Hanoi: Incense, Hat, Lacquer Making & Train Street Full-Day

Hanoi’s vibrant culture comes alive in this engaging full-day tour. Visitors will explore three traditional villages, seeing the time-honored crafts of incense making, conical hat production, and lacquer art. With hands-on activities, a home-cooked lunch, and a top-rated experience, this tour offers a chance to connect deeply with Vietnam’s rich artistry. What secrets might these centuries-old traditions reveal about the heart of Hanoi?

Key Points

• The full-day tour explores 3 villages in Hanoi (Incense, Conical Hat, and Lacquer) and includes hands-on activities, culture, and an optional stop at Train Street.
• The tour offers both half-day (5 hours, 2 villages) and full-day (8 hours, 3 villages with lunch) options, with pricing ranging from $16.06 to $32.12 per person.
• Participants can engage in hands-on activities such as incense-making, conical hat crafting, and lacquer art production, allowing for creativity and souvenirs.
• The tour is suitable for most participants, but pregnant women and wheelchair users are not recommended, and comfortable shoes are advised.
• The tour is highly rated, with excellent communication and knowledgeable guides, and guests highlighting the immersive cultural experiences and good value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hanoi Full-Day Tour offers both full-day and half-day options, providing travelers with flexibility to suit their preferences and schedules.

The half-day tour lasts 5 hours, visiting 2 villages – Conical Hat and Incense, with an optional drop-off at Train Street.

The full-day tour spans 8 hours, exploring 3 villages – Lacquer, Conical Hat, and Incense, and includes a home-cooked lunch.

Pricing ranges from $32.12 to $16.06 per person, offering savings up to 50%.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now & pay later option.

Itinerary Highlights

The Hanoi Full-Day Tour kicks off with pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

The first stop is Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where visitors can observe the traditional incense-making process.

Next, the tour explores Chuong Conical Hat Village, allowing participants to try their hand at making and painting the iconic Vietnamese conical hats.

The final destination is the Ha Thai bamboo lacquer village, where guests learn about the local lacquer art production.

An optional drop-off at Train Street is available after the tour for those interested in exploring this unique urban setting.

Experience and Activities

Hands-on activities are central to the Hanoi Full-Day Tour, allowing participants to enjoy the local cultural experience. From crafting conical hats to learning the art of incense-making, the tour offers a unique opportunity to engage with skilled artisans. Participants can unleash their creativity by painting their handmade hats, capturing stunning photographs in the vibrant village settings, and returning home with souvenirs that tell the story of their journey.

| Activity | Description | Duration |

| — | — | — |

| Conical Hat Making | Explore the Chuong Conical Hat Village and participate in the creation of traditional hats. | 1-2 hours |

| Incense Crafting | Observe the time-honored process of incense-making in the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. | 1 hour |

| Lacquer Art Workshop | Tour the Ha Thai bamboo lacquer village and learn about the local lacquer art production. | 1-2 hours |

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customer reviews and ratings of the Hanoi Full-Day Tour paint a positive picture of the experience.

The tour boasts an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 32 reviews.

Guests highlight:

• Excellent communication and knowledgeable guides, rated 4.9/5

• Immersive cultural experiences and enjoyable hands-on activities

• Great value for money, with one reviewer noting "an amazing deal"

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Important Information and Recommendations

While the tour offers an immersive cultural experience, there are a few important considerations.

The tour is suitable for most participants but not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes to navigate the villages.

The half-day tour doesn’t include lunch, so it’s suggested to bring snacks. Those sensitive to strong smells should be aware of the acrylic and lacquer paint odors.

Discovering the Incense Village

As visitors arrive at the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, they’re immersed in the captivating scent of freshly-crafted incense.

This centuries-old craft is passed down through generations, showcasing the dedication of local artisans.

• Observe skilled workers meticulously rolling incense sticks, each one a work of art.

• Learn about the intricate process of selecting natural ingredients and blending them to create unique fragrances.

• Witness the drying and packaging procedures that ensure the incense maintains its quality and aroma.

The incense-making experience offers a profound glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Crafting Conical Hats in Chuong Village

After immersing visitors in the aromatic world of the Incense Village, the tour progresses to the charming Chuong Conical Hat Village.

Here, travelers get hands-on with the centuries-old craft of making and painting the iconic Vietnamese conical hats. Under the guidance of skilled artisans, they’ll learn the intricate techniques used to shape the bamboo frames and apply the vibrant colors.

Participants can take home their own handmade souvenir, a treasured reminder of this immersive cultural experience. The conical hat-making activity offers a glimpse into the traditions that have defined Vietnamese identity for generations.

Exploring the Lacquer Village of Ha Thai

From the colorful Conical Hat Village, the tour progresses to the charming Ha Thai Lacquer Village.

Here, visitors explore the intricate art of Vietnamese lacquer production:

• Witness skilled artisans carefully applying layer upon layer of lacquer to create stunning vases, bowls, and other decorative items.

• Learn about the traditional techniques passed down through generations, involving natural materials like tree sap, eggshells, and mother-of-pearl.

• Browse the vibrant display of finished lacquerware and have the opportunity to purchase unique souvenirs to take home.

The immersive experience in Ha Thai provides a deeper appreciation for this timeless local craft.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring Children on the Tour?

The tour is suitable for children, though participants need to be able to walk comfortably. The hands-on activities may not be suitable for very young children. It’s best to check with the tour provider about child policies and recommendations.

Are There Restrooms Available During the Tour?

Yes, the tour provides access to restrooms during the visits to the different villages. Restroom facilities are available for participants to use throughout the day’s activities at the various stops on the itinerary.

Can I Purchase Additional Items From the Villages?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional items from the villages during the tour. The villages offer a variety of handmade souvenirs, including incense, conical hats, and lacquer products, which can be bought as keepsakes.

How Much Time Is Spent at Each Village?

The tour itinerary allocates approximately 1.5-2 hours at each village. Visitors can enjoy the traditional crafts and have ample time to participate in hands-on activities and explore the villages.

Is the Tour Available in Other Languages?

The tour is available in multiple languages, including English. Customers can check with the tour operator about language options when booking. This allows for a more personalized and inclusive experience for participants from diverse backgrounds.

Final Words

This comprehensive tour offers an immersive cultural experience in Hanoi, showcasing the city’s vibrant artistry. Visitors can engage in hands-on activities like incense crafting, conical hat making, and lacquer art production, while also exploring local heritage and enjoying a home-cooked lunch. With excellent reviews and great value, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to connect with Vietnam’s rich traditions.

You can check if your dates are available here: