Full Day Tour: Incense Village, Hat-Making & Lacquer Art

Explore the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam with this full-day tour that promises an immersive experience. Explore the enchanting incense village, where you’ll witness the ancient art of incense-making. Discover the traditions of hat-making and lacquer art, guided by local artisans. Savor a home-cooked lunch prepared by a female artisan, offering a glimpse into authentic Vietnamese hospitality. With convenient transportation and an English-speaking guide, this tour invites you to uncover the hidden gems of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.

Key Points

• A full-day tour focused on Vietnamese handicrafts and traditions, including lacquer painting, conical hat making, and incense production.
• Hands-on workshops and a home-cooked lunch provide an immersive cultural experience.
• Pickup and drop-off at the Old Quarter, with an English-speaking guide included.
• Overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on customer reviews, with mixed feedback on duration and price.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, with additional language guides subject to extra charges.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Details

This full-day tour offers visitors an immersive experience in Vietnamese handicrafts and traditions. Priced at $62.88 per person, the 8-hour excursion takes guests to villages known for lacquerware, conical hat-making, and incense production.

Highlights include interacting with local artisans, participating in hands-on workshops, and enjoying a home-cooked lunch.

Interacting with local artisans, participating in hands-on workshops, and savoring a home-cooked lunch.

Pick-up and drop-off at the Old Quarter are included, along with an English-speaking guide. Guests can opt for pickup at their hotel for an additional fee.

The tour is available in several languages and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Tour Itinerary

The tour begins with a 7:45-8:15 AM pickup at the Old Quarter, where guests are greeted by their tour guide.

The group first visits Ha Thai village, known for lacquerware since the 17th century. Guests meet a local artisan and create their own lacquer painting.

Next, they journey to Chuong village, famous for conical hat making. Here, guests engage with local artisans or war veterans to learn their personal stories. A home-cooked lunch prepared by a local female artisan is served.

Participants then try their hand at hat-making or painting with skilled craftspeople.

The tour continues to Quang Phu Cau incense village to observe family-scale production and photograph the colorful incense bundles.

Cultural Insights and Experiences

As visitors enjoy the tour, they’ve the opportunity to gain valuable cultural insights and engage in authentic experiences.

They’ll interact with local villagers, learning about their way of life and traditions firsthand.

The tour also offers hands-on experiences, where participants can create lacquer paintings and conical hats alongside skilled craftspeople.

Visitors will further enjoy Vietnamese hospitality through a home-cooked meal prepared by a local female artisan.

A home-cooked meal prepared by a local female artisan offers a taste of authentic Vietnamese hospitality.

These cultural touchpoints provide a unique glimpse into the fabric of Vietnamese society and foster a deeper appreciation for the country’s rich heritage.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour’s inclusions cover the essentials for a fulfilling experience. The package includes:

1. Comprehensive transportation, with pickup and drop-off at the hotel.

2. An English-speaking guide, with surcharges for other language services.

3. A home-cooked Vietnamese lunch and bottled water.

However, the tour excludes tips, personal expenses, drinks, entrance fees, and surcharges for holidays in Vietnam.

Visitors should also note that additional language guides may incur extra charges.

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Customer Reviews and Feedback

Customers have provided mixed feedback on the tour, with an overall rating of 3.5 out of 5 based on 2 reviews.

Hélaine from Canada felt the tour wasn’t long enough for the price and distance.

In contrast, a traveler from the UAE enjoyed the photo opportunities in the incense village and found the guide to be punctual and amiable, but suggested more time in the village would enhance the experience.

Exploring the Incense Village

Visiting the Quang Phu Cau incense village is a captivating highlight of the tour.

Travelers can observe the family-scale production process, capturing vibrant photos of the colorful incense bundles.

Travelers can observe the family-scale production process, capturing vibrant photos of the colorful incense bundles.

The tour itinerary includes:

1. Witnessing the entire production cycle at the largest incense factory in the village.

2. Engaging with local artisans to learn about their traditional techniques and the history of incense-making.

3. Exploring the picturesque village, immersing in the sights, sounds, and aromas of this centuries-old craft.

This immersive experience provides a unique cultural insight into the enduring traditions of Vietnamese handicrafts.

Taking in Hat-Making Traditions

How does one immerse in the captivating tradition of hat-making during this tour?

The journey takes visitors to Chuong village, known for its skilled artisans and war veterans who eagerly share their expertise. Guests have the opportunity to engage with these local craftspeople, learning the intricate techniques behind creating the iconic Vietnamese conical hats.

Participants can even try their hand at hat-making, guided by the experienced villagers. This hands-on experience allows for a deeper understanding and appreciation of this centuries-old craft that remains an integral part of Vietnamese culture and identity.

Discovering the Art of Lacquerware

The tour also takes visitors to the Ha Thai village, renowned for its lacquerware craftsmanship dating back to the 17th century.

Guests have the opportunity to:

1. Meet a local artisan and learn about the intricate process of creating lacquer paintings.

2. Engage in a hands-on experience, where they can personalize their own lacquer artwork.

3. Gain insights into the cultural significance and traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations of Vietnamese artisans.

This immersive experience allows travelers to not only appreciate the beauty of lacquerware but also to connect with the rich heritage and skilled craftsmanship of the local community.

Since You Asked

Are Photography and Videography Allowed Throughout the Tour?

Visitors are generally allowed to take photos and videos throughout the tour, though there may be some restrictions in certain areas out of respect for local customs or the privacy of artisans. It’s best to check with the tour guide for specific guidelines.

Can the Tour Be Customized to Suit Individual Preferences?

The tour can likely be customized to suit individual preferences. While the standard itinerary is provided, the tour operator may be open to adjusting the schedule or activities based on guests’ interests and needs. Travelers should inquire about customization options when booking.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping or Purchasing Crafts?

The tour doesn’t explicitly allocate dedicated time for shopping or purchasing crafts. However, visitors can interact with local artisans and may have opportunities to buy products during the various stops, like the lacquer and hat-making villages.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Physical Limitations for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or physical limitations. It’s suitable for all ages and ability levels, as the activities don’t require intense physical exertion. Participants can engage at their own pace and comfort level.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration for Additional Activities?

The tour operator doesn’t mention any age restrictions or physical limitations. However, there’s no option to extend the tour duration. Customers can request additional activities, but that would likely incur extra costs and require prior arrangement with the tour company.

Final Words

This full-day cultural tour offers an immersive experience in Vietnam’s rich heritage. Visitors can witness traditional incense production, create their own lacquer art and conical hats, and savor a home-cooked lunch. With convenient transportation and an English-speaking guide, the tour provides an engaging way to explore the country’s vibrant arts and crafts. It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic cultural adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: