Hanoi: Hai Ly Ruined Church or Incense Village & Hat Village

Traveling through Vietnam offers a tapestry of sights, sounds, and stories, and these tours from Hanoi give you a taste of the country’s quieter, more traditional side. Whether you’re drawn to the haunting beauty of the Hai Ly Ruined Church, the artisanship of Incense Village, or the craftsmanship of Chuong Conical Hat Village, each experience promises an authentic glimpse into local life with a dash of history and culture.

What we love about these tours is the combination of scenic coastal views, hands-on activities, and visits to small villages where tradition still thrives. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, often sharing insider insights you won’t find in guidebooks. But, it’s worth noting that some sites, like the Hai Ly Church, are vulnerable to weather conditions and coastal erosion, which might affect your visit.

This experience is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed, cultural outing that avoids tourist traps. If you’re interested in local craftsmanship, history, or just want a peaceful escape from Hanoi’s hustle, these tours are a wonderful choice. Just be prepared for some walking, and keep in mind the limited facilities at certain spots.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Encounters: Experience small villages where traditional crafts like incense making and hat decorating are still alive.
• Scenic Coastal Views: The Hai Ly Church offers stunning vistas, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• Hands-On Activities: Make your own incense and paint a conical hat—perfect souvenirs and memorable moments.
• Historical Significance: Learn about the French-built Hai Ly Church and its fragile state due to coastal erosion.
• Flexible Options: Tours range from private outings to group experiences, allowing for personalized or social adventures.
• Practical Planning: The tours are around 5-7 hours, with options for half-day or full-day experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Hai Ly Ruined Church: A Coastal Landmark with a Story

The Hai Ly Ruined Church, also called the Heart Church, is the centerpiece of the tour for many. Built in 1943 by a French architect, this European-style structure has a romantic, slightly haunting appeal, especially against the backdrop of the sea. Its bell tower, which at high tide appears to stand in water, adds a surreal touch—something you’ll love capturing with your camera.

We appreciated the detailed commentary from guides like Mr. Thanh, who shared that despite its age and the harsh coastal environment, the church still retains impressive decorative elements, including graceful arches and sturdy foundations. You can explore what remains of the church, including the foundation and part of its wall, which bear the marks of time and nature’s unpredictability.

The area around the church offers sweeping views of the coast, where you can see the effects of coastal erosion firsthand. This environmental aspect makes the visit more meaningful, reminding us of the fragile balance between history and nature. Though access near the water requires caution, especially during high tides, the sight of the bell tower in water makes it a must-see for photography lovers.

Pro Tip: Visiting at dawn or dusk enhances the lighting for photos, bringing out the golden hues and softening the ruins’ starkness.

Visiting Incense Village & Hat Village: Craftsmanship and Tradition

A highlight for many travelers is the stop at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village and Chuong Conical Hat Village. Both are rich in tradition, and you will see locals going about their crafts much as they have for generations.

In Incense Village, you’ll observe artisans meticulously making incense sticks by hand, and some workshops even allow you to try your hand at dyeing and bundling incense. It’s a colorful, aromatic experience that gives insight into a craft vital to Vietnamese religious and cultural practices. As one reviewer pointed out, “The smell of incense and the sight of vibrant bundles made it feel like stepping into a different world.”

At Chuong Hat Village, you’ll witness the centuries-old craft of conical hat-making. The process involves skilled artisans shaping bamboo and palm leaves into iconic hats. The chance to paint your own hat is a fun, engaging activity that leaves you with a unique souvenir. Many visitors comment on how the process of decorating a hat is surprisingly detailed—it’s not just a quick paint job but an opportunity to connect with local artisans.

These villages are compact, so you won’t spend hours traveling or walking, but you’ll gain a genuine appreciation for Vietnam’s artisanal soul.

A Balanced Tour Experience

Whether you choose the full-day or half-day options, the itinerary is designed for a relaxed pace. The half-day group tour, typically starting in the morning or late afternoon, includes visits to the villages plus an optional stop at Hanoi Train Street, which adds an urban contrast to the rural stops. The full-day private tour offers more time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

The tours generally include a pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making logistics straightforward. Although the tour duration is around 5-7 hours, the experience feels well-paced, with enough time for breaks and photos.

Transportation is usually by comfortable minivan, and group sizes tend to be small, which helps create a more intimate experience. The inclusion of a live guide speaking multiple languages (English, Vietnamese, French, etc.) is helpful for deeper insights and local stories, especially if you’re interested in the history or craftsmanship.

Practical Details & Considerations

The tours are priced for good value when you consider the combination of transportation, guides, and hands-on activities like painting hats and making incense. Remember that there are no facilities on site at the church, so plan to bring essentials like water, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to explore the ruins.

Given the coastal erosion risks, visitors should exercise caution near water, particularly during high tide or stormy weather. Also, since the church is a ruin, there are no restoration efforts in place, and parts of the structure are fragile—always follow guide instructions and stay within designated areas.

Language options are diverse, making the experience accessible to travelers from around the world. And the flexibility of cancelation up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind if plans change.

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Final Thoughts

These tours from Hanoi offer a genuine, multifaceted look at Vietnam’s coastal and rural traditions. The Hai Ly Ruined Church provides a powerful visual of history and nature’s resilience, while the villages reveal the ongoing importance of craftsmanship and cultural preservation.

Whether you’re a history buff, a craft lover, or simply after an authentic day out, this experience balances scenic views, cultural insight, and hands-on participation. The small-group or private options ensure a personalized vibe, and the overall pace is suitable for most travelers.

If you want a meaningful escape that combines history, nature, and local artisanship, these tours are a standout choice. They’re particularly well-suited for those who appreciate quiet, scenic spots, and who aren’t shy about walking around ruins or getting their hands a little dusty with craft activities.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does the tour typically last?
Most tours range from 5 to 7 hours, allowing plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What is included in the tour?
Transportation from Hanoi, a knowledgeable guide, and activities like making incense or painting conical hats are usually included. Some tours also include optional visits like Hanoi Train Street.

Are the sites suitable for all ages?
Yes, the stops are generally accessible for most ages, but some walking or standing around ruins might require moderate mobility. Be cautious near water at the church due to erosion.

Is there any physical activity involved?
The activities are mainly walking and sitting for the crafting parts. You’ll explore ruins, walk through villages, and possibly stand in water near the church, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Can I customize the tour?
Private tours often offer flexibility to tailor the experience based on your interests and pace.

Are facilities available on-site?
No, there are no facilities at the church or villages, so bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and hats.

What’s the best time to visit the Hai Ly Church?
Visiting at dawn or dusk offers the best lighting for photos and a more atmospheric experience.

Is coastal erosion a concern?
Yes, coastal erosion affects the area, so exercise caution near water and follow guides’ safety instructions.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages, including English, Vietnamese, French, Chinese, and others, depending on the tour.

Who should consider this tour?
Travelers interested in history, local crafts, scenic views, and authentic rural experiences will find this tour rewarding. It’s ideal for those seeking a leisurely, cultural day trip from Hanoi.

This detailed review hopes to give you a true picture of what to expect, helping you decide whether this tour fits your travel style. Whether capturing photos of the haunting ruins, trying your hand at crafts, or simply soaking in the peaceful rural scenery, you’re likely to come away with memorable stories and souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here: