Best time to visit

Geographic Location

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is a unique destination located on the outskirts of Hanoi, Vietnam. This village is renowned for its traditional craft of making incense sticks, a practice that has been passed down through generations. As you walk through the village, you’re greeted by a vibrant display of incense sticks drying in the sun, creating a picturesque scene of rows upon rows of vivid colors.

The artisans in the village take pride in their work, meticulously mixing, rolling, and dyeing the incense by hand. Visiting Quang Phu Cau offers a rare glimpse into this traditional craft, allowing travelers to observe the detailed process and even try their hand at making incense. The village’s atmosphere is filled with the aromatic scent of incense, providing a sensory experience that connects visitors with Vietnamese culture and traditions.

Hanoi City

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a fascinating blend of East and West, combining traditional Vietnamese culture with French colonial influences. The city’s heart is the Old Quarter, where narrow streets are lined with shops, street food vendors, and bustling markets. Hanoi is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Temple of Literature. The city also boasts beautiful parks and lakes, with Hoan Kiem Lake being a central gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Hanoi’s cuisine is a highlight, offering famous dishes such as pho, banh mi, and egg coffee.

Seasons and Best Time to Visit

Hanoi experiences a typical climate of northern Vietnam, with four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter. Summers (May to August) are hot and humid with heavy rainfall, while winters (December to February) are relatively cold and dry. Spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November) are considered the best times to visit Hanoi, offering mild temperatures and pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the city’s outdoor attractions and enjoying its vibrant street life.

Local Cuisine

Hanoi is renowned for its culinary scene, which offers an array of delicious dishes that reflect the city’s cultural diversity and rich history. Some of the must-try local specialties include:

Pho: A Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken. Pho is considered Vietnam’s national dish and can be found throughout Hanoi.

Banh Mi: A Vietnamese sandwich that combines a French baguette with a variety of fillings, including meats, vegetables, and condiments. It’s a perfect quick meal for those exploring the city.

Egg Coffee: A Hanoi innovation, this unique beverage combines coffee with egg yolks and sugar, creating a rich and creamy treat.

Bun Cha: Grilled pork served over a plate of white rice noodle (bun) and herbs with a side dish of dipping sauce. This dish became internationally known when President Obama and Anthony Bourdain shared it in Hanoi.

Transportation

For short distances, walking or cycling allows visitors to immerse themselves in the city’s vibrant atmosphere. For longer distances, motorbikes and scooters are the most popular modes of transport, offering flexibility and an authentic local experience. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab are widely available for convenient city travel. Additionally, Hanoi’s public bus network offers an affordable way to reach different parts of the city, including major tourist attractions. For exploring the city’s outskirts or embarking on day trips, renting a car or joining guided tours can be excellent options.