From Hanoi: Perfume Pagoda or Incense Village, Conical Hat

If you’re looking for a tour that combines natural beauty, spiritual sites, and a taste of local craftsmanship, this full-day experience from Hanoi ticks many boxes. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-rounded, value-packed day that reveals the heart of northern Vietnam’s traditions.

What really pulls us in are the scenic boat ride along Yen stream, the chance to observe incense making, and the opportunity to try your hand at conical hat crafting. These elements promise a mix of visual delights, cultural insights, and hands-on fun. However, one potential caveat is that the visit to Incense Village isn’t guaranteed—the experience can sometimes be cut from the schedule, according to recent reviews. Despite that, this trip looks ideal for travelers eager to see authentic Vietnamese crafts, temples, and landscapes beyond Hanoi’s busy streets.

Key Points

• Beautiful boat trip along Yen stream offers serene landscape views.
• Cultural highlights include the Thien Tru Pagoda and Huong Tich Cave.
• Hands-on experience in Conical Hat making at Chuong Village.
• Insight into incense production at Quang Phu Cau Village.
• Flexible options for trekking or cable car to the main cave.
• Value for money at $39, including transport, guide, and entrance fees, with options for local cuisine.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: From Hanoi to Sacred Mountains and Craftsmanship

Starting with a Personal Touch—Hotel Pickup and Journey Out

Your day begins with a pickup from your Hanoi hotel, typically in the Old Quarter. This is convenient for travelers staying downtown, ensuring a smooth start. The drive to Quang Phu Cau village takes approximately 30 km, or about an hour, offering a chance to settle in and get briefed by your guide, often knowledgeable and friendly, like the one mentioned in reviews.

Quang Phu Cau Village: Incense Making and Photography Opportunities

First stop is Quang Phu Cau Village, renowned for producing traditional bright red incense. Here, you’ll walk through narrow lanes filled with the scent of expertly crafted incense sticks, a process that takes artisans over 300 years to perfect. The reviews describe this as “stunning imagery at all stages,” and travelers often find the aroma as mesmerizing as the visual spectacle.

Visitors have the chance to observe the steps involved in incense production, which makes for great photos and a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s craft traditions. One review notes that this part of the tour is “an ultimate photo experience,” and it’s true—the vibrant red incense and rustic village setting create memorable images.

However, it’s worth noting that some guests have reported that the visit to the incense village was not always included, so if this is a priority, it’s best to confirm with your provider beforehand.

Chuong Village: Crafting the Iconic Conical Hats

Next, the tour heads to Chuong Village, famous for over 300 years of conical hat (nón lá) craftsmanship. Narrow alleys lined with workshops are lively with artisans demonstrating their skills. You’ll see the traditional process step-by-step, from shaping the straw to decorating the finished product.

Many travelers find this segment especially engaging because it’s interactive—you might even get the chance to try assembling or decorating your own hat. Artisans are passionate and eager to share their cultural meaning behind the hats, which are not just practical but also symbolic of Vietnamese identity.

Guests who’ve participated mention how the experience is both educational and fun, and some buy their own handcrafted hats as souvenirs. This part of the tour is a window into a craft that’s been part of Vietnamese culture for centuries.

More Great Tours Nearby

Huong Pagoda and the Scenic Boat Ride

The main highlight is Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples and pagodas set amid stunning natural scenery. You’ll travel via electric vehicle or on foot to Yen wharf, where local boats await to glide along Yen stream. The boat ride itself is a tranquil moment, offering sweeping views of lush greenery and towering limestone formations.

The boat journey is often described as peaceful and photogenic, with reviews praising the “beautiful landscapes” along the stream. It’s a perfect way to relax after the busy morning and enjoy Vietnam’s natural beauty.

Trekking or Cable Car to Huong Tich Cave

From the boat, there is an option to hike approximately 2.5 km up the mountain to the Huong Tich Cave, known as “Nam Thien De Nhat Dong” or “the first cave of Southern Vietnam.” The walk offers panoramic views and a sense of achievement, but some might prefer the cable car option, which is available and provides a quicker, less strenuous ascent.

Visitors who’ve taken the trek or cable car speak highly of the breathtaking views and the spiritual ambiance inside the cave. The guide is helpful in explaining the significance of this sacred site, adding depth to the experience.

Thien Tru Pagoda: A Peaceful Resting Spot

After exploring the cave complex, your tour includes a visit to Thien Tru Pagoda, built in the 18th century. This pagoda is notable for its serene atmosphere and historical significance, having been visited by King Le Thanh Tong. Visitors often take a moment for Buddhist prayers or simply to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

The name “heaven’s kitchen” (Thien Tru) comes from local rock formations that resemble chefs at work—a quirky detail that adds charm to the site. It’s a calm spot for reflection before heading back.

Return Journey to Hanoi

Following the spiritual visit, you’ll retrace your steps back to Yen wharf, board your bus, and head back to Hanoi. The overall tour duration is about 8 hours, making it a manageable day trip with plenty of time to see the highlights and relax.

What’s Included and What to Consider

The tour’s price of $39 per person is quite reasonable, considering it includes transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, entrance fees, a boat trip, and bottled water. Optional extras like cable cars or lunch at a local restaurant (Vietnamese cuisine) are available, with lunch being a great value for a hearty meal amidst the day’s activities.

However, the tour does not include the cable car if you prefer a faster ascent to Huong Tich Cave, so budget accordingly if that’s important. Also, note that visiting the incense village is not guaranteed every time, which might disappoint some travelers expecting that stop.

Practical Tips

• Bring comfortable shoes for walking and trekking.
• Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen for outdoor parts.
• A camera is essential to capture the stunning scenery.
• Pack water to stay hydrated during the day.
• Check your guide’s language availability—English is standard, but other languages may incur extra charges.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

This tour offers a genuine window into Vietnamese spirituality, craftsmanship, and natural beauty. The guide’s knowledge—praised in reviews for being “very knowledgeable”—enhances the experience, providing context and stories that bring each stop to life.

Guests often mention how photo opportunities abound at every turn, from the incense villages to the scenic boat ride and the colorful, spiritual sites. The crafting of conical hats and the incense production are particularly unique, providing a tangible connection to local traditions.

A Few Caveats

While many found the tour to be well-organized and enjoyable, some reviews note that the incense village visit was sometimes omitted, which could be frustrating if this was a highlight expected. Also, the group size can influence the experience—smaller groups tend to offer more personalized attention, so check with the provider if this matters to you.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for culture enthusiasts who want an active, yet relaxing day. It’s suitable for first-time visitors wanting an overview of northern Vietnam’s spiritual and artisanal side or for those interested in crafts and local traditions.

Travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, temple visits, and hands-on activities will find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for value for money, as the price covers most major sights and activities.

Final Thoughts

This tour from Hanoi offers a well-balanced day trip that combines natural beauty, cultural insights, and hands-on experiences at a very reasonable price. It’s especially suited to travelers eager to explore Vietnam’s rich craft traditions and spiritual sites beyond the city.

While some elements, like the incense village, may vary, the overall journey promises stunning views, insightful guides, and memorable moments. It’s a great way to step outside the bustling Old Quarter and see a quieter, more traditional side of Vietnam.

For those who value authentic, immersive experiences and appreciate the beauty of Vietnam’s landscapes and crafts, this tour is a worthwhile choice. Just be sure to confirm specific stops if certain elements are essential for your visit.

FAQ

Is the incense village visit guaranteed?
Not always. Some recent reviews mention that this part of the tour was missed, so it’s best to check with your provider ahead of time if it’s a priority.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full-day trip typically lasts around 8 hours, from hotel pickup in Hanoi to return, including all stops and travel time.

What’s included in the price?
The $39 fee covers transportation by car, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, the boat trip along Yen stream, and bottled water. Lunch and optional cable car rides are extra.

Can I choose to hike or use the cable car?
Yes, there are options for both. You can trek the 2.5 km path to Huong Tich Cave or opt for the cable car for a quicker, less strenuous ascent.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Generally yes, but consider the walking involved and the potential for outdoor exposure. The boat ride is relaxing, but the walk to the cave might be challenging for some.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended to make the most of your day.

This full-day tour offers a genuine peek into Vietnam’s spiritual and artisanal heart, paired with scenic views and cultural richness—all at a friendly price point. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a memorable way to deepen your understanding of Hanoi’s surroundings.

You can check availability for your dates here: