Quang Phu Cau Incense Village: An ideal destination for photography lovers

When visiting pagodas in Vietnam, tourists can always see people respectfully holding incense sticks and placing them in the incense bowls. In Vietnamese belief, the action of burning incense sticks, or “thap huong”, is seen as a way for the living to show their feelings and respect, as well as to send wishes to the deceased in the other world. 

Traditional incense stick manufacturers can be found all over rural Vietnam. A visit to Quang Phu Cau, a specialized incense-making village in suburban Hanoi, is a captivating experience, especially for photography enthusiasts. The bamboo sticks, dried and painted by the villagers, form a vibrant artwork that inspires the creation of countless photography masterpieces. 

About Quang Phu Cau Village

Quang Phu Cau incense village, about 40 kilometers from Hanoi city center, has been renowned for its colorful handicrafts for over a century. What began as a part-time job for villagers out of time for their farming activities has now become the main source of income for the villagers. 

Initially, incense manufacturing was concentrated around Phu Luong Thuong village. Later, it spread to neighboring villages such as Cau Bau, Dao Tu,…, transforming Quang Phu Cau commune into an important community of professional craftsmen. Quang Phu Cau village is a magical blend of modern influences with the classic splendor of the Vietnamese countryside. 

Why is Quang Phu Cau village so attractive?

In Quang Phu Cau Village, visitors will have the chance to discover the traditional manufacturing technique of incense sticks, from cutting the bamboo, dyeing the incense roots red, natural drying to adding incense paste to the sticks. It is not hard to find the perfect spot for great photos, so it will be such a miss if you leave the village without taking any pictures. Moreover, the lively way of life of the local inhabitants will be revealed upon arrival.

The incense of Quang Phu Cau is beautiful and exceptional owing to its red and yellow, the auspicious colors of the Orient. Large courtyards can be seen everywhere, under the golden sunlight, filled with colorful bunches of incense sticks of gigantic size, with heads clustered together and legs stretched out like blossoming flowers. All create a truly impressive and memorable scene.

How to get good pictures in Quang Phu Cau Village?

The best vantage point for capturing a beautiful photo in Quang Phu Cau Village is from above. However, a flying camera or a drone is not necessarily needed. For a small fee, the locals offer useful equipment for taking stunning shots. Go to this place when you visit Quang Phu Cau Village: Làng làm hương đỏ.

How to get to Quang Phu Cau Village?

Here are some ways to get to Quang Phu Cau Village.

Bus: from Hanoi, tourists can take bus number 91 to Quang Phu Cau Village. This is the most practical and economical option. Depending on your pick-up point, the journey can take 45 minutes to an hour.

Taxi: Taking a taxi from Hanoi to Quang Phu Cau village is an option for those who prefer a private and more flexible trip. Despite the higher cost, this option allows you to start your journey at any time of the day and to stop at any point along the way. In addition, the driver can agree to wait for you or come back to pick you up after your visit.

Motorbike: Getting to Quang Phu Cau by motorbike is a great option for adventurous travelers. From Hanoi Old Quarter, you can easily rent a motorbike and make your way on your own to Quang Phu Cau village with the support of Google Maps. However, make sure that you are an experienced driver and drive at the right speed to ensure your safety.

Private Car that is suggested by a local agency: This option gives you more freedom and flexibility to discover this region at your own pace.

If you have any questions relating to this fascinating village, don’t hesitate to ask in the comment section below. And if you need support to plan your Vietnam trip, contact us at: sales@authentiktravel.com.

Discover this village on your Vietnam trip and share your photos with us! 

TOLUNHA

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