Hanoi: Xuan La Figurine Village and Dau Pagoda Tour & Lunch

If you’re after an authentic glimpse into Hanoi’s local traditions, this tour offers a charming peek into two very different sides of the city. From the intricate craft of To He, traditional rice powder figurines, to the serenity of Dau Pagoda, it balances cultural learning with visual delight. While it’s a short trip—around a half-day—it packs plenty of value, especially for those curious about Vietnamese craft and history.

What makes this experience stand out for us is the chance to see artisans at work, learn about local legends, and enjoy a peaceful landscape away from the hustle of Hanoi’s streets. We also appreciate that the tour is quite comprehensive for the price, including transportation, meals, and a knowledgeable guide. The only thing to consider is that it’s a bit of a drive—about 40 km from Hanoi’s center—so expect some time in transit. Perfect for cultural explorers or families looking for an educational outing, this tour offers a taste of Vietnam’s artistic soul.

Key Points

• Authentic craftsmanship: See artisans making colorful rice powder figurines using traditional methods.
• Historical significance: Visit Dau Pagoda, a centuries-old site with royal connections and scenic surroundings.
• Hands-on experience: Watch To He creation and interact with local craftsmen.
• Natural ingredients: The figurines are edible and made from all-natural, food-safe ingredients.
• Value-packed: For $52, includes transportation, meals, entrance fees, and guided commentary.
• Cultural insight: Learn about the history and cultural importance of these Vietnamese traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Xuan La Village: The Art of To He

We loved the way Xuan La village showcases a craft few travelers get to witness firsthand. Located in the Thuong Tin district, this is the only place in Vietnam where To He figurines are handmade, making it a real treasure for craft enthusiasts.

To He — literally “puppet” or “figurine” in Vietnamese — originated some 300 years ago. These edible figures are crafted from sticky rice powder, sugar, and food coloring. What’s fascinating is how artisans transform simple ingredients into vibrant animals, fruits, and even cartoon characters, all using basic tools like combs, bamboo sticks, and beeswax. You’ll see the grinding of rice into a fine, pliable dough, steaming it to the right consistency, and then carefully shaping each figurine.

As you watch artisans work, you’ll notice the skill involved. Several reviews mention the “dexterity and creativity” required, and how the artisans often have years of experience. One visitor praised the “beautifully crafted flowers and adorable animals,” which truly come to life under their hands. The seven natural colors—green, blue, red, purple, yellow, white, and black—are all edible and safe, made from natural ingredients, which adds an extra layer of authenticity and healthiness to the art.

The best part? The figurines aren’t just for show. Many are edible, and you might find yourself munching on a tiny animal or flower at the end of the demonstration—a fun twist that highlights traditional Vietnamese resourcefulness.

Visiting Dau Pagoda: A Historic and Scenic Site

After the vibrant chaos of the village, the tour takes you to Dau Pagoda, a peaceful spot with centuries of history. Situated on a hillside in Gia Phuc village, it’s surrounded by lush trees, lakes, and the flowing Nhue River—a picture-perfect scene that feels worlds away from Hanoi’s busy streets.

Dau Pagoda is believed to date back to the Ly Dynasty, with repairs and expansions over the centuries under various ruling dynasties. It’s renowned for housing the embalmed bodies of two monks, Vu Khac Truong and Vu Khac Minh, which adds a unique spiritual dimension to your visit. The pagoda’s architecture is classic, with intricate carvings and traditional Vietnamese design elements, offering a glimpse into the spiritual life that has thrived here for hundreds of years.

Visitors often comment on the serene environment and the scenic views from the hilltop, making it an ideal place for quiet reflection. The pagoda’s setting amidst lakes and rivers offers beautiful photo opportunities, especially with the lush greenery and traditional structures serving as a stunning backdrop.

Logistics, Value, and Practical Tips

The tour, priced at $52 per person, covers quite a bit for the fee. Transportation is included, so you won’t need to worry about navigating Hanoi’s traffic or hiring taxis—an advantage for those unfamiliar with the city. The journey is about 40 km from Hanoi’s city center, which takes roughly an hour each way, depending on traffic.

The itinerary typically includes the Xuan La village visit, the To He demonstration, interaction with artisans, and time at Dau Pagoda. A local guide accompanies the group, providing detailed explanations in multiple languages, including English, which enhances the experience. Reviewers have highlighted guides like Mr. Thanh, who is both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, adding a personable touch to the trip.

A notable feature is that lunch is included, usually featuring traditional Vietnamese dishes, allowing you to relax and refuel after exploring. The tour is suitable for families, cultural enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a day outside Hanoi to connect with local traditions.

Keep in mind that the tour is about half a day, so it fits well into a busy itinerary. Also, since the figurines are made from natural ingredients, eating them is safe—though don’t expect to take home large quantities! The experience is also flexible with options to reserve and pay later, and cancellations are free up to 24 hours in advance, which makes planning easier.

What to Expect and What You Might Miss

Expect a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, with plenty of time to watch artisans at work and ask questions. The artisans are often happy to share their stories and techniques, which adds depth to the visit. You’ll get close-up views of how colorful figurines are formed and learn about their significance in Vietnamese culture.

One thing to note is that the making process involves grinding rice, steaming, and shaping, which is a delicate art requiring patience. For some, this might mean a slower pace or longer wait times, but most find it fascinating enough to justify it.

You might also find the scenic landscape around Dau Pagoda to be an unexpected highlight—it’s not just a religious site but also a peaceful spot perfect for photos or quiet reflection.

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Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

In our view, this tour offers a genuine window into Hanoi’s artisan traditions and historical sites, all for a reasonable price. The chance to see local artisans creating with such skill, combined with the tranquil beauty of Dau Pagoda, makes it a balanced experience full of color, history, and culture.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy hands-on cultural activities and want to learn about Vietnamese craftsmanship beyond the usual tourist spots. Families, curious travelers, and craft lovers will all find value here—plus, the included meals and transportation simplify the planning.

While it’s not a long tour, the depth of experience makes the time well spent. And with friendly guides and natural ingredients making the figurines edible, you’ll leave with more than just memories—you might even get a snack!

FAQ

How far is Xuan La village from Hanoi city center?
It’s approximately 40 km away, which typically takes around an hour by vehicle, depending on traffic.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children will enjoy watching artisans craft figurines and tasting the edible rice powder creations.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour offers guidance in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, French, Italian, Spanish, and Vietnamese.

Are the To He figurines safe to eat?
Absolutely, they are made from natural, edible ingredients like rice powder, sugar, and food coloring.

Does the tour include meals?
Yes, lunch is included, giving you a chance to enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes.

What is the main highlight of this experience?
Watching the craftsmen create vibrant, colorful figurines and exploring the scenic Dau Pagoda.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation to and from Xuan La village is included in the tour package.

How long does the entire tour last?
It’s roughly a half-day experience, allowing you to fit it into a morning or afternoon schedule.

In essence, this tour offers a delightful blend of art, history, and nature. It’s a wonderful way to step off the beaten path and connect with Hanoi’s deep-rooted traditions. Whether you’re a craft lover or simply curious about Vietnamese culture, it’s likely to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: