Hanoi Spring Photo Tour

After checking into the hotel and gathering for a brief orientation about the journey ahead, our photographic adventure begins with a captivating visit to the charming incense village — a location close to my heart. One of my photographs from this very village was featured in the June 2017 issue of National Geographic, bringing international recognition to its rich visual beauty.

You’ll have the opportunity to creatively capture the vivid colors of bundled incense, the striking symmetry of the arrangements, and the artistry of local craftsmen at work. It’s a perfect setting for both conceptual and documentary-style photography. After this enriching shoot, we head back to Hanoi with a sunset photography session at Tran Quoc Pagoda—the oldest temple of Hanoi.

We end the first photography day with a warm welcome dinner — a great chance to relax, connect, and discuss the inspiring journey ahead.

Begin the second day with our lenses trained on the striking Ceramic Road, glowing in the early morning light. Observe the detailed tiles that weave stories of artistry and tradition, creating a stunning mosaic that enhances the city. Our photographic journey continues as the morning sun highlights the soy sauce village, where heritage and skill come together.

Here, we’ll capture the detailed processes behind this culinary essential, documenting a community rooted in time-honored methods. In the afternoon, the bamboo fishing trap village takes center stage—a showcase of human creativity in balance with nature.

We start the day exploring Duong Lam ancient village, a living testament to Vietnam’s rich heritage. Our first stop is the centuries-old village of Duong Lam, a well-preserved settlement that offers a glimpse into traditional northern Vietnamese architecture and way of life. The ancient houses, narrow alleyways, and local life here provide countless opportunities for capturing authentic moments and textures.

In the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in the daily rhythm of village life—walking through narrow lanes lined with historic homes, meeting locals, and capturing the timeless charm that defines Duong Lam. From the vibrant urban artistry of Hanoi to the serene authenticity of the countryside, our cameras will craft a visual narrative that reflects the heart and soul of Vietnam.

Our journey begins with an early pickup in the morning from Hanoi, followed by a scenic drive to Cao Bang. The highlight of the day is the magnificent Ban Gioc Waterfall — one of the most beautiful and largest waterfalls in Vietnam, located right on the border with China. With its multi-tiered cascades and lush surroundings, Ban Gioc offers breathtaking photographic opportunities, especially as the sunlight hits the mist rising from the falls. After a day of exploring and shooting, we’ll check in to a comfortable local hotel.

We start our day early with a sunrise shoot at Ban Gioc Waterfall, capturing the morning light filtering through the mist and illuminating the cascading waters. In the afternoon, we’ll explore an incredible nearby hill with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside — perfect for wide landscape shots. As the sun sets, we move to Phong Nam river where local fishermen provide a beautiful foreground against the glowing sky, making for a magical sunset photography session.

After capturing the serene sunrise over Phong Nam valley, we journey to Ha Long Bay. Upon arrival, we board a cruise to explore this UNESCO World Heritage site known for its towering limestone karsts and emerald waters. The cruise offers unique vantage points to photograph the bay’s mystical scenery. We'll end the day by capturing the stunning sunset as it reflects off the tranquil waters, providing a spectacular finale to our photographic adventure.

Following a meticulously planned early morning photography session designed to capture the breathtaking sunrise over the iconic Ha Long Bay, our expertly curated journey will then proceed back to the vibrant capital city of Hanoi, where the formal itinerary of our tour will conclude promptly at 3:00 PM.