Hanoi: Incense Village, Conical Hat and Knife-Making Tour

If you’re looking to go beyond the typical sightseeing and really connect with Hanoi’s traditional crafts, this tour offers a colorful and hands-on way to do just that. For just $13 per person, you’ll explore three different villages, learn their unique skills, and even make your own souvenirs. It’s a perfect blend of culture, artisan skills, and authentic local life—all within a manageable half-day or full-day itinerary.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to see traditional craftsmanship up close, the personalized guidance from knowledgeable local guides, and the opportunity to create memorable keepsakes like a hand-painted conical hat or a custom knife.

One possible consideration? The tour involves a fair amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must. And if you’re hoping to include the full knife-making experience, double-check if your booking covers that part, as some options are half-day tours focusing on just two villages.

This tour is well-suited for curious travelers who appreciate authentic, tactile experiences and want to learn about Vietnam’s craft heritage in a relaxed setting. Whether you’re solo, with friends, or family, it offers a meaningful glimpse into Hanoi’s artisanal side.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Visit villages renowned for incense, conical hats, and blacksmithing.
• Hands-On Activities: Decorate a conical hat and make your own knife—perfect souvenirs.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides bring the craft and history to life with engaging insights.
• Affordable Price: At $13, the tour offers a remarkable value for such authentic experiences.
• Flexible Options: Available as private or small group tours, with half-day or full-day options.
• Cultural Insight: Discover how these ancient crafts are kept alive today, often by multi-generational artisans.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: From Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Most tours begin with a pickup from Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter—an ideal starting point for travelers based in the city center. The journey to the villages is generally short, allowing you to arrive energized and ready to explore.

Quang Phu Cau Village: Incense Making

Our first stop is Quang Phu Cau Village, a place that has been producing incense for over 100 years. This is where you’ll see a family business dyeing incense sticks, creating vibrant, aromatic bundles on a family scale. The detailed process includes observing how raw ingredients are combined and how artisans craft each bundle with care.

Some reviews mention the excitement of seeing the factory process—”see how incense is made from scratch”—and the opportunity to purchase souvenirs directly from the makers. You might find that watching artisans work on fragrant, colorful incense sticks gives you a new appreciation for this scent-filled craft, often overlooked in modern times.

Chuong Conical Hat Village: Crafting and Decorating

Next, the tour heads to Chuong Village, known for producing conical hats for over 300 years. This is a highlight for many travelers who love hands-on activities. You’ll observe how the hats are made from natural materials, often by skilled artisans who’ve inherited their craft through generations.

The most enjoyable part? Decorating your own hat. You’ll get to paint and personalize a traditional conical hat, which you can take home as a keepsake. Reviewers mention the fun of this activity—”being able to learn how to do it all and paint your own”—and the hats often turn out charmingly imperfect, adding to their charm.

More Great Tours Nearby

Da Sy Blacksmith and Knife-Making Village: Creating Steel Art

The final stop is Da Sy Village, famous for its blacksmithing. This is where sparks fly and the air hums with the sound of hammering steel. Under guidance from experienced blacksmiths, you’ll learn how raw steel is hammered into the shape of a knife, then polished and sharpened.

Many visitors find this part particularly rewarding. One reviewer exclaimed, “So much fun with the knives!” and appreciated the detailed craftsmanship involved. You’ll also learn how the artisans carve wooden handles, creating a functional piece of art that you’ve had a hand in making.

Some tours only include the village visit and not the full knife crafting, so if this is a must-do, check your booking carefully. The experience is more than just “making a knife”—it’s about understanding a skill that has sustained generations through peace and conflict.

Optional: Visit Hanoi Train Street

Some tours include a quick stop at Hanoi Train Street, offering a chance to see this iconic spot. If included, it’s a brief, scenic, and photogenic visit—perfect for those wanting a quick taste of local street life.

What to Expect and Practical Tips

Duration & Group Size:
Most options run between 6 hours and a full day, with private and small-group choices. For the half-day tour, expect it to start around 7:45 AM or 11:45 AM, with pickups from the Old Quarter.

Transportation & Comfort:
The journey involves some walking through villages and possibly uneven terrain. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera—there will be plenty of photo-worthy moments, especially during the hat decorating and blacksmithing parts.

Price & Value:
At just $13, this tour offers excellent value. It includes transportation, guides, and the activities, providing a behind-the-scenes look that’s often missing in standard sightseeing trips. The authentic interactions with artisans, many of whom have dedicated their lives to their craft, add a meaningful layer to your experience.

Guides & Language:
Guides are typically multilingual, speaking English, Vietnamese, and other languages, making explanations accessible and engaging. Reviewers consistently praise guides—“Henry,” for example, was described as helpful, fun, and very knowledgeable about the craft and local history.

What to Bring:
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking a lot. Don’t forget your camera to capture artisans at work and your decorated hat. Some reviews mention a cold ride, so layering might be wise.

Authentic, Affordable, and Engaging—Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for travelers eager to connect with Vietnam’s traditional craft scene. It’s especially suited for those who prefer tactile, hands-on activities over passive sightseeing. If you enjoy learning about local industries, meeting artisans, and creating souvenirs, this tour hits the mark.

Families, solo travelers, or small groups will all find value here. Because the tour is affordable and includes meaningful interactions, it’s a good choice for budget-conscious explorers wanting an authentic taste of Hanoi’s craft heritage.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a fantastic way to see Hanoi’s traditional crafts up close while creating your own souvenirs. The blend of incense-making, hat decorating, and blacksmithing provides a comprehensive look at Vietnam’s artisanal skills, all guided by passionate and knowledgeable locals.

The skills you learn, like decorating a conical hat or forging a knife, go beyond sightseeing—they become memories and meaningful keepsakes you’ll cherish long after your trip. The overall experience, rated 4.9 by past travelers, is praised for its authenticity, value, and engaging guides.

While it involves some walking and participation, the tour’s hands-on nature makes it suitable for those genuinely interested in Vietnamese culture and craftsmanship. If you’re after an experience that’s both fun and educational, this is a great choice—offering a rare glimpse into the enduring skills of Hanoi’s artisans.

FAQ

• What is the price of the tour?

It costs $13 per person, offering excellent value for multiple craft experiences and guided insights.

• How long does the tour last?

The tour can be from 6 hours to a full day, depending on the option you choose.

• What should I wear?

Comfortable shoes are essential, as there’s quite a bit of walking involved.

• Are there private options?

Yes, private and small group tours are available for a more personalized experience.

• Can I participate in the knife-making?

The full knife-making experience is available, but double-check if your booking includes this part, especially for half-day options.

• What languages are guides available in?

Guides speak several languages including English, Vietnamese, French, Spanish, Italian, Chinese, German, Korean, Thai, Japanese, Portuguese, and Russian.

• Is transportation provided?

Yes, round-trip transportation from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is usually included.

• What is the best time to do this tour?

Tours typically run in the morning or afternoon, so choose a time that suits your schedule and energy levels.

• Are there opportunities to buy souvenirs?

Yes, you can purchase incense, painted hats, and crafted knives directly from the artisans.

• Is this tour suitable for children?

Generally, yes, especially if they enjoy hands-on activities and walking. Just ensure they’re comfortable with the physical aspect of the visit.

This tour offers a compelling mix of history, craft, and culture—perfect for those wanting to see the real Hanoi beyond the tourist spots. With its affordability, knowledgeable guides, and authentic activities, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Hanoi itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: