Today’s tour begins at 08:30. Set off from Hanoi after breakfast and travels west, passing through the scenic Red River Delta during a 1.5-hour drive. Upon arrival at Duong Lam Ancient Village, explore the local architecture of the area, combining laterite and mud. This material creates a unique look, with several buildings going back almost four centuries. Witness these construction methods on walls, wells, and temples while wandering through Duong Lam’s narrow alleyways and experiencing its unique rural vibes.
Mia Pagoda, the first temple to be explored, was built in the 15th century. Among its 287 statues are a variety of Buddha statues and the ‘Eight Vajra Deities’. Follow up with a visit to the Mong Phu community and take note of the village entrance, which has been maintained and kept in its original state over the centuries. While exploring the narrow alleys, discover some of the older houses and see their traditional laterite brickwork.
Take a break from the village tour to enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties while soaking up the ambiance of a centuries-old traditional home. Then, continue the tour with a trip to a Catholic church to see how local beliefs have fused with those of colonists who once occupied the area. Before returning to Hanoi, make a final stop at a local family to participate in the making of rice straw puppets and che lam (rice cake) – a specialty of this region.
Expect to arrive in Hanoi in the late afternoon.
Meal Included: Lunch
