Hanoi’s Artisan Trail offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. Visitors can explore fascinating villages, witnessing the intricate craftsmanship of bamboo lacquer, conical hat-making, and incense production. With a home-cooked lunch and an option to visit the famous Train Street, this full-day adventure provides a captivating blend of cultural engagement and scenic beauty. For those seeking an authentic and memorable experience in Hanoi, the Artisan Trail promises an unforgettable journey.
Good To Know

- The tour explores Hanoi’s cultural heritage through visits to artisan villages, including Incense Village, Hat Village, Lacquer Village, and Train Street.
- The tour is priced from $36.60 per person and lasts 5-8 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The full-day tour includes hotel pickup, home-cooked lunch, and a conical hat, while the afternoon tour offers a condensed experience.
- Visitors can interact with artisans, observe traditional crafts like lacquer painting, hat-making, and incense production, and learn about the local culture.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or those sensitive to strong smells, and comfortable shoes are recommended.
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hanoi artisan trail tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich cultural heritage, guiding them through the Incense Village, Hat Village, Lacquer Village, and the renowned Train Street.
Priced from $36.60 per person, the tour lasts 5-8 hours with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.
This immersive experience provides a deep dive into Vietnam’s artisanal traditions, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the skilled craftsmanship of local artisans as they create incense, hats, and lacquerware.
Looking for more options in Hanoi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary and Experience

For the full-day tour, guests are picked up from Hanoi’s Old Quarter between 7:45 and 8:15 AM.
They’ll visit the Ha Thai bamboo lacquer village, where they’ll meet artisans and create their own lacquer painting.
Next, they’ll explore the Chuong Conical Hat Village, observe hat-making, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch.
Guests explore the Chuong Conical Hat Village, observe hat-making, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch.
The tour then moves to the Quang Phu Cau incense village, where guests can observe incense production and take photos.
The tour returns to Hoan Kiem, with an optional drop-off at Train Street.
The afternoon tour follows a similar itinerary, focusing on the Chuong and Quang Phu Cau villages.
Full Day Tour

On the full-day tour, guests are first transported to the Ha Thai bamboo lacquer village, where they’ll have the opportunity to meet skilled artisans and create their own unique lacquer painting, an activity that typically lasts around 1.5 hours.
Next, the tour heads to the Chuong Conical Hat Village, where visitors can explore the hat-making process, enjoy a home-cooked lunch, and optionally interact with the artisans.
The final stop is the Quang Phu Cau incense village, where guests observe the intricate incense production and capture memorable photos.
The tour then returns to Hoàn Kiếm, with a drop-off at Train Street available.
Afternoon Tour

Alternatively, the afternoon tour offers a more condensed exploration of the artisan villages. Visitors will first venture to Chuong Village, where they can observe the captivating process of conical hat-making. After, the tour proceeds to Quang Phu Cau Village, allowing guests to witness the intricate dyeing techniques and visit an incense factory.
| Village | Duration | Highlights |
|———|———-|————|
| Chuong | 1.5 hours | Hat-making |
| Quang Phu Cau | 1.5 hours | Dyeing, Incense Factory |
| Return to Hoàn Kiếm | Optional | Train Street Drop-off |
The afternoon experience provides a focused look into Vietnam’s artisanal heritage, perfect for those with limited time.
More Great Tours NearbyTour Inclusions

The Hanoi Artisan Trail tour includes an array of immersive experiences.
Guests receive hotel pickup and drop-off in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, as well as an English-speaking guide. The full-day tour also provides a home-cooked lunch and a conical hat per person.
Travelers receive a bottled water and have all entrance fees covered. While lacquer paintings can be purchased, the tour excludes other drinks and personal expenses.
Comfortable shoes are recommended, but the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those sensitive to the smells of acrylic and lacquer paints used by the artisans.
Important Information

The Hanoi Artisan Trail tour may not be suitable for all travelers.
The Hanoi Artisan Trail tour may not be suitable for all travelers.
Wheelchair users can’t participate, as the tour isn’t accessible. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as the tour involves walking through various villages. Electric wheelchairs aren’t allowed.
Travelers sensitive to strong smells should consider the tour’s activities, as artisans use acrylic and lacquer paints.
This tour offers a unique opportunity to take in Hanoi’s rich artisanal heritage, but it’s essential to be aware of these important limitations and considerations before booking.
Customer Feedback
Based on the overwhelmingly positive reviews, travelers seem to have thoroughly enjoyed the Hanoi Artisan Trail tour.
The tour has an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 6 reviews, with comments highlighting:
-
The excellent, English-proficient guide who provided informative commentary throughout the activities.
-
The enjoyment of the hands-on experiences, such as creating lacquer paintings and observing the incense and conical hat-making processes.
-
The delight in the delicious home-cooked lunch served during the full-day tour.
Exploring Hanoi’s Artisan Trail

Though nestled within the bustling streets of Vietnam’s capital, the Hanoi Artisan Trail offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
This full-day or afternoon tour takes visitors to three distinct artisan villages – Ha Thai bamboo lacquer, Chuong Conical Hat, and Quang Phu Cau incense. Guests can observe skilled artisans at work, create their own lacquer painting, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch.
The experience provides an authentic, immersive opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese crafts and craftsmanship. With knowledgeable guides and included transportation, the Hanoi Artisan Trail is a must-do for cultural explorers.
Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Safety Protocols in Place for the Tour?
The tour includes safety measures such as not being suitable for wheelchair users and recommending comfortable shoes. Guests sensitive to smells should consider the use of acrylic and lacquer paints before booking. Electric wheelchairs are not allowed on the tour.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour is customizable to meet your preferences. You can discuss any changes or additions you’d like to make with the tour operator when booking. They’ll work to accommodate your requests within the tour’s structure and timeline.
Are Photography and Videography Allowed Throughout the Tour?
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed throughout the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the artisanal processes and scenic vistas, though out of respect, they should avoid interfering with the artisans’ work.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration if Needed?
There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration based on the provided information. The tour has a set itinerary and timeline that cannot be modified. Travelers should plan accordingly to ensure they experience the full tour within the allotted timeframe.
Can I Purchase Additional Handicrafts From the Artisans During the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase additional handicrafts directly from the artisans during the tour. The tour allows ample time to interact with the artisans and browse their wares, so you can pick up unique souvenirs along the way.
The Sum Up
Hanoi’s Artisan Trail offers a captivating culture, showcasing the rich heritage of Vietnamese craftsmanship. From the intricate conical hat-making to the mesmerizing incense production, this full-day adventure provides a unique opportunity to engage with local artisans and witness the scenic beauty of the region. Whether you opt for the full-day or afternoon tour, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s artisanal traditions.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Guided Tours in Hanoi
- Vietnam Day Trips All-Inclusive, Bus, Guide, Meals & Activities
- Multi-Day Guided Cruise in Halong & Lan Ha Bay from Hanoi
- Private Guided Adventure in Ninh Binh Vietnam
- Small Group Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour with Local Guide
- Guided Hanoi Food Tour With Train Street 8 Different Food Tasting
- 3-Days Sapa Trekking With Local Guide Overnight in Tavan Village
More Tours in Hanoi
- Le Mat Snake Village Tour With Snake Tasting
- Hanoi Old Quarter Private Street Food Walking Tour
- Led By Women – Hanoi Foodie Motorbike Tours
- Hoa Lu Tam Coc 1 Day Group Tour (Biking- Boating-Cave Exploring)
- Hanoi Motorbike Tour for Historical Culture and Fun Sightseeing
- Ninh Binh Full Day Small Group Bai Dinh Trang An Mua Cave Tour
More Tour Reviews in Hanoi
- Le Mat Snake Village Tour With Snake Tasting
- Hanoi Old Quarter Private Street Food Walking Tour
- Led By Women – Hanoi Foodie Motorbike Tours
- Hoa Lu Tam Coc 1 Day Group Tour (Biking- Boating-Cave Exploring)
- 11 Days Allure Of Vietnam From The North To The South
- Hanoi Motorbike Tour for Historical Culture and Fun Sightseeing
Still browsing? Here are more Hanoi experiences we've covered recently
- Le Mat Snake Village Tour With Snake Tasting
- Hanoi Old Quarter Private Street Food Walking Tour
- Led By Women – Hanoi Foodie Motorbike Tours
- Hoa Lu Tam Coc 1 Day Group Tour (Biking- Boating-Cave Exploring)
- 11 Days Allure Of Vietnam From The North To The South
- Hanoi Motorbike Tour for Historical Culture and Fun Sightseeing
- Halong Bay Full-Day Cruise with Kayaking from Hanoi
- Ninh Binh Full Day Small Group Bai Dinh Trang An Mua Cave Tour
- Hanoi Half-Day Private Tour: Must-see Attractions & Train Street
- Halong Bay 2 Days 1 Night Scarlet Pearl Cruise
- Full Day Phong Nha Cave Tour Departing from Hanoi
- Ancient Treasure Duong Lam and Van Phuc Private Tour
