Conical Hat Workshop (Non La) - Hanoi Tour 2024

(Non La) Conical Hat Making Workshop

Crafting a Cultural Icon of Vietnam
1 - 6 guests
⏳3 – 4h

 

Overview

At a beautiful rooftop garden, you can immerse yourself in a workshop where you learn how to make your very own conical hat. Your host, who makes a living creating traditional non la for travelers, guides you through the process of transforming simple materials such as palm leaves, bark, and bamboo into a durable, sturdy, and practical souvenir to take home.

Because of the time it takes to make a traditional Vietnamese conical hat, the Conical Hat workshop is geared to let you make a slightly smaller version, with up to 14 rounds instead of the usual 16. Leave with your own piece of local culture and some great new headwear to keep the sun at bay.

What To Expect

The Vietnamese hat, or locally, Non La, is a quintessential Vietnamese icon. Recognizable at one glance, the conical-shaped hat has been in use for centuries, from farmers to laborers to ordinary men and women who use it for the utilitarian purpose it serves - protection from either rain or shine. It is also fashionable! Made from simple materials such as palm leaves, bark of the Moc tree and bamboo it is surprising that it is durable and sturdy, which makes Non La a great souvenir to take home. Join us at Backstreet Academy and immerse in a workshop where you will learn how to make your very own Non La. Our host, one of thousands of women that make a living selling Non La to travelers, will guide you as you create your own Vietnamese Hat.

Note: A Non La typically has 16 circular frames that support the hat, however, weaving the palm leaves around all 16 frames takes up to 6 hours (to make two Non Las), as such upon request of previous guests, we have cut short the duration of the workshop by structuring the workshop to only have 14 circular frames which results in a slightly smaller Non La. A smaller Non La also means easier to transport :) If you'd still like the 16 frame Non La, select this option from the add-on section.

Inclusive of

• All equipment, tools, and materials for the workshop.
• Non La to take home with you.
• English speaking facilitator.
• 01 drink per pax.

Not Inclusive of

• Pick-up and drop-off service within Hanoi (can be included at additional cost).
• Other personal expenses.
• Meals.
• Tips and gratuities (optional).

Additional Information

• Pick-up and drop-off service is included in this tour. You will be asked to enter your pick-up address during checkout.
• Pick-up location: Exact pick-up location address along with map direction will be sent to your email instantly after booking.
• Be at the pick-up location at the tour start time.
• You also have the option to be picked up. Simply select this option from the add-on section.
• Bringing a bottle of water is recommended.
• This is a kid friendly activity.