Hanoi, the vibrant capital of Vietnam, offers a unique opportunity to take in the country’s rich cultural heritage. From the traditional art of incense-making in Quang Phu Cau Village to the serene spirituality of the Perfume Pagoda, this excursion promises a captivating blend of history, natural beauty, and spiritual exploration. Discover the essence of Vietnamese Buddhism as you navigate the picturesque Yen Stream and uncover the hidden wonders of the Huong Tich Cave. Are you ready to embark on this enchanting journey?

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Key Points

Discover the traditional incense-making craft in Quang Phu Cau Village, a cultural experience highlighting the significance of incense in Vietnamese Buddhism.
Set out on a serene boat trip along Yen Stream to reach the Thien Tru Pagoda, surrounded by picturesque countryside and tranquil waters.
Explore the Perfume Pagoda, known as the "First Grotto of the Southern Heavens," featuring stunning limestone formations and intricate rock carvings.
Combine culture with natural beauty by trekking or taking a cable car to reach the Perfume Pagoda.
Enjoy a local lunch after the cultural and natural exploration, before returning to Hanoi.

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Location and Overview

The tour takes place in the northern region of Vietnam, approximately 30 kilometers from the bustling capital city of Hanoi.

It offers a unique cultural experience, exploring the centuries-old tradition of incense-making in Quang Phu Cau Village and visiting the renowned Perfume Pagoda.

The tour includes a boat trip on the serene Yen Stream, a trek or cable car ride to the iconic Perfume Pagoda, and a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

With free cancellation and a reserve now, pay later option, this immersive day-trip is an excellent way to discover the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Looking for more options in Hanoi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Departing from Hanoi between 8-9 AM, the tour first heads to Quang Phu Cau Village, where visitors can enjoy the sights, sounds, and scents of traditional incense production.

Next, they’ll take a boat trip on Yen Stream to Thien Tru Pagoda and visit the renowned Huong Tich Cave, also known as "Nam Thien De Nhat Dong".

Visitors can then choose to trek or take a cable car to the Perfume Pagoda.

After exploring the pagoda, the tour stops for lunch at a local restaurant before returning to Thien Tru quay for more sightseeing.

Quang Phu Cau Incense Experience

What makes the Quang Phu Cau incense experience so captivating? Visitors can expect to:

Witness the intricate, centuries-old craft of incense-making. Local artisans masterfully craft incense sticks using traditional methods, blending fragrant materials and shaping them by hand.
Immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and scents of the village. The air is thick with the aroma of burning incense, and the rhythmic tapping of bamboo tools adds to the immersive atmosphere.
Gain insights into the cultural significance of incense in Vietnamese Buddhism. Incense plays a vital role in religious ceremonies, symbolizing purification, meditation, and connection to the divine.

Boat Trip to Thien Tru Pagoda

After exploring the captivating incense-making traditions of Quang Phu Cau Village, visitors embark on a serene boat trip along the Yen Stream to reach the historic Thien Tru Pagoda.

The boat ride offers a peaceful journey through the picturesque countryside, allowing travelers to admire the lush greenery and tranquil waters.

The boat ride offers a peaceful journey through the picturesque countryside, allowing travelers to admire the lush greenery and tranquil waters.

Upon arrival, visitors can marvel at the intricate architecture and rich history of Thien Tru Pagoda, a significant spiritual site for Vietnamese Buddhists.

This leg of the tour provides a unique blend of culture and natural scenery, further enriching the overall Perfume Pagoda experience.

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Exploring Huong Tich Cave

From the serene waters of the Yen Stream, visitors embark on a journey to explore the captivating Huong Tich Cave, known as the "Nam Thien De Nhat Dong" or "First Grotto of the Southern Heavens."

This sacred Buddhist site, nestled within the verdant Huong Mountains, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance.

The cave’s highlights include:

Stunning limestone formations, delicate stalactites, and intricate rock carvings that mesmerize visitors.
The revered Giua Thuong Temple, where pilgrims come to pay respects and make offerings.
Breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and lush landscapes that inspire a sense of tranquility.

There's plenty more to explore in Hanoi

Perfume Pagoda Trek or Cable Car

Visitors have the option to either trek or take a cable car to reach the Perfume Pagoda, a revered Buddhist site nestled within the Huong Mountains. The trek takes around 2-3 hours and offers stunning views of the landscape. The cable car provides a more effortless journey, taking just 15 minutes to reach the top.

| Trek | Cable Car |

| — | — |

| Duration: 2-3 hours | Duration: 15 minutes |

| Difficulty: Moderate | Difficulty: Easy |

| Views: Panoramic landscapes | Views: Scenic mountain vistas |

| Price: From €5 per person | Price: From €10 per person |

| Suitable for: Fit hikers | Suitable for: All visitors |

Regardless of the option chosen, visitors will be rewarded with the opportunity to explore the Perfume Pagoda’s temples, shrines, and natural beauty.

Culinary Delight and Sightseeing

During the tour, visitors can delight in the culinary traditions of Vietnam. The day includes a lunch at a local restaurant, allowing travelers to savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

The menu typically features:

The menu typically features pho, spring rolls, and fresh seasonal fruits, providing an authentic Vietnamese culinary experience.

Pho, a fragrant noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and fresh herbs.
Spring rolls, a popular appetizer filled with shrimp, pork, and fresh vegetables, often served with a tangy dipping sauce.
Fresh seasonal fruits, such as rambutan or lychee, providing a refreshing end to the meal.

Along With the delectable lunch, the tour offers opportunities to explore the picturesque countryside and temples, immersing visitors in the rich cultural tapestry of Vietnam.

Important Considerations

Beyond the culinary delights and sightseeing experiences, there are a few important considerations to keep in mind when planning this tour.

Firstly, the tour may not be suitable for individuals over 95 years old. Plus, the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited.

While private group options are available, the tour is conducted with an English-speaking guide.

Lastly, travelers should be aware of a 30% public holiday surcharge on the total price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Children on This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for individuals over 95 years old, but there are no specific age restrictions for children. Families with children of all ages are welcome to join the tour.

Can I Purchase Additional Incense Products at Quang Phu Cau?

Yes, visitors can purchase additional incense products at Quang Phu Cau. The tour allows time to browse and buy traditional incense from the local artisans, providing an opportunity to take home a meaningful souvenir from the experience.

Is There an Option to Extend the Duration of the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers an optional extended duration. Guests can choose to spend more time exploring the Perfume Pagoda and surrounding countryside. This allows for a deeper culture and more flexibility in the itinerary.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Trip?

Unfortunately, guests cannot bring their own food and drinks on the boat trip. The tour includes bottled water, and a lunch at a local restaurant is provided. Outside food and drinks are not permitted during the boat portion of the excursion.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Groups or Students?

Yes, there are discounts available for groups and students. Group discounts can be up to 10% off the per person rate, while students can receive a 5% discount with valid ID. Discounts must be requested at the time of booking.

The Sum Up

Exploring Quang Phu Cau and the Perfume Pagoda offers a unique culture in Vietnam’s rich heritage. From the captivating incense-making process to the serene boat ride and spiritual cave, this tour provides a well-rounded experience. Visitors can explore the country’s Buddhist traditions, appreciate natural beauty, and indulge in local cuisine, making it an unforgettable journey. With the right planning, this excursion can be a highlight of any Vietnam itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: