Things to Know Before Visiting Quang Phu Cau Incense Village
Quang Phu Cau Village is a small, traditional village located in Ha Dong District, Hanoi, Vietnam. The village is renowned for its rich culture and friendly residents. Despite its potential to become a popular tourist destination, Quang Phu Cau Village remains relatively unknown, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking authentic and unique experiences.
Situated on the banks of the To Lich River, the village is characterized by a somewhat polluted environment. The river also serves as an important water source for agriculture, upon which many residents rely for their livelihoods.
The village is home to various traditional crafts such as pottery and bamboo weaving, but its most famous craft is incense making, which is used in many religious rituals and ceremonies throughout Vietnam. Incense is made from various natural ingredients, including herbs, wood, and resin.
After the incense is shaped, it is dried for several days, creating incredibly beautiful scenes with colorful bundles of incense placed along the village’s streets and squares. Once dried, the incense is wrapped in paper or placed in boxes and ready for use.
Best Time to Visit Quang Phu Cau Village
Those who wish to observe the incense-making process and capture beautiful photos should arrive early. Aim to reach the village around 10 a.m., as this is when the villagers will be drying the incense into various shapes. This process typically concludes around noon when workers take a lunch break.
The best time to visit Quang Phu Cau Village is during Tet (or Lunar New Year), when incense production increases, and the entire village transforms into shades of red and pink as millions of fragrant incense sticks are dried along the streets.
Best Photography Spots
The best way to capture photos of the incense drying process is from above. In this case, you don’t need to buy a flycam. There is a specific square where locals provide platforms for those who want to capture these unique photos for a small fee. When you get there, look for this location: Red Incense Making Village.
Getting to Quang Phu Cau Village from Hanoi
Quang Phu Cau Village is close to Hanoi, Vietnam. There are several ways to reach the village from Hanoi, depending on your preferences and budget.
By bus: The cheapest and most convenient way to reach Quang Phu Cau Village from Hanoi is by taking bus route 91. The bus journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour (depending on where you board).
By taxi: Another option is to take a taxi from Hanoi to Quang Phu Cau Village. This is a more expensive option but offers comfort and flexibility. You can negotiate with the driver to wait for you in the village or return to pick you up after your visit. We chose this option, and it worked well. Tip: make sure to have a good translation app on your phone, as not all taxi drivers speak good English.
By motorbike: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can rent a motorbike in Hanoi and ride to Quang Phu Cau Village yourself. This option gives you more freedom and flexibility to explore the area at your own pace but also comes with some risks due to the chaotic traffic in Hanoi.
By tour: Another option is to book a tour to Quang Phu Cau Village, including transportation and a guide. This option is convenient and ensures that you make the most of your experience in Quang Phu Cau Incense Village.
Note that Quang Phu Cau Village is not well-connected to public transportation apart from bus route 91, so it’s best to check schedules and routes carefully before planning your trip. Also, be sure to bring a map or download a navigation app as the village lacks good signage.
Near Quang Phu Cau Village: Hanoi and Lan Ha Bay
It’s highly likely that your colorful and fragrant adventure to Quang Phu Cau Village will start from the bustling heart of Vietnam, Hanoi. The journey from the vibrant capital to the serene village not only showcases the stark contrast between the urban hustle and rural tranquility but also provides a unique insight into Vietnam’s cultural diversity. As you venture away from the dynamic energy of Hanoi onto the lesser-known path, the anticipation of discovering traditional artistry grows.
But your exploration doesn’t necessarily have to end with the enchanting experience at Quang Phu Cau Village. After marveling at the village’s uniqueness, returning to Hanoi will unveil the ancient soul of the city in its Old Quarter. Our guides will take you through historic alleyways where the essence of the capital thrives amidst centuries-old architecture, diverse cuisine, and bustling markets, offering flavors and tales at every turn.
From Hanoi, Lan Ha Bay is an unmissable destination. Just a short distance from Vietnam’s bustling capital, Lan Ha Bay offers an ideal escape into the embrace of nature. With its crystal-clear waters, towering limestone islands, and secluded beaches, Lan Ha Bay is a pristine paradise, offering a tranquil and lesser-known alternative to the beaten path of Halong Bay.
With fewer tourists, you can enjoy kayaking, swimming, and exploring peaceful caves, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquility amidst Vietnam’s natural beauty. Our journey through Lan Ha Bay invites you to experience this pristine landscape, promising an additional dimension to your Vietnamese adventure that you’ll never forget.
