Visit centuries-old Buddhist pagodas and hidden shrines as you explore the Perfume Pagoda in Vietnam's Huong Tich mountains. Go on a leisurely boat ride down the Yen River, meander along stone paths to reach lofty vantage points, and tuck into a tasty lunch at a beloved restaurant along the way.

Get picked up from your Hanoi hotel and head out of town, passing by the quiet farms and pastoral landscapes that blanket the Red River Delta. Transfer to a boat when you reach the Yen River and drift toward the shrine of Den Trinh, whose kneeling elephants welcome you to the entrance of the Perfume Pagoda.

Learn about the generals Den Trinh is devoted to as you chat with your guide while following a stone-flagged path into the hills, or opt for a cable car ride to the top. Take the afternoon to wander around the sights of Huong Tich Chu and listen to commentary about the site's role as a pilgrimage site. See the cave-carved temple in Huong Tich Cave, take in sweeping views from elevated lookouts, and grab lunch before making a final stop at the Thien Tru Pagoda. After returning to your shuttle by boat, settle into your seat and head back to Hanoi.