Hanoi: Highlights, Incense Village, Hat Crafting Guided Tour

Hanoi’s cultural tapestry comes alive in this guided tour. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, enjoy traditional crafts, and soak up the city’s vibrant atmosphere. From the grand Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to the serene Temple of Literature, the itinerary promises a well-rounded experience. But the true highlights may lie in the Quang Phu Cau Incense Village and Chuong Conical Hat Village, where guests can witness the intricate processes behind these timeless traditions. What unexpected discoveries await?

Good To Know

• This guided tour in Hanoi showcases the city’s cultural highlights, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, and visits to Incense Village and Conical Hat Village.
• The tour duration ranges from 6 hours to a full day, with options for a half-day or full-day tour, and includes transportation, an English-speaking guide, and admission fees.
• The tour includes a visit to Train Street for coffee and exploration, and the full-day option provides a light lunch.
• Pickup is available from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, and the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.
• Reviewers have praised the tour’s organization, communication, and the opportunity to learn about and experience Hanoi’s cultural traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The "Hanoi: Highlights, Incense Village, Hat Crafting Guided Tour" offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s top attractions.

Priced at $25.23 per person, the tour lasts 6 hours to 1 day. Guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and reserve their spot with no upfront payment.

The tour includes hotel pickup in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission to attractions, bottled water, and tips.

Includes hotel pickup, transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission to attractions, bottled water, and tips for a comprehensive Hanoi experience.

Holiday surcharges of 100,000 VND apply on select dates.

With its well-curated itinerary and flexible options, this tour provides an immersive experience in Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage.

Itinerary and Highlights

Pickup location for the tour is the Hoàn Kiếm area, between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM. The tour takes guests to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Temple of Literature, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, and Chuong Conical Hat Village. Guests will also visit Train Street for coffee and exploration. The tour includes guided tours, sightseeing, photo stops, and shopping.

| Option | Pickup Time | Attractions |

| — | — | — |

| Incense Village & Hat Making Half-Day Tour | 12:00 PM | Quang Phu Cau and conical hat-making village, Train Street |

| City Highlights & Incense Village Full-Day Tour | 8:00 AM | Multiple historical sites including the Presidential Palace, Quang Phu Cau and conical hat-making village, Train Street |

Tour Options

Two tour options are available to choose from.

The Incense Village & Hat Making Half-Day Tour departs at 12:00 PM and visits Quang Phu Cau and a conical hat-making village, ending at Train Street.

The City Highlights & Incense Village Full-Day Tour departs at 8:00 AM, visiting multiple historical sites including the Presidential Palace. It includes a light lunch, with the tour ending at Train Street.

Both tours provide transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission to attractions, bottled water, and tips.

Travelers can select the option that best fits their interests and schedule.

Inclusions and Important Information

This tour includes pickup from hotels in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, as well as transportation and an English-speaking guide throughout the day. Admission fees to all attractions are covered, and bottled water and tips are provided. However, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users. Holiday surcharges of 100,000 VND apply for specific dates.

| Inclusions | Not Included |

| — | — |

| Pickup from Hanoi Old Quarter hotels | Lunch |

| Transportation | Wheelchair accessibility |

| English-speaking guide | – |

| Admission fees | – |

| Bottled water | – |

| Tips | – |

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour has an overall rating of 4.2 out of 5 based on 11 reviews.

Customers have highlighted several aspects of the experience:

1. Excellent organization and communication from the tour operator.

2. Enjoyment of the visits to the incense and conical hat-making villages, with ample photo opportunities.

3. A fantastic tour that provided insight into local culture and included a delicious lunch.

4. Overall, a well-curated tour that allows visitors to experience the highlights of Hanoi and its unique cultural traditions.

Exploring Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

As visitors approach the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, they’re greeted by the grand, imposing structure that serves as the final resting place of Vietnam’s revered leader.

After passing through security checks, guests enter the solemn, dimly lit interior to view Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body.

Guides provide historical context, sharing details about his life and legacy. Visitors are expected to maintain a respectful, somber demeanor as they file past the coffin.

The mausoleum offers a profound experience, allowing travelers to connect with Vietnam’s national hero and the country’s rich political history.

Discovering the Temple of Literature

After exploring the solemn grandeur of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Hanoi Highlights Tour next leads visitors to the serene Temple of Literature.

This 11th-century Confucian temple offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city.

Visitors can:

1. Admire the well-preserved architecture, featuring traditional Vietnamese design elements.

2. Wander through the peaceful courtyards and gardens, taking in the serene atmosphere.

3. Learn about the temple’s history as Vietnam’s first national university, which educated the country’s elite for centuries.

4. Discover the stone stelae honoring past graduates, a unique insight into Vietnam’s scholarly traditions.

Taking in Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

Next, the tour takes visitors to the vibrant Quang Phu Cau Incense Village. This centuries-old community is known for its traditional incense-making.

Visitors can witness artisans skillfully crafting incense sticks by hand, using natural materials like bamboo, wood, and fragrant flowers. The air is filled with the captivating aroma.

Artisans skillfully craft incense sticks by hand, using natural materials like bamboo, wood, and fragrant flowers, filling the air with captivating aroma.

Guests can browse the colorful shops, observing the intricate process and purchasing unique souvenirs. This culture offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage and the enduring traditions that have been passed down through generations.

It’s a highlight not to be missed on this comprehensive Hanoi tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?

Yes, this tour can be customized to fit your interests. You can discuss options with the tour provider to create a personalized itinerary that focuses on the aspects you find most appealing.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Incense Village?

The best time to visit the incense village is during the Lunar New Year (Tet) festival. This is when the incense makers are busiest, and you can witness the traditional craft in full production. The village is especially vibrant and picturesque during this festive period.

How Physically Demanding Is the Tour, and Is It Suitable for All Ages?

The tour is moderately physically demanding, involving some walking. It’s suitable for most able-bodied adults and older children, but not wheelchair users. The guides can adapt the pace to accommodate participants’ mobility levels.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Accommodations Available?

The tour includes complimentary bottled water, but doesn’t provide lunch. Travelers with dietary restrictions should notify the tour operator in advance to see if special accommodations can be arranged. The tour isn’t wheelchair-accessible.

Can I Extend My Stay in Hanoi and Receive Any Discounts?

The tour does not offer any discounts for extending your stay in Hanoi. However, you can book additional activities or tours separately through the provider or explore the city independently at your own pace.

The Sum Up

This guided tour in Hanoi provides a unique opportunity to explore the city’s vibrant culture and heritage. Visitors can enjoy historical landmarks, traditional crafts, and local customs, gaining insights into the rich tapestry of Vietnamese traditions. Whether it’s the incense village or the hat-making experience, this tour offers a well-rounded and engaging way to discover the essence of Hanoi.

You can check availability for your dates here: