Quảng Phú Cầu incense village in Hanoi is one of the three Asian representatives, and the only one in Southeast Asia, mentioned in Travel + Leisure’s list of 11 destinations around the world. It is a place where visitors can easily and prominently find the color Magenta (the color of the year).

When visiting the village, tourists will be amazed by the vibrant pinkish-red color characteristic of the incense bundles. The incense is tied into bundles and arranged evenly in the yard, resembling a blooming flower field.

Located 35 km from Hanoi’s center, in Quang Phu Cau commune, Ung Hoa district, this village is renowned for its traditional incense-making craft. The trade has provided employment for thousands of local workers and attracts many visitors interested in Vietnamese cultural values.

1. Quang Phu Cau Village

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is a popular spot for visitors, situated on the outskirts of Hanoi. It is well-known for its long-standing tradition of incense-making. You can easily reach the village by motorbike or bus from central Hanoi. For motorbike travel, follow National Route 21B and Provincial Route 429. If you prefer a scenic bus ride, take bus number 91 from Yen Nghia bus station, which will take you directly to this charming village.

The incense-making tradition in Quang Phu Cau has been an integral part of Vietnamese culture for generations. Despite the passage of time, this traditional craft has been maintained by skilled artisans. The village’s longevity and adherence to traditional practices make it a distinctive representation of North Vietnamese rural culture.

2. Experiencing Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

2.1. Understanding the Incense-Making Process

Incense is a spiritual item, so all processes are carried out carefully and cleanly by the locals, especially, in selecting materials, preparation, and packaging. As a result, the incense from Quảng Phú Cầu always retains its natural, soothing fragrance and brings a sense of peace to the soul whenever it is burned.

At Quang Phu Cau, the atmosphere becomes increasingly bustling as you delve deeper into the village. Each artisan performs their tasks with skillful precision, from splitting bamboo, bundling incense sticks, dyeing, to rolling the incense. The sounds of splitting bamboo, bundling sticks, and the faint scent of incense contribute to the village’s unique character.

Creating incense involves meticulous craftsmanship. Each stick requires careful attention from the artisans, including selecting appropriate materials like agarwood, pine, rosewood, patchouli, star anise, cinnamon, and various other natural substances. Traditional methods involve gently rolling the incense to ensure an even coating of powder, though modern technology has significantly increased efficiency and output.

Today, Quang Phu Cau’s incense is not only sold through traditional methods but also through established brands that incorporate technology to enhance quality. Many products, such as incense coils and sticks, have received OCOP (One Commune One Product) 3-4 star certifications and are popular both locally and internationally.

2.2 Photo Paradise with Vibrant Incense “Flowers”

Visiting Quang Phu Cau offers a chance to learn about traditional incense-making and take unique photos. The incense sticks are bundled in large quantities, creating formations that resemble blooming flowers. The red and yellow colors of Quang Phu Cau’s incense, which symbolize good fortune, make for striking and beautiful photographs.

The village’s picturesque setting has attracted photographers from around the world, with many works featuring Quang Phu Cau’s vibrant incense receiving prestigious awards. When visiting, be sure to seek permission before taking photos in areas where incense is being dried, and consider purchasing a few bundles as souvenirs to support the local community.

3. Travel Tips for Quang Phu Cau Incense Village

3.1 Getting to Quang Phu Cau

Approximately 35 km from Hanoi’s center, Quang Phu Cau can be reached by various modes of transport, including motorbikes, cars, and buses. For a more flexible travel experience, renting a motorbike is a good option, with rental prices around 120,000 VND per day. Motorbikes are ideal for navigating Hanoi’s busy streets.

Alternatively, taking bus number 91 from Yen Nghia bus station is a convenient and cost-effective option. With the Cát Linh-Hà Đông train line now in operation, you can also take the train to Yen Nghia and then switch to bus number 91.

3.2 Best Time to Visit

Quang Phu Cau operates year-round but it is particularly vibrant during the Tet Festival. For the best photo opportunities, visiting in the summer months when the weather is sunny is ideal. The bright sunlight enhances the colors of the incense and provides excellent lighting for photos. Choosing contrasting clothing, such as white, yellow, or blue, will help you stand out in your photos.

3.3 Additional Tips

• According to many visitors, to get beautiful photos in the incense village, you should visit in the morning when the sun is just rising. Additionally, don’t forget to wear light-colored clothing to stand out against the vibrant pink and red hues of the large bundles of incense scattered across the courtyards.

• Tet is the peak season for Quang Phu Cau, making it an exciting time to visit.
• Check the weather before your visit to ensure clear, sunny conditions for your photos.

• A 100,000 VND photo fee is charged to support the villagers in arranging the incense for optimal photo opportunities.

Quang Phu Cau Incense Village is a well-known destination for both locals and tourists. It offers unique photo opportunities and cultural experiences, making it a great choice for a day trip from Hanoi.