On the trails of incense sticks and local craftsmanship

The day begins around 8:30 AM when our English-speaking motorcycle drivers will pick you up directly from your hotel. After a warm welcome and a brief overview of the activities ahead, you’ll be ready to delve into Hue's rich artisan heritage.

Your first stop is one of the oldest bell and bronze foundries in the region. You’ll witness the complex art of bronze casting, an ancient technique passed down through generations. Local artisans will show you how bells, often intended for pagodas and Buddhist temples, as well as other bronze objects such as statues and ritual instruments, are made. You will have the chance to touch the molds and closely observe the casting and finishing processes. It’s a fascinating dive into an age-old craft that endures despite the passage of time.

Next, you will visit Hue’s last artisanal tile factory, a historic site where manufacturing methods have barely changed for centuries. These tiles are an essential component of traditional Vietnamese architecture, especially for the roofs of temples and old houses. You’ll learn about the tile-making process, from clay extraction and preparation to molding the tiles and firing them in high-temperature kilns. Artisans will explain the current challenges of preserving this craft, which is threatened by modernization. You will leave with a deep understanding of the cultural significance of these tiles and the artisans' dedication to preserving this tradition.
 

Lunch :

After a morning rich in discoveries, you’ll take a break at a local restaurant. You’ll enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine, prepared with fresh, local ingredients. The menu will likely include specialties from the Hue region, such as Bun Bo Hue (spicy noodle soup with beef) or Bánh Nậm (rectangular rice cakes). This meal will also be a special time to discuss with your guide the cultural aspects you’ve explored during the morning.

Afternoon :

The afternoon begins with an immersion into the olfactory and spiritual world of incense. You will visit a workshop where incense sticks are made, an essential product in both religious and daily life in Vietnam. Incense is used in nearly all Buddhist and Taoist ceremonies, as well as for honoring ancestors. At the workshop, you will learn every step of the process, from cutting sandalwood, known for its fragrance, to grinding it into powder, mixing it with other aromatic substances, and finally shaping the incense sticks. You’ll even have the opportunity to make your own incense sticks to take home as a souvenir.

After the workshop, you will visit two of Hue’s most peaceful and lesser-known pagodas : Tu Hieu pagoda and Thai pagoda. Located off the usual tourist routes, these pagodas offer a serene setting ideal for meditation. You will see how the incense you observed being made is used in rituals and prayers. Tu Hieu pagoda is particularly famous for its traditional architecture and beautiful gardens where you can stroll peacefully. Thai pagoda, less frequented, will provide an intimate glimpse into the local monks' religious life. You’ll end the day on a spiritual note, appreciating the beauty and tranquility of these sacred places.

After a day rich in cultural and spiritual discoveries, you will be returned to your hotel in the late afternoon. You will have explored not only the tangible aspects of Hue’s craftsmanship but also its spiritual dimensions, marked by a respect for traditions and nature.
 

Included :
- Transportation by car or motorcycle with driver.
- English or French-speaking guide.
- Entrance fees to all visited sites.
- A refreshing drink provided during the day.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.

Not Included :
- Tips for guides and drivers.
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, additional drinks.)