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Mas Village

4.6
·491k reviews·, Indonesia

Mas Village, Bali's renowned hub for exquisite wood carving, offers a vibrant glimpse into traditional Balinese artistry and daily life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Mornings

Artisans are active

CrowdLow
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Mas Village - Image 1

Mas Village

Best Time

Mornings

Artisans are active

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mas Village, Bali's renowned hub for exquisite wood carving, offers a vibrant glimpse into traditional Balinese artistry and daily life.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Witness master artisans transform wood into breathtaking sculptures, a true Balinese craft experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 Engage with Artisans

Don't hesitate to chat with the wood carvers; they're often happy to share their craft. :speech_balloon:

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

The best way to see Mas Village is on foot. Get lost in the charming lanes! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Wood Carving Workshops

Wood Carving Workshops

Throughout the village

Witness master artisans transform wood into intricate sculptures and decorative pieces. A true Balinese craft experience.

Traditional Balinese Homes

Traditional Balinese Homes

Residential areas

Explore the unique architecture of Balinese compounds, often adorned with beautiful stone carvings and serene courtyards.

Local Markets

Local Markets

Village center

Discover local produce, handicrafts, and everyday items. A vibrant spot to soak in the local atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Local Pace

Mas Village offers a glimpse into traditional Balinese life. Don't rush; savor the artisan workshops and serene atmosphere. Consider visiting during local ceremonies for a unique cultural immersion.

Getting Around Mas Village

While scooters are popular for exploring wider Ubud, Mas Village itself is best navigated on foot to truly appreciate the intricate wood carvings and local interactions. Taxis or ride-sharing apps are readily available for longer distances.

Best Times

When
Mornings
Why
Artisans are active
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Quieter, good for browsing
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

One Day in Ubud

🤝 Engage with Artisans

Don't hesitate to chat with the wood carvers; they're often happy to share their craft. :speech_balloon:

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

The best way to see Mas Village is on foot. Get lost in the charming lanes! :athletic_shoe:

reddit.com

4 Days Ubud Help

reddit.com

Get Your Guide: Better to buy day tours or do it ourselves? (UBUD)

💰 Bargain Respectfully

Prices for carvings are negotiable, but always be polite and fair. :moneywithwings:

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate details of the carvings and the village life. :camerawithflash:

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Engage with Artisans

Don't hesitate to chat with the wood carvers; they're often happy to share their craft. :speech_balloon:

🚶‍♀️ Wander and Explore

The best way to see Mas Village is on foot. Get lost in the charming lanes! :athletic_shoe:

💰 Bargain Respectfully

Prices for carvings are negotiable, but always be polite and fair. :moneywithwings:

📸 Capture the Details

Focus on the intricate details of the carvings and the village life. :camerawithflash:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mas Village is celebrated for its incredible wood carving artistry and the opportunity to witness traditional Balinese craftsmanship firsthand. Visitors appreciate the authenticity of the workshops and the chance to interact with skilled artisans. However, some find the constant sales pitches can be overwhelming, and prices may require negotiation.

What People Like

Intricate wood carvings
Artisan workshops
Authentic culture

What People Dislike

Sales pressure
Bargaining required

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mas Village is a short drive from Ubud, typically about 15-20 minutes. You can hire a taxi, use a ride-sharing app like Gojek or Grab, or rent a scooter if you're comfortable with Balinese traffic. Many day tours from Ubud also include Mas Village as a stop. Reddit

Yes, the village itself is very walkable. The best way to experience the artisan workshops and local atmosphere is by strolling through its charming streets on foot. Reddit

Direct public transport to Mas Village is limited. It's more common to arrange private transport or join a guided tour from nearby hubs like Ubud. Reddit

Exploring Mas Village on foot allows you to fully appreciate the intricate wood carvings and interact with local artisans. For travel to and from the village, scooters or taxis are recommended. Reddit

If you arrive by scooter or car, you'll find small parking areas near the main workshop clusters. It's generally easy to find a spot, especially outside of peak hours. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There are no general entrance tickets required to wander through Mas Village. However, some individual workshops or galleries might have small entry fees or encourage purchases. Reddit

Mas Village doesn't have set opening hours as it's a living community. However, artisan workshops are typically open from morning until late afternoon, with most activity visible between 9 AM and 5 PM. Reddit

Most wood carving workshops in Mas Village are free to enter and observe. The expectation is that you might purchase a piece of art if you find something you like. Reddit

Absolutely! Many day tours from Ubud focus on Balinese crafts and include Mas Village. This can be a convenient way to see multiple artisan villages and learn about their traditions. Reddit

No, Mas Village is an open community, and there's no overarching admission fee. You are free to explore the streets and observe the daily life and artistry. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed in Mas Village, especially of the carvings and general village scenes. However, always be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of artisans at work or inside private homes. Reddit

Look for intricate wood carvings, the process of artisans at work, traditional Balinese architecture, and the vibrant local life. The details in the sculptures are particularly photogenic. Reddit

While not strictly enforced, it's good etiquette to ask permission before photographing individuals directly, especially if they are engaged in a private activity or within their personal space. Reddit

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both wider village scenes and detailed carvings. A prime lens (like a 50mm) can also be excellent for portraits and low-light situations. Reddit

Mornings offer softer light and more active artisans. Late afternoons can also provide beautiful golden hour light, though some workshops may be closing. Reddit

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Souvenirs

Mas Village is renowned for its exquisite wood carvings, ranging from small decorative items to large, intricate sculptures. You can also find other Balinese handicrafts. Reddit

Prices vary greatly depending on the size, complexity, and type of wood used. It's advisable to compare prices from different shops and be prepared to bargain respectfully. Reddit

Yes, bargaining is a common practice in the markets and shops of Mas Village. Start with a reasonable offer and be prepared to meet somewhere in the middle. Reddit

The main street is lined with numerous galleries and shops selling wood carvings. Exploring these will give you a good range of options and prices. Reddit

Mas Village is a genuine center for wood carving. While most items are authentic, be aware of mass-produced items that might be sold alongside handcrafted pieces. Look for quality and detail. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mas Village can be an engaging experience for families, particularly if children have an interest in art and crafts. The visual aspect of watching artisans at work can be captivating for younger visitors. Focus on the more accessible carvings like animals or simpler figures, which might spark their imagination. It's a good idea to keep the visit relatively short to maintain their attention span. Reddit

Consider bringing along a small notebook and crayons for kids to sketch what they see, turning the visit into an interactive art lesson. While the village is walkable, ensure children are supervised, especially near roads or busy workshop areas. The opportunity to see something being made from scratch can be a memorable takeaway for children, offering a tangible connection to the culture they are experiencing. Reddit

🎨 Art Enthusiasts & Collectors

For art lovers, Mas Village is a treasure trove. You'll find an incredible range of wood carvings, from traditional Balinese motifs to contemporary designs. Take your time exploring different galleries to compare styles, craftsmanship, and pricing. Don't hesitate to engage with the artists to learn about their techniques and the stories behind their work. Reddit

When considering a purchase, look for quality of detail, the type of wood, and the finish. Be prepared to negotiate prices respectfully. Many artists are willing to discuss custom orders if you have a specific vision in mind. Visiting multiple shops will give you a better understanding of the market value and help you find unique pieces that resonate with you. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Art of Wood Carving in Mas Village

Mas Village is globally recognized as a premier center for traditional Balinese wood carving. For centuries, artisans here have honed their skills, passing down techniques through generations. The primary woods used include teak, ebony, sandalwood, and suar wood, each offering unique textures and colors for different artistic expressions. Visitors can witness the entire process, from the initial shaping of the raw wood to the meticulous detailing that brings figures to life. Many workshops showcase a stunning array of pieces, from delicate figurines and masks to elaborate panels and large-scale sculptures depicting mythological scenes, animals, and abstract designs. Reddit

Interacting with the carvers offers a deeper appreciation for their dedication and artistry. You'll often find them working diligently in open-air workshops, their hands skillfully wielding chisels and knives. It's common for artisans to explain their work, the symbolism behind certain carvings, and the stories that inspire them. This direct engagement provides a unique cultural exchange and a chance to understand the soul of Balinese craftsmanship. Remember that while observing is free, purchasing a piece directly supports these talented individuals and their families, making it a meaningful souvenir. Reddit

When exploring the workshops, pay attention to the level of detail and the finish of the carvings. Higher-quality pieces will exhibit finer lines, smoother surfaces, and a more polished appearance. Don't be afraid to ask about the type of wood used and the time it took to create a particular piece. This knowledge can help you appreciate the value and artistry involved. For those interested in acquiring a significant piece, consider visiting some of the larger galleries that offer a wider selection and often have more experienced sales staff who can guide you through the options. Reddit

Experiencing Balinese Culture and Daily Life

Mas Village offers more than just art; it's a window into the daily rhythm of Balinese life. As you wander through the village, you'll encounter traditional Balinese compounds, characterized by their intricate stone gateways and serene courtyards. These homes are often adorned with beautiful carvings, reflecting the artistic spirit that permeates the community. Observe the local routines, from the preparation of offerings to the communal activities that take place throughout the day. The atmosphere is generally peaceful, allowing for a genuine connection with the local culture. Reddit

Beyond the workshops, the village also has small local markets where you can find fresh produce, spices, and everyday necessities. These markets are excellent places to experience the authentic local flavor and perhaps try some local snacks. While Mas Village is primarily known for its wood carving, it’s important to remember it’s a living community. Respectful observation of daily life is key to a meaningful visit. Engaging with locals, even with simple greetings, can enrich your experience and foster a sense of connection. Reddit

For a deeper cultural immersion, try to time your visit with any local ceremonies or festivals if possible. These events offer a vibrant spectacle of Balinese traditions, complete with music, dance, and elaborate processions. While not always predictable, being present during such an occasion provides an unparalleled glimpse into the spiritual and social fabric of the community. Always be mindful of local customs and dress modestly if you happen upon a religious ceremony. Reddit

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