Hạ Thái Village is famous for its lacquer painting and lantern making. Photo courtesy of FVH

HÀ NỘI — An one-day excursion to the craft village of Hạ Thái in Hà Nội’s suburban district of Thường Tín will be held by the Friends of Việt Nam Heritage on September 8.

Although Hạ Thái village did not invent lacquer painting, it is the centre of this art in Việt Nam. Initiated by Vietnamese painters at the Indochina College of Fine Arts in the 1930s, lacquer painting was introduced to the village, where artisans have worked ever since.

During the excursion, members will have the chance to listen to the stories of craftsmanship and the lives of the artists as they admire their unique lacquer works. Master craftsman Vũ Huy Mến, regarded as the village’s “treasure”, will lead the group through his village’s history.

In the afternoon, the group will visit a local family that makes traditional lanterns for the coming Mid-Autumn Festival. This family is the only one left in the village making the lanterns, which are loved by both children and adults for their amazing look when lit with candles. A craft workshop on making this kind of toy will also be held at their place.

RSVP to Phương Anh at 037-9350-685 or phuonganhnguyen15@gmail.com. Deadline for registration September. Max 14 people. Cost VNĐ380,000/adult, VNĐ180,000 /child under 15. — VNS