Brocade weaving is a centuries-old craft in Vietnam, often regarded as a national treasure. Made by ethnic minority communities, brocade items are known for their vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and cultural significance.

They are available in various forms such as wallets, bags, scarves, and table runners. These items make for a colorful and meaningful gift that highlights the rich textile tradition of Vietnam.

• Ben Thanh Market: One of the most popular markets in the city, known for its wide range of brocade items and other local handicrafts.
• Vietnamese Brocade (Thổ Cẩm Việt) Shop: Located at 767/13 Tran Hung Dao Street, District 5, this shop specializes in authentic brocade items.
  • Website: Thổ Cẩm Việt
  • Prices: Wallets from 35,000 VND, bags from 130,000 to 400,000 VND.

Sand painting is a unique Vietnamese art form that has gained popularity since its introduction in 1997.

This intricate craft involves pouring colored sand into transparent containers to create beautiful images that often depict Vietnamese daily life or landscapes.

A sand painting can be a truly special gift that showcases Vietnamese artistry and culture.

• Y Lan Sand Painting: Situated at 393/21 Binh Quoi Street, Binh Thanh District, this shop is owned by Mrs. Y Lan, the pioneer of sand painting in Vietnam.
• Phuong Vy Sand Painting: Located at 534/11 Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, this store offers a variety of sand paintings and custom-made options.
  • Website: Phuong Vy Sand Painting
• Van Thien Sa Sand Painting: Found at 3 Street 3C, An Lac A Ward, Binh Tan District.
  • Website: Van Thien Sa Sand Painting

A hand fan in Vietnam is not just a functional object but also a piece of art.

Made primarily from paper or silk on a bamboo frame, these fans are often adorned with traditional calligraphy, landscapes, or floral designs.

They hold cultural significance, being part of traditional dances and a symbol of elegance.

• Ben Thanh Market: Known for its variety of handmade crafts, this is an excellent place to find colorful hand fans.
• Binh Tay Market: Offers a range of grocery stores that sell traditional Vietnamese hand fans at affordable prices.

Hand fans are typically priced below 100,000 VND, making them an economical yet culturally rich souvenir.

For a more unusual souvenir, consider items made from bullet shells.

These creative pieces, such as miniature helicopters, tanks, or oil lamps, reflect Vietnam’s historical resilience.

They serve as a reminder of the country’s past while offering a unique and thought-provoking gift option.

• Cu Chi Tunnels Souvenir Shops: Both the Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc sites offer a variety of these unique items.
  Prices: Between 30,000 VND and several hundred thousand VND.

Vietnamese propaganda posters are bold and vibrant, featuring striking imagery and slogans that were once used for political communication and to inspire patriotism.

Today, these posters are appreciated as a form of vintage art and are highly sought after by collectors and tourists alike.

• Street Markets: The Ben Thanh Market and other street markets in Ho Chi Minh City often have vendors selling replicas and prints of these historical posters.
• Antique Shops and Galleries: In major cities, including Ho Chi Minh City, these shops may offer original or vintage posters for higher prices.

Prices can range from a few dollars for reproductions to several hundred dollars for originals.

Paper lanterns, often associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival, are a colorful and symbolic part of Vietnamese culture.

They are believed to ward off evil spirits and bring good luck.

These lanterns are available in various sizes, shapes, and designs, making them a versatile souvenir option.

• Ben Thanh Market: A hotspot for a wide range of lanterns.
• District 5: The China-town of Ho Chi Minh city. You will find a very wide range of these.
• Old Quarter in Hanoi and Old Town Hoi An: Particularly renowned for their beautiful lanterns.

Prices range from a few dollars to around $50, depending on size and craftsmanship.

Dong Ho paintings are unique works of art from Northern Vietnam, using traditional woodblock printing techniques and natural colors.

Each piece tells a story, often featuring folk themes and daily life scenes.

They make for a culturally rich and visually captivating souvenir.

• Dong Ho Village: Located 35 kilometers east of Hanoi, or art galleries and souvenir shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Prices: Vary from a few dollars to several hundred, depending on size and design.

For a fresh and vibrant take on Vietnamese souvenirs, consider visiting the Loco Art Market, a dynamic gathering of emerging young Vietnamese artists and entrepreneurs.

This market isn’t a fixed location but rather a series of sporadic art events held around Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing an eclectic mix of collectibles created by local talents.

Here, you can find unique souvenirs such as beautiful posters, colorful T-shirts, patterned textiles, magnets, Vietnamese action figurines, custom jewelry, shell artistry, and much more.

Each event hosts around 100 young local artists, providing visitors with an opportunity to discover innovative and creative expressions of Vietnamese culture. The Loco Art Market offers an alternative perspective on souvenirs, blending modern art with traditional elements, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to take home something truly unique from Vietnam.

• Support Local Artists: Purchasing from the Loco Art Market directly supports young Vietnamese artists and entrepreneurs.
• Unique Souvenirs: From mixed-media art to handmade crafts, the market features a diverse range of products that can’t be found elsewhere.
• Cultural Experience: Engage with the creators and learn the stories behind their works, adding more meaning to your souvenirs.

Keep an eye out for upcoming Loco Art Market events to experience this refreshing and innovative side of Ho Chi Minh City’s art scene.

For travelers seeking a personalized and immersive experience, at Ddreamer Jewelry we provide a unique opportunity to create custom-made jewelry that embodies the essence of Ho Chi Minh City. Unlike typical souvenir shopping, Ddreamer Jewelry invites you to become the artisan, crafting a one-of-a-kind piece that captures your creativity and personal connection to Vietnam.

At Ddreamer Jewelry, the process begins with a workshop led by skilled Silversmiths who guide you through each step of jewelry-making, from concept to creation. You can choose from a variety concepts that you can personalize and make your own from scratch. Whether you’re designing a ring, pendant, or earrings, the options are vast, allowing you to create a piece that is uniquely yours.

• Hands-On Learning Experience: The workshop provides a hands-on experience where you learn traditional jewelry-making techniques directly from the experts. It’s not just about crafting a piece but understanding the art and skills behind it and putting 100% elbow grease in it yourself.
• Personalized Souvenirs: Your finished product will be a beautiful, custom-made keepsake that reflects your style and the memories of your time in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s an ideal gift for yourself or loved ones back home.
• Tailored Experience: Ddreamer Jewelry accommodates all skill levels, from beginners to experienced crafters. The Silversmiths will provide you with personalized guidance, ensuring that your design vision (within limits) comes to life, whether you prefer something simple and elegant or intricate and detailed. The workshop is also a great activity for couples, families, or groups of friends, offering a memorable way to bond while creating something beautiful together.
• A Lasting Memento: Unlike mass-produced souvenirs, the jewelry you create at Ddreamer Jewelry is a lasting memento of your journey. Every time you wear it, you’ll be reminded of the sights, sounds, and experiences of Ho Chi Minh City. The uniqueness of your custom-made piece will ensure that it remains a treasured part of your collection, representing not just a place but a moment in time that you crafted with your own hands.

Visiting Ddreamer Jewelry is more than just shopping—it’s an immersive cultural experience that allows you to leave Vietnam with something truly special.