1 day tour to incense Village , Hat Village & MORE

This engaging one-day Vietnamese excursion takes you outside Hanoi to explore some of the country’s most treasured craft villages. For around $56 per person, you’ll visit Quang Phu Cau, famous for incense making, Chuong Village for its centuries-old conical hats, and Ha Thai Village, renowned for lacquerware. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour combines cultural insight with hands-on activities and a taste of local life.

Two particular aspects really stand out: first, the chance to actually craft your own conical hat and lacquer piece, giving you a tangible souvenir from your journey. Second, the tour’s intimate setting, with a small group of just 8 participants, makes for more personalized attention and richer interaction. We also appreciate the scheduled visits to artisan workshops, which allow for authentic insight into traditional Vietnamese crafts.

However, a potential consideration is that some villages may be closed during holidays or special occasions, as one reviewer pointed out, so it’s wise to confirm availability before booking. This tour suits travelers who enjoy craftsmanship, authentic village visits, and culture—especially if you prefer small groups, hands-on activities, and a relaxed pace.

Key Points

Authentic craft experiences allow you to make your own conical hat and lacquerware.
Cultural insights provided by local artisans deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s traditional industries.
Small group size enhances interaction and personalized guidance.
Visiting three distinct villages offers a rounded glimpse of rural Vietnamese life.
Hands-on activities make the tour memorable and give you meaningful souvenirs.
Potential closures during holidays highlight the importance of checking availability beforehand.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Morning Pickup and First Stop at Quang Phu Cau

The day kicks off early, around 7:45 am, with a pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. From there, you’ll head straight into the countryside, where the first stop is Quang Phu Cau, a village dedicated to incense production. Here, you’ll visit an incense factory that’s been making incense from traditional methods, with guides explaining its significance in Vietnamese rituals and daily life.

Some reviews mention that during holidays, factories can be closed, which could limit certain experiences. One traveler shared, “they confirmed everything was open, but everything was closed,” highlighting that holiday timing can impact the day’s activities. However, even if the factory is closed, you’ll still get to see the colorful incense bundles at the dying yard, perfect for photos and understanding the visual beauty of incense-making.

This stop offers a genuine look at an age-old craft, illustrating how incense sticks are made from plant materials and how they continue to play vital roles in ceremonies, offerings, and personal use. Our guide, Eric, was praised for his knowledge and enthusiasm, making the explanations lively and engaging.

Conical Hat Village (Chuong Village)

Next, your journey takes you to Chuong Village, home to Vietnam’s iconic conical hats for over 300 years. Here, you’ll observe artisans at work, and the real treat is getting to paint your own conical hat. This activity isn’t just fun—it’s a chance to express your creativity and take home a handmade souvenir that’s both practical and symbolic.

While waiting for your painting session, you’ll often find the artisans cooking or preparing lunch. You have the option to help out with the meal, adding a dash of local hospitality and participation. According to a review, “There was a small cooking class if you want to help her out,” showing that this experience can be both educational and delicious.

Some visitors have noted that the organization of activities is smooth, with plenty of time to enjoy each step, making it suitable for all ages and crafting abilities. The rich history of the village adds depth to this activity, making it more than just a craft but a window into local traditions.

Lacquerware at Ha Thai Village

Post-lunch, the tour moves on to Ha Thai Village, a center of lacquerware production for over 400 years. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to craft your own lacquer piece, guided by experienced artisans. This activity is especially popular among those interested in decorative arts and handcrafting.

Visitors have found that guidance is friendly and informative, providing insights into the process of layering lacquer, applying designs, and polishing. It’s a chance to create a personalized, artistic keepsake—a tangible memory of your time in Vietnam.

However, it’s important to note that the lacquer pieces are for painting purposes only—if you’re hoping to take home a finished lacquerware item, you’ll want to clarify if that’s possible, as one review indicated some limitations.

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Return and Drop-off

By 3:30 pm, your day winds down, and you’ll head back toward Hanoi. Expect to arrive around 5 pm in the Old Quarter, where you can reflect on a day full of craft, culture, and local flavor. The entire experience is designed for comfort, with bus transportation included and small group sizes ensuring a relaxed atmosphere.

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What’s the Value?

At $56 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam’s traditional crafts. The inclusion of hands-on activities, lunch at an artisan’s home, and transportation make it a solid value, especially for travelers eager to connect with local artisans rather than just observe.

While some may find the limited time at each village challenging if they’re especially interested in detailed craft demonstrations, most reviews praise the organization and authenticity of the experience. The opportunity to own a painted conical hat or create a lacquer piece is a memorable takeaway that elevates this from a typical sightseeing tour.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This experience is ideal for craft lovers, culturally curious travelers, and those who appreciate hands-on activities. It’s particularly suited for small groups who want an intimate look at Vietnamese village life and artisanal traditions. If your trip falls during a busy holiday period, you may encounter closures, so check ahead.

Travelers who enjoy engaging with local artisans and learning about craft techniques will find this tour especially rewarding. If you prefer more free time or in-depth visits, or if you’re after luxury experiences, this may not be the best fit. However, for those seeking a fun, authentic, and educational day, it hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour begins around 7:45 am and ends by approximately 5 pm, making it a full-day experience.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip bus transportation, an English-speaking guide, lunch at an artisan’s home, one conical hat per person, water, and entrance fees.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

Is there a minimum group size?
Yes, the tour is designed for small groups limited to 8 participants, ensuring personalized attention.

Are the villages open during holidays?
Not necessarily. One review mentioned closures during the Lunar New Year, so it’s wise to confirm availability before booking.

Can I buy lacquerware or hats to take home?
While you will craft your own, the lacquerware produced during the tour is for painting only. You might find more options for purchase at the villages, but it’s not included in the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for a day of walking and hands-on activities. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat if the weather is sunny.

Is there free time during the tour?
Most activities are scheduled, but you’ll have opportunities to take photos and enjoy the scenery during each stop.

What if some sites are closed?
The tour provider might modify the itinerary if certain workshops or factories are closed, especially during holidays. The focus remains on the craft experiences available.

This one-day tour offers a charming peek into Vietnam’s artisanal traditions, perfect for those wanting both cultural insight and interactive activities. The chance to make your own souvenirs provides a memorable twist that many travelers cherish. The small group setting ensures a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, making it easier to ask questions and connect with artisans.

While it’s not a comprehensive tour of villages—some might be closed during certain times—it’s a highly authentic, well-organized experience that balances learning, participation, and sightseeing. Whether you’re a craft enthusiast, a curious traveler, or someone who loves a good story behind the souvenirs, this tour can add meaningful depth to your Vietnam trip.

If you’re after a quiet day of cultural discovery with a hands-on twist, this tour is worth considering. Just remember to check the schedule beforehand to avoid surprises during holidays or special occasions.