Yandabo Village (Historic Treaty Site) is of national significance and internationally recognized as the site of the signing of the Treaty of Yandabo on February 24, 1826. This treaty marked the end of the First Anglo-Burmese War (1824–1826), a protracted conflict that had a profound impact on Burma (Myanmar). The signing of Yandabo forced Burma to cede some territories (such as Assam and Arakan) to the British Empire and pay substantial indemnities, severely impacting Burma's independence and commercial sovereignty.

While the treaty's historical significance is murky and controversial for the Burmese, the village itself continues to preserve the traditional way of life of its villagers, who have long relied on the Ayeyarwady River.

A center for pottery

Yandabo is known as "The Great Pottery Village" on the Ayeyarwady River. Of the more than 400 households in this village, approximately 30 still rely on pottery production as their primary source of income. Many other households have also engaged in this secondary occupation, which has been a part-time job since their ancestors' time.

Raw Materials and Traditional Wisdom

• Clay: The primary raw material is high-quality clay, obtained from the silty layers along the Irrawaddy River, which is washed down by floodwaters during the flood season. This clay is ideal for pottery requiring flexibility and durability.

• Clay Preparation: The clay is mixed with rice husks or other ingredients to reduce density and prevent breakage during firing.

Distinctive Manufacturing Process

What makes Yan Dabo pottery unique and attractive to tourists is its traditional manufacturing process, which has maintained a tradition passed down through generations:

Foot-Powered Wheel: The potter uses a foot-powered wheel, unlike the more common electric or hand-operated wheel. Typically, two women work together as a team:

• Potter: Responsible for shaping the vessel.

• Assistant: Responsible for controlling and maintaining the speed of the foot-powered wheel to ensure a consistent rotation.

Traditional pottery: The pottery is made in a traditional style, primarily into pots and jars, or large containers for storing water and cooking, which are crucial to the daily lives of the Burmese people.

Drying and firing: The finished pottery is completely dried in the sun. It is then fired in an open-air kiln using straw and firewood, giving the pottery its distinctive red or light brown color.

Village Economy

Most of the pottery produced at Yandabo is not for tourists but is sold to major cities along the Ayeyarwady River, such as Mandalay and Bagan, primarily by boat. These products remain in high demand among rural households for daily use, as they are durable and cheaper than plastic containers.

Visitors to this village are not simply visiting the ancient ruins but also experiencing the origins of local culture and wisdom, which continue to thrive alongside the historic river.

• Tourists typically travel by river cruise along the Irrawaddy River, often as part of their journey between Bagan and Mandalay, with a stopover at Yandabo village.

• The morning and evening weather is pleasant, perfect for strolling around the village.

• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and drinking water, as the area is relatively open.

• If you're interested in pottery, you can ask the villagers for a complete demonstration of the production process.

• Dress appropriately, as this is a village where the villagers actually live.

Admission Fees:

• There is no entrance fee to the village (fees may apply for boat trips or some activities).

Opening Hours:

• Open all day, but the best time to visit is during the day when taking a cruise.