8-Day Diverse Arts & Crafts of Vietnam

Upon arrival at Noi Bai International Airport, Sonasia’s guide & driver will pick you up and transfer directly to the hotel in the old quarter of Hanoi.

Vietnam's capital races to make up for time lost to the ravages of war and a government that as recently as the 1990s kept the outside world at bay. Its streets surge with scooters vying for right of way amid the din of constantly blaring horns, and all-around layers of history reveal periods of French and Chinese occupation – offering a glimpse into the resilience of ambitious, proud Hanoians.

Hanoi Morning Hideaway (traditional musical family visit)

This tour starts at 07:30. Follow the tour guide to discover a unique local perspective of Hanoi. Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy its peaceful ambiance before the city bursts at the seams with life.

Stop at a famous corner where locals still keep their early morning habit for generations by catching up on the local news at the ‘standing newspapers.’ Learn how newspapers were delivered to Hanoians, even through economic hardships of the Vietnam War.

Continue exploring the city’s unique vibes and marvel at its chaotic-yet-efficient traffic patterns which have rightfully become legendary. Then, stop for a visit at a small tea shop and enjoy a brief introduction to tea making and learn about the importance of drinking tea in Vietnamese society.

Next, escape the bustling streets and find a hidden alley in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Visit the tiny home of a musician and a family who have dedicated their lives to the single-string dan bau. Hear their life stories and discover a love for their traditional music that goes back generations.

Interaction with Art Scholar for the development of Vietnam contemporary art

Later this afternoon about 15:00, drive out of the city center to the private residence of the celebrated Art Scholar, Suzanne Lecht who will share the story of the development of Vietnam art. It is as dramatic and transformative as the recent history of the country itself.

Living and working in Asia since 1984 with a lifelong commitment to working in the arts worldwide, she is recognised as the leading authority on bringing global attention to the local art scene. She discovers and promotes exceptional artists who are singular and passionate in their expression.

Overnight in Hanoi

Hand-made paper folk offerings and spirit ritual costumes

In Vietnam, followers of Folk Religion worship Gods and Spirits who range from bygone national heroes and natural deities, to simply ancestors. On special occasions, the followers still do offerings with their full respect.  

Today, get away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to the village on the outskirts of Hanoi where local farmers hand make offerings from spendings like gold bars to transportation like horse to daily essentials like clothes. All is made from paper! Get an in-depth understanding of the worship traditions as well as this handcraft.

Then drive to a nearby village of tailor-making special costumes for  an age-old Spirit Possession Ritual called Hầu Đồng which has just been recognized as Unesco intangible cultural heritage.

It is the ritual of the spiritual medium of the Mother Religion believing in The Mother Goddess who brings about favorable weather, happiness and fullness to people. Let’s talk with locals to learn how belief influences to their life and what people do to preserve the tradition.

Return to hotel around noon.

Hanoi city highlight

Embark on a quick city tour to get a glimpse of the city historic landmarks. Visit the Temple of Literature. Explore the incredible compound which was constructed in 1076. Hear stories of the buildings’ history, getting a glimpse into the past when it served as a university and temple.

Remainder of the afternoon is free at leisure.

Overnight in Hanoi

Transfer back to Hanoi airport to take the morning flight to Hue.  On arrival, be welcomed by the guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

Hue city tour and private artifact museum

In the afternoon, visit the Imperial Citadel where the Nguyen Dynasty ruled between 1802 and 1945. Then, hop on a 15-min cyclo ride to Tran Dinh Son museum, the first private museum in Hue, right at a “nha ruong” - traditional Royal house, once belonged to the Mandarin of King Minh Mang to contemplate his grandson’s valued collection of daily used items.

Overnight in Hue

Traditional craft and Innovative paper art scene

Bamboo is engraved in Vietnamese culture and daily life, providing protection and representing resiliency. In the countryside, bamboo is used for everything- from daily used items to musical instruments to ornaments. Drive 20-min north of the Citadel to visit a lesser-known village Bao La where locals still keep the traditional craft from bamboo down generations.

Then head to a workshop in the city and meet with an artisan who has integrated bamboo with traditional handicrafts to create revolutionary new art in Vietnam, that’s so-called Truc Chi art. Truc means bamboo and Chi means paper.  Learn how the artisans use Truc Chi to create handicraft items with the cultural characteristics of Hue.

Spend the remaining of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Hue.

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and then take a 14:30 transfer to Hue via Hai Van Pass. Despite the passing of 200 years and the ravages of weather and war, the center of Hoi An remains much the same as it was in its heyday.

Hoi An city tour

A walking tour is the best way to see this marvelous town. Visit the former merchants’ homes, the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge and the colourful market. Take a walk through the ancient town, seeing remarkably well-preserved traditional houses that have withstood 200 years of weather and war.

The tour today is more than a visual impression. Hoi An people is well-known for skilled tailors and leather craftsmen.

Overnight in  Hoi An

Paper mask & lantern making with artist

Begin with a walk through Hoi An Ancient Town to meet a paper mask artist at his workshop. His craft is steadily disappearing as newer forms of entertainment have gradually taken over. Learn how this artist contributes to the effort of preserving his craft for future generations.

Next, enjoy the process of making lanterns in the cozy atmosphere.  This hands-on experience offers a fun time together to gain knowledge and also get in touch with making a traditional Vietnamese lantern as a souvenir to bring home.

Spend the afternoon at leisure to explore hidden corners of the ancient town independently.

Overnight in Hoi An

You are free to stroll around the town for your own exploration before taking the departure flight