Hanoi's Kim Lan ceramics recognised as national intangible cultural heritage
A ceremony was held in Kim Duc Commune, Gia Lam District, Hanoi, on March 15 to announce the decision recognising Kim Lan ceramics as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and Kim Lan Village as a designated tourist site.
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| At the ceremony to announce the decision recognising Kim Lan ceramics as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage and Kim Lan Village as a designated tourist site. (Photo: NDO) |
This event marks a significant milestone in the preservation and promotion of the cultural heritage while fostering sustainable tourism development, enhancing the value of the traditional Kim Lan ceramics village.
At the ceremony, Truong Van Hoc, Vice Chairman of Gia Lam District People’s Committee, highlighted the historical and cultural significance of Kim Lan ceramics.
He added that situated along the Red River, Kim Lan is renowned for its rich deposits of white clay, making it an ideal location for ceramic production. Archaeological excavations at the Ham Rong site reveal that pottery has been produced in the area since the 7th century, with some artifacts considered valuable as early as the 8th century. However, by the 18th century, the craft had gradually declined.
Between 1977 and 1978, the villagers began restoring pottery production, and by the 1990s, there were approximately 750 active kilns. However, the influx of foreign ceramic products in the 2010s significantly impacted local production.
Facing these challenges, some households transitioned to using gas-fired kilns, leading to the revival of Kim Lan ceramics. Today, the village operates over 300 kilns, providing employment to thousands of workers and generating annual revenue of approximately 500 billion VND.
Kim Lan ceramics are distinguished by their simplicity, harmony, and functionality. The village produces both artistic and household ceramics, catering to domestic demand and exporting to Japan and the Republic of Korea. Currently, Kim Lan boasts 17 recognised artisans, including one national exemplary artisan and seven Hanoi artisans. Additionally, three Kim Lan ceramic products have been certified by the Vietnam Guinness Organisation, while 25 products have received 4-star OCOP certification.
Recognising its historical, cultural, and scientific significance, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism officially listed Kim Lan ceramics as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage on January 23, 2025. Gia Lam District has also prioritised sustainable tourism development, particularly by integrating cultural heritage and traditional crafts to support the growth of the cultural industry and improve local livelihoods.
On August 2, 2024, the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee designated Kim Lan as a tourist site, opening new opportunities for local enterprises to collaborate with domestic and international organisations.
Numerous experts, researchers, and artists have documented the history and evolution of Kim Lan ceramics through articles, songs, and poetry, celebrating the love for the craft and homeland. Their contributions played a vital role in the recognition of Kim Lan ceramics as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Gia Lam District is committed to preserving cultural heritage and developing tourism linked to traditional craft villages. With five traditional craft villages and two Hanoi-recognised craft villages, cultural and craft tourism is a key focus, attracting approximately 700,000 visitors annually.
Visitors to Kim Lan Village can explore the Kim Lan Ceramics Museum and the Creative Design Centre, and experience the ceramic-making process firsthand. From March 15 to 16, Kim Duc Commune will host an exhibition of ceramic products alongside various cultural activities. Visitors can also explore historical sites such as Ban Temple, Kim Lan Communal House, and Kim Lan Pagoda, while enjoying the picturesque Red River scenery.
(NDO)
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