5-Day Tokyo Cultural and Culinary Extravaganza Itinerary

Begin your Hanoi adventure with a visit to the majestic Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where you can pay respects to the founding father of modern Vietnam. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll around the serene One-Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot) and the historic Temple of Literature (Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam), Vietnam's first university.

For lunch, savor the flavors of Hanoi at Essence Restaurant, known for its traditional Vietnamese cuisine with a modern twist. Post-lunch, immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of the Dong Xuan Market, one of the largest indoor markets in Hanoi. Explore the market and the surrounding Old Quarter (A-Hanoi Old Quarter ), known for its narrow streets and traditional shophouses.

As the sun sets, experience the unique art form of water puppetry with Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. After the show, enjoy a delightful dinner at Hanoi Fusion Pub & Restaurant, offering a fusion of international and local dishes in a cozy setting.

Start your day with a visit to the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (VME), where you can learn about the diverse ethnic groups of Vietnam. Then, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake) and cross the iconic Long Bien Bridge (Cau Long Bien) for panoramic views of the Red River.

Enjoy a sumptuous lunch at La Table Hanoia, a restaurant that combines French culinary techniques with Vietnamese ingredients. Afterward, take a short drive to the Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong), a complex of Buddhist temples located in the Huong Tich mountains. Take a boat ride along the Yen River to reach the pagodas, surrounded by stunning natural scenery.

For dinner, indulge in the elegant ambiance and fine dining at The Gourmet Corner, which offers a panoramic view of the city. Afterward, you can explore the vibrant nightlife of Hanoi, with options ranging from rooftop bars to live music venues.

Embark on a day trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh to explore the natural wonders. Visit the Trang An Landscape Complex (Trang An Grottoes), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its stunning karst landscapes and cave systems. Enjoy a peaceful boat ride through the picturesque area, surrounded by lush greenery.

After the morning exploration, enjoy a delightful lunch at Quan Que restaurant Vietnamese foods & Vegan Restaurant, which offers a variety of local and vegan dishes. Post-lunch, visit the ancient capital of Vietnam at Hoa Lu, where you can explore the historic temples and learn about the country's rich history.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and unwind with a casual dinner at The Hanoi Social Club, a vibrant venue offering a range of international and local dishes. You can also enjoy live music performances while sipping on your favorite drinks.

Depart from Hanoi for a day trip to the stunning Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Upon arrival, board a traditional junk boat for a memorable cruise through the emerald waters, surrounded by thousands of limestone karsts and isles. Visit the iconic Luon Cave and enjoy kayaking or simply relax on the boat's sundeck.

As part of the cruise, you'll have a sumptuous seafood lunch served on board, featuring the freshest catch from the bay. After lunch, the cruise will take you to Titop Island, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the bay or take a refreshing swim on the sandy beach.

Return to Hanoi in the evening and enjoy a well-deserved dinner at Skyline Hanoi, offering a sophisticated dining experience with a wide range of international and fusion dishes. The restaurant's rooftop location provides a stunning view of the city's skyline, perfect for reflecting on your day's adventure.

Start your final day with a hands-on experience at the Hanoi Cooking Class in a Local Villa with Market Tour. Learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine from a local chef and visit a traditional market to select fresh ingredients. Enjoy the dishes you've prepared for lunch.

After the cooking class, take a guided Hanoi Guided Street Food Tour to explore the diverse and delicious street food scene of the city. Sample a variety of local specialties and learn about the culinary culture of Vietnam.

For your last evening in Hanoi, enjoy a memorable dinner at Standing Bar, a unique venue that combines a restaurant, bar, and live music space. Indulge in their selection of craft cocktails and fusion dishes while reminiscing about your cultural and culinary journey through Hanoi and its surroundings.