HÀ NỘI The Friends of Việt Nam Heritage will host an excursion to the Thạch Xá craft village, which is famous for its brightly painted bamboo dragonflies. The day trip will take place from 8:30am to 3:30pm on November 2.

Although the bamboo dragonflies originally were made for children, the trade has now blossomed into one of Việt Nam’s leading crafts. Visitors will have a chance to meet the first bamboo dragonfly artisan, and learn how they are made and decorate their own dragonflies.

After the tour of Thạch Xá Village, which is in Hà Nội suburban district of Thạch Thất about 40km from the city centre, the group will also visit the nearby Tây Phương Pagoda that dates back to the 8th century. It features wonderful architecture and decor, and 62 beautiful wooden statues. The pagoda complex consists of three buildings built in descending order on the hillside.

To RSVP visit www.fvheritage.org/event. Fee: VNĐ350,000/adult, VNĐ170,000/children, under 15s and students.

On November 3, FVH will also host a craft workshop on kirigami paper cutting.

Kirigami is the Japanese art of paper cutting, originated from origami, which is favoured by many people around the world. Kirigami is based on paper cutting, rather than just folding and utilizes different techniques.

During the workshop, the instructor will guide participants how to step-by-step cut and plan their designs. He will instruct them in Vietnamese with English translation. Participants will be provided with coloured paper and scissors.

The event will start at 2pm at Tổ Chim Xanh – Bluebirds’ Nest Book Café, No 13, Alley 19, Đặng Dung Street. To RSVP visit www.fvheritage.org/event. Fee: VNĐ250,000/adult, VNĐ150,000/children, under 15s and students. VNS