Exploring the Dong Van Rocky Plateau on a 3-day 2-night self-sufficient itinerary

Where will the 3-day 2-night self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau take you, and what will you eat? Follow DanangPrivateCar.com’s to pocket the most suitable journey for you, along with valuable self-sufficient travel experiences. Let’s get started together.

Why choose self-sufficient travel when visiting Ha Giang

During the journey to conquer and explore Ha Giang in general and the Dong Van Rocky Plateau in particular, you will certainly need to consider between traveling independently and joining a tour. So what is the suitable choice for you?

For individual travelers, especially adventurous young people, traveling independently will offer more freedom and flexibility. Self-sufficient travel brings you new experiences, cost savings, and a journey full of surprises ahead. However, the downside is that you need to plan your itinerary yourself, seek and experience things on your own, and there may be unexpected incidents during the trip. Therefore, you need to carefully consider before choosing this type of journey.

Self-sufficient travel to Ha Giang will open up opportunities for travelers to conquer and explore this land

As for those traveling in groups, with companies or schools, choosing a tour will be more suitable. These tours are organized by professional companies, with detailed and specific itineraries, ensuring the best experiences for travelers. However, the limitation of these tours lies in the constraints; travelers must participate in all activities as a group, unable to freely choose where to go, what to do, or what to eat as everything has been arranged from the beginning.

Therefore, for young people, the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau in 3 days 2 nights is considered a more interesting option. However, if you want a safe, convenient trip from A to Z, DanangPrivateCar.com’s recommends you to explore full-package tours.

Details of the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau in 3 days 2 nights

Next, let’s delve into the details of the self-sufficient Dong Van travel itinerary for 3 days 2 nights with DanangPrivateCar.com.

Day 1 in the itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau self-sufficiently for 3 days 2 nights

Discovery journey: Travel to Ha Giang – King Cat’s Palace – Dong Van

Morning:

  • 05:30: Start the journey to Ha Giang. If traveling by bus, please contact the company in advance to book tickets. If traveling independently by motorbike, ensure you have all necessary documents and drive carefully on dangerous mountain passes. Travelers will spend about 5 to 6 hours on the Hanoi – Ha Giang route.

Noon:

  • Travelers will arrive in the city center of Ha Giang around noon. Therefore, it’s recommended to stop here to choose a restaurant for lunch.
  • After lunch and some rest, continue the journey to Dong Van. On the way, you’ll have the opportunity to admire the majestic beauty of the Dong Van Global Geopark. The terrain here is very unique, fascinating many people.
  • The highlight of the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau on the first day is the King Cat’s Palace, built by Vương Chính Đức. He was once a notorious opium lord, the wealthiest and most influential figure in Chau Dong Van around the early 20th century. It took 8 years to build this mansion, costing a huge amount of money, with a unique architectural style blending H’Mong culture and Chinese elements.

Afternoon:

  • Travelers stroll around Dong Van town, exploring the old town area with ancient houses.
  • Then, find a homestay here to rent a room for overnight rest.

Evening:

  • After dinner at a restaurant, travelers continue to stroll around Dong Van town. You can find a café to enjoy a hot drink and relax in the peaceful atmosphere here.
The Dong Van Rocky Plateau, with its unique terrain, holds great significance in geological research

Day 2 in Ha Giang

Discovery journey: Fairy Mountain Cliff – Meo Vac – Kayaking on the Nho Que River

Morning:

  • Start the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau for 3 days 2 nights on the second day by checking out and having breakfast.
  • Then, embark on the exploration of Fairy Mountain Cliff. This cliff is located at an altitude of about 1,700m above sea level, on the top of Fairy Mountain, in Pai Lung and Pa Vi communes, Meo Vac district, Ha Giang province. For locals, the white cliffs are considered a symbol of sacred significance, associated with the legend of the iron couple. For tourists, this place offers a magnificent view of the Ma Pi Leng Pass – dubbed one of the four great passes of Vietnam… You can choose to hike for beautiful pictures here.

Noon:

  • You can have lunch at restaurants in Meo Vac. Take a rest here for a while before continuing the afternoon journey.

Afternoon:

  • Continue the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau for 3 days 2 nights with an experience of kayaking on the Nho Que River. This is a peaceful and serene river, situated amidst towering mountains and Tu San canyon. The canyon has cliffs rising up to 800 meters, with a length of about 1.7km, at a depth of 700 to 900 meters, creating a unique and majestic landscape of the Dong Van Rocky Plateau. If traveling in a group, you can choose to rent a kayak to enjoy the serene beauty of this river.

Evening:

  • Here, you must visit the Pả Vi community village. Here, tourists have the opportunity to participate in bonfires, camping, and enjoy traditional cultural performances. Then, find a homestay for overnight rest.
Kayaking on the Nho Que River allows you to enjoy the serene and tranquil beauty of this place.

Day 3 in Ha Giang

Discovery journey: Conquer Meo Vac – Leave Ha Giang

Morning:

  • After enjoying breakfast, travelers visit the Meo Vac market. Here, you can buy many cute handicrafts, such as bags, wallets with ethnic patterns. Moreover, you can also enjoy traditional dishes of ethnic minorities and drink wine with the elders.
  • After leaving the market, pass through the M-shaped intersection. This is the bridge connecting Yen Minh town and the Dong Van Rocky Plateau, with the winding Tham Ma slope, surrounded by majestic mountains.
  • After passing through the M-shaped intersection is the Quan Ba twin mountain. Here, there is a “Heaven’s Gate” with a unique landscape, very suitable for taking stunning pictures.

Noon:

  • Travelers have lunch in Ha Giang city. After lunch break, head to Ha Giang bus station to return.
The Meo Vac market offers rustic and simple items, as well as colorful ethnic clothing from various minority groups

So we have just fully explored the self-sufficient itinerary to conquer the Dong Van Rocky Plateau in 3 days 2 nights. Hopefully, with the suggestions from DanangPrivateCar.com, you will have a smooth, safe trip and countless interesting experiences. Don’t forget to choose our private car rental service in Hanoi for the best self-sufficient travel to Ha Giang.

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2024 will return in June

On January 5th 2024, the Da Nang People’s Committee announced that the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2024 is scheduled to return in June, with the support of the Sun Group.

Following the success of the 2023 edition, the summer by the Han River will continue to sparkle with the reappearance of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival – DIFF 2024. The event is organized by the Da Nang People’s Committee in coordination with the Sun Group.

Specifically, the Da Nang People’s Committee recently held a working session with departments, committees, sectors, and the Sun Group on various matters related to organizing the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival – DIFF 2024.

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at the fireworks festival in Da Nang (Photo: collectibles)

Accordingly, the Da Nang People’s Committee proposed that the Sun Group continue to be a companion in the city’s organizational work for the festival as well as sideline events.

The DIFF 2024 venue will remain at the Han River Port area (Hai Chau District) and the sidewalk area of Tran Hung Dao Street (Son Tra District).

DIFF 2024 is expected to feature 8 participating teams, including 7 international teams from countries such as France, Italy, the United States, Germany, Poland, China, Finland, and the Da Nang team representing Vietnam.

Thus, it is anticipated that next year, there will be 3 newcomers from the United States, Germany, and China participating in the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival.

The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival – DIFF 2024 will maintain the same program framework as the previous year, with 5 competition nights, including 4 qualifying nights and one final night.

The opening ceremony is scheduled for June 8th, with subsequent fireworks nights held every Saturday evening in the following weeks (with a break one week before the final night).

The DIFF 2024 final night is planned for July 13th.

During each night, teams will have 20 minutes to perform fireworks displays according to the theme of each night, as agreed upon by the organizing committee.

The overall theme of DIFF 2024 is still under consideration, but Da Nang city leaders emphasize that DIFF 2024 will aim to convey a message of a peaceful, fair, harmonious, and humanitarian society.

It is known that in 2023, DIFF made a significant contribution to the remarkable recovery of Da Nang tourism after Covid-19, with growth figures exceeding expectations.

During the DIFF 2023 period, the number of flights to Da Nang International Airport reached up to 150 flights per day, a 1.5-fold increase compared to normal days. The city’s hotel occupancy rate reached about 70%, with 4-5-star hotels achieving 80-85%.

These figures represent growth compared to the DIFF 2019 period, when the city’s room occupancy rate reached 65-70%, and 4-5-star hotels achieved 75-85% occupancy.

During each night of the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival 2023, Da Nang welcomed between 60,000 to 65,000 visitors.

The Da Nang tourism industry expects the DIFF 2024 event to continue to create strong growth opportunities, especially hoping for a significant increase in domestic and international visitors to Da Nang during this event.

The most chosen means of transportation to Hoi An

Transportation to Hoi An is quite important in your travel plans. To ensure a complete trip without being bothered by minor details, let’s follow this article with DanangPrivateCar.com’s.

Why is Hoi An a beloved destination?

Hoi An always ranks among the dream destinations for travel enthusiasts and is listed as a favorite worldwide by international friends. As a place of cultural convergence between Vietnam, Japan, China, and the West, it stands out with its ancient architectural style, tinted with the patina of time. When visiting Hoi An, you will find peace in your soul as you immerse yourself in the simple life of the Old Town and the rustic atmosphere that the people here bring.

Hoi An is a tourist destination that is beloved by many travelers

Hoi An is loved because the old intertwines with the modern advancements of the present. The assembly halls, the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, ancient houses… existing for centuries, now adorned with moss and age, naturally become places that recreate the ancient past of Hoi An in the minds of modern people, as well as in the way this place develops into a peaceful, lively yet unspoiled tourist destination.

So, have you chosen your means of transportation to Hoi An yet? DanangPrivateCar.com suggests the following 5 popular types for you.

The most convenient means of transportation to Hoi An

As Hoi An does not have an airport or railway, if you are coming from elsewhere, you will fly to Da Nang Airport and then travel to Hoi An from Da Nang. You can find more information on traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang here.

Taxi – Transportation to Hoi An

Convenient, quick, only takes 35 – 40 minutes to travel. This means of transportation to Hoi An is among the top choices suitable for families with many members, including young children. You can catch a taxi from any location in Da Nang due to its dense and flexible concentration. You don’t need to worry too much about the route, and you can comfortably place your luggage in the trunk of the car.

The biggest disadvantage of taxis lies in their high prices, ranging from 350,000 VND to 400,000 VND per trip, or 450,000 VND to 550,000 VND for a round trip. If you have a comfortable budget and prioritize peace of mind, don’t hesitate to use this means of transportation to travel to Hoi An.

Private Car with Driver

To choose a means of transportation to Hoi An that meets the requirements of convenience and time flexibility for you and your family, a private car with a driver is not a bad choice. It offers more variety than taxis, with options ranging from 4-seaters to 29-seaters, flexible costs (not based on distance), and the ability to change your sightseeing itinerary at any time you want.

Hiring a private car with a driver from danangprivatecar.com is a reasonable choice.

With the private car service with driver in Hoi An offered by DanangPrivateCar.com, your trip will become much easier. Our professional team of drivers will pick you up at the airport with a sign bearing your name. After departure, you can stop to visit some tourist spots along the way to Hoi An such as Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, etc. With transparent costs and no additional charges, you can avoid overcharging situations when using other means of transportation. Book your trip from Da Nang to Hoi An by private car today.

Hoi An Tour

The transportation to Hoi An tour includes your meals and your family’s, too. The tour includes: transportation, entrance tickets to Hoi An Ancient Town, meals and drinks, insurance, and tour guide. You just need to prepare your luggage and hit the road. You can also contact us to book this tour.

Motorbike

The “love” of many souls of travelers across the country – motorbikes. Independent transportation is extremely convenient, proactive, and economical with rental prices (both manual and automatic bikes) ranging from 120,000 VND to 150,000 VND per day (24 hours). The distance from Da Nang to Hoi An is only 30 km, so you can completely use this means of transportation to travel to Hoi An.

Motorbikes are both convenient and flexible

Bus

The most cost-effective means of transportation to Hoi An today is the bus. With flexible prices ranging from 20,000 VND to 30,000 VND (depending on the time), frequencies of buses every 15 – 20 minutes, detailed and clear routes, it’s very easy to catch a bus.

Buses are both affordable and comfortable, providing a cool and pleasant ride

Operating hours start from 5:30 in the morning, with the last trip departing at 17:50, so if you don’t plan to stay in Hoi An, it would be a waste because Hoi An is most vibrant and beautiful at night.

Have you chosen the appropriate means of transportation to Hoi An for yourself? I hope your trip will be filled with joy and enrichment.

10 experiences in Hoi An for exploring the ancient town journey

What are the 10 experiences in Hoi An for fully exploring the ancient town? Have you known them yet? Let’s follow Pete R from Thailand on his exciting journey to Hoi An!

Hoi An – A fascinating destination in the eyes of foreign friends

For a long time, Hoi An Ancient Town has always been one of the prides of many generations of Vietnamese. Not only does it possess a rich history with traditional houses lining up closely together, but Hoi An still holds many interesting things, not only in the eyes of Vietnamese travelers but also for foreign friends.

Hoi An is a land hidden with many interesting things in the eyes of travelers

Have you ever wondered how to fully explore Hoi An? If you are looking for super exciting experiences in Hoi An, let’s follow in the footsteps of Pete R! The travel blogger from the Land of the Golden Temple with a journey to conquer more than 70 countries will reveal to you the super exciting experiences in Hoi An to fully explore the ancient town.

Top 10 experiences in Hoi An for your great exploration journey

Strolling around the ancient town – An extremely interesting experience in Hoi An that you should not miss

For a long time, Hoi An Ancient Town has always been a hidden gem with many interesting things in the eyes of travelers. For many centuries, this land was the most famous trading port in the region, bringing prosperity and abundance to the local people.

Strolling around the ancient town and taking a boat ride along the Thu Bon River is one of the experiences in Hoi An that everyone should not miss

As time goes by, the bustling trading port has now become an ancient town with traditional houses built closely together. Coming to Hoi An on a sunny day, you will feel the romance and tranquility spreading in the air here. Everything promises to bring you extremely interesting experiences in Hoi An like Pete R had the opportunity to discover.

Admiring the Hoi An Japanese Covered Bridge

One of the famous attractions that receives more attention from visitors than any other in the journey to visit Hoi An.

Built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants, the Hoi An Japanese Covered Bridge possesses a unique architectural style, with a “house on top, bridge below” structure. Another interesting point of this bridge is that it is actually a sacred ancient temple, where local people often come to pray for good things. If you want to have experiences in Hoi An closely connected to the local culture, don’t miss the chance to visit the Japanese Covered Bridge.

Japanese Covered Bridge At Night
Japanese Covered Bridge At Night

Stop by Reaching Out Café to immerse yourself in nostalgic ambiance

Reaching Out is one of the cafes in Hoi An that attracts the attention of many people with its design inspired by past decades. Stopping by Reaching Out on your one-day journey experiencing Hoi An, you will feel like you are returning to the image of Hoi An from decades ago with its nostalgic and serene atmosphere.

Reaching Out Cafe is a fantastic stopping point in the eyes of Pete R

The most interesting thing about Reaching Out Cafe is its special staff. The staff members are all hearing-impaired, so when you come here, you will enjoy a rare quiet atmosphere. Enjoying a fragrant cup of coffee and immersing yourself in the tranquil space, what could be better?

You can explore more articles about the top cafes in Hoi An through our article: Top Hoi An Coffee Shops with Beautiful Views

Visit the Ba Mu Temple

Visiting and admiring the Ba Mu Temple is one of the experiences in Hoi An for those who want to explore the distinctive beauty of this land from many centuries ago. Also known as Tam Quan Lady Buddha Pagoda, this structure is designed in traditional architectural style and holds great value in the spiritual life and beliefs of many generations of local people.

Explore Hoi An Night Market

It would be a pity if in your journey wandering around the ancient town, you missed the opportunity to explore the scene of the night market when the evening falls. As one of the experiences in Hoi An that Pete R loves dearly, during the journey of sitting on a boat along the river around the ancient town, you will have the chance to admire the shimmering scenery under the lantern light. It seems that everywhere here, you can see colorful lanterns with various decorative patterns.

Relaxing at the beautiful An Bang Beach

Stopping for relaxation at An Bang Beach with its impressive pristine scenery is one of the experiences in Hoi An cherished by Pete R and avid travel enthusiasts alike.

Located just a few minutes’ bike ride from the center of Hoi An, the space at An Bang retains the untouched beauty and tranquility of a deserted beach. At this beautiful beach, you will have the chance to immerse yourself in the cool, clear water, and chill out at various bars with different designs. Or simply, if you want to have simple yet serene experiences in Hoi An, lying lazily on the long chairs soaking up the sun and admiring the vast ocean view while listening to the gentle waves is also an interesting option.

Enjoying the enticing banh mi by Mrs. Phuong

The simple but appealing Vietnamese baguette sandwiches are undeniable. And of course, in Hoi An, there is still a famous banh mi shop that captures the hearts of guests from near and far. That’s Mrs. Phuong’s banh mi.

Banh Mi Phuong is fragrant and delicious with a generous filling and a crispy crust

Seemingly simple, yet the taste of each banh mi from Mrs. Phuong’s is anything but simple. This dish consists of just a baguette, with a generous spread of creamy pate, savory minced liver, and a variety of fresh herbs, but it leaves a lasting impression on many diners, who eagerly anticipate returning to savor it again. If you are looking for an experience in Hoi An to explore the distinctive cuisine of this land, do not overlook Mrs. Phuong’s banh mi.

Participating in fun cooking classes

The delicious flavors of Vietnamese cuisine are undeniable. If you’ve ever been enchanted by the rich taste of pho or the enticing steamed cakes, have you ever thought about preparing those specialties yourself?

Take a cooking lesson

Joining cooking classes is one of the fun experiences in Hoi An, as Pete R shared, that people should not miss, especially for foreign friends. In this journey to explore Hoi An’s streets, Pete R spent time participating in the Sabirama cooking class. He was guided through everything related to the kitchen, from how to go to the market, choose fresh ingredients, to cooking complete dishes. All of these made for a truly enjoyable experience in Hoi An to the point that when he returned home, Pete R still fondly remembered it.

Cycling around the quiet countryside

Hoi An is not too big, and the famous landmarks in the area are not far apart. Surely that is why nowadays, cycling around the deserted countryside is one of the experiences in Hoi An that many people love.

Cycling around and exploring the streets of Hoi An is also a great experience that Pete R suggests for you

In the journey of riding around on a bicycle, you will have the opportunity to admire the peaceful countryside scenery with lush green rice fields stretching, tranquil rivers gently flowing alongside ancient houses nestled closely together. All of these promise to bring you a journey to explore experiences in Hoi An that are as intimate and authentic as possible.

Visiting the Holy Land of My Son

If you have ample time and are still unsure where to continue your journey seeking experiences in Hoi An, My Son Sanctuary is a name you might consider.

Built between the 4th and 14th centuries, this site is a famous historical relic associated with the prosperous Champa dynasty of the past. According to Pete R, this is also an interesting destination for those who want to understand more about the beauty of local culture.

My Son Sanctuary is a landmark closely associated with a prosperous era of the Champa dynasty.

With the 10 experiences in Hoi An suggested by Pete R, hopefully, your journey to explore Hoi An’s streets will now become easier than ever. Make sure to jot them down in your travel handbook to ensure you don’t miss out on any exciting experiences.

Kien Trung Palace – preserving the architectural beauty of a bygone era of the Forbidden City

Kien Trung Palace used to be the most magnificent palace in the imperial capital of Hue, Vietnam. Over the years, although only the foundation remains, the immense historical and cultural value that this structure brings is still intact as it was originally. Currently, this palace is undergoing restoration, rehabilitation, and enhancement processes.

Introduction to Kien Trung Palace

  • Address: 32 Dang Thai Than Street, Phu Hau Ward, Hue City.
  • Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM daily
  • Ticket Prices (updated as of 2024):
    • Adults & Foreigners: 200,000 VND per ticket
    • Children < 1.3m: 40,000 VND per ticket

Kien Trung Palace is also known as Kien Trung Pavilion. It is the most splendid palace of the Nguyen Dynasty preserved to this day within the area of the Imperial City, part of the Hue Citadel heritage complex. The construction of the palace commenced in February 1921, serving as the working place for the last two kings of the Nguyen Dynasty, Bao Dai and Khai Dinh.

After 1946, only the foundation of Kien Trung Palace remained within the Hue Citadel

Almost entirely destroyed in 1946, Kien Trung Palace has undergone meticulous restoration efforts by the Hue Imperial City Conservation Center and the Central Region Institute of Science and Technology in Construction. Currently, the palace is in its final stages of completion.

Directions to Kien Trung Palace

Kien Trung Palace is located approximately 2.7km from the city center of Hue, taking less than 10 minutes to travel. Therefore, you can get here by various means of transportation such as taxi, bus, motorbike, car, etc., depending on your needs and personal conditions.

As for the route, from the city center, DanangPrivateCar.com suggests you go towards Phu Xuân Bridge, then turn left onto Lê Duẩn Street – right onto Cửa Ngăn Street – 23 Tháng 8 Street – Đoàn Thị Điểm Street. Then drive along Cửa Quảng Đức Street to reach the Imperial City area of Hue – where Kien Trung Palace is located.

Additionally, if you are looking for a quick and convenient option, you can immediately book a private car rental service with a driver in Hue from DanangPrivateCar.com. With a team of professional drivers with many years of experience, understanding the traffic in Hue, they will help you have the fastest journey. Furthermore, with our private travel car service, we can help you move to other places such as Thien Mu Pagoda, royal tombs in Hue, etc., ensuring you have a private and comfortable trip.

Kien Trung Palace, the majestic structure of the ancient capital of Hue

History of Kien Trung Palace

In 1827, King Minh Mang initiated the construction of Minh Vien Pavilion on the land where Kien Trung Palace now stands, with a total height of about 10.8 meters. By the time of King Tu Duc, this structure was completely destroyed.

This magnificent palace was built during the reign of King Khai Dinh

In 1919, King Duy Tan mobilized labor to build Du Cuu Pavilion on this site. During the reign of King Khai Dinh, the Du Cuu Pavilion area was expanded to build a palace and named Kien Trung. This was the main residence of the king within the imperial citadel.

During the reign of King Bao Dai, modern amenities from the West were installed in Kien Trung Palace.

In 1932, King Bao Dai renovated the interior of this palace, installing some modern conveniences from the West, including bathtubs. After the August Revolution, Kien Trung Palace became a witness to the event of King Bao Dai meeting with the Provisional Government delegation to discuss abdication.

By 1947, due to the impact of war, the palace was completely destroyed, leaving only the foundation for the reconstruction process later.

Location and Architecture

In terms of feng shui, Kien Trung Palace is located at the northernmost point of the celestial axis passing through the center of the Imperial City. The combination of Renaissance Italian architecture, French architecture, and the characteristic features of ancient Vietnamese structures brings a unique and exquisite beauty to the palace.

In terms of architecture, in front of Kien Trung Palace is a scenic garden with a system of three beautifully sculpted dragon staircases leading up to the palace terrace. The facade is adorned with prominent colorful ceramic pieces.

The beauty of Kien Trung Palace lies in the fusion of Italian, French, and traditional Vietnamese architectures

The main floor consists of 13 open doors, with the central space having 5 doors, and each side space having 3 doors, with two corner spaces on each side having 2 doors. All are designed to protrude outward.

The upper floor of the palace is the attic, with architecture similar to the main floor. At the top is a tiled roof with decorative balustrades in the traditional Vietnamese style.

The beauty of Kien Trung Palace after complete restoration is captivating

In 2019, the Hue Imperial City Conservation Center launched a project to restore Kien Trung Palace, with a total budget of over 123 billion Vietnamese dong. After several years of restoration, the palace is now ready to open its doors to the first visitors during the Tet holiday in 2024.

On February 6, 2024, Mr. Hoang Viet Trung, Director of the Hue Imperial City Conservation Center, announced that the restoration project for Kien Trung Palace had completed 100% of the construction volume.

After many years of restoration, the palace is now ready to open its doors and welcome visitors

Below are some images after the completion of the restoration of Kien Trung Palace. This is one of the hottest destinations in Hue, welcoming tourists from both domestic and international destinations.

The exterior of Kien Trung Palace now exudes a majestic and ancient charm, while inside, it reflects the grandeur of the Hue Imperial City.
The stunning dragon emblem at Kien Trung Palace is truly magnificent
The interior furnishings of the palace are splendid and luxurious
Inside Kien Trung Palace, original artifacts closely associated with the history of the palace’s formation are carefully arranged.
Artifacts from the time of King Khai Dinh, the owner of this palace, are displayed inside the first floor
A royal palanquin, commonly used by kings, is displayed here

Tips for visitors

  • Kien Trung Palace is located within the complex of Hue Imperial City. Therefore, you can combine visiting the palace with many other outstanding architectural works such as Ngo Mon Hue, Thai Hoa Palace, Dien Tho Palace, etc.
  • Because Hue Imperial City is very large with many attractions, DanangPrivateCar.com recommends bringing a map in your backpack to avoid getting lost.
  • Prioritize wearing appropriate and historically suitable attire when visiting historical sites.
  • Read and adhere to the regulations here, especially for some sites that do not allow interior photography or touching artifacts.
  • Pay attention to maintaining cleanliness and dispose of trash in the designated areas.

With its significant historical, cultural, and artistic significance, Kien Trung Palace is considered a symbol of the ancient capital region. It promises to be a tourist destination in Hue that helps you turn back the clock, discover the Nguyen Dynasty – the last feudal dynasty in Vietnamese history, and what remains after many years of ups and downs in the Forbidden City.

Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An – The best banh mi experience in the world

Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An is one of the best banh mi spots alongside Banh Mi Phuong. With a lifespan of over 30 years, this is a place you can visit to indulge in banh mi sandwiches with distinctive, rich flavors and a variety of enticing fillings. Today, let’s explore the allure of Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An with DanangPrivateCar.com’s.

The story behind the name Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An:

  • Address: 115 Tran Cao Van, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam.
  • Phone number: 0777 476 177.
  • Hours: 6:00 – 19:30.
Enjoying delicious and enticing Banh Mi Madam Khanh

Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An is beloved by many foreign tourists, often affectionately referred to as Madam Khanh’s banh mi or the Queen’s banh mi, with nearly 30 years of establishment and serving thousands of tourists both domestic and international. In its early days, the banh mi shop only had a simple, modest cart. However, fueled by her love for banh mi, the owner of Banh Mi Madam Khanh tirelessly crafted a variety of exquisite flavors, creating an unforgettable uniqueness for those who have indulged.

Madam Khanh’s banh mi shop, humble with just a small storefront, yet beloved by many tourists

But what few know is the interesting fact that the owner of Banh Mi Madam Khanh has a charming name, Loc, while Khanh is the name of her husband.


The charming portrait of Madam Khanh, the owner of Banh Mi Madam Khanh

Besides, in Hoi An, there are also many famous banh mi shops you can explore further in the following article: The top most famous Banh Mi shops in Hoi An.

Banh Mi Madam Khanh’s Menu

Banh Mi Madam Khanh is beloved by many tourists for its diverse fillings and unique combinations that offer distinct flavors, providing a sense of novelty and curiosity when enjoyed.

Madam Khanh’s Banh Mi with a simple yet high-quality menu

With just 5 simple dishes on the menu, it can easily captivate anyone who has tried it due to its delicious taste, satisfying flavors, and well-balanced fillings that prevent it from being overwhelming.

Banh Mi Madam Khanh Hoi An will undoubtedly make you fall in love and delight in its unique and diverse flavors. Banh mi is not only a specialty dish in Hoi An but also deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. However, in each region, it is adapted to the local characteristics and tastes of the people. So, if you have the chance, be sure to stop by and enjoy it.

The yellow alleyways of Hoi An – an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts

The yellow alleyways of Hoi An are the go-to check-in spots that continue to be popular among young people, showing no signs of cooling down. With its timeless charm and nostalgic hue of the past, this place promises to create many memorable moments on your Hoi An travel journey.

Introduction to the Yellow Alleyways of Hoi An

Where are the Yellow Alleyways of Hoi An located?

Hoi An is a famous tourist destination located approximately 30km southwest of the city center of Da Nang. Not too bustling or noisy, Hoi An exudes a serene and ancient beauty. The allure of this over-400-year-old urban area stems from its ancient architecture, seen in places like the Tam Quan Pagoda or the My Son Sanctuary, moss-covered tiled-roof houses, vibrant lantern-filled streets… and above all, the yellow alleyways of Hoi An – a place possessing a nostalgic beauty and deeply imprinting the essence of a simple, authentic lifestyle.

The yellow alleys of Hoi An carry within them an ancient and tranquil beauty

The most common type of housing in Hoi An is narrow tube-shaped houses, typically one or two stories high with narrow fronts and very long depths. Almost all houses here are built in the traditional style, with warm muted yellow tones and dark brown wood as the dominant colors. It’s this architectural style that has given rise to the famous yellow alleyways of Hoi An. In this ancient town, you can find yellow alleyways on almost every street. Some are small and narrow, while others are more spacious and bright, but overall, these alleyways all carry a deep yellow hue, concealing countless stories about life and its people.

The ideal time to visit the Yellow Alleyways of Hoi An

The weather in the city of Hoi An is distinctly divided into two seasons: rainy season and dry season. Typically, the dry season lasts from around January to July, and the rainy season runs from August to December, occasionally with brief cold spells in winter, although not intense or prolonged. Therefore, according to the experiences of many young travelers, the ideal time to visit is during the dry season, roughly from January to July. During this time, the weather is very pleasant, dry, and it’s also when there’s plenty of beautiful sunshine for you to fully indulge in “virtual living” in the yellow alleyways of Hoi An. DanangPrivateCar.com’s has a small note that you should take advantage of visiting during off-peak times to avoid crowds and capture more beautiful photos.

Guide on how to get to the yellow alleyways of Hoi An

Most travelers to Hoi An typically arrive by plane to Da Nang and then seek transportation to Hoi An such as renting a motorbike, taking a taxi, or using the bus. However, for convenience, booking a private car with a driver in Hoi An from DanangPrivateCar.com is the most suitable choice. Our drivers will pick you up at the airport with a sign bearing your name and then swiftly and safely transport you to Hoi An. Book your trip from Da Nang to Hoi An by private car today.

Once in Hoi An, you can rent a motorbike, bicycle, cyclo, or simply walk to move between attractions. This way, you can freely explore the yellow alleyways of Hoi An at your own pace, leisurely turning into each narrow lane and stopping for check-ins anytime.

What makes the yellow alleyways of Hoi An unique?

Immerse yourself in the impressive ancient beauty

The yellow alleyways of Hoi An are only about the width of an adult’s arm span. Some are narrow, long, and straight, allowing you to gaze from one end to the other with rows of closely packed houses on either side. There are also winding, curving alleys that may seem difficult and dangerous at first glance, but it is precisely this that allows you to fully feel the slow, gentle pace of life in Hoi An.

The narrow, long, and straight alleys

The yellow alleyways of Hoi An are the soul of this ancient city, echoing the footsteps of countless wanderers who have found their way here. On sunny days, these alleys exude a sense of tranquility and calmness, offering you a temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. On rainy days, however, the yellow alleyways of Hoi An take on an indescribable melancholy. Melancholy because people are no longer strolling leisurely but bustling about in the heavy rain, and because the once lush moss turns dull and gray like the sky. Taking a stroll through the yellow alleyways of Hoi An, admiring the ancient and nostalgic beauty of this place, will surely make you feel as if you are living in the past.

Each patch of moss clinging to the walls speaks to the long life of these alleys

Immerse yourself in the simple life at the yellow alleys of Hoi An.

The yellow alleys of Hoi An are where the intact memories of this ancient town are preserved. Each alley is like a human life. Just by looking at the moss covering the yellow walls, you can tell how long these alleys have existed. Each alley has its own name, such as Sica Alley, Ba Le Alley, Nhi Trung Alley… However, most locals as well as visitors always refer to them with a familiar name: the yellow alleys of Hoi An.

Inside the yellow alleys of Hoi An lies the simple, slow-paced life of the local people here

These yellow alleys are also the paths and routes of the local people here. Children tease each other on their way home from school every afternoon, singing the songs their teacher just taught them or persuading each other to play soccer or jump rope. The yellow alleys of Hoi An harbor simple street vendors, such as those selling Cao Lau noodles or sweet corn soup, rushing to meet their customers on time. The elderly ride their bicycles daily from the alleys to the Hoai River in Hoi An, observing how bustling life is today before returning home to have dinner with their families. Occasionally, on weekends, a few couples meet at the end of the alley to chat and share their feelings. Thus, life in the yellow alleys of Hoi An continues to be slow-paced, simple, and genuine, yet it never fails to stir the hearts and souls of those who come here, leaving them nostalgic and lingering.

With time, the alleys still hide amidst the ancient town, quietly preserving every moment of daily life.

Must-visit check-in locations

If you have visited Hoi An but haven’t taken photos in these alleys, it’s truly a missed opportunity. It’s not an exaggeration to say that the yellow alleys of Hoi An are the holy grail of check-in spots for young travelers when visiting here, thanks to their unique retro and vintage beauty. Just put on some beautiful outfits and raise your camera, and you’ll instantly have a stunning “Instagrammable” photo. Many soon-to-be-married couples also choose the yellow alleys of Hoi An as their outdoor photo shoot location for a glamorous and happy wedding album. Moreover, film crews often frequent this place to give their movies a nostalgic and vintage feel with moss-covered walls and old-fashioned charm.

The yellow alleys of Hoi An are the photography spots of the young generation
Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture dazzling photos like these!

Despite the many ups and downs of history, the yellow alleys of Hoi An still retain their serene beauty, adorned with moss-covered bricks, walls, tiled roofs, rows of trees… just like the simple and pure character and soul of the people of this land. Don’t forget to include this place in your travel guide so you won’t miss out on this unique destination when visiting Hoi An!

Dong Ho painting village – A place where the unique beauty of Vietnamese culture is transmitted

Dong Ho painting village, a longstanding cultural heritage site with a history of over 400 years, is an appealing destination for those who want to learn about the traditional art of the Vietnamese people. The village’s fame largely stems from its unique Dong Ho paintings, which vividly depict the cultural identity of our ancestors. In this article, let’s explore the distinctive features of Dong Ho painting village together with DanangPrivateCar.Com.

The Beauty of Dong Ho Painting Village

  • Address: Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province

Dong Ho folk paintings, also known as Dong Ho woodcut paintings, are among the most famous traditional art forms in Vietnam. Originating from Dong Ho village, Bac Ninh province, Dong Ho paintings are renowned for their uniqueness and meticulousness in every stroke, becoming a source of pride for our people.

The Dong Ho painting “The Rat’s Wedding” has become extremely famous. Image: Wikipedia

Dong Ho Painting Village is situated along the Duong River, in Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, approximately 16km from the city center of Bac Ninh. This location is also known as Dong Ho Hanoi Painting Village, being only about 35km from Hanoi. Today, Dong Ho Painting Village serves both as a hub for producing outstanding artistic paintings and as a tourist destination attracting many visitors for appreciation and exploration.


Dong Ho Painting Village still retains its traditional features

With over 400 years of history, Dong Ho Painting Village boasts more than 17 ancestral lines specializing in traditional woodcut painting. Dong Ho woodcut artists are highly esteemed for their expertise and exquisite craftsmanship. With impressions of longevity and talent in painting, visitors often come to experience the traditional atmosphere and culture of Dong Ho Painting Village.

Today, although Dong Ho Village has shrunk in scale to about 220 households, it remains a place preserving the unique essence of traditional Dong Ho painting, making it the most distinctive in our country.

The historical story of the traditional painting village in Kinh Bac region

Dong Ho Painting Village, with a history of over 400 years, is famous for producing Dong Ho folk woodcut paintings – an icon of Vietnamese culture and history. The people here maintain the traditional method of handcrafted woodcut painting since the 16th century.

Dong Ho Painting Village still preserves traces of the past

In particular, Dong Ho Painting Village experienced significant development from the late 18th century until 1944 with the contribution of 17 ancestral lines within the village. However, during the resistance against the French colonialists, the village faced many difficulties, resulting in the destruction of the village and interruption in the painting craft. By 1967, with peace established in the North, Dong Ho Painting Village began its journey of restoration.

The people of Dong Ho village are making efforts to preserve the craft of making Dong Ho woodcut paintings

In the past, Dong Ho Painting Village used to hold painting markets during the Lunar New Year, attracting many buyers and curious tourists eager to admire woodcut paintings. However, after the 1940s, the painting craft in the village began to decline due to reduced market demand. This trend continued into the 1990s when the Dong Ho Painting Cooperative was dissolved, and many families switched to other trades.

As of March 2013, the Dong Ho painting craft was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in urgent need of protection. Although not as prominent as before, the value of Dong Ho paintings still attracts many art lovers and maintains its vitality to this day.

Discovering Dong Ho Painting Village

Best Time to Visit for “Painting Appreciation”

For the best experience when visiting Dong Ho Painting Village, you can come and explore any day of the week. Typically, from the first to the third lunar months is considered the ideal time to visit the village because the weather is relatively mild and cool, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique features of the village.

The best time to visit Dong Ho Painting Village is when the weather is transitioning into spring, typically from the first to the third lunar months, which corresponds to January to March in the lunar calendar

The most suitable visiting hours are in the morning from 9 am to 11 am and in the afternoon from 2 pm to 5 pm. During this time, you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the village, visit the workshops of artisans, and appreciate the traditional beauty of Dong Ho paintings.

Getting to Dong Ho Painting Village

Dong Ho Folk Painting Village is located in Song Ho Commune, Thuan Thanh District, Bac Ninh Province, approximately 35km from the center of Hanoi, situated on the southern bank of the Duong River. To get to the painting village, you have several transportation options:

  • Bus route 204 (Hanoi – Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh): The route starts from Long Bien transfer point, passing through Nguyen Van Long, National Highway 5, Phu Thi Intersection, Sui Street, Chua Keo, Duc Hiep, Thanh Hoai, Tam A, then to Ho town (Thuan Thanh). From Ho town, you can use a motorbike taxi to travel a few kilometers more to reach Dong Ho Painting Village.
  • Private transportation (motorbike, car, etc.): Follow National Highway 5 until near Phu Thi Intersection, then turn left onto National Highway 18B. Continue through Sui Market, Keo Market, Dau Market, then turn left onto the dike road. After about 3km, you will arrive at Dong Ho Painting Village. You can also choose the route from Dau Market, then go straight to Ho town, then turn left onto National Highway 38. When nearing Ho Bridge, turn left onto Thien Duc Street, continue straight for about 2km, and you will reach Dong Ho Folk Painting Village.
  • Private car service with driver: For the most convenient way to visit Dong Ho Painting Village, book a private car with a driver in Hanoi from DanangPrivateCar.com. Our professional drivers will ensure you have the safest and most comfortable trip.

What to Do When Visiting Dong Ho Painting Village?

Admire the Unique Paintings

Dong Ho village paintings are popular art pieces for their ability to depict familiar themes related to rural life and the everyday lives of Vietnamese people. Dong Ho artisans know how to utilize and transform raw materials from nature to create traditional colors, which are not only vibrant but also highly durable. For example, the colors derived from the leaves of the Cham tree, bright red from the bark of the Van tree, black from the ash of bamboo leaves or Voan ash…

Dong Ho paintings feature soft, meticulously crafted lines

These unique paintings are often printed on Do paper, a handmade paper produced from Do trees naturally grown in the forest. The paper background is usually coated with a layer of resin or a layer of Ho resin containing a small amount of powder from the clamshell to create a shiny surface. Therefore, Do paper is also known as Diep paper, characterized by its natural beauty and delicacy.

Participate in the Dong Ho Folk Painting Festival

If you have the opportunity to visit during the lunar dates from the 14th to the 16th of the third month, you will participate in a unique and exciting experience with the painting festival. Every year, the painting festival in Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh attracts a large number of tourists to enjoy the lively atmosphere and colors of the countryside festival.

Additionally, Dong Ho Painting Village also hosts a distinctive painting market during the Lunar New Year, with five sessions taking place on the 6th, 11th, 16th, 21st, and 26th. From early morning, you can see excited crowds heading to Dong Ho village, creating a lively atmosphere like a traditional festival. Many people come to the market not only to buy and sell paintings but also to appreciate the unique artworks of Dong Ho village.

Create Your Own Dong Ho Painting

When visiting Dong Ho Painting Village, you can immerse yourself in the process of making Dong Ho paintings, an interesting experience that requires delicacy and high technique. This journey is divided into three main stages, starting with creating the painting pattern. Here, you will choose the theme, significance, layout, and colors for your painting. Using a brush pen and Chinese ink, you will create a sample painting on thin and flat paper, which will then be used for woodcutting.

Making Dong Ho paintings yourself is a fun experience

Next is the woodcutting stage, where each color in the sample painting requires a separate woodcut. You will use wood made from the Thi or Thung tree, which has multidimensional fibers to create softness for the painting and facilitate the woodcutting process. Using a set of 30-40 hard steel chisels, you will create small and intricate details on the wood.

The printing process is the next step, where you will dip the sponge made from pine needles into the dyeing pot. The sponge is evenly brushed onto the paper surface and the wood for printing. You will place the wood onto the paper and press down to ensure even dyeing. Then, the printed wood will be lifted, and the painting will be removed from the wood. The painting will then be air-dried, and the printing process will be repeated until all colors are added. The black outline is usually printed last.

Buy Dong Ho Paintings as Gifts

When visiting and touring Dong Ho Folk Painting Village, an unmissable gift to bring back for loved ones or friends is traditional woodcut paintings. Additionally, Dong Ho village displays many souvenir items with a unique Dong Ho painting style that you can browse and purchase as special mementos.

Buying paintings as gifts

Some tips when visiting Dong Ho Painting Village

Exploring Dong Ho Painting Village is an incredibly interesting experience, immersing you in the unique culture of the Kinh Bac region. To have a perfect trip, consider the following points:

  • Clothing: Choose comfortable yet modest clothing suitable for visiting Dong Ho Painting Village, especially if your travel plans also include visiting nearby temples and pagodas.
  • Traffic safety: If traveling by motorbike, pay attention and drive carefully, especially on the dyke roads where traffic accidents may occur.
  • Research beforehand: Before visiting Dong Ho Village, research information about the village on websites to gain an overview and prepare well for your trip.
  • Maintain silence: Dong Ho Painting Village offers a peaceful, tranquil space, entirely different from the hustle and bustle of the city. Therefore, cherish and maintain this tranquility.
  • Product pricing: Products in Dong Ho Painting Village are guaranteed in quality, so you don’t have to worry about counterfeit or fake goods. Each painting is a delicate work of art by artisans, so prices typically range from 20,000 VND to 150,000 VND per painting.

Above are the distinctive features of Dong Ho Painting Village that you can include in your Hanoi and Bac Ninh travel guide. DanangPrivateCar.com believes that taking the time to visit here will evoke pride in the culture and history of the nation.

Visit Ngoc Son Temple to experience the ancient spiritual beauty in the capital city of Hanoi

Traveling in Hanoi offers numerous beautiful and enticing destinations for tourists. Among them, Ngoc Son Temple is always a top choice for visitors. In the following article, DanangPrivateCar.com’s shares with everyone the travel experience to Ngoc Son Temple that tourists should not miss.

Introduction to Ngoc Son Temple

Location: Ngoc Island, Hoan Kiem Lake, Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Ticket prices for reference:

  • Adults: 30,000 VND/person
  • Children under 15 years old: Free admission

Ngoc Son Temple is located on Ngoc Island, in the northeast of Hoan Kiem Lake. This structure, combined with the Turtle Tower, forms the most famous cultural and historical complex in Hanoi, featured in many literary works and artworks. Despite being situated in the bustling capital, attracting many visitors, Ngoc Son Temple maintains its tranquility, solemnity, and profoundly sacred atmosphere.

Ngoc Son Temple is a renowned landmark within the Hoan Kiem Lake heritage area

When to visit Ngoc Son Temple?

Ngoc Son Temple is a spiritual tourism destination, so tourists can visit and make offerings at the temple. For tourism to Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi, tourists should visit at the beginning of the year to pray for luck, health, and success. Tourists can visit Ngoc Son Temple at any time of the year to explore and admire the scenery at the temple.

The Construction History of Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple was built to worship Hung Dao Dai Vuong Tran Quoc Tuan and the patron saint of literary and scholarly accomplishments, Van Xuong De Quan. Additionally, Buddhist altars and Confucian shrines were also placed within the temple. This structure was built in an architectural style that clearly reflects the ancient Vietnamese belief in the unity of Three Religions (Tam Giao Dong Nguyen), representing the convergence of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. Familiar imagery such as couplets, horizontal lacquered boards, and decorative arrangements all vividly demonstrate this.

Old photos of Ngoc Son Temple before restoration

Ngoc Son Temple was originally constructed around the early 19th century to worship Quan De, a deity believed to suppress evil and bring blessings according to the beliefs of the people at that time. When King Ly Thai To relocated the capital to Thang Long, he named this temple Ngoc Tuong. Later, during the Tran dynasty, the temple was renamed Ngoc Son. At this time, the temple became a place of worship for the valiant martyrs who fought and sacrificed in the resistance against the Yuan-Mongol invaders. Some time later, the temple collapsed due to an unstable foundation.

During the reign of King Vinh Huu of the Le dynasty, Lord Trinh Giang ordered the construction of Khanh Thuy Palace and added two earth mounds on the eastern shore of Hoan Kiem Lake, opposite the original location of Ngoc Son Temple. By the end of the Le dynasty, Khanh Thuy Palace was partially destroyed, so the people of Ta Khanh village collectively rebuilt it, naming it Khanh Thuy Temple.

In the following period, a philanthropist named Tin Trai invested in building Ngoc Son Pagoda at the old location of Khanh Thuy Palace. Later, the pagoda was transferred to another philanthropic association, renamed Tam Thanh Temple. The association decided to abandon the bell tower, rebuild the main halls, rooms, and install a statue of Van Xuong De Quan, officially renaming it Ngoc Son Temple.

In 1865, Confucian scholar Nguyen Van Sieu renovated Ngoc Son Temple, added surrounding land, built sturdy stone embankments, erected the Pen Tower, the Ink Slab, built the Trấn Ba Pavilion to the south, and the The Huc Bridge connecting the eastern shore to the temple.

Guide to Getting to Ngoc Son Temple

Because Ngoc Son Temple is located in the city center, getting there is quite easy, and you can travel by either self-driving or public transportation.

If you’re traveling by private vehicle, you can choose one of the following routes:

  • Route 1: Kham Thien → Tran Hung Dao → Hang Bai → Dinh Tien Hoang
  • Route 2: Giang Vo → Nguyen Thai Hoc → Hai Ba Trung → Dinh Tien Hoang
  • Route 3: Dai Co Viet → Hue Street → Dinh Tien Hoang

If you prefer the convenience of traveling by bus, you can choose from the routes suggested by DanangPrivateCar.com:

  • Route 08: Departing from Long Bien bus station
  • Route 14: Departing from Co Nhue
  • Route 31: Departing from Bach Khoa University
  • Route 36: Departing from Long Bien transfer point

Furthermore, if you’re looking for door-to-door transportation and want to explore multiple tourist destinations, choosing a tour car rental service with a driver in Hanoi from DanangPrivateCar.com’s will help you save costs and time during your trip. With a team of professional drivers and many years of experience, you’ll have the safest and most comfortable journey. Additionally, with transparent pricing and no hidden fees, you can avoid overcharging situations when choosing public services in Vietnam. Book with us today to arrange your itinerary in advance.

Explore the Beauty of Ngoc Son Temple

The Huc Bridge

The Huc Bridge, painted in vermilion, curved like a shrimp, leads to Ngoc Son Temple, as familiar as the sentences we learn in textbooks. This bridge is built of wood, prominently painted in red. It is the only way for you to enter Ngoc Son Temple and is also a very famous check-in spot in Hanoi. Especially at night when lit up, the beauty of The Huc Bridge becomes even more mystical.

The nighttime beauty of The Huc Bridge

Visit the Pen Tower – Ink Slab

Right in front of Ngoc Son Temple’s entrance, you will see the image of a five-story tower built of stone blocks, and that is the Pen Tower. This structure was built in 1865, located on Ngoc Boi Mountain. On the top of the Pen Tower are inscribed three characters “Ta Thanh Thien,” meaning “Writing on the blue sky,” expressing the significance of knowledge being able to master nature and the heavens.

The Pen Tower – Ink Slab embodies the spirit of studiousness of the Vietnamese people

At the foot of the Pen Tower is an inkwell-shaped ink slab cut in half vertically, this is the Ink Slab. Below the Ink Slab are three turtle-shaped pedestals, with a poem carved on the body by Confucian scholar Nguyen Van Sieu. At noon, when the sun is directly overhead, the Pen Tower will cast a shadow onto the Ink Slab, creating a very impressive image.

Discover the Architecture of Ngoc Son Temple

Despite undergoing several renovations, the architecture of Ngoc Son Temple still retains its characteristic traditional beauty. As you walk from the outer gate, you will see a wall decorated with images of dragons and tigers, with two couplets in Chinese characters above, demonstrating the Vietnamese people’s thirst for knowledge.

Two exquisite horizontal lacquered boards stand proudly at the temple entrance

After crossing The Huc Bridge, the first structure you’ll see is the Moon Contemplation Pavilion. The design of the Moon Contemplation Pavilion consists of two arched roofs, adorned with cloud-shaped reliefs at the four corners. Here, there are also two embossed murals: Long Ma Ha Do on the right and Than Qui Lac Thu on the left.

The architecture of Ngoc Son Temple is in the shape of the word “Tam” (Three), consisting of three main areas: the front courtyard, the middle courtyard, and the rear palace. The front courtyard is where people come to worship, with a large incense burner and two large brass cranes erected. The middle courtyard is dedicated to the worship of gods representing knowledge such as Van Xuong, Quan Vu, and La To. The rear palace is where the national hero Tran Hung Dao, who had great merit to the nation, is honored for defeating the Mongol invaders three times.

The interior space of the temple exudes a profound and traditional sacred ambiance

To the south of the Ngoc Son Temple compound, there is a small shrine called Tran Ba (wave-blocking shrine). This shrine is built with a square architecture, eight roofs, and eight support columns. Four outer columns are made of stone and four inner columns are made of wood.

Inside Ngoc Son Temple are also displayed two replicas of the sacred turtle enclosed in glass cases. On the left is a replica of the turtle found deceased in 1967, and on the right is a replica of the turtle found in 2016. The legendary stories of the sacred turtles at Hoan Kiem Lake have fascinated many people when they have the opportunity to witness them with their own eyes.

The preserved specimen of the sacred turtle at Ngoc Son Temple

Notes when visiting Ngoc Son Temple

  • You can visit Ngoc Son Temple any day of the year. However, it can be quite crowded on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, so it’s better to choose a regular day when it’s less crowded.
  • When entering the main temple, please note to enter through the side doors and avoid the central door.
  • During the temple visit, tourists should ensure to maintain order, dress modestly, and maintain a solemn attitude.
  • Limit taking photos inside the worship area.

Ngoc Son Temple is a tourist destination that surely no one can overlook when visiting the capital city of Hanoi. Hopefully, with the shared experiences about visiting Ngoc Son Temple here, it will help travelers have a wonderful trip and gain more valuable knowledge about Vietnamese temples.

Tet Holiday in Vietnam 2024 – Origin and Significance of Vietnamese Lunar New Year

Once a year, during the end of the year, people from all over will return to their homeland to reunite with family for the Tet holiday. This is the largest festival of the year in Vietnam, as well as in other East Asian countries such as China, Japan, etc. So, what is the significance of Tet Nguyen Dan (Tet Holiday)? Let’s explore more useful information with DanangPrivateCar.com’s through this article!

Tet Holiday, What Is It?

Lunar New Year, also known as Tet or Tet Holidays, is the most important festival of the year for the Vietnamese people, celebrated at the beginning of the lunar year. Lunar New Year goes by various names such as Tet Ca, Tet Am Lich, Tet Ta, Tet Co Truyen, and more.

The Tet Holiday is the most important festive occasion of the year for the Vietnamese people, as well as in some other Asian countries

In terms of Han-Vietnamese phonetics, ‘Tet’ in Han characters represents the festival, ‘Nguyen’ signifies the beginning, and ‘Dan’ refers to the early morning. Therefore, the most accurate pronunciation in Han-Vietnamese phonetics is Lunar New Year.

How is the time of Tet Holiday calculated?

Lunar New Year is calculated to begin on the first day of the lunar year, typically falling 1 to 2 months later than the Gregorian New Year due to the rule of adding an intercalary month every three lunar years. Therefore, the start of Lunar New Year usually falls between January 21st and February 10th.

Lunar New Year takes place during the leisure time of farmers, providing a break for rest and preparation for the upcoming farming season. Traditionally, as the majority of people in Vietnam are involved in agriculture, the holiday allows them to take a break and rejuvenate their spirits after days of hard work.

Example: According to the lunar calendar, the 30th day of Tet in 2024 falls on a Friday, February 9, 2024, in the Gregorian calendar, and the 1st day of the Year of the Wood Dragon is on February 10, 2024, falling on a Saturday.

What is the origin of Tet Holiday?

The origin of Lunar New Year is still a subject of debate. Most information suggests that Lunar New Year originated in China and was introduced to Vietnam around the time of the Chinese domination, about 1000 years BCE. However, according to Vietnamese historical folklore, particularly the story of “Banh chung banh day,” the Vietnamese people celebrated this festival during the reign of the Hung Kings, which is more than 1000 years BCE, predating Chinese domination.

What is the origin of Tet Holiday?

Confucius wrote, ‘I do not know what Tet is, I heard somewhere that it is the name of a great festival of the Man people, where they dance wildly, drink alcohol, and have fun on those days.’ This suggests that Lunar New Year may have originated in Vietnam.

While there is ongoing debate about whether the origin of Lunar New Year is from Vietnam or China, it is evident that each country’s celebration of Lunar New Year has unique characteristics. This festival holds significant importance for the people of each nation.

What is the significance of the traditional Tet day?

Lunar New Year is the intersection of heaven and earth

Lunar New Year is considered a time representing the intersection of heaven and earth, where spiritual beings connect with humans. ‘Tet’ during Lunar New Year signifies the seasonal changes, operating through the four seasons of Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, reflecting an agricultural cycle that held special meaning in the ancient economy.

Lunar New Year is an occasion to express reverence to ancestors

It can be said that this is the most important time of the year when family members gather to prepare and offer the most elaborate meals and trays of fruits to the ancestral altar.

The Tet holiday is an occasion to express reverence to our ancestors

According to tradition, during this holiday, ancestors return home to celebrate Tet with their descendants and bless the family with health and harmony.

Tet Holiday is a day of luck and hope

The new year symbolizes a new beginning, so every Tet, people often visit temples to seek blessings and good fortune for the upcoming year.

From ancient times until now, there is a belief that Lunar New Year will drive away the misfortunes of the old year and welcome the hopes for a better new year. Therefore, many people choose this time to start their work for the year and initiate new ventures due to the auspicious energy of the new year.

Tet Holiday is a time for families to come together

Not every family is always close by, so Lunar New Year is the most anticipated time for everyone to reunite with their loved ones. Coming together around the pot of Chung cake on New Year’s Eve is a dream shared by many.

The Tet holiday is a time for families to come together.

Moreover, it is also a time for descendants to express gratitude to their grandparents, parents who gave birth and raised them with the most sincere affection, whether through heartfelt thanks or simple gifts for Tet day.

Lunar New Year is an occasion to express reverence to the spiritual beings.

From ancient times to the present, the Vietnamese people highly value the act of worshiping their ancestors to seek blessings for the family. This is the most emphasized ritual, and according to folklore beliefs, farmers express their gratitude to Rain God, Earth God, Sun God, etc., for the assistance they provided throughout the year.

Tet is the birthday of everyone.

“Happy new age”: This is a familiar saying from grandparents, parents, uncles, and aunts when they exchange Tet greetings to celebrate each other’s additional year.

During this occasion, people exchange the best wishes, hoping for a better new year. Adults celebrate the age of the elderly and the young to wish the elders a long, healthy life and hope that the younger ones grow quickly, behave well, and excel in their studies.

Customs and traditions of the Vietnamese during Lunar New Year

Worshiping Ong Cong and Ong Tao (Kitchen guardians)

Before Lunar New Year, on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month each year, families clean their kitchens and prepare an offering with fruits, savory foods, and a live carp. This is to prepare for Kitchen guardians, who ascend to heaven to report the family’s activities to the heavenly court.

Making Chung cakes (Stuffed sticky rice cake) and Tet cakes (Cylinder sticky rice cake)

As Tet approaches, markets are filled with stalls selling dong leaves, banana leaves, and bamboo sticks for wrapping traditional Tet cakes. Stuffed sticky rice cake and Cylinder sticky rice cake are essential items in the Tet menu, offered to ancestors on the ancestral altar or given as Tet gifts to friends and family.

Wrapping Chung cakes and Tet cakes is an indispensable culinary tradition during the Tet holiday

Cleaning and decorating homes

For the Vietnamese, cleaning the house at the end of the year symbolizes getting rid of the negatives from the old year, preparing to welcome luck and prosperity for the new year. It is a time for family members to come together to refresh their homes.

In addition, to decorate their homes for Tet, the Vietnamese also buy various flowers, such as Water Lily, Money Tree, Chrysanthemum, with different colors and meanings.

Arranging the Five-Fruit Tray

Arranging a Five-Fruit Tray to offer to the ancestral altar is an indispensable tradition during Lunar New Year. It expresses the respect and gratitude of the descendants to their ancestors.

In each region, there are different ways to arrange the Five-Fruit Tray, and various fruits may be used. However, all share the common meaning of wishing for luck and peace in the new year.

Tending to ancestral graves

This custom takes place in the days leading up to Lunar New Year. On these days, family members gather at the graves of their ancestors to clean and visit. This practice demonstrates the respect and filial piety of the descendants towards their deceased grandparents, parents, and ancestors.

Year-end worship

Year-end worship is a long-standing tradition in Vietnamese culture. It is a significant ritual usually performed on the 30th day of Tet to invite the ancestors to celebrate Tet with the family. It marks the end of the old year and prepares for a new year of safety and prosperity.

First-Footing

After the New Year’s Eve moment, the first person to enter the house is the one performing the ‘first-footing’ for the family. According to tradition, this person should be compatible with the family’s head to bring a prosperous and harmonious year with good health.

Giving red lucky money envelopes to children is a tradition for wishing them luck and success in the new year, especially in their studies

Tet greetings and birthday celebrations

The new year symbolizes everyone getting a year older. People exchange the best wishes to hope for a successful new year. On the first day of Tet, the younger generation visits their grandparents, parents, and then the elders traditionally give lucky money to the children for a fortunate and successful new year.

This article has presented the significance of the Tet Holiday and common activities during Tet for the Vietnamese people. Hopefully, through this, you have gained more information about the traditional Tet day and wish you a warm and joyful Tet celebration with your family!

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