1. Location & Ways to Get to Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

Vietnam Incense Village located in Ung Hoa District, Hanoi, about 35km from Hanoi, making it an excellent addition to your list of what to do in Hanoi for those seeking authentic cultural experiences beyond the city center. The village becomes a living canvas with its bright red incense sticks carefully laid out under the sun. This stunning sightseeing is the favorite destination for photographers and cultural enthusiasts.

The vibrant beauty of Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, where colorful incense bundles create a mesmerizing scene

There are several ways to reach Quang Phu Cau Incense Village from Hanoi:

• Motorbike: The most flexible option, taking around 45 - 60 minutes via National Highway 21B. The roads are in good condition, making it an easy ride for experienced motorcyclists.
• Bus: Take Bus 91 from Yen Nghia Bus Station towards Quang Phu Cau, then walk about 10 minutes to the incense village. This is the most budget-friendly option.
• Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps: The fastest and most convenient choice, with a round-trip fare of around 300,000 - 500,000 VND. It’s ideal for those who prefer a comfortable and direct ride.

2. Over 100 Years of History of The Incense Village Hanoi

The incense-making tradition originated in Phu Luong Thuong village and later spread to Dao Tu, Cau Bau, and Xa Cau villages in Quang Phu Cau commune.

In the past, incense was made entirely by hand. Craftspersons would go through multiple steps to create each incense stick—starting with splitting bamboo (or rattan), crafting toothpicks, dyeing the incense bases, shaping the incense sticks, then drying and packaging them. In recent years, however, modern machinery and technology have been introduced, significantly boosting production efficiency.

Today, the Quang Phu Cau Incense Cooperative includes over 3,000 households involved in production, with several OCOP (One Commune One Product) offerings earning 3-star ratings, such as incense sticks, incense buds, and incense coils, as well as 4-star rated products like cinnamon buds, agarwood buds, and Tram buds, all crafted from “bi huong”.

Despite modern machinery, artisans at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village uphold traditional incense-making methods

3. Why The Incense Village is a Must-visit Attraction?

Quang Phu Cau is a remarkable destination with tradition, craftsmanship, and roots in Vietnamese heritage. There are 5 reasons to explain why this village is a must-visit spot when traveling in Hanoi:

• Striking Visuals for Photography: Rows of vividly dyed incense sticks arranged like blooming flowers create a surreal, colorful landscape. This photogenic setting is a dream for photographers and Instagram lovers alike.
• Authentic Cultural Immersion: The village offers a rare glimpse into a centuries-old craft that remains deeply rooted in Vietnamese tradition. Visitors can observe artisans hand-dyeing bamboo sticks and drying incense under the sun.
• Support Local Craftsmanship: By visiting, you help sustain the livelihoods of local families who have passed down incense-making techniques for generations. Your presence directly contributes to preserving this intangible cultural heritage.
• Peaceful and Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unlike Hanoi’s bustling tourist sites, the Incense Village offers a quiet, serene atmosphere. It's a perfect half-day trip for travelers seeking a slower, more meaningful experience.
• Unique Souvenirs: Visitors can purchase hand-crafted incense bundles in a variety of colors and scents - authentic, lightweight, and easy to carry home as gifts or keepsakes.

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is a unique attraction, mesmerizing visitors with its vibrant incense-drying fields

4. Top 4 Exciting Experiences at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village Hanoi

Visiting the Incense Village Hanoi is a chance to connect with artisans and witness traditional incense-making firsthand. These unique experiences highlight the craftsmanship and cultural heritage that make the village a must-visit destination.

4.1. Experience Incense Crafting Activity

One of the most fascinating activities in Quang Phu Cau is learning the art of incense-making from skilled artisans. The process involves splitting bamboo, dipping the sticks into bright dyes, drying them in the sun, and carefully coating them with aromatic herbal powder. Visitors can take part in rolling incense sticks by hand.

A local artisan carefully hand-carved bamboo as the begin of incense making

The local people carefully dry incense sticks underneath the sunlight, preserving the traditional craft in a serene rural setting

4.2. Admiring the Colorful Incense Scenery

Admiring the colorful incense scenery in Quang Phu Cau is a unique experience that immerses you in the village’s traditional craft. Here are some tips for you:

• Respect local households by asking permission before photographing, as many drying areas are in private courtyards.
• A small fee (50,000 - 100,000 VND) may be required for photo access.

A sea of red incense bundles at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village, showcasing the beauty of traditional craftsmanship

4.3. Exploring Its History and Cultural Significance

With a history spanning over a century, Quang Phu Cau Incense Village has long been a key center for traditional incense-making in Vietnam. Generations of artisans have perfected their craft, supplying high-quality incense to temples, pagodas, and households across the country. The village’s dedication to this art form has helped preserve a skill that remains an essential part of Vietnamese cultural heritage.

Using simple traditional tools, artisans at Quang Phu Cau Incense Village preserve the age-old craft of incense making

This is a chance to engage with local craftsmen whose families have been making incense for generations. They share personal stories about their techniques, the challenges of preserving the craft, and how incense-making has shaped their community.

4.4. Capturing Stunning Photos

The Incense Village Hanoi is a paradise for photography enthusiasts, offering stunning visuals that capture both tradition and craftsmanship. Here are the best spots to take memorable shots:

• Incense bouquets drying under the sun: Rows of bright red and gold incense sticks are arranged in circular patterns, creating a striking and colorful display unique to the village.
• Artisans rolling incense powder onto bamboo sticks: Skilled craftsmen work with precision, coating each stick with fragrant herbal powder - a process perfected over generations.
• Visitors participating in incense-making: Engaging in the craft firsthand allows for natural, candid shots that reflect the joy of learning and connecting with local traditions.

The vibrant incense fields of Quang Phu Cau create a mesmerizing backdrop, attracting visitors to this unique cultural craft village

5. Insider Tips for An Unforgettable Visit to Incense Village

Visiting Quang Phu Cau Incense Village offers a rare chance to see a traditional craft up close. To fully enjoy your experience, you should follow these practical tips for a hassle-free and memorable trip:

• Visit Quang Phu Cau Incense Village between 8:00 - 10:00 AM for the best lighting, fewer crowds, and a chance to see artisans at work.
• Wear breathable clothing and comfortable shoes, and consider dressing in neutral or traditional outfits for better photo aesthetics.
• The village is especially lively during Tet and festivals, when incense production peaks.
• Combine your trip with nearby craft villages like Chuong, Bat Trang, or Van Phuc Silk Village, where you can explore Vietnam's renowned silk weaving traditions alongside the incense-making heritage. For history enthusiasts, consider extending your journey to Duong Lam Ancient Village, one of Vietnam's first recognized ancient villages, offering a deeper dive into rural Vietnamese architecture and customs. Nature lovers can also venture to Ba Vi National Park Vietnam, located nearby, for hiking trails and scenic mountain views, creating a perfect balance between cultural exploration and natural beauty.
• Be mindful of the environment by not stepping on incense bundles and disposing of your trash properly.

Visit Quang Phu Cau Incense Village in the morning to witness artisans skillfully crafting incense through traditional methods

Exploring the Incense Village Hanoi is a journey into Vietnam’s rich heritage, where visitors can witness the artistry of incense-making, engage with dedicated artisans, and admire the village’s vibrant, picture-perfect landscapes. Whether for photography, cultural appreciation, or a peaceful escape, this destination leaves a lasting impression of tradition and craftsmanship.

As Vietnam’s premier 4-star national carrier, Vietnam Airlines provides Flight to Hanoi to experience a colourful journey to the unique Quang Phu cau Incense Village. Start your trip to Vietnam’s most captivating cultural experiences with Vietnam Airlines!