Weekend of Craftsmanship and Culture: Discovering Ứng Hòa’s Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ứng Hòa, Hanoi, this weekend with a journey through traditional craft villages. Despite the cloudy skies and chance of rain, immerse yourself in the rich culture and craftsmanship of Vietnam, from incense making to conical hat crafting. Experience the heart of Vietnam’s traditions and create lasting memories.
A Journey Through Time: Craft Villages of Ứng Hòa
As the sun rises over the lush landscapes of Ứng Hòa, Hanoi, the air is filled with the promise of discovery. This weekend, the weather may be a bit unpredictable, with cloudy skies and a chance of rain on Saturday, but that only adds to the charm of exploring the hidden gems of Vietnam’s traditional craft villages. The journey begins with a visit to Vietnam’s Craft Villages on Saturday morning, where the art of incense making in Quang Phu Cau awaits. Here, the vibrant colors of incense sticks, neatly arranged in the courtyard, create a mesmerizing sight against the overcast sky. The village, with its rich history and dedication to craftsmanship, offers a glimpse into the soul of Vietnam.
As you wander through the village, the scent of incense mingles with the stories of the artisans, each stick a testament to their skill and dedication. The experience is both educational and deeply moving, as you learn about the challenges and triumphs of these craftsmen. A review from February 2024 captures the essence of this visit:
A perfect day… - Our day with you was rich in emotion…the visit to the village of Ancens is very good…the silk village a little less…but tee also introduced us to Vietnamese specialties and he took us along the street where the train passes and it was a magnificent moment to absolutely do..Tee also introduced us to his world..Thank you Tee for this timeless moment….
After a morning of exploration, a hearty lunch at a local restaurant offers a taste of rustic Vietnamese cuisine, a perfect way to refuel before continuing the journey.
Embracing Tradition: The Art of the Conical Hat
Sunday dawns with a promise of clearer skies, making it an ideal day to delve deeper into the world of Vietnamese handicrafts. The Handicraft Tour offers a unique opportunity to engage with the artisans of Chuong Village, renowned for their iconic conical hats. As you arrive, the village buzzes with activity, the sound of palm leaves being shaped into hats echoing through the air.
The conical hat, or nón lá, is more than just a piece of headwear; it is a symbol of Vietnamese culture and resilience. Watching the artisans at work, you gain a newfound appreciation for the skill and patience required to create these beautiful pieces. The hands-on experience of crafting your own hat is both challenging and rewarding, leaving you with a tangible memory of your visit.
A short ride brings you to Quang Phu Cau once more, where the art of incense making continues to captivate. The vibrant colors and fragrant aromas create a sensory experience that lingers long after you leave. The day concludes with a visit to Ha Thai Village, where the intricate process of lacquerware production is revealed. Here, the fusion of tradition and artistry is on full display, offering a fitting end to a weekend of cultural immersion.
Reflections on a Weekend of Discovery
As the weekend draws to a close, the memories of Ứng Hòa linger like the scent of incense in the air. The journey through these craft villages is more than just a tour; it is a step back in time, a chance to connect with the heart of Vietnam. The weather, with its mix of rain and sunshine, only adds to the authenticity of the experience, reminding us that beauty can be found in every moment.
The reviews from fellow travelers echo the sentiment of this journey, capturing the essence of what makes these tours so special:
Very good tour with nice guide! - We did the 1 day tour for visiting craft villages: Quang phu cau: Very beautiful for photographies. Silk village (but you have to know in advance that you won’t see the silk worms and fabrication - we were a little disappointed by that but the guide explained that this is very far from Hanoi to see the worms). Hanoi street food tour (we tasted a lot of different things that were all excellent). We enjoyed the tour with our guide Tony because he was very kind, gave us good explanations and showed us very good places to eat! He even gifted us with magnets. The tour was private and with a private driver also so it was nice to do it at our rhythm and just in couple. I recommend this tour :)
In the end, a weekend in Ứng Hòa is a journey of the senses, a celebration of craftsmanship and culture that leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time visitor, the charm of these villages and the warmth of their people will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.
