Escape Hanoi for a day and visit three working craft villages where lacquer painting, conical-hat making and incense dyeing are still practiced by families. The tour combines hands-on workshops, a home-cooked lunch and close-up insight into artisanal traditions of the Red River Delta.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
By midmorning the traffic of Hanoi thins and the city gives way to flat green fields; the motor hum recedes and a different rhythm takes over — the clip of wooden tools, the soft slap of lacquer brushes, the whisper of incense drying on racks.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves light walking and standing during demonstrations
Wildlife
History
Lacquerware from villages like Ha Thai has roots in the region going back centuries, while conical hats are a long-standing functional symbol of rural life in the Red River Delta.
Conservation
Purchasing directly from artisans supports local livelihoods; be mindful of packaging and avoid single-use plastics—bring a reusable bag for any souvenirs.
Reserve your spot on the From Hanoi: Explore Vietnam’s Traditional Handicraft Villages today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring local cash
Smaller workshops and market stalls may prefer Vietnamese đồng for additional purchases or tips.
Sun protection
Village lanes offer little shade; pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for midday hours.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect short walks on packed dirt and uneven village floors where sneakers or closed shoes are best.
Ask before photographing
Many workshops are family-run; request permission before photographing people at work or inside homes.
Comfortable walking shoes
Closed shoes handle dirt lanes and uneven workshop floors better than sandals.
Sunhat and sunscreen
Protects against strong midday sun on exposed village roads.
summer
Small daypack
Carries water, camera, and any souvenirs bought at village stalls.
Cash (Vietnamese đồng)
Useful for small purchases, tips, and stalls that don’t take cards.