Celebrating Excellence: World Crafts Council Designates Chiang Mai and Sơn Đồng as World Craft Cities
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Mai and Sơn Đồng as World Craft Cities
Honoring living heritage, master craftsmanship, and sustainable creative ecosystems in Thailand and Vietnam.
The World Crafts Council (WCC) has officially recognized Chiang Mai (Thailand) and Sơn Đồng (Vietnam) as designated WCC World Craft Cities.
This international honor celebrates the extraordinary cultural legacy, artisan mastery, and vibrant creative economies sustained by both regions over generations.
Below, watch the official video address from the President of the World Crafts Council extending congratulations to the local leadership, craft guilds, and master artisans of both destinations.
Chiang Mai, Thailand: A Living Legacy of Lanna Craftsmanship
Nestled in Northern Thailand, Chiang Mai is a powerhouse of traditional and contemporary craft culture. Rooted in centuries of Lanna heritage, the region's craft identity thrives across specialized artisan districts:
Woodcarving & Joinery: Renowned teak carving from Ban Tawai, preserving historical architectural and decorative forms.
Silversmithing: Intricate repoussé silverwork along Wualai Road, crafted by generational metal artisans.
Ceramics & Textiles: Signature green-glazed Celadon stoneware and handloom weaving traditions passed down through local families.
Chiang Mai’s recognition highlights its successful integration of traditional skill sets with sustainable tourism, international design, and community-led preservation.
Sơn Đồng, Vietnam: Master Sculpture & Sacred Artistry
Located in the Hoài Đức District of Hà Nội, Sơn Đồng is a world-renowned craft village dedicated to sacral woodwork and lacquer artistry. With a history spanning over eight centuries, Sơn Đồng is the heartland of Vietnam's traditional religious art:
Woodcarving: Master sculptors working with durable jackfruit wood to create intricate temple statues and architectural elements.
Lacquer & Gilding: Traditional multi-layered lacquering finished with gold leaf gilding techniques (sơn son thếp vàng).
Cultural Preservation: A thriving artisan network that supplies sacred art and restores historic heritage sites across Vietnam.
This designation acknowledges Sơn Đồng’s crucial role in keeping traditional spiritual craftsmanship and Vietnam's intangible heritage alive.
The Impact of World Craft City Status
The WCC World Craft Cities Network fosters global cooperation among craft capitals to preserve traditional knowledge, empower artisan communities, and drive local economic development.
As official World Craft Cities, Chiang Mai and Sơn Đồng will gain:
Expanded international exposure for local artisans and craft products.
Greater opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, exhibitions, and trade residencies.
Stronger policy and municipal support for sustainable craft infrastructure.
Congratulate the Artisans
We invite cultural organizations, design leaders, and craft enthusiasts worldwide to join us in honoring the master artisans and communities of Chiang Mai and Sơn Đồng.
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