Step out of Hanoi’s Old Quarter for a half-day among artisans: watch 300-year-old conical hat techniques in Chuong and the colorful incense craft in Quang Phu Cau. Expect close-up demos, a hands-on hat session, and a practical look at village life.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A narrow lane opens from the Old Quarter into a different rhythm: bicycles with bundles of bamboo, women threading slender sticks, and the sweet, spicy aroma of incense drifting on a warm wind. This half-day tour moves out of Hanoi’s traffic into two living craft workshops—Chuong Village, where conical hats are formed by hand, and Quang Phu Cau, where color-streaked incense dries in the sun.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4–5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short periods of standing and walking on flat village lanes
Wildlife
History
Chuong’s conical hat craft has been practiced for roughly three centuries, while Quang Phu Cau developed as a specialized incense-making center tied to regional religious and household rituals.
Conservation
Support small artisans by buying directly and avoiding plastic packaging; be mindful that increased tourism can strain local water and waste systems, so follow guide instructions on where to leave rubbish.
Reserve your spot on the From Hanoi: Half-Day Tour to Incense Village & Conical Hat today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring small cash
Small family-run workshops prefer cash for extra purchases and small donations—have 20,000–200,000 VND notes ready.
Wear closed-toe, breathable shoes
Village lanes can be uneven and dusty; comfortable, grippy shoes make demonstrations and hands-on activities easier.
Respect photography etiquette
Ask before photographing inside workshops or portraits of artisans, and avoid flash during delicate dyeing demonstrations.
No lunch included
The tour lasts about five hours with no meal provided—eat beforehand or bring snacks, especially for children.
Comfortable walking shoes
Provide traction on dirt and paved village paths and comfort during standing demonstrations.
Light rain jacket
Monsoon showers are sudden in summer; a packable jacket keeps you comfortable during outdoor stops.
summer
Small daypack
Carries water, camera, and purchases without getting in the way during demonstrations.
Compact camera or phone with extra battery
Captures close-up craft techniques and colorful incense bundles; extra power for many photos is useful.