There is so little resemblance with Hanoi that it almost looks like taking a step back in time. Drenched in history, ample examples still vividly move visitors back to the Vietnam of a bygone era and where centuries-old architecture in the form of brick/mud houses are the cornerstone of an unhurried lifestyle.
Duong Lam Village cast an irresistible spell on anyone wandering through narrow alleys, armed with a camera, to get an up-and-close look of an ancient house and temple walls, gates and old water wells. In combination with two other institutions of Vietnamese culture in Hanoi itself, this full-day sums up the authentic side in one word – authenticity
Pickup included
Warm welcomes and big smiles from all wind directions reach you as a short walk brings us to the village communal house the village pagoda – fine examples of Northern Vietnam architecture. Nothing beats a locally sourced, traditionally made lunch at one of the residences, the home of a family that calls Duong Lam their home for generations
We leave the rustic countryside of Vietnam behind us as we move back to the Vietnamese capital, where we stop at the Temple of Literature. This is a peaceful series of walled courtyards and graceful alleys, and one of the best surviving examples of traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 during the Ly Dynasty and dedicated to Confucius, this was also the site of Vietnam's first university.
We end our day with something uniquely Vietnamese – a traditional Water Puppet Show performance. This tradition dates back to the 11th century and has its origin in the villages of Northern Vietnam. The show's theme is rural and has a reference to Vietnamese tales where performers stand waist-deep in water and tell their story via this preserved form of art. After this performance, it is time to head back to your hotel and depending on traffic and the location of your overnight address; you should arrive around 5 pm, well ahead to explore the city after sunset.
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Hotel pickup is available from most centrally located Hanoi City centre hotel, Transfer outside these areas, supplements apply.
• It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request. • In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.