The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural is an artistic marvel that stretches along the Red River dike system, captivating visitors with its vibrant colors and intricate designs. This impressive piece of public art not only adorns the city but also tells the rich cultural and historical tales of Vietnam.
What is Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural?
A remarkable artistic achievement
The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural was created to celebrate the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long (ancient Hanoi). Stretching an incredible 3,850 meters along the Red River dike, it proudly holds the Guinness World Record as the world’s longest ceramic mosaic. You can find this expansive masterpiece in Hoan Kiem District, close to West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, winding through streets like An Duong, Yen Phu, Tran Quang Khai, Tran Nhat Duat, and Tran Khanh Du.
The vision behind the mural
Nguyen Thu Thuy, a passionate Vietnamese journalist and artist, envisioned transforming Hanoi’s flood-prone dike system into a cultural landmark. Her idea brought together 20 local artists, 15 international artists from countries such as France, Italy, the USA, and Spain, over 100 artisans from traditional pottery villages, and 500 Vietnamese and international children. The result? A vibrant, collaborative piece of public art that celebrates Hanoi’s rich history and cultural diversity.
A journey through time and culture
The mural’s designs offer a colorful journey through Vietnamese history, from the ancient Dong Son culture to the dynasties of Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen. It also highlights the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups with traditional brocade patterns and architectural motifs. Modern artistic expressions and delightful children’s paintings add a dynamic and inclusive feel to the mural.
Guinness World Record recognition
Completed in 2010, the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural earned the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest ceramic mosaic. This recognition has made it a must-see attraction in Hanoi, drawing visitors from around the globe to admire its grandeur and cultural significance.
Different sections of the mural
The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural is a journey through the rich tapestry of Vietnam’s history and culture, divided into distinct sections, each with its own unique story to tell. As you walk along this extensive artwork, you’ll encounter a series of vivid depictions that capture various aspects of the nation’s past and present. Let’s take a closer look at some of these fascinating sections:
A1: Historical Epics
The first section, A1, captures Vietnam’s historical journey, featuring motifs from the Dong Son era to the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. Look out for the large dragon from the Ly dynasty, symbolizing strength and prosperity, alongside the phrase “1,000 years of Thang Long – Hanoi.”
A2: Cultural Diversity
Part A2 celebrates the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups, showcasing their unique brocade patterns and architectural designs. This section beautifully emphasizes the nation’s rich cultural diversity and intricate craftsmanship.
A3: A City for Peace
Part A3 is themed “Hanoi – the City for Peace,” featuring pottery paintings by both Vietnamese and international children. It’s a heartwarming section that highlights the universal desire for harmony and the collaborative spirit that brought the mural to life.
A4 to A9: Contemporary Art
Sections A4 to A9 present contemporary artworks by Vietnamese and international artists. These pieces incorporate modern themes and techniques, adding a fresh and dynamic layer to the mural. The imagery includes landscapes, cultural symbols, and abstract designs, reflecting evolving artistic trends and global influences.
Highlights of the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural
Explore some of the most captivating sections of the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural through the following photo slider. These images highlight the diverse themes and intricate details that make this mural a visual feast.
Notable Murals to Discover
The mural features a wide range of subjects, from vibrant ocean life scenes and Vietnamese folklore stories to iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Família in Barcelona. You’ll also find depictions of famous Vietnamese temples, dragons, flowers, and traditional celebrations with lion dancing. Other sections illustrate the Vietnam War, the beautiful dragon boat over the Perfume River, and renowned temples from Hue. Abstract art and contemporary themes blend seamlessly with traditional motifs, providing a rich and varied artistic experience.
How to Explore the Hanoi Ceramic Road
Location
The Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural is located along the Red River dike system, stretching through several main streets of Hanoi, including Au Co, Nghi Tam, Yen Phu, Tran Nhat Duat, Tran Quang Khai, and Tran Khanh Du, ending near Long Bien Bridge. You can easily access different sections of this long mural road.
Here is a Google Maps location to help you navigate your visit: Location of the street. It is the whole street, not just this location.
Taxi & Walking
The mural runs along several main streets of Hanoi, making it easily accessible by taxi or Grab car from any part of the city. When hailing a taxi, it’s best to specify the exact street or section you want to visit to avoid confusion. Once there, you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the mural. Walking the entire length of the 3.85 km mural will take around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the artwork.
After you’ve explored enough, you can easily catch a taxi or Grab to your next destination or back to your accommodation.
Cyclo
A fun and traditional way to explore the mural is by taking a cyclo. Make sure to negotiate the price and itinerary in advance. From a cyclo, you can enjoy a slow-paced, open-air journey, perfect for taking photos and experiencing the mural up close.
By Motorbike
While driving a motorbike yourself isn’t recommended, arranging a private guide to take you around on a motorbike is a fantastic option. This allows you to combine your mural visit with other sightseeing in Hanoi, offering a true local experience. If you prefer, you can contact us at Local Vietnam to arrange a private motorbike tour with a local guide who can customize an itinerary including both highlights and off-the-beaten-path sites.
Tips for Visiting the Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural
Prepare for photos
The mural is a popular spot for photographers and Instagrammers. Bring your camera to capture stunning photos. Renting an Ao Dai, the traditional Vietnamese dress, can make for beautiful pictures.
Wear comfortable shoes
You’ll be doing quite a bit of walking, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes.
Respect the artwork
Avoid touching the tiles and don’t leave any litter behind. Help preserve this beautiful public artwork for everyone to enjoy.
Bring water and snacks
There aren’t many vendors along the mural route, so it’s wise to pack your own refreshments.
Extend your visit
If you have time, explore the surrounding areas. The mural runs alongside the Red River, offering beautiful views and a chance to experience local life.
Stay safe
Be mindful of the traffic when walking along the streets and crossing roads.
