8:00 AM: Depart to Ha Thai lacquer – a unique well-known village located 25km away from Hanoi’s center. A tour gives you the chance to witness a 200 year old technique of applying and polishing layers of varnish from Vietnamese lacquer trees combined with egg shells and mother-of-pearl inlays.

After 1 hour drive through the rural countryside, we have a walking tour, escorted by Mr Dzung – an artist from the village. He will take you to visit some houses where they specialize in different styles or steps of products. Head back to his workshop and discover your talent by making your own lacquer art from his introductions and collect some other souvenirs to bring home.

Continue to Vac bird cage making village which is well-known all over Vietnam, located about 35km away from Hanoi’s center. On the way break your trip to take photographs of the idyllic villages and the surrounding landscapes. On arrival, meet the craftsman Mr. Nghe who is the 3rd generation of a family that makes these bird cages. His ancestors learnt the skills from Chinese then introduced them to the local villagers. 

The traditional skills of selecting bamboo, treating material, knitting and decorating the high quality products have been passed through many generations. Try some steps of the crafting process for yourself while they tell you about their life. Enjoy a stroll around the village, interacting with the friendly local people. It will be your great memories.

Take a short drive to Chuong Village, known for its famous conical hats that symbolize the charm of Vietnamese women. Upon arrival, visit Chuong Church and Chuong Temple. As you walk deeper into the village, you will have the opportunity to learn and practice making a hat with a local artisan. A conical hat from Chuong Village is one of the most iconic souvenirs you can bring home from Vietnam.

Notes: If you visit Chuong Village on the 4th, 10th, 14th, 20th, 24th, or 30th days of the lunar calendar, you will have the opportunity to explore the local market, which opens very early in the morning from 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM.