Hanoi: Vac Bird Cage Village or Incense Village, Hat Village

If you’re looking for an authentic glimpse into Vietnam’s centuries-old craft traditions, this guided tour from Hanoi offers a compelling mix of culture and hands-on activities. We’ve come across this experience and found it to be a thoughtfully curated way to see how local artisans keep their crafts alive.

What makes this tour special? Firstly, it’s an opportunity to learn the meticulous art of bamboo and rattan work in a genuine village setting. Secondly, the chance to create your own souvenir—whether a painted conical hat or a stick of fragrant incense—adds a personal touch. Lastly, the tour seamlessly combines craftsmanship with scenic village visits, creating a well-rounded cultural experience.

One possible drawback? The tour spans around 6 to 8 hours, which might be on the longer side if you’re tight on time or prefer quick sightseeing. However, for those interested in a deep dive into Vietnamese traditions, this is a rewarding way to spend a day.

This experience suits travelers who love hands-on cultural activities, artisan stories, and off-the-beaten-path visits. It’s perfect for those wanting to see a different side of Vietnam beyond the usual sights—especially if you enjoy learning skills and making things yourself.

Good To Know

• Authentic craft experience in traditional villages near Hanoi.
• Hands-on participation in making bird cages, conical hats, and incense sticks.
• Local artisan visits provide insight into the craftsmanship passed down through generations.
• Scenic village settings offer great photo opportunities and authentic local atmospheres.
• All-inclusive, guided small group or private tours ensure personalized attention.
• Flexible options with half-day or full-day tours to suit different schedules.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour offers a well-rounded look at Vietnam’s craft heritage, centered around three main villages—Vac (Canh Hoach) for bird cages, Chuong for conical hats, and Quang Phu Cau for incense. It’s designed as an insightful journey that balances guided explanations with interactive activities, giving you the chance to step into the shoes of local artisans.

Starting Point and Logistics

Most tours kick off with a convenient pickup from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, either from specific locations like Hoàn Kim or nearby hotels. From there, you’ll be transported comfortably to the villages about 30 km from Hanoi, a drive that offers glimpses of rural life.

The tour is flexible with options for private or small group experiences, with durations typically ranging from 6 to 8 hours. You can choose a morning or afternoon schedule, depending on your plans—making it adaptable even for tight itineraries.

Visiting Vac Bird Cage Village

Our first stop is Vac Village, famed for its centuries-old tradition of bamboo bird cage crafting. Over 400 households are involved here, with around 100 dedicated to making bird cages that are renowned nationwide for their durability and intricate carvings.

Walking through the village, you’ll notice the rows of cages piled up, ready to be shipped across Vietnam, notably to Ho Chi Minh City. The craftsmanship is impressive—craftsmen whittle bamboo splints, decorate the edges with delicate patterns, and assemble the cages with great precision.

You’ll be able to visit Nguyen Van Nghe’s workshop, a well-known artisan, and see firsthand how the cages are made. The process involves soaking and treating bamboo to resist termites, and carving decorative patterns like Chinese poems, dragons, or plants. The detailed work demonstrates not only skill but a love for tradition that’s been passed down for generations.

Hands-On Bird Cage Making

An exciting feature is the opportunity to try making a miniature cage yourself. Though you might not leave as a full-blown artisan, participating in the crafting process gives you a better appreciation of the patience and skill involved. It’s often a highlight for visitors, especially those who enjoy practical cultural experiences.

More Great Tours Nearby

Conical Hat Village: Chuong Village

Next, the tour moves to Chuong Village, famous for its conical hats—Vietnam’s iconic headgear. With a history stretching over 300 years, this village’s artisans craft hats from bamboo and rattan, using traditional techniques that have remained largely unchanged.

Here, you can observe the entire process—from shaping the bamboo to sewing and weaving the final product. But the true fun is being able to paint your own conical hat, turning it into a personalized souvenir. Many visitors enjoy this creative step, adding their own patterns or messages to their hats.

Incense Village & Making Your Own Fragrance

The final stop takes you to Quang Phu Cau Village, a community that has specialized in incense production for over a century. Walking through the village, you’ll see locals carefully blending fragrant ingredients and rolling incense sticks by hand.

This part of the tour is particularly sensory-rich. You’ll learn about the various herbs and resins used in traditional incense and even have a chance to make your own incense sticks under the guidance of a local family. As some reviews mention, this hand-on element makes the experience memorable, and you leave with a fragrant souvenir that captures the essence of the village.

Optional Visit to Hanoi Train Street

Most tours include a stop at Hanoi Train Street, a popular photo spot where trains occasionally pass just inches from cafes and street art. If you prefer not to stop here, you can be dropped off directly at your hotel or other designated locations.

What’s Included and Practical Details

The tour is designed to be as seamless as possible. It typically includes transportation, a guide speaking multiple languages (like English, Vietnamese, French, and more), and all activity fees. You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and your camera—there’s plenty of photo-worthy moments.

Duration & Timing

• The full experience runs about 6 to 8 hours, with options for a half-day or full-day tour.
• Tours usually start in the morning (around 7:45 am) or late morning (around 11:45 am), fitting diverse schedules.
• The duration of activities at each village varies, but generally, expect 1-2 hours per location, plus travel time.

Pricing & Value

While the tour is priced as a premium experience, its value lies in the authenticity and hands-on learning. You’re not just observing but actively participating, which makes for memorable souvenirs and a deepened appreciation of Vietnam’s craft traditions.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who love culture, craftsmanship, and interactive activities. It’s perfect if you want to go beyond temples and museums, gaining insight into local livelihoods and traditions.

Families, couples, or solo travelers seeking a meaningful half or full day in Hanoi will find it enriching. It’s particularly suited for those interested in DIY projects or artistic pursuits, as well as anyone eager to take home unique, handcrafted souvenirs.

The Sum Up

For travelers wanting to see Vietnam through the lens of its artisans, this tour offers a genuine peek into the country’s handmade heritage. It combines scenic village visits, cultural stories, and hands-on activities that turn learning into a fun, memorable experience. The inclusion of local artisans ensures an authentic touch that’s often missing from more commercialized tours.

While the length might be a consideration if you’re pressed for time, the richness of the experience makes it worthwhile for those craving a deeper connection with Vietnam’s craft traditions. The tour is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides who bring the stories of each craft to life, making it perfect for curious travelers eager to learn and create.

If you’re keen on exploring communities that uphold age-old skills while enjoying a relaxed, engaging day outside Hanoi’s bustling streets, this tour is hard to beat.

FAQ

What villages are included in this tour?
You visit three main villages: Vac Village for bird cages, Chuong Village for conical hats, and Quang Phu Cau Village for incense.

How long does the entire tour last?
It typically runs between 6 and 8 hours, with options for half-day or full-day experiences.

Is transportation included?
Yes, comfortable transport from Hanoi’s Old Quarter is part of the package.

Can I participate in making the crafts?
Absolutely. You can try making miniature bird cages, painting your own conical hat, and rolling incense sticks, all under guidance.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to enjoy and capture the experience fully.

Are the tours private or group-based?
Both options are available—small group or private tours—allowing for personalized attention.

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

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children who enjoy hands-on activities and cultural stories should find it engaging, especially the hat painting and incense making.

How far are the villages from Hanoi?
They are approximately 30 km away, making for a scenic drive out of the city.

What makes this tour a good value?
The mix of cultural insight, craft participation, and authentic village visits provides a memorable, educational, and unique experience that’s worth the investment.

Whether you’re a craft enthusiast, a culture seeker, or simply curious about Vietnam’s traditional industries, this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at the country’s artisanal roots. It’s a chance to create, learn, and connect with local communities—an experience you won’t forget.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby