Bamboo Dragonfly: Vietnam’s Traditional Toy, Perfect Souvenir, and Hands-On Experience
- Dung (Emma)
- Jan 25
- 3 min read
One of the most interesting Vietnamese traditional toys — and also one of the best Vietnam’s souvenirs to bring home — is the bamboo dragonfly (chuồn chuồn tre). Small, colorful, and surprisingly balanced, this toy carries much more than playful fun. It carries stories of village life, the spirit of handmade craftsmanship, and a window into Vietnamese childhood where nature, patience, and creativity meet. For families visiting Hanoi, it’s not just a toy — it’s a cultural experience waiting to be explored.
What Is the Bamboo Dragonfly and Why It’s So Special
The bamboo dragonfly is a handmade toy crafted entirely from bamboo, designed to balance perfectly on a fingertip, a stick, or even the edge of a table. At first glance, it seems magical, but the secret lies in skillful craftsmanship.
For generations, Vietnamese children have played with bamboo dragonflies in villages and on streets, learning patience and dexterity along the way. Today, it has also become one of the most meaningful Vietnam’s souvenirs, offering travelers a small, lightweight, and authentic piece of Vietnam to take home.
This toy is more than just a plaything — it’s a symbol of local creativity, cultural continuity, and the charm of slow, hands-on experiences.
The Origin of Bamboo Dragonflies
No one knows exactly when and where the bamboo dragonfly first appeared in Vietnam. But when we talk about bamboo dragonflies, we talk about Thạch Xá village, on the outskirts of Hanoi. For nearly 30 years, this village has preserved the craft, passing it from one generation to the next.
Thạch Xá is not only famous for bamboo dragonflies but also for traditional bamboo products like woven baskets (rổ rá tre) and household items. The story of the craft’s revival starts with Mr. Tái, who brought the bamboo dragonfly making back to the village decades ago. He carefully developed the craft, taught local families, and slowly helped it become a living tradition that continues today.
Mr. Tái, who brought the bamboo dragonfly making back to Thach Xa village
How Bamboo Dragonflies Are Made — Patience, Precision, and Care
The first time people see a bamboo dragonfly, many ask:
How can this tiny toy balance so perfectly on almost any surface?
The answer lies in the meticulous and patient craft of the makers.
It all begins with selecting the right bamboo — light, strong, and flexible. The bamboo is then split, carved, and shaped by hand, forming the body and wings. Every millimeter matters because the balance depends on precision.
The most demanding part is adjusting the wings and center of gravity. Artisans measure and test repeatedly until the dragonfly can perch effortlessly on a fingertip, stick, or narrow edge. Finally, the toy is painted and decorated, giving it a cheerful character that delights both children and adults.
What looks effortless is actually the result of careful, persistent, and skilled craftsmanship — which is why the bamboo dragonfly feels almost magical.
Where to Buy and How to Experience It
You can find bamboo dragonflies at local markets, souvenir shops, or weekend fairs in Hanoi. They are affordable, lightweight, and easy to take home as Vietnam’s souvenirs.
But the most meaningful experience is to visit Thạch Xá village, where this craft was revived and has been carefully preserved for nearly 30 years. Walking through the village, you can see artisans at work, feel the rhythm of traditional life, and appreciate the skill behind each handmade dragonfly.
If you don’t have enough time to travel to the village, don’t worry — you can still enjoy this hands-on experience in Hanoi. Join our Hanoi Family Quest and participate in a bamboo dragonfly painting workshop. It’s playful, educational, and perfect for families with children. You’ll get to decorate your own dragonfly, learn about Vietnamese traditional toys, and create memorable moments — all without spending hours on travel. Fun, meaningful, and time-saving, it’s a hands-on cultural experience that brings the spirit of Thạch Xá right to your fingertips.
Children and adults from many families around the world participated in and enjoyed our bamboo dragonfly painting workshop - one of the hands-on activities offered on our Hanoi Family Quest tour.
Click here to connect with us for travel support or local advice for your trip. We'd be thrilled to be a part of your journey in Vietnam.
Dung (Emma)
Beyond Vietnam
Comments