Hanoi: Incense, Hat, Lacquer Art Making Tour & Train Street

Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage comes alive in this immersive tour. Visitors can explore centuries-old traditions, from incense-making to conical hat crafting. The hands-on activities and home-cooked lunch offer an authentic glimpse into rural Vietnam. With flexible booking options and high customer ratings, this tour promises an unforgettable experience. But the real highlight might just be the chance to witness the captivating spectacle of Hanoi’s famous Train Street.

Key Points

• This tour offers a culture experience in Hanoi, visiting villages known for traditional crafts like incense-making, conical hat crafting, and lacquer art.
• Depending on the tour option, visitors can explore either a half-day or full-day itinerary, with the full-day including a home-cooked lunch.
• Crafting activities are available, allowing participants to gain hands-on experience with cultural traditions.
• The tour includes pickup from the Old Quarter or Hoàn Kiếm, and offers flexible booking with pay later and free cancellation options.
• Accessibility is limited, with the tour not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to challenges in the artisan villages.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Hanoi: Incense, Hat, Lacquer Art Making Tour & Train Street," offers visitors a range of options, with prices starting from Kč 370 per person and saving up to 50% off the original cost.

Travelers can choose between a 5-hour half-day or an 8-hour full-day tour. The tour includes pickup from the Old Quarter or Hoàn Kiếm, and booking is flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary and Activities

Two itinerary options are available for the tour.

The half-day tour is 5 hours long and includes visits to the Chuong Conical Hat Village for 2 hours and the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village for 1 hour and 45 minutes, with an optional drop-off at Train Street.

The full-day tour lasts 8 hours and covers the Incense Village, Conical Hat Village, and Lacquer Art Village, with a home-cooked lunch included.

Participants can engage in crafting activities during the tours to experience the authentic cultural traditions of rural Vietnam.

Highlights and Cultural Experience

Visitors can discover the vibrant artisan settings and enjoy the rich cultural traditions of rural Vietnam. The tour highlights include:

| Activity | Experiences |

| ——- | ———– |

| Quang Phu Cau Incense Village | Explore the traditional incense-making process |

| Chuong Conical Hat Crafting Village | Learn about the iconic Vietnamese conical hats |

| Hanoi Lacquer Crafting Village | Observe the intricate techniques of local lacquer artwork |

| Photography | Capture the vibrant and authentic artisan scenes |

Travelers can deepen their understanding of Vietnamese craftsmanship and appreciate the dedication behind these timeless traditions.

Customer Reviews and Feedback

Travelers have broadly praised the tour, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 126 reviews.

Guides like Danny, Jay, and Paul were singled out for their knowledgeability and engaging personalities. Visitors appreciated the authenticity of rural Vietnam and the immersive cultural experience. They enjoyed opportunities for photography in the vibrant artisan settings.

However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to accessibility challenges.

Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes and be aware of potential sensitivity to acrylic/lacquer paint smells during the visits.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Important Information and Recommendations

The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users due to accessibility challenges. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, as the tour involves walking through artisan villages. Pets are not allowed on the tour. It is recommended to bring snacks, especially for the half-day tour, as lunch is only included in the full-day option. Plus, visitors should be aware of the potential sensitivity to the strong smells of acrylic and lacquer paints during the visits.

| Important Information |

| — |

| Not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users |

| Wear comfortable shoes |

| Pets not allowed |

| Bring snacks for half-day tour |

| Potential sensitivity to paint smells |

Discovering Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

Nestled in the outskirts of Hanoi, Quang Phu Cau Village is renowned for its centuries-old tradition of incense-making.

Visitors can witness skilled artisans carefully crafting fragrant incense sticks using natural materials. The process involves dipping bamboo cores into aromatic pastes, then meticulously drying and bundling the finished products.

Rows of vibrant red incense sticks line the streets, creating a captivating visual display. Travelers can enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of this historic craft, gaining a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

The incense-making demonstration offers a truly authentic experience.

Exploring Chuong Conical Hat Crafting Village

One of the village’s most iconic sites is the Chuong Conical Hat Crafting Village, known for its centuries-old tradition of producing the quintessential Vietnamese headwear.

Visitors can observe the intricate process of hat-making, from shaping the bamboo frames to delicately weaving the palm leaves. Skilled artisans demonstrate their techniques, offering insights into the cultural significance of these iconic hats.

Visitors can observe the intricate process of hat-making, from shaping the bamboo frames to delicately weaving the palm leaves. Skilled artisans demonstrate their techniques, offering insights into the cultural significance of these iconic hats.

The village’s serene atmosphere and picturesque setting provide an immersive glimpse into the preservation of this traditional craft.

Travelers can even try their hand at crafting their own conical hat, fostering a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.

Visiting Hanoi Lacquer Crafting Village

As visitors journey through the tour, they also have the opportunity to explore the Hanoi Lacquer Crafting Village, a hub of Vietnam’s renowned lacquer art.

This artistic enclave showcases the intricate process of lacquer painting, where skilled artisans transform ordinary objects into exquisite works of art.

Visitors can:

• Observe the artisans meticulously applying layer upon layer of lacquer, each coat lending depth and richness to the final piece.

• Try their hand at creating their own lacquer masterpiece, guided by the experienced craftspeople.

• Browse the vibrant displays of lacquered vases, trays, and other home decor items.

• Learn about the history and cultural significance of this centuries-old Vietnamese craft.

Since You Asked

Can I Purchase and Bring Home the Handcrafted Items?

Yes, participants can purchase and bring home the handcrafted items they create during the tour’s cultural activities, like the iconic conical hats, incense, and lacquerware. These make great souvenirs to commemorate the immersive experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs During the Tour?

The tour includes entrance fees and transportation, but there may be additional costs for optional activities, such as purchasing handcrafted items or sampling local cuisine. Travelers should budget accordingly and check with the tour provider for any extra fees.

How Much Time Is Allotted for Each Activity During the Tour?

The half-day tour allocates 2 hours for Chuong Conical Hat Village, 1 hour 45 minutes for Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, and an optional drop-off at Train Street. The full-day tour includes visits to all three villages with a home-cooked lunch.

Is Transportation Provided From My Hotel to the Starting Point?

The tour provides pickup from the Old Quarter and Hoàn Kiếm area, making it convenient for travelers. Transportation to the starting point is included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Interests?

Yes, the tour allows for some customization. Travelers can discuss their interests with the tour provider and adjust the itinerary to focus on the activities they’d like to experience most, such as spending more time at a specific craft village.

Final Words

This immersive tour of Hanoi’s traditional crafts offers a unique cultural experience. Visitors can witness the art of incense-making, conical hat crafting, and lacquer work, while also exploring the iconic Train Street. With flexible scheduling and high customer satisfaction, it’s an excellent way to discover the rich heritage of rural Vietnam firsthand.

You can check if your dates are available here: