This excursion from Hanoi taking you to some of the fascinating handicraft villages dotted the lush countryside surrounding the capital. We leave Hanoi to Bat Trang where we can see firsthand the ancient art of ceramic making at a workshop. Many of the families producing these fine works of art have been doing so for at least 400 year. Continue to Dong Ky, the carpenter village. Originally, carpentry was a side hobby for inhabitants of Dong Ky, however poverty forced the villagers concentrate their skills on this occupation. The wood carving here is also famous for its meticulously inlaid mother of pearl. Located a few kilometers over the Red River from central Hanoi is Le Mat snake village, the residence of Le Mat have been catching and breeding snakes, making snake wines and tonics, and cooking tasty snake dishes for some 900 years. Turn back to Hanoi for lunch at restaurant before visiting Van Phuc silk village to learn how people here make silks. The local silk is known for its smooth and lightweight appearance, qualities that enable it to be dyed more colors to suit a variety of skin tones. Highlight: Walking and cultural experience