VIETNAM TRADITIONAL CRAFT VILLAGE TOUR
A Day Away from the City to Discover Authentic Rural Vietnam
If you want to experience Vietnam beyond its famous landmarks, this traditional craft village tour offers a chance to discover the country’s rural lifestyle, local communities and generations-old craftsmanship.
Leaving Hanoi behind, the journey takes you into the peaceful countryside of Northern Vietnam, where village lanes, traditional houses and family workshops are still part of everyday life.
The highlight of the experience is Thu Sy’s traditional bamboo fish trap craft village, where local artisans have preserved the art of weaving bamboo fish traps for generations. These distinctive handmade traps were traditionally used in the agricultural and fishing communities of Northern Vietnam.
This is more than a sightseeing trip. It is an opportunity to meet local people, watch skilled artisans at work, learn the stories behind traditional handicrafts and experience the authentic rhythm of rural Vietnam.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
1. Meet Local People
Meet local artisans and families and gain an authentic insight into rural Vietnamese life, traditions and the way traditional crafts are passed down from one generation to the next.
2. Discover Traditional Bamboo Fish Trap Making
Watch skilled craftsmen prepare bamboo strips and weave them into traditional fish traps using techniques developed and preserved over generations.
An experienced craftsman can complete a trap in around one hour, excluding the preparation of the bamboo materials.
3. Learn the Story Behind the Craft
The craft is closely connected to the agricultural lifestyle of Northern Vietnam, where ponds, canals, rivers and rice fields once played an important role in everyday life.
Although traditional fish traps are no longer as widely used as they once were, the craft continues as a distinctive form of traditional handicraft and the products are also used for decoration and other purposes.
4. Capture Authentic Rural Vietnam
Bring your camera and capture unique scenes of bamboo fish traps, artisans at work, traditional houses, village lanes and everyday rural life.
Thu Sy is particularly attractive to photographers looking for authentic images of Vietnamese countryside and traditional craftsmanship.
SUGGESTED ONE-DAY ITINERARY
08:00 – Hotel Pick-up in Hanoi
Your private vehicle and English-speaking guide will pick you up from your hotel in central Hanoi.
After a short introduction to the day’s experience, depart for the peaceful countryside.
09:30 – Arrive at the Craft Village
Begin your visit with a walk through the village and an introduction to local life and traditional craftsmanship.
Your guide will explain the history of bamboo fish traps and their connection with traditional agricultural life in Northern Vietnam.
10:00 – Meet the Artisans
Visit a local family workshop and watch the artisans at work.
You will learn about:
Bamboo selection and preparation
Splitting bamboo into thin strips
Building the basic structure
Traditional weaving techniques
Finishing the fish trap
Traditional methods of preserving bamboo
11:00 – Hands-on Experience & Local Interaction
Try simple parts of the traditional craft under the guidance of local artisans.
Take this opportunity to ask questions, interact with local people and learn more about their daily lives.
12:00 – Local Lunch
Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch featuring local dishes.
The exact menu may vary depending on the restaurant and the day’s arrangements.
13:30 – Village Walk & Photography
Continue exploring the village, traditional homes and surrounding countryside.
Enjoy free time for photography and shopping for locally made handicrafts, subject to availability.
15:00 – Depart for Hanoi
Say goodbye to the village and return to Hanoi.
16:30–17:00 – Tour Ends
Drop-off at your hotel or a convenient location in central Hanoi.
The itinerary may be adjusted depending on traffic, weather conditions and the actual pick-up/drop-off location.
TOUR INCLUDES
Private air-conditioned vehicle.
Professional driver.
Experienced English-speaking tour guide.
Entrance fees to attractions included in the itinerary.
Local village and craft experiences as described in the program.
Lunch as specified in the itinerary.
Drinking water.
Cold towels.
Service fees specified in the booking confirmation.
Customer support throughout the trip.
NOT INCLUDED
Flights and transportation outside the itinerary.
VAT, if applicable.
Personal drinks.
Personal expenses and shopping.
Tips for the guide, driver and local service staff.
Personal travel insurance unless specifically stated in the booking confirmation.
Any services not clearly mentioned in the itinerary.
CHILD POLICY
- Children under 2 years old: may travel free of charge depending on the services included and the booking conditions.
- Children aged 2 and above: child rates depend on age, group size and the services required.
- For online bookings, children’s prices may not be calculated automatically. Our travel consultant will confirm the exact price based on the child’s age and the services required.
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
We recommend bringing:
- A valid passport.
- Comfortable clothing.
- Comfortable walking shoes.
- Hat/cap and sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Camera or smartphone.
- Small amounts of cash for handicrafts or small local purchases.
- Your booking confirmation or voucher on your phone.
Tip: During hot and sunny days, sunscreen and drinking water are highly recommended.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
When does the tour depart?
The tour can be arranged according to your preferred schedule and confirmed with our travel consultant. Your exact pick-up time will be stated on your voucher or booking confirmation.
Can I customize the itinerary?
The standard itinerary is designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable experience. Private and tailor-made tours can be adjusted depending on your preferences and local operating conditions.
Do I need any previous craft-making experience?
Not at all. The experience is suitable for beginners. You will mainly observe the artisans and may try simple parts of the craft under their guidance.
Can I buy handicrafts at the village?
Yes, subject to availability. Local artisans may offer traditional bamboo products and other handmade items for purchase.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Children can enjoy watching the craft-making process and may participate in simple activities. Parents should supervise children in workshop areas.
Do I need cash?
Cash is not mandatory, but carrying a small amount is recommended if you wish to purchase handicrafts or use small local services.
Can I book a private tour?
Yes. The experience can be arranged for couples, families, small groups and private groups, depending on your requirements.
PAYMENT
After your itinerary and services have been confirmed, payment can be made through the payment methods supported by the tour operator, such as:
1. Bank Transfer
2. Online Card Payment
3. Cash Payment
Booking, payment and cancellation conditions will be confirmed at the time of reservation.
A JOURNEY INTO THE REAL VIETNAM
- Not just a tour.
- Not just a village.
- But a meeting with the people, traditions and craftsmanship that keep Vietnam’s cultural heritage alive.
- Discover the hands behind the craft.
- Meet the people behind the tradition.
- Experience the Vietnam beyond the guidebook.