Hanoi: Hung King Temple Or Hat & Incense Village SMALL GROUP

If you’re after a day that combines history, culture, and authentic local crafts, this small group tour from Hanoi might just be what you need. Offering a balanced mix of visiting legendary sites and engaging in hands-on craft activities, it’s a well-rounded way to get a feel for Vietnam’s soul.

What makes this experience stand out? We love the chance to explore the vast Hung Kings Temple complex, learn about the origins of Vietnam, and get involved in traditional crafts like making incense and painting conical hats. Plus, the tour is designed to be flexible with options for both half-day and full-day itineraries.

One thing to keep in mind is that the full-day visit to the Hung Kings Temple involves quite a bit of walking and climbing (up to 150 steps), which might be tiring for some. Still, that’s part of the authentic experience and the payoff for stunning views and cultural insights.

This tour suits history buffs, craft lovers, or anyone eager to connect with Vietnamese tradition in a meaningful, hands-on way. It’s especially ideal if you’re traveling with family or prefer small-group settings for a more personalized feel.

Key Points

• Historic Significance: Visit the 850-hectare complex dedicated to Vietnam’s legendary founders, the Hung Kings.
• Hands-on Activities: Create your own incense or paint a traditional conical hat, making the experience memorable.
• Authentic Cultural Insights: Learn stories about the origin of Vietnamese customs, like the legend of Banh Chung and Banh Day.
• Flexible Options: Choose between a half-day village tour or the full-day exploration of the Hung Kings Temple.
• Expert Guides: Guided in multiple languages, including English, Vietnamese, and others, ensuring clear storytelling.
• Local Village Visits: Discover two traditional villages, each with over 100 years of history in craft-making.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Hung Kings Temple Complex: A Spiritual and Historical Gateway

The tour begins with a visit to the Hung Kings Temple complex, located in Co Tich hamlet, in Phu Tho province. This sprawling site covers 850 hectares, including natural forests and several temples, a pagoda, a tomb, and a museum. It’s a place imbued with national pride, as it commemorates the legendary founders of Vietnam.

Most visitors are struck by the entrance arch, an 8.5-meter masterpiece adorned with dragons and lion cubs, which instantly sets the tone for the grandeur inside. An intriguing detail from a review notes that the embossment of soldiers dressed in armor adds an authentic touch, hinting at Vietnam’s martial past.

Climbing the 150 steps to the upper temples reveals panoramic views and a sense of peaceful reverence. The Lower Temple features three thrones, dedicated to the 18 Hung Kings, and is steeped in legend. It’s here that we learn about the origin story of the Vietnamese people—a story that ties the nation’s identity to divine ancestors. Fans of history and mythology will appreciate the storytelling embedded in the site.

The Middle and Upper Temples: Legendary Tales and Rituals

Progressing through the Middle Temple, you’ll encounter the shrine associated with the story of Banh Chung and Banh Day, the traditional cakes symbolizing heaven and earth. The legend recounts how the youngest son of the 6th Hung King, Lang Lieu, won the throne by offering these symbolic foods, an act that shaped Vietnam’s cultural identity.

The Upper Temple, perched atop Nghia Linh mountain, is where ancient Vietnamese worshipped the Gods of Heaven and Rice. According to legend, bronze drums were brought here for rituals seeking good weather and bumper crops. Visitors can imagine the ancient ceremonies that once took place in this sacred space.

Why This Site Matters for Visitors

Walking through the complex, you’re not just sightseeing; you’re walking through a narrative of Vietnam’s foundation. The site’s designation as a Special National Historical Relic and the most important ceremonies held during the third lunar month emphasize its cultural importance.

Village Visits: Incense and Conical Hat Crafting

If you opt for the half-day tour, you’ll visit two charming villages: Chuong Village, famed for conical hat-making, and Quang Phu Cau Village, renowned for incense production.

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Conical Hat Village (Chuong)

Chuong Village has been crafting conical hats for over 300 years. Here, you’ll observe artisans shaping the hats from straw and bamboo, a craft passed down through generations. The highlight? You get to paint your own hat, a perfect souvenir that captures a piece of Vietnamese tradition. Reviewers highlight this as a “very interesting activity,” with one traveler mentioning it as the most unique part of the tour.

Incense Village (Quang Phu Cau)

This village has been producing incense for more than 100 years. Walking through the colorful bundles of incense sticks, you get a glimpse into daily life and the importance of incense in Vietnamese rituals and offerings. You can even meet a family that specializes in dyeing incense sticks, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Optional Train Street Stop

As the tour comes to an end, there’s an optional stop at Hanoi’s famous Train Street. If you’re not dropped here, you can wait in the vehicle; it’s a popular photo spot where trains pass just inches from cafes and homes, giving a dash of urban charm.

Practical Aspects

The tour is offered as a private or small group experience—ideal for those who prefer a more intimate setting. Pickup is available from two central Hanoi locations—Hoàn Kim or Old Quarter—and drop-off is conveniently arranged.

The full-day option lasts approximately 6 hours, starting in the morning or late morning, making it easy to fit into a day’s itinerary. Transport is comfortable, and the guided commentary, available in multiple languages, enriches the experience without feeling overly scripted.

The price is quite reasonable considering the depth of the experience, the inclusion of craft activities, and the guided tour. This makes it a great value for travelers interested in culture and history.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers have particularly appreciated the helpfulness and sympathy of the guide, mentioning that the guide makes the experience more engaging and informative. One reviewer from New Zealand emphasizes that “the hat village and incense village are very interesting and close to the local culture” and praises the painting activity as a highlight.

Another reviewer expressed that they enjoyed learning about the legend of the Hung Kings and appreciated the opportunity to participate in traditional craft-making. These touches make the tour more than just sightseeing; they turn it into a personal connection with Vietnamese traditions.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Unlike typical sightseeing tours, this experience emphasizes hands-on participation and local storytelling. The opportunity to create your own incense sticks or paint a conical hat allows you to take home a tangible reminder of Vietnam’s artisan crafts.

On top of that, the focus on legends and rituals provides a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s cultural fabric, making it suitable for travelers who want more than just photos—they want stories and experiences to remember.

This tour is best suited for culture seekers, history enthusiasts, and craft lovers who appreciate learning by doing. It caters well to small groups or families seeking an authentic, personal experience away from large crowds.

If you’re looking for a day packed with meaningful activities and cultural insights, and don’t mind a bit of walking and climbing, this tour offers an enriching journey into Vietnam’s past and present.

This small-group tour offers a thoughtful mix of history, tradition, and hands-on activities. Visiting the Hung Kings Temple complex provides a tangible connection to Vietnam’s origins, while the village visits give insight into local craftsmanship.

The interactive elements, such as painting a conical hat or making incense, elevate the experience from simple sightseeing to personal participation. Plus, the knowledgeable guides help bring stories and traditions to life, ensuring it’s both educational and engaging.

Considering the balance of cultural depth, activity, and value, this tour is a fantastic choice for those who want to understand Vietnam’s origins in a memorable, authentic way. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer intimate settings and meaningful experiences over cookie-cutter itineraries.

What is the duration of the tour?
The full-day tour lasts about 6 hours, with options for morning or afternoon start times. The half-day version is around 6 hours as well, focusing on village visits.

Where does the tour start and end?
Pickup is available from Hanoi’s Old Quarter or Hoàn Kim, with drop-off at the same locations or at Hanoi Train Street if desired.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
While most of the tour involves walking and climbing (up to 150 steps at the temples), it’s manageable for most travelers who are comfortable with some physical activity.

Are there options for private or small groups?
Yes, the tour can be booked as a private experience or in small groups, making it more personalized.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak multiple languages including English, Vietnamese, Chinese, French, German, Indonesian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, and Thai.

Is there any flexibility with cancellations?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing you to book with confidence.

In essence, this tour combines cultural storytelling, authentic craft experiences, and historical exploration—all in a small-group setting that fosters genuine connection. Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about Vietnam’s traditions, it’s a compelling way to spend a day outside Hanoi.

You can check availability for your dates here: