The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of Vietnam’s leading museums dedicated to the study and preservation of the country’s ethnic cultures. Its collections introduce the diverse traditions, lifestyles, beliefs and material culture of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, making it an excellent place to gain a broader understanding of the country’s cultural diversity.

The museum combines indoor exhibitions with an extensive outdoor architectural garden. Displays include traditional clothing, agricultural and household tools, musical instruments, ritual objects and other artefacts, while the outdoor area features full-scale traditional houses representing different ethnic communities, including Viet, Tay, Bahnar, Ede, Hmong and Yao architecture. 

Beyond its permanent collections, the museum regularly presents temporary exhibitions, cultural performances and educational activities, allowing visitors to experience aspects of Vietnam’s living heritage rather than simply viewing artefacts. 

For international visitors, the museum provides a particularly useful cultural introduction to Vietnam and can complement visits to Hanoi’s historical landmarks by offering a deeper perspective on the country’s ethnic diversity and traditional way of life.