traditions across the country's 54 ethnic groups.
Women in Family
This exhibit on the second floor explores the life of a Vietnamese woman through the lens of family and ritual. You'll see artifacts related to marriage ceremonies, childbirth customs, and the daily tasks and responsibilities that define the woman's role as the keeper of the hearth and family unity.
Women in History
The third floor presents the stories of women during Vietnam's resistance wars against France and the United States. It moves beyond abstract history, focusing on personal objects, letters, and powerful photographs that recount the sacrifices and heroism of individual women as soldiers, workers, and political activists.
Women's Fashion
Showcasing a remarkable collection of textiles and attire, this exhibit on the fourth floor is a celebration of artistry and cultural identity. It features intricate embroidery, traditional Ao Dai, and the diverse, colourful costumes of Vietnam's many ethnic minority groups, highlighting fashion as a form of storytelling.
The Mother Goddess Worship
A dedicated space explores the practice of Đạo Mẫu, a traditional folk religion in which women often serve as spirit mediums. The vibrant displays and detailed information provide insight into this unique spiritual aspect of Vietnamese culture and the powerful role of female deities.
Getting there
From Hanoi's Old Quarter to Vietnamese Women's Museum (approx. 2 km):
🚗 Taxi: 5-10 mins | 40,000 - 60,000 VND ~ $1.60 - $2.40 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 5-10 mins | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ~ $1.20 - $2.00 USD
🚌 Public Bus: 15-20 mins | 7,000 VND ~ $0.30 USD. Key routes: #02, #34, #40.
🚶 Walking: 20-25 mins
⚠️ Walking is a great option on a cool day, offering a glimpse of local life around Hoan Kiem Lake. For convenience, ride-hailing apps like Grab are the most efficient and straightforward way to get there.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
- Note: The museum is open daily, including most public holidays.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Adults: 40,000 VND ~ $1.60 USD
- Students: 20,000 VND ~ $0.80 USD
- Children (under 10): Free
- Audio Guide: 30,000 VND ~ $1.20 USD
- Note: Tickets are purchased at the main entrance. The fee contributes to the museum's research and preservation work.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- To avoid the largest crowds, plan your visit for a weekday morning. The museum is indoors and fully air-conditioned, making it a comfortable escape from Hanoi's heat and humidity, especially during the summer months from May to August.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Budget at least 2 to 3 hours for your visit. The exhibits are dense with information and personal stories that are best absorbed at a relaxed pace.
Tips from locals
Local tips
🎧 The audio guide is essential for a deeper understanding of the exhibits. It adds rich context and personal stories to the artifacts on display and is considered by most visitors to be well worth the small extra fee.
⏰ Don't rush your visit, especially through the "Women in History" section. Many displays feature personal letters and detailed accounts that are highly moving. Allocating enough time allows you to connect with the human stories behind the history.
😢 Be prepared for the emotional weight of the war exhibits. The museum does not shy away from the harsh realities and sacrifices made by women during wartime. The content is powerful, respectful, and can be quite intense.
💡 Start your tour on the top floor (4th floor - Fashion) and work your way down. This popular strategy allows you to end with the historical exhibits on the 2nd and 3rd floors, which often leave the most lasting impression.
Be aware
⚠️ The displays covering wartime contributions are unflinching in their depiction of hardship and sacrifice. While historically important, the content can be emotionally intense for some visitors.
📸 While photography without flash is generally permitted for personal use, be mindful and respectful, particularly in the more solemn exhibit areas. Avoid taking pictures of other visitors without their permission.
FAQs
How much does it cost to enter the Vietnamese Women's Museum?
The standard entrance fee for foreign adults is 40,000 VND (approximately $1.60 USD).
Is there an audio guide available?
Yes, an audio guide is available for an additional fee and is highly recommended to get the full context of the exhibits.
How much time should I spend at the museum?
Plan to spend at least two to three hours here to see the collections without rushing.
Is the museum suitable for children?
Yes, though parents should be prepared to discuss the more sensitive topics presented in the "Women in History" section, which covers war and loss.
What are the main themes of the museum?
The permanent exhibition is structured around three core themes: Women in Family, Women in History, and Women's Fashion.
Is photography allowed inside?
Yes, photography for personal use is generally allowed, but the use of flash is prohibited to protect the artifacts.
Does the museum have air conditioning?
Yes, the entire museum is air-conditioned, making it a comfortable activity on hot days.
Is there a gift shop?
Yes, there is a gift shop on the ground floor selling books, textiles, and high-quality souvenirs related to the exhibits.
How far is the museum from Hoan Kiem Lake?
The museum is located about 1 km south of Hoan Kiem Lake, which is an easy 15-20 minute walk.
What are the opening hours?
The museum is open every day of the week, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Last updated:
