The Ao Dai Museum, located in District 9 of Ho Chi Minh City, is a great place that showcases the beauty and cultural significance of Vietnam’s traditional dress, the Ao Dai. Situated in a large garden, the museum offers you an nice experience through exhibitions, workshops, and performances that celebrate the history and evolution of the Ao Dai.
Visiting information
- Address: Ao Dai Museum, 206/19/30 Long Thuan Street, Long Phuoc Ward, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Opening times: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
- Entrance fee: The entrance fee is 100,000 VND per person ($4.3).
- Photos: No flash photography allowed to preserve the fabric’s quality.
To get to the Ao Dai Museum from the city center (District 1), the most convenient option is to take a taxi. The distance is more than 22 km, and depending on traffic conditions, it can take approximately 1 hour to reach the museum. Expect to pay around 250,000-350,000 VND for a taxi ride. You can also use taxi-hailing apps like Grab or Be for convenience and to ensure a reliable fare.
Due to the distance of the Ao Dai Museum from the city center, it is recommended to combine the visit with other nearby attractions or activities. The museum is located in a rural area, providing an opportunity to explore the countryside outside the bustling city. It is a hidden gem, off the beaten track, and offers an authentic local experience with minimal tourist. The surrounding area is characterized by serene rivers and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful getaway and immersing oneself in the local culture.
An introduction to Ao Dai – the Vietnamese traditional dress
The Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment that holds a significant place in Vietnamese culture and history. It is a form-fitting, long dress worn by both men and women, though it is more commonly associated with women’s attire. The Ao Dai typically consists of a long, flowing tunic worn over loose pants, creating an elegant and graceful silhouette.
With its vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and delicate embroidery, the Ao Dai represents the beauty, grace, and cultural identity of the Vietnamese people. Today, the Ao Dai is not only worn on special occasions and festivals but has also become a symbol of national pride and is recognized worldwide as an iconic piece of Vietnamese traditional fashion.
Highlights of the Ao Dai Museum
The Ao Dai Museum offers a unique and immersive experience showcasing the history and beauty of the traditional Vietnamese dress, ao dai. Located in a 20,000 square meter garden, the museum provides a serene and picturesque setting, allowing you to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourselve in a local atmosphere.
Designed by fashion designer Sy Hoang, the museum houses approximately 150 ao dai designs, including those worn by famous Vietnamese women who have made significant contributions to the country. The exhibits provide a brief written history of the dress, offering insights into its evolution and various styles, including Japanese and Filipino-inspired variations.
Beyond the museum exhibits, the surrounding area of the Ao Dai Museum is a treat in itself. The expansive grounds feature lush paddy fields, a lotus pond, water coconut trees, and a canal where motorboats occasionally pass by. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere reminiscent of Vietnamese countryside life, and even try crossing a monkey bridge for an added adventure.
Inside the museum, there are three main exhibitions showcasing ao dai history, daily life ao dai, and ao dai for special occasions and Vietnamese music performances. The exhibits are thoughtfully curated, allowing you to appreciate the intricate details and significance of ao dai in different contexts.
Additionally, there are displays highlighting Cham pottery, Vietnamese women’s undergarments throughout time, and a charming kids’ playground where young ones can engage in creative activities.
