Hanoi: Incense Village, Hat Village or Grass Weaving Village

Exploring Hanoi’s Traditional Craft Villages: Incense, Grass Weaving, and Conical Hats

Getting a glimpse into Hanoi’s craft traditions offers a wonderful way to see a different side of Vietnam—away from bustling streets and tourist hotspots. While many travelers stick to the city’s historic sites, a tour through some nearby villages reveals the heart of Vietnamese artisanal skills. This particular experience, offered by CRAFT VILLAGE HANOI TOUR, combines visits to incense-making, grass weaving, and conical hat crafting, delivering a hands-on and visually stunning journey.

What instantly catches the eye about this tour is the chance to learn directly from artisans, see centuries-old techniques in action, and snap photos of vibrant, authentic scenes. We love how accessible and engaging the experience is—perfect for those who want to observe tradition up close, rather than just hear about it.

One thing to note: the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so comfortable shoes and sun protection are a must. That said, if you’re keen on discovering Vietnam’s craft heritage and enjoy immersive local experiences, this is a fantastic choice. It works well for curious travelers, craft lovers, or anyone wanting a meaningful addition to their Hanoi adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Craft Experiences: Engage with artisans making incense, grass products, and conical hats.
• Historical Insights: Visit villages with over 400 years of tradition preserved.
• Photographic Opportunities: Capture colorful, lively scenes of local manufacturing.
• Local Interaction: Chat directly with craftsmen to learn about their family traditions.
• Flexible Options: Private tours available for a personalized experience.
• Practical Details: About 5-hour tours with convenient hotel pickup and drop-off.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transport

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi, giving you a comfortable start. Depending on your preference, you can choose from two pickup locations: Hoàn Kim or other central spots. The entire journey is designed to be relaxed, with transportation included, so you can focus on the sights and stories rather than logistics.

Visiting Ông Ngc Village – A Window into Old Hanoi

Our first stop is Ông Ngc Village, known locally as V Village, which has maintained its traditional architecture for over 400 years. Think low-filed houses with tiles, sturdy wooden columns, and a quiet, nostalgic atmosphere. Some houses date back to 1605, offering a real sense of stepping back in time.

As you stroll through, you’ll notice the craftsmanship that went into these buildings, and some local guides share fascinating tidbits about their construction. The typical layout features 3- or 5-room houses that have stood the test of time—perfect for photography and quiet admiration. One reviewer highlights the “well-preserved old houses,” noting that exploring here feels like uncovering the soul of old Hanoi.

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Quang Phu Cau Incense Village – Aromatic Artistry

Next, you’ll head to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, a feast for the senses and a favorite highlight for many visitors. The sight of colorful incense bundles drying in the sun creates a vibrant, almost hypnotic scene. The village has been making incense for centuries, and local artisans are eager to explain their process.

The experience involves seeing raw materials carefully selected—no careless shortcuts here. You might learn how different herbs and powders are combined to produce fragrant incense, a craft that requires patience and precision. One reviewer notes, “The guide was very knowledgeable and made the story of incense-making come alive,” which enhances the authenticity and educational value of the visit.

Photographers will love the opportunity to capture images of the aromatic bundles, the artisans at work, and the lively village scenes. Conversations with locals reveal how family traditions pass from generation to generation, making this stop both visually and culturally rewarding.

Phú Túc Grass Weaving Village – A Skill Passed Down

The tour continues to Phú Túc Commune, where grass weaving has been practiced for over 400 years. Here, you’ll see locals skillfully combing, softening, and weaving grass into mats, baskets, and other everyday items. This craft’s longevity and recent recognition as a tourist destination point to the community’s pride and resilience.

Many visitors find it fascinating to watch the meticulous process—something that often surprises those unfamiliar with traditional crafts. According to reviews, “You can witness locals combing the grass any time of the year,” and some even get the chance to try their hand at weaving. This interactive element makes the experience more personal and memorable.

The village’s scenery is also picture-worthy, with green fields, traditional houses, and artisans working outdoors. The locals are typically friendly and eager to share their techniques, making it easy to strike up conversations that deepen your understanding.

Optional: Conical Hat Crafting and Shoe Factory Visit

Some tour options include visiting Chuong Conical Hat Village, where visitors can paint their own conical hat—an iconic Vietnamese gift and a fun, creative activity. Others extend the tour to a Leather Shoe Factory, showcasing Vietnam’s skilled shoemaking industry.

The conical hat-making process is fascinating; you see artisans shaping, decorating, and finishing these timeless accessories. Visitors often appreciate the chance to take home a handmade souvenir, personalized with their own designs.

The shoe factory tour, while more industrial, offers insight into another traditional craft sector that’s vital to Vietnam’s economy and culture.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Authenticity and Cultural Depth

Unlike generic tours, this experience emphasizes learning directly from local artisans. You’ll get detailed explanations of traditional techniques, family histories, and cultural practices that have persisted for centuries.

Photogenic and Engaging

The vibrant scenes—colorful incense bundles drying, grass weaving in progress, artisans working—are perfect for capturing memorable photos. Plus, engaging conversations make the visits genuinely interactive.

Flexibility and Comfort

With private or small group options, you can tailor the pace and focus of your day. Pickup and drop-off from Hanoi’s city center make the logistics simple, and the 5-hour duration comfortably balances sightseeing and relaxation.

Value for Money

Considering the inclusion of multiple villages, guided insights, and hands-on activities, the tour offers good value. It’s a chance to see authentic crafts with expert guidance, all without the hassle of independent planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts who want to see how traditional Vietnamese crafts are made firsthand. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate hands-on activities, such as painting a conical hat or watching artisans at work.

It’s also suitable for photographers looking for colorful, authentic scenes, as well as families or small groups seeking an engaging, educational outing. While it involves some walking and outdoor exposure, it’s accessible and manageable for most visitors.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: Around 5 hours, allowing enough time to enjoy each village without feeling rushed.
• Transportation: Included, with pickup from Hanoi hotels.
• Languages: Guides speak multiple languages including English, Vietnamese, French, and more.
• Group Size: Private or small groups options available.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, hat, camera, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.
• Cost and Booking: You can reserve now and pay later, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since the tour involves walking around villages and possibly uneven surfaces, it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. However, the overall pace is manageable, and guides can assist.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, there are private options that allow for some customization, such as including a visit to a shoe factory or painting a conical hat.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. A hat, sunscreen, and light clothing will help you stay comfortable under the sun.

Are the villages crowded?
Most visits are peaceful, especially in the mornings, but expect some local activity, particularly at popular spots like incense drying scenes.

Can I take photos during the visits?
Absolutely. The villages are very photogenic, and you’ll be encouraged to capture vibrant scenes and artisans at work.

How much time is spent at each village?
Typically, around 2 hours at Ông Ngc Village, 2 hours at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, and 1.5 hours at Phú Túc Grass Weaving Village, depending on your pace.

Is this experience suitable for kids?
Yes, children can enjoy watching artisans craft and participating in activities like painting hats, though supervision is recommended.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a meaningful, visual journey into Vietnam’s traditional crafts that’s both educational and fun. You’ll learn from skilled artisans, see centuries-old techniques, and capture memories in vibrant settings. It’s perfect for travelers who crave authentic cultural insights without the fuss of large-group tours.

If you love discovering how things are made, enjoy engaging with local communities, or want memorable photos of Vietnam’s craft scenes, this experience hits the mark. It’s a chance to connect with Hanoi’s heritage in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere—without feeling like a tourist trap.

Ideal for curious travelers, craft fans, and anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s artisanal traditions, this tour adds a genuine, colorful layer to your Hanoi visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: