Hanoi Craft Village: Conical Hats, Incense, and Train Street

Hanoi’s Craft Village offers a captivating glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can enjoy the age-old traditions of conical hat making and incense crafting, witnessing the intricate processes that create these iconic symbols. But the journey doesn’t end there – a visit to the famous Hanoi Train Street adds an element of urban exploration, blending cultural authenticity with a touch of adventure. Uncover the layers of this vibrant destination and discover why it’s a must-visit for those seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnamese artistry.

Good To Know

• A half-day tour in Hanoi offers visits to Chuong Village for conical hat making and Quang Phu Cau for observing incense craft.
• The full-day tour adds a stop at a lacquer art village and includes lunch at an artisan’s home.
• Participants can engage in hands-on activities like weaving bamboo frames and rolling incense sticks during the village visits.
• Skilled local artisans guide the activities and demonstrate centuries-old techniques for crafting these traditional Vietnamese products.
• The tour offers an optional drop-off at Hanoi Train Street, a popular site for photography.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Although the Hanoi Craft Village tour has a price range of $32.07 per person, it offers a flexible itinerary with options for both half-day and full-day experiences.

The half-day tour lasts around 5 hours and includes visits to Chuong Village for conical hat making and Quang Phu Cau for incense crafting.

The full-day tour, lasting approximately 8.5 hours, adds a stop at a lacquer art village.

Both tours include pickup from the Old Quarter in Hanoi and allow for optional drop-off at the Hanoi Train Street.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary Details

The Hanoi Craft Village tour offers two itinerary options – a half-day tour lasting around 5 hours and a full-day tour of approximately 8.5 hours.

The half-day tour includes visits to Chuong Village for conical hat making and Quang Phu Cau for incense crafting. Travelers can choose to be dropped off at Hanoi Train Street or return to their hotel.

The full-day tour adds a stop at a lacquer art village to observe lacquerware production. Lunch at a local artisan’s home is included.

The itineraries are flexible and subject to change.

Conical Hat Making in Chuong Village

As visitors arrive at Chuong Village, they’ve the opportunity to witness the intricate process of creating traditional Vietnamese conical hats.

Guided by local artisans, guests can try their hand at weaving the bamboo frames, selecting the finest palm leaves, and meticulously shaping the iconic pointy silhouette.

The rhythmic sound of bamboo being split and woven fills the air, while the skilled hands of the villagers demonstrate centuries-old techniques.

Participants leave with a newfound appreciation for this iconic headpiece and a one-of-a-kind souvenir crafted by their own hands.

Incense Craft in Quang Phu Cau

Visitors then journey to Quang Phu Cau, a renowned incense craft village on the outskirts of Hanoi.

They witness skilled artisans meticulously crafting incense sticks by hand. The process involves mixing fragrant ingredients, carefully rolling, and drying the sticks.

Guests observe the painstaking attention to detail as the artisans ensure each incense stick meets their high standards. The aroma fills the air, creating a sensory experience.

Visitors gain an appreciation for the rich cultural heritage and centuries-old traditions behind this treasured craft. They can even try their hand at making incense, preserving the legacy of Quang Phu Cau.

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Lacquerware Production at Lacquer Art Village

After exploring the intricate art of incense-making, the tour journeys to the Lacquer Art Village.

Here, visitors witness the meticulous process of lacquerware production. Skilled artisans carefully apply layer upon layer of lacquer, sanding and polishing each piece to a gleaming finish.

The family-owned workshops offer a glimpse into this centuries-old tradition, where every step, from mixing the lacquer to hand-painting the designs, is done with utmost care.

Guests have the opportunity to observe the craftspeople at work and gain an appreciation for the artistry and patience required to create these beautiful, functional works of art.

Tasting Regional Delicacies

Upon concluding their visit to the Lacquer Art Village, guests are invited to savor regional delicacies at the home of a local artisan.

Here, they’ll sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine, including fresh spring rolls, pho, and local desserts. The meal offers a chance to engage with the artisan, learning about the culinary traditions and flavors of the region.

This intimate experience provides a well-rounded culture, complementing the exploration of craft processes throughout the day. Guests can expect a warm, hospitable atmosphere as they indulge in a taste of true Vietnamese hospitality.

Flexible Itinerary and Important Information

While the tour’s itinerary provides a general outline, it remains flexible to accommodate guests’ interests and preferences.

The tour isn’t suitable for infants under 1 year or people over 95 years old. Participants should wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera, but alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

A surcharge of $10 per person applies on specific holidays.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Customers have generally provided positive reviews and high ratings for the Hanoi Craft Village tour, with an overall score of 4.6 out of 5 based on 9 reviews. Reviewers praised the excellent and enjoyable experience, calling it the "best experience of our trip," as well as the knowledgeable guide named Ming. The tour’s highlights, including creating a traditional conical hat, observing the incense-making process, and witnessing lacquer painting, were also well-received.

| Reviewer | Rating | Review |

| — | — | — |

| Andrew, Australia | 5/5 | "Excellent and enjoyable" |

| Dominique, Canada | 5/5 | "Best experience of our trip" |

| Andre, Brazil | 4/5 | "Interesting, thanks to guide Ming" |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Equipment for the Craft Activities?

Yes, visitors can bring their own equipment for the craft activities. However, the tour provides all necessary materials, so it’s not necessary to bring your own unless you have a specific preference.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year and people over 95 years old. All other participants are welcome to join the craft activities and experience the tour.

What Is the Cancellation Policy in Case of Inclement Weather?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so customers can reschedule if the weather is unsuitable. In the event of inclement weather on the day of the tour, it’ll be cancelled and a full refund provided.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary Based on My Interests?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized based on your interests. The flexible nature of the tour allows you to focus on the activities that interest you most, such as conical hat making, incense crafting, or lacquerware production.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Charges Beyond the Tour Price?

Yes, there are additional fees beyond the tour price. The tour provider charges a $10 per person surcharge for specific holidays. Otherwise, the tour price covers all activities, transportation, and a local lunch.

The Sum Up

The Hanoi Craft Village tour offers a captivating exploration of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can witness the intricate processes behind iconic crafts like conical hat-making and incense production, engaging directly with local artisans. The optional visit to the famous Hanoi Train Street adds a unique touch, creating a well-rounded experience blending culture, hands-on learning, and scenic exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here: