Visit Thien Hau Pagoda – A BEAUTIFUL Symbol in the Spiritual Culture of Ho Chi Minh City

Thien Hau Pagoda, located in the heart of District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, is a renowned spiritual tourist destination celebrated for its sacred ambiance and a tranquil space that provides a complete escape from the vibrant daily hustle and bustle. Let’s unravel its most unique and distinctive features through the following article with DanangPrivateCar.com’s.

Thien Hau Pagoda – A Sacred Ancient Temple of the Chinese Community in the Heart of Ho Chi Minh City

  • Address: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
  • Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM

Thien Hau Pagoda (or the Từ Thành Assembly Hall) is one of the oldest places of worship for the Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City, playing a significant role in the spiritual life of the local people and holding great spiritual value. Right next to the pagoda is the Từ Thành Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese. The temple dedicated to Thien Hau is renowned for its sacredness, and if you visit during festive occasions or the Lunar New Year, you will witness a bustling scene of people coming and going from morning until evening.

The Thien Hau Pagoda is renowned for its sacredness, attracting many young visitors who often come to pay homage

See more articles: Explore 8 most sacred and beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City

Directions to the Pagoda

As it is located in the historic and well-known Chinatown of Ho Chi Minh City, finding your way to the pagoda is not too difficult. The simplest instructions for visitors are to proceed straight on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Hung Vuong, Hong Bang, and then turn left at Luong Nhu Hoc Street onto Nguyen Trai Street.

Additionally, if you wish to explore quickly and comfortably, you can use our private car service with drivers in Ho Chi Minh City. With our professional drivers and years of experience, we will ensure you have the fastest journey to Thien Hau Pagoda, as well as many other tourist destinations in HCM City.

The History and Legend of Thien Hau Pagoda

Formation of Tue Thanh Assembly Hall

The assembly hall was established by a group of Chinese immigrants from Tuệ Thành (Quangzhou, Guangdong Province) who contributed capital and participated in its construction upon migrating to Vietnam. Due to the prolonged construction and renovation process, there are currently no specific documents indicating the exact year of the assembly hall’s construction. Some opinions suggest that Thien Hau Pagoda as it stands today was built in the year 1760.

The sky well in the center of the pagoda

Within the assembly hall, significant artifacts such as the grand red bell and the set of Pháp Lam scriptures remain, with inscriptions dating back to the “10th Dao Quang” year, equivalent to the year 1830. Trịnh Hoài Đức’s “Gia Dinh thanh thong chi,” compiled around 1820, makes mention of the Tue Thanh Assembly Hall.

Legend of Thien Hau Pagoda

The story of the first Chinese settlers who ventured from their homeland to establish themselves in Vietnam spans thousands of years of history. They brought not only their material possessions but also the distinct cultural traits of the Northern region, along with prominent beliefs in the worship of deities. Thien Hau Pagoda stands out as a prominent spiritual landmark, dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau (commonly known as Bà Thiên Hậu), whose real name is Lâm Mặc Nương, a person from Mi Châu, Phúc Kiến.

Lâm Mặc Nương, a historical figure from the Song Dynasty in China, was said to be born on the 14th month (contrary to the usual 9 months and 10 days gestation period). As she grew older, her abilities in astronomy became evident as she regularly observed the stars, predicted the weather, and assisted fishermen.

On one occasion, when her father and two brothers were transporting salt to sell in the west, their boat encountered a severe storm. Lâm Mặc Nương, who was asleep at the time, miraculously woke up and rushed to rescue everyone. Using her teeth, she bit into her father’s shirt collar, gripping the two brothers with her hands. Unfortunately, at that moment, her mother woke her up, and as she answered, the waves carried her father away, leaving only the two brothers saved. From that time on, the legend of Lâm Mặc Nương’s abilities spread far and wide, and she became a revered goddess among fishermen, often worshipped during times of peril at sea.

Unique Architectural Features of Thien Hau Pagoda

Thien Hau Pagoda is constructed in a distinctive architectural style typical of the Chinese, comprising four interconnected buildings forming a layout resembling the shape of a “mouth” or the character “quốc” (country). In the center, three rows of buildings create the front, middle, and rear chambers. In the midst of these rows is an open space known as thiên tỉnh (sky well), providing ventilation, ample light, and a means to dissipate smoke.

The buildings are adorned with intricate details of flowers, leaves, mythical creatures, horizontal lacquered boards, couplets, and self-transforming characters, often in red and gold. Additionally, within the premises of Thien Hau Pagoda, there are continuous relief sculptures depicting the “four mythical creatures.”

Front Chamber of Thien Hau Pagoda

In the front chamber of Thien Hau Pagoda, the altar of Phúc Đức Chánh Thần is placed on the right side, while the altar of Môn Quan Vương Tả is arranged on the left. Here, visitors can also admire stone steles documenting legends about Thien Hau Thanh Mau and paintings portraying her divine appearances on the waves.

Front Chamber of Thien Hau Pagoda

Middle Chamber of Thien Hau Pagoda

The middle chamber of Thien Hau Pagoda features the finely carved “Phát Lan” set, consisting of five pieces. On either side are depictions of a dragon-headed boat touching a human-shaped figure and a palanquin adorned with gold-coated bronze decorations. These items are used to process rituals during Thien Hau’s commemoration day.

Rear Chamber (Main Chamber) of Thien Hau Pagoda

Moving to the main chamber, you arrive at the Thien Hau Palace, consisting of three sections:

  • The central section honors Thien Hau Thanh Mau, carved from an ancient wood block, standing 1 meter tall.
  • Kim Hoa Nương Nương is worshipped on the right, and Long Mẫu Nương Nương is worshipped on the left.
  • The two side sections house statues of Quan Thánh, Địa Tạng, and Thần Tài.

All the statues are adorned with luxurious embroidered garments.

Precious Artifacts Preserved at Thien Hau Pagoda

Especially noteworthy is the collection of precious artifacts at Thien Hau Pagoda. Approximately 400 antiquities are currently preserved here, including relief sculptures featuring the “four mythical creatures” – Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, and Phoenix. The roof, eaves, and walls are adorned with ceramic statues and reliefs inspired by Chinese models.

Precious Artifacts Preserved at Thien Hau Pagoda

Moreover, the pagoda houses numerous precious woods, aloeswood, and incense. Visitors will be deeply impressed by 10 horizontal lacquered boards, 9 stone steles, 7 ceramic statues of deities, 6 stone statues, 2 small bells, 23 couplets, 41 relief paintings, all meticulously crafted with intricate details.

Characteristic Features Not to Miss at Thien Hau Pagoda

Precious Treasures Preserved at Thien Hau Pagoda

Visiting Thien Hau Pagoda not only allows us to pay homage but also provides an opportunity to admire rare and precious artifacts. Approximately 400 antique items are showcased here, including relief paintings depicting dragons, unicorns, tortoises, and phoenixes. On the roof, walls, and eaves, there are ceramic statues and reliefs inspired by Chinese traditions.

In addition, the pagoda houses various precious woods, aloeswood, and incense. Particularly noteworthy are 10 horizontal lacquered boards, 9 stone steles, 2 small bells, and 7 ceramic statues of deities—all meticulously crafted with intricate details.

Instagrammable Check-In Spots

At Thien Hau Pagoda, you will capture impressive Instagram-worthy photos amidst a space with nostalgic architectural elements. This is why bringing a camera is essential to capture the beauty of this place. The majestic appearance and the time-worn ambiance are fully reproduced in the photos taken by young visitors. Each corner of the pagoda has its own distinct charm. Images of sturdy green fences, pink wish boards, and ancient brick walls are among the top favorite check-in points for tourists.


Taking photos at the pink wish board at Thien Hau Pagoda

Spiritual Experience and Prayer Location

Most visitors to Thien Hau Pagoda come to pray for blessings for themselves and their families. DanangPrivateCar.com’s suggests that you can read the prayers dedicated to Bà or write down your wishes on paper and hang them with the burning incense, hoping that your wishes will come true. Another popular practice among young enthusiasts is seeking divination, hoping to foresee future challenges and be more proactive in facing uncertainties.

The Largest “Via Ba” Festival in Ho Chi Minh City

You can visit Thien Hau Pagoda at any time throughout the year. However, it is livelier if you explore it from the 22nd to the 24th of the third lunar month. This marks the annual “Via Ba” festival, attracting a large number of Chinese and Vietnamese people for worship.

The “Via Ba” festival at Bà Thiên Hậu Pagoda features many lively activities

On this day, the statue of Thien Mau Thanh Mau is placed on a palanquin and paraded around the pagoda. Accompanying this are lively activities such as lion dances, dragon dances, and other artistic performances performed by ethnic music groups, adding to the festive atmosphere.

It can be said that Thien Hau Pagoda is one of the oldest Chinese temples in the city, renowned for its sacredness and possession of numerous valuable ancient artifacts. Include this attraction in your travel guide for a meaningful journey of exploring Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village is the most vibrant destination in the ancient capital of Hue every spring. The paper flowers of Thanh Tien not only stand out for their bright colors but also for being crafted by the skillful hands of talented artisans. Visiting Hue without holding a paper lotus from this village is truly regrettable. Let’s explore this unique craft village with DanangPrivateCar.com.

Overview of Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

  • Location: Phu Mau Commune, Phu Vang District, Thua Thien – Hue Province

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village, with a history dating back over 300 years, is considered a distinctive folk belief of Hue, captivating anyone passionate about exploring the city.

This unique craft village is situated along the southern bank, downstream of the Perfume River, approximately 7 km from the city center of Hue. To reach Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village, you can pass through Dong Ba Market from the city center, go down Huynh Thuc Khang Street for about 5 km, and you will approach Bao Vinh ancient town. Taking a ferry to the opposite bank – Tien Non Village, and traveling an additional 1 km will bring you to the destination.

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village has a long-standing history in the land of Hue

Around the lunar months from September to December, you will see people busy preparing handmade paper flowers, specifically known as Thanh Tien flowers.

There are two types of Thanh Tien flowers: Lotus flowers and Multicolored flowers. While lotus flowers are commonly used for year-round decoration during festivals and cultural exchange events, multicolored flowers are only made in October of the lunar calendar each year for altar decorations in temples, pagodas, ancestral shrines, and for the Kitchen Gods Festival.

In addition, you can also see the vibrant colors of multicolored paper flowers arranged in bookstores, private homes, or cafes. Particularly, foreign tourists often visit Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village to buy flowers as souvenirs for their loved ones.

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village is a worthwhile destination to include in your independent exploration itinerary of Hue.

If you are planning to visit Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village in Hue, don’t forget to choose the private car rental service in Hue from DanangPrivateCar.com. With their door-to-door service, professional drivers, and years of experience, you will have the most comfortable travel experience in Hue. Additionally, if you are in Da Nang or Hoi An and wish to explore Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village in a day, book a day trip from Da Nang to Hue or a day trip from Hoi An to Hue right away.

Everything about Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

Paper Flower Craft

The craft of making paper flowers originated from the folk worship of the people in the ancient capital of Hue. Due to the challenging climate conditions, intense sunlight, and heavy rainstorms, fresh flowers in Hue could not maintain their original beauty.

As a result, the people of Thanh Tien Village creatively invented paper flowers for worship and decoration during the Tet festival, gradually turning it into the renowned Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village, a cultural and spiritual essence of the entire population of Hue every spring.

Explore Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village

The materials needed to create paper flowers in Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village are not hard to find. With just bamboo and rattan, the artisans of Thanh Tien Village can unleash their creativity. They replicate images of various natural flowers such as trumpet flowers, daisies, wallflowers, lotus flowers, wild sunflowers, etc., with such precision and realism that, from a distance, it’s hard to distinguish between real and paper flowers.

While usually only 1 or 2 people work on paper flowers on regular days, on full moon days and Tet holidays, artisans in the village mobilize their relatives and even hire additional help to collectively make paper flowers. Almost everyone in the village, including children, is skilled in the steps to create the distinctive Thanh Tien paper flowers.

The process of making paper flowers is entirely manual and requires extensive preparation, often starting months in advance. Only with considerable effort can a beautiful and lifelike masterpiece be completed. Bamboo must be selected for its flexibility, split into small sections, and then rounded to create branches or flower stems. The most crucial step is choosing durable paper and natural dye colors to ensure freshness, as artificial colors or harmful chemicals are not used.

The final steps involve meticulous cutting, trimming, creating folds for the flowers to appear lively and vibrant, similar to real flowers. Then, adhesive glue is used to attach the flowers to the stems. The most challenging aspect is creating the veining for lotus petals, requiring a great deal of skill and experience from the artisans. Each step demands precision, dedication, and diligence, allowing an artisan to produce only 15 to 20 flowers at most in a day. Despite the meticulous work, the cost of Thanh Tien paper flowers is quite affordable, ranging from 5,000 VND to 7,000 VND per pair (for simple flowers like roses, daisies, orchids) and 20,000 VND per flower (for more complex flowers like lotus). This makes it possible for you to purchase these flowers as memorable souvenirs.

Lotus paper flowers are the most famous product in Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village
The Thanh Tien Paper Flowers have become an indispensable cultural tradition during the springtime in the ancient capital of Hue
The people of Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village bring the paper flowers to sell in both rural markets and the city
Just seeing Thanh Tien Paper Flowers is enough to feel the arrival of spring

Thanh Tien Paper Flower Village in general, and the paper flower artisans in the village in particular, contribute to the cultural and spiritual values of Vietnam reaching far beyond the world. It would undoubtedly be wonderful if we could set foot in Hue at least once to have the opportunity to visit, enriching our understanding of this ancient, tranquil, and charming land. DanangPrivateCar.com wishes you and your family a meaningful time exploring and enjoying Hue, and don’t forget to share those memorable moments with DanangPrivateCar.com.

Explore 8 most sacred and Beautiful Temples in Ho Chi Minh City

Check out the list of 8 famous and spiritually significant temples in Ho Chi Minh City that many people trust and visit with DanangPrivateCar.com. Note them down in your travel diary to make your journey of discovering this beautiful city even more complete!

Vietnam Quoc Tu – One of the 8 beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City

  • Address: 244 3/2 Street, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam Quoc Tu is a famous Buddhist temple in Ho Chi Minh City. The temple has a unique architecture with seven stories adorned with various colorful Buddhist statues and religious artifacts. Built in 1963, this beautiful temple in Saigon was founded by Most Venerable Thich Tam Giac, the head of the Institute of Cultural Buddhism of the Unified Vietnamese Buddhist Church. Vietnam Quoc Tu is considered a tourist and spiritual destination attracting many visitors from both inside and outside the country.

Vietnam Quoc Tu is one of the 8 beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City that you must visit

The temple offers a spacious, cool, and peaceful environment, suitable for sightseeing, worship, and meditation. Vietnam Quoc Tu is an iconic symbol of Vietnamese Buddhism and a valuable cultural heritage of the country. The temple contributes to the spread of Buddhist teachings, preservation of traditions, and strengthening the friendship between different ethnic groups. It is one of the beautiful temples in Saigon that you should definitely visit when exploring this charming city.

Buu Long Pagoda

  • Address: 64/3 Huynh Lan Khanh Street, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Buu Long Pagoda is not only a spiritual destination in Saigon but also a place to admire architectural and artistic masterpieces. This destination was once voted by the American National Geographic magazine as one of the 10 most beautiful Buddhist architectural works in the world. This beautiful temple in Saigon also has a large courtyard, surrounded by lush green trees, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace and harmony between nature and humans.

The tranquility of Buu Long Pagoda seen from above.

The Gotama Cetiya stupa is the highlight of Buu Long Pagoda. It is the largest stupa in Vietnam, standing at 70 meters in height and covering an area of over 2000 square meters. The main stupa has seven floors, including two meditation halls, an auditorium, and a tower honoring the virtues of Buddha and the Holy Saints. The stupa is designed in the architectural style of Phu Nam culture, symbolizing the elevation and sanctity of Buddhist teachings.

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

  • Address: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ward 14, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is inspired by a similarly named ancient temple in Bac Giang. According to the travel guide DanangPrivateCar.com, this is one of the major centers of the Truc Lam Zen sect, founded by Venerables Thich Tam Giac and Thich Thanh Kiem. The construction of the pagoda began in 1967 and was completed in 1971.


Vinh Nghiem Pagoda takes inspiration from the ancient temple of the same name in Bac Giang and is one of the beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City

This beautiful temple in Saigon belongs to the Dai Thua sect, built in traditional Vietnamese architecture but using modern materials and techniques. The pagoda covers an area of about 6,000 square meters, located on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, near Cong Ly Bridge. Inside the temple grounds, there are many beautiful and meaningful structures such as the main hall, Quan The Am tower, Xa Loi Cong dong tower, Vinh Nghiem stone tower, etc. The pagoda is also a place of study for Buddhists.

Huong Phap Pagoda

  • Address: 196 Le Loi Street, Tan Hiep Commune, Hoc Mon District, Ho Chi Minh City.

A must-visit beautiful temple in Saigon is Huong Phap Pagoda, belonging to the Northern tradition. Founded by Venerable Thich Ngo Chan Tu in 1957 in the middle of a bamboo forest, Huong Phap Pagoda has become an attractive and well-known spiritual tourist destination in Saigon and its surrounding areas over the past half-century.

Having mentioned the beautiful temples in Saigon, one cannot overlook Hoang Phap Pagoda

Huong Phap Pagoda is situated on a 6-hectare land with many beautiful and meaningful architectural structures. This destination is not only a place for study and practice for monks and Buddhist followers but also a venue for various charitable and cultural community activities. With its long history, the serene atmosphere inside Huong Phap Pagoda brings you tranquility and the peace of Buddhist teachings. It is an ideal destination for those seeking peace and happiness in life.

Phap Hoa Pagoda

  • Address: 870 Truong Sa Street, Ward 14, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

The next beautiful temple in Saigon introduced by DanangPrivateCar.com is Phap Hoa Pagoda. Built in 1928 by Venerable Dao Ha Thanh, Phap Hoa Pagoda is now one of the oldest and most renowned temples in Saigon. It serves not only as a place for monks and Buddhists to study and practice but also as a spiritual destination for many domestic and international tourists.

 

The next beautiful temple in Saigon introduced by DanangPrivateCar.com is Phap Hoa Pagoda

Phap Hoa Pagoda has a unique architecture that combines Vietnamese and Chinese styles, including three main sections: Tam Quan, Dai Hung Buu, and Co Lam. Tam Quan is the temple gate, adorned with floral patterns and images of Buddhism. Dai Hung Buu is the main section where Buddha Shakyamuni, Laughing Buddha, and Amitabha Buddha are worshiped. Meanwhile, Co Lam is the subsidiary section where Bodhisattvas like Quan The Am, Dia Tang, Manjusri, etc., are honored. In addition, the pagoda has other facilities such as a library, reception hall, dining hall, and guesthouse within the compound, providing opportunities for visitors to explore and relax.

Ba Thien Hau Temple

  • Address: 710 Nguyen Trai Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.

Ba Thien Hau Temple is an ancient and sacred temple located in District 5, featuring distinctive Chinese architectural beauty. This not only serves as a fascinating spiritual destination for both local and international tourists but is also known as a famous place for seeking love and fortune. Many believe that getting a tattoo at Ba Thien Hau Temple will bring them a fulfilling love life. Additionally, the temple hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, especially on the 23rd of the lunar month, which is the birthday of Ba Thien Hau. This is an occasion for people to express their respect and desire for blessings.

The Ba Thien Hau Temple is an ancient and sacred temple, renowned for its venerable and spiritual atmosphere, particularly known for seeking tattoos and praying for desired blessings

Ba Thien Hau Temple is an unmissable destination when visiting Saigon. Here, you can admire an ancient and majestic temple, learning about a part of the history and culture of the Chinese community in Vietnam. Hopefully, you will have interesting and meaningful experiences when visiting Ba Thien Hau Temple on your upcoming journey.

Giac Lam Pagoda

  • Address: 565 Lac Long Quan Street, Ward 10, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

This beautiful temple in Ho Chi Minh City has a history of over 300 years, built in 1744 during the reign of King Nguyen Phuc Khoat. Giac Lam Pagoda is considered the main center of the Lâm Tế Zen sect in the southern region and has been recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic since 1988.

The temple roof is carved with dragon images

Giac Lam Pagoda is located on Cam Son Hill, about 5 km from the city center. The pagoda has a Tam-shaped architecture, consisting of three connected horizontal sections, including the main hall, lecture hall, and monastery. Inside the pagoda, there are many wooden, bronze, and stone Buddha statues, with the most prominent being the 3.75-meter-high statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. The pagoda also has a 32-meter-high stupa, built in 1993 to enshrine Buddha relics and venerable monks.

Pho Quang Pagoda

  • Address: 64/3 Huynh Lan Khanh Street, Ward 2, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Pho Quang Pagoda exudes traditional architecture, solemnity, and tranquility, dedicated to worshiping Buddha Shakyamuni, various Arhats, and different Buddhas. Pho Quang Pagoda is also a spiritual tourist destination loved by many travelers whenever they have the chance to visit this beautiful city. Pho Quang Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City was built in 1951 by Venerable Nguyen Viet Tao, also known as Thanh Nha, who founded the pagoda.

Pho Quang Pagoda features traditional architecture, solemnity, and tranquility

In 1999, the pagoda underwent comprehensive restoration and expansion. Thanks to this, the pagoda possesses modern architecture while still maintaining its ancient and serene characteristics, such as the curved roof in the shape of a phoenix, intricately carved pillars, and many distinctive patterns. The three-story main hall, with 12 roofs, stands behind a small two-story tower. The pagoda’s premises are adorned with many trees and flowers, creating a peaceful and comfortable space.

So, DanangPrivateCar.com has just introduced to you 8 beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City that are loved by both local residents and visitors from near and far, often frequented for sightseeing. Which temple will be the destination that you choose to stop at in your journey to explore this beautiful city? Don’t forget to put the list above into your travel guide before embarking on your exploration. Wishing you a joyful and meaningful trip in this region.

Giac Lam Pagoda over 300 years old: A tranquil world in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City

Located on the land of Ho Chi Minh City, Giac Lam Pagoda is not only a religious symbol but also a historical picture with colorful developmental stages. Join DanangPrivateCar.com’s to explore Giac Lam Pagoda to learn about its history, distinctive architecture, and fascinating activities at this temple through the following article.

Where is Giac Lam Pagoda?

  • Phone: 028 3865 3933
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM
  • Address: 565 Lac Long Quan, Ward 10, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City 70000

Giac Lam Pagoda is located at 565 Lac Long Quan, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City. This is one of the ancient and largest pagodas in Saigon, recognized by the Ministry of Culture – Information as one of Vietnam’s national historical and cultural heritage sites.

Moving to Giac Lam Pagoda

To get to Giac Lam Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City, you can use public transportation or private transportation services. Here are some popular methods:

  • Taxi: Note the address: 565 Lac Long Quan, Ward 10, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City. Call a taxi or use a mobile app to book a ride.
  • Private Car: For convenience in pre-planned transportation, door-to-door service, and a comfortable journey, booking a private car with a driver in Ho Chi Minh City from DanangPrivateCar.com’s can meet all your needs.
  • Bus: If you prefer public transportation, you can check the bus routes that pass through the Giac Lam Pagoda area.
  • Motorbike Rental: If you want to explore the city more freely, you can rent a motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City and then ride to the pagoda.
  • Walking: If you are nearby, walking is also a feasible option to reach Giac Lam Pagoda.

Before starting your journey, check the traffic information and address to ensure that you have the correct and most convenient route.

History of Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda, also known as Phat Bao Pagoda, is one of the temples with a history of 300 years. This place attracts many locals and tourists to visit and worship every year. If you have the opportunity to travel to Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss the chance to visit this temple! Now, let’s explore the historical journey of Giac Lam Pagoda with DanangPrivateCar.com below.

  • Ancient period: In the spring of 1744, Giac Lam Pagoda was initiated by the monk Ly Thuy Long under the reign of King Nguyen Phuc Khoat. The temple was initially known by various names such as Cam Son, Son Can, and Cam Đệm.
Exploring the history of Giac Lam Pagoda
  • Name change and development: Zen master Phat Y-Linh Nhac sent his disciple Vien Quang to take over the temple. Since then, the temple was renamed Giac Lam and became a center for training scriptures and legal principles for Buddhists in Gia Dinh and the Southern region.
  • Significant period: In history, Giac Lam Pagoda served as a hiding place for many revolutionaries during the wartime of 1939-1945. This was also the time when the temple underwent another renovation.

On the 3rd day of the lunar December in the year of Dinh Hoi (1827), Zen master Vien Quang passed away, and Zen master Hai Tinh succeeded him. By 1873, under the abbacy of Zen master Minh Khiem, Giac Lam Pagoda was a place for printing books, woodblock carving, and spreading Buddhist knowledge to the people.

In 1988, Giac Lam Pagoda was officially recognized by the Ministry of Culture – Information as a National Historical and Cultural Relic.

  • Giac Lam Pagoda today: From its establishment until now, Giac Lam Pagoda has gone through eight generations of abbots. The current abbot of the temple is Most Venerable Thich Hue Trung, the head monk is Venerable Thich Tu Tanh, and the deputy head monk is Venerable Thich Tu Tri. Giac Lam Pagoda continues to attract thousands of tourists and Buddhists each year to visit and learn about the history and culture of Buddhism.

Exploring Unique Architecture at Giac Lam Pagoda

Nestled peacefully amidst the vibrant life of Ho Chi Minh City, Giac Lam Pagoda is a historical gem carrying unique architectural features and fascinating stories about the beliefs and culture of Southern Vietnamese Buddhism. Follow the travel guide from DanangPrivateCar.com to learn about the architectural structures of Giac Lam Pagoda!

Distinctive Architectural Beauty of Southern Pagodas

To this day, Giac Lam Pagoda maintains architectural features deeply rooted in the culture and traditional style of Southern pagodas from the past. The pagoda is designed in the shape of the Greek letter chi (Ξ), with three horizontal rows interconnected, arranged in a rectangular layout including the main hall, lecture hall, and monks’ quarters.

The temple is designed in the shape of a trapezoid

Twin Gate

The twin gate of Giac Lam Pagoda was completed in 1945, featuring two lions at the corners, representing the cultural influence of India and the distinctive Naga serpent symbol of Khmer Buddhism. The gate is designed with kneeling legs, adorned with characteristic embossed patterns. Above the gate, there is an inscription in Chinese characters telling the legend of Prince O Quan in the Tang Dynasty. Additionally, the gate is not built straight towards the main hall, following ancient beliefs to prevent spirits from entering the main area of the temple directly.

Triple Gate

Originally, Giac Lam Pagoda did not have a triple gate. It was not until 1955 that the pagoda began to build the triple gate facing south, near the present-day Lac Long Quan Street. Both sides of the pillars are engraved with Chinese couplets. Importantly, the temple gate is always open to welcome those who want to learn and follow the teachings of Buddhism.

The triple gate of Giac Lam Pagoda

Giac Lam Pagoda Roof

The pagoda roof is designed in the shape of a traditional Southern Vietnamese hat, creating a sense of intimacy and friendliness with the locals. The roof has four slopes, straight, and without the typical eave seen in northern temples. At the peak of the roof is the image of “double dragons fighting over a pearl,” symbolizing solemnity and respect for the Buddha’s teachings.

The temple roof is carved with dragon images

Main Hall Area

In front of the main hall is a rectangular courtyard, 20m in width and 10m in depth. Here, there is an altar with statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha, Maitreya Buddha, and two side altars with statues of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva and Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva. The ancestral shrine is very solemn, consisting of three altars arranged in descending order: the altar of Amitabha Buddha, the Council altar, and the Triple Gem altar.

The main hall of Giac Lam Pagoda has four main columns called “four pillars,” symbolizing “worshiping the Buddha, honoring the Ancestors.” In addition, there are a total of 56 large columns. Each column is meticulously crafted, engraved with couplets and decorated with gold foil. Among the columns, traditional decorative themes such as the four supernatural creatures, the four seasons, and floral patterns are depicted.

The interior of the main hall of Giac Lam Pagoda is vibrant and luxurious. Here, you can find many large statues such as the statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha, Maitreya Bodhisattva, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, and the impressive Nine Dragons bronze statues. A special feature here is the presence of 2 sets of Eighteen Arhats and 2 sets of Ten Kings of Hell statues.

The top of the main hall wall and the Hong Hung ancestral tower have more than 7,000 decorative plates. Of these, more than 6,000 plates are used on the main hall wall, and more than 1,000 plates are on the Hong Hung tower. These decorative plates are mainly produced from the Lai Thieu pottery kiln in Binh Duong, along with some imported plates from Japan and China. This makes Giac Lam the temple with the “largest number of decorative plates in Vietnam.”

Behind the main hall area of Giac Lam Pagoda is the ancestral shrine, where the ancestral tablets of the temple’s abbots are enshrined according to each period. Opposite the ancestral shrine is the altar of the Standard Set Buddha, Amitabha Buddha, and the Ten Kings of Hell.

The worship statues behind the main hall area

Near the ancestral shrine area is the lecture hall, built in the style of the main hall roof. This is where monks and disciples often attend important events and major festivals at Giac Lam Pagoda. During the resistance against French and American forces, the lecture hall was also used to train personnel and carry out reconnaissance missions in the urban area.

What is Attractive about Giac Lam Pagoda?

In addition to the mentioned architecture, Giac Lam Pagoda has some outstanding structures that you shouldn’t miss when visiting this place:

  • The ancient tomb tower area at Giac Lam Pagoda was built from the early 19th century to the early 20th century, honoring monks and nuns when they passed away.
  • Bao Thap Xa Loi – a hexagonal-shaped structure with seven floors, began construction in 1970 according to the design of architect Vinh Hoang. The construction was temporarily halted in 1975 and completed in 1994, with a height of 32.7m and a floor area of over 600m2, facing north.
The Bao Thap Xa Loi of Giac Quan Pagoda

The bottom floor of the tower houses the altar of the Three Jewels Buddha, and the subsequent floors feature altars dedicated to various Buddhas and Bodhisattvas such as Shakyamuni Buddha, Medicine Buddha, Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, etc. The top floor is adorned with the Nine Dragons cluster, with the Xa Loi tower featuring the image of Shakyamuni Buddha.

  • Giac Lam Pagoda has a hall with 119 Buddha statues, including wooden statues of Shakyamuni Buddha, bronze statues of infant Shakyamuni Buddha, as well as statues of the Eighteen Arhats and the Five Saints. The set of Eighteen Arhats is a clear symbol of the development of Southern Buddhism and the distinctive characteristics of the Vietnamese people. In addition to the statues, the pagoda also houses many precious wooden artworks such as embroidered screens, horizontal lacquered boards, gilded couplets, altars, and ancient worship items.
119 Buddha statues are worshipped at Giac Lam Pagoda

Festive Activities at Giac Lam Pagoda

During important holidays such as the 1st and 15th day of the lunar month or the Vu Lan Festival, Giac Lam Pagoda attracts a large number of monks, Buddhists, and tourists. This is an opportunity for you to participate in Buddhist ceremonies, pray for peace, and enjoy the solemn and respectful atmosphere at the temple.

Furthermore, Giac Lam Pagoda organizes various special religious activities such as Buddha’s birthday celebration and requesting blessing characters. You can also participate in retreats to listen to Buddhist teachings and cultivate the virtue of patience. Engaging in these activities helps deepen your understanding of Buddhist teachings and experience the sacred atmosphere while praying for your family and loved ones.

Concluding your exploration of Giac Lam Pagoda, it is hoped that you not only carry with you beautiful images of the sacred corners and unique architecture of the temple but also gain knowledge about the history of Giac Lam Pagoda. See you again through articles about other famous temples on DanangPrivateCar.com’s!

Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City – Top Super Hot Entertainment Spots

The City that Never Sleeps – Ho Chi Minh City seems to come alive even more at night, with vibrant and lively activities. This is the time when many handsome guys and beautiful girls dress up and hit the streets, gathering with friends to eat, have fun, and relieve the stress accumulated throughout the long working day. Therefore, in this article, DanangPrivateCar.com introduces to you the exciting nighttime entertainment spots in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City at Night on Nguyen Hue Walking Street

  • Address: Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the popular entertainment spots for the youth when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night. With its spacious, airy, and cool space, along with the beautiful scenery of the central area, it is an ideal and familiar gathering place for many people.

At night, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon becomes peaceful and quiet.

As you step onto Nguyen Hue Walking Street at night, you will be captivated by the dazzling lights from tall buildings and charming cafes around. Additionally, you have the opportunity to participate in free and interesting street performances by amateur artists. Moreover, this area is home to many enticing food stalls, allowing you to explore unique and delicious dishes.

Bui Vien Western Street

  • Location: Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Another suitable street for hanging out with friends when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night is the famous Bui Vien Western Street. This small street is a gathering place for many foreigners and features numerous quality bars and restaurants.

Bui Vien Western Street Bars – a place where you can have fun and enjoy various drinks with friends to your heart’s content.

At night, this area is extremely lively and crowded with thousands of young people coming here to have fun, eat, and dance to the beat of music.

Ho Thi Ky Street Food Market

  • Location: 52 Ho Thi Ky Street, Ward 1, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City.

When it comes to nighttime entertainment spots in Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Thi Ky Street Food Market is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy a variety of delicious street food at reasonable prices. It not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a perfect place for chatting with friends when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night.

Bach Dang Wharf

  • Location: 27 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Bach Dang Wharf is a lively and interesting entertainment spot in Ho Chi Minh City at night. It attracts a diverse crowd of young people and families who come here to stroll, dine, and admire the city.

Bach Dang Wharf is an ideal place to admire the nighttime scenery of Ho Chi Minh City

Bach Dang Wharf, or Bach Dang Park, has two sides. One side faces the bustling traffic with distant views of the city’s tall buildings, while the other side overlooks the picturesque Saigon River.

The evening here is refreshing, with the river breeze creating a delightful atmosphere. Therefore, if you want to explore Ho Chi Minh City at night, this place is an ideal choice.

Starlight Bridge (Cau Anh Sao)

  • Location: Phu My Hung Urban Area, Tan Phu Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City.

Starlight Bridge is also an attractive spot in District 7 when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night. This place is known for its romantic view, making it a perfect location for taking beautiful photos to share on social media.

Starlight Bridge (Anh Sao Bridge)

Although the bridge is only a little over 170 meters long, it is equipped with a system of over 5,000 LED lights, creating a sparkling and magical space.

Moreover, Starlight Bridge is conveniently located in a bustling urban area, close to other entertainment venues such as restaurants, hotels, shopping centers, etc. After enjoying this bridge to the fullest, you can easily explore other nighttime spots in Ho Chi Minh City.

Area around Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

  • Location: 01 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is not only a familiar backdrop for young people’s virtual living but also a hot nightlife spot in Ho Chi Minh City. This is partly due to its prime location in the city center, surrounded by shopping centers, high-end restaurants, luxury hotels, chic cafes, and bars, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

Feeding the pigeons at Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica in Saigon

Moreover, when you come here, you can choose to enjoy a delicious sidewalk coffee and chat with friends or simply gaze at the night view of Saigon, making it an interesting experience.

Turtle Lake (Ho Con Rua)

  • Location: International Square – Vo Thi Sau Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.

To explore the lively and bustling night scene of Ho Chi Minh City, you can visit Turtle Lake at International Square. This is a diverse nighttime entertainment spot in Saigon with enticing street food such as grilled rice paper, fried fish balls, shaved ice, lemon tea, etc.

The refreshing space with many green trees and a gentle breeze, along with the lively conversations from people, creates a lively atmosphere at this place.

Landmark 81

  • Location: Vinhomes Tan Cang – 720A Dien Bien Phu, Ward 22, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City.

Situated near the Saigon River, Landmark 81 attracts numerous visitors with its large area and modern architecture. It is not only an ideal virtual living space with beautiful backgrounds but also a vibrant commercial center with various entertaining, culinary, and shopping activities. Landmark 81 has become a favorite nightlife spot for many young people in Ho Chi Minh City.

Explore the hot Landmark 81 building in Saigon.

Saigon Opera House

  • Address: 7 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

With its classic Gothic architecture and long history, the Saigon Opera House is a unique attraction that still retains the distinctive French style. When you come here to enjoy artistic performances, you also have the opportunity to explore other places conveniently, such as Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, and the City Post Office.

Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

The Saigon Opera House has become a unique entertainment spot when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night and is highly favored by foreign tourists visiting Ho Chi Minh City.

Bitexco Financial Tower

  • Address: Ngo Duc Ke Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Bitexco Financial Tower, with its unique architecture inspired by a soaring lotus bud, is one of the significant symbols of Saigon. The entire building is covered with 6,000 curved glass panels, making it a focal point of Bitexco. Therefore, this place has become one of the most famous check-in spots for the youth.

Thiêm Tunnel Riverside

  • Address: 14A Thủ Thiêm, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City.

If you are unsure where to go when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night, MIA.vn suggests visiting Thiêm Tunnel Riverside. With its spacious area and green landscape, this place also offers a view of the Saigon River, allowing you to admire the romantic and dreamy cityscape as the twilight gradually fades into the late night.

Here, you can enjoy delicious food while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City at night. It truly is a fantastic experience for every visitor when exploring Thiêm Tunnel Riverside.

3A Station

  • Address: Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

3A Station is a unique entertainment and art complex located in the heart of Saigon. This place combines various exciting activities such as cafes, art galleries, photo studios, fashion stores, and more.

3A Station is also an ideal check-in spot when Ho Chi Minh City comes alive at night

With vibrant graffiti on the walls, 3A Station has become a nightlife spot in Saigon with a strong emphasis on art and cultural exchange. Here, you can indulge in shopping, dining, enjoying music performances, or taking photos to relax and experience the dynamic atmosphere after busy working days.

Gao Bar Market

  • Address: 192 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Opening hours: 18:00 – 02:00.
  • Price range: 100,000 – 1,000,000 VND.

If you love music and want to enjoy the nightlife scene in Saigon, head to Gao Bar Market. This bar offers a unique Vietnamese art space, displaying many iconic works representing the national culture, such as lion heads, earth pigs, traditional opera masks, etc. The unique decor with vivid dragon and phoenix paintings attracts much attention from visitors.

A fascinating meeting and conversation point with friends at the bar counter of Gao Bar Market

The uniqueness of Gao Bar lies in its cozy music space, creating a differentiating factor from other bars. Sweet love songs performed by talented artists evoke a range of emotions from deep lows to bright highs. If you enjoy gentle music and want to explore a unique artistic architectural space along with delicious drinks, this is the place for you.

Above are the extremely attractive nighttime exploration spots in Ho Chi Minh City that you should immediately add to your travel guide. If you are young and living or working, or currently traveling in this sleepless city, DanangPrivateCar.com believes that experiencing the nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City, even just once, is well worth it. Don’t forget to use the private car rental service with a driver in Ho Chi Minh City from DanangPrivateCar.com’s to make your trip even more convenient!

Top 10 Beautiful Tourist Destinations in Hue Suitable for Motorbike Adventure

Hue is a historical land with many tourist destinations that are both charming and infused with a mysterious and indescribable allure. Motorbike adventures in Hue have become an enticing pastime for many young people who cherish freedom and enjoy exploring this region. Take note of these 10 stunning tourist destinations in Hue, perfect for travelers embarking on a motorbike adventure.

What makes Hue tourism appealing to backpackers

Besides a renowned tourist city like Da Nang, it doesn’t diminish the intense allure of Hue for travelers. This place converges unexpected attractions such as pristine nature, flourishing forest ecosystems, and countless valuable heritages. Dubbed the “heritage city,” it’s no wonder that Hue attracts millions of visitors each year.

The famous legends of the ancient capital region are always waiting to be discovered

Not only tourists but also local residents are passionate about moments of motorbike adventure in Hue. Most people feel that traveling around Hue on a motorbike will dispel all the stress after days of exhausting work.

The cityscape that unfolds before the eyes of backpackers is a serene Hue, a dreamy Hue, a gentle Hue. From the city center to the outskirts, at any point, it can become a captivating destination for tourists.

Choosing a Motorbike Rental Service in Hue for Exploring Famous Sites

In Hue, there are numerous motorbike rental services, but finding a reputable one with professional service and 24/24 support is not always easy.

DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com, with over 12 years of experience in providing motorbike rental and motorbike tour services, understands these challenges well. Therefore, they continuously improve their services to meet the needs of both domestic and international customers.

Booking a motorbike tour from Danang to Hai Van Pass is a great choice if you love adventure

Moreover, you can also explore motorbike rental services in Hue highly praised by the travel community on the DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com website. Besides investing significantly in the quality of bikes, DanangMotorbikeAdventure also has a team of staff ready to provide customer support 24/24 in case of any issues.

Additionally, the staff at DanangMotorbikeAdventure can assist with travel advice for exploring beautiful locations and enjoying delicious local cuisine in the ancient land of Hue.

List of 10 Suitable Motorbike Adventure Spots in Hue

If you are someone who loves freedom, has a passion for travel, and wants to explore the former imperial capital of Vietnam but is unsure of suitable locations, you can refer to the following top 10 motorbike adventure spots in Hue.

Vong Canh Hill

At the top of the list is a familiar destination for every backpacker. Vong Canh Hill is located about 7km west of the city center. It features a serene beauty with rolling hills and the emerald green Perfume River. This place is often chosen as a resting spot to admire the scenery of the Nguyen Dynasty kings.

Vong Canh Hill is known as the most beautiful place to watch the sunset in the ancient capital.

Ngu Binh Mountain

A must-not-miss motorbike adventure spot in Hue is Ngu Binh Mountain. The view from the top helps you understand why Ngu Binh Mountain is considered a priceless gift bestowed by nature. Impressively adorned with lush pine trees and the winding Perfume River, the majestic beauty of Ngu Binh Mountain has been extensively praised by poets.

Truoi Lake

Situated at the foot of Bach Ma Mountain, this place retains its original, mysterious charm. Truoi Lake, also known as “Tuyet tinh coc,” originated from the largest hydroelectric dam in Hue. With its picturesque surroundings, Truoi Lake has become a heart-stealing destination for adventurers.

View of Truoi Lake from above.

A Luoi

A Luoi is the homeland of highland ethnic communities. Being less exploited, it still preserves its unique cultural identity. Despite being about 70km away from the city, it won’t deter true adventurers. Once you set foot in A Luoi, you’ll fall even more in love with the pristine nature of this city.

A Co Pass

Motorbike adventures in Hue undoubtedly involve winding roads and mountain passes. Located in the A Luoi district, A Co Pass will astonish you with its winding, serpentine roads. Hidden and revealed in the white clouds, the A Co Pass will satisfy the adventurous soul of every backpacker.

Thuy Tien Lake

Thuy Tien Lake hides itself on Thien An Hill and has become a recent “hot hit” destination. Initially an abandoned water park, it gained popularity after being featured in an American newspaper. The place is now extremely attractive, particularly due to its mysterious, eerie atmosphere resembling a terrifying horror film. Covered with moss-covered slides, rusted pipes, and imposing dragon statues, it creates a creepy scene, making visitors somewhat uneasy.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery

Another destination for those wanting to travel around Hue by motorbike is the Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery. Renowned as a spiritual land, this place boasts numerous pagodas and shrines. Truc Lam Monastery is located on the summit of “White Horse Grand Mountain” Bach Ma. Passing through this monastery, visitors feel like entering a heavenly realm. The serene atmosphere here erases all worries and anxieties of reality.

Truc Lam Zen Monastery

Nhi Ho Waterfall

Nhi Ho Waterfall is approximately 45km south of the city center. The gentle waterfall seeps into the tranquil lake below. From a distance, Nhi Ho Waterfall looks like an extraordinary, simple watercolor painting. This stopping point will offer backpackers interesting moments of relaxation and immersion in the cool water.

Tam Giang Lagoon

Tam Giang Lagoon is a fantastic spot for witnessing breathtaking sunsets during your visit to Hue. The serene fishing villages present a simple, humble life of coastal residents. Besides, Tam Giang Lagoon is enticing with its local specialties, offering a taste of authentic and unique dishes.

The sunset over Tam Giang Lagoon is breathtakingly beautiful.

Cau Hai Beach

If you prefer something more vibrant, you can check out Cau Hai Beach. Here, various camping and recreational activities by groups of young friends often take place. The smooth white sand, azure sky, and overlapping mountain ranges make Cau Hai Beach a perfect gathering spot for friends after a week of work.

Some Notes When Motorbiking to Tourist Destinations in Hue

To make your motorbike trip to tourist destinations in Hue more complete and enjoyable, keep in mind the following notes about the experience of motorbiking in Hue:

  • Plan your itinerary in advance for a smoother trip.
  • Refer to articles sharing locations and experiences of motorbiking in Hue.
  • Learn some local phrases for easier communication with local people.
  • Choose clothing suitable for the weather and destination. Dress simply and comfortably because wearing dresses or high heels can be inconvenient during the motorbike journey.
  • Apply sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and use a visor if you don’t want to get sunburned.
  • Pack some bottles of water in your bag. As the road can be long and sunny, you might get thirsty, especially in remote areas with fewer shops.
  • Inquire about prices before eating or shopping to avoid overpricing situations.
  • Don’t hesitate to interact and ask locals for help if you encounter difficulties. After all, this is their homeland, and they are likely more familiar with it than we are.
  • Just a heads-up, the food in Hue can be quite spicy. Ask and remind the restaurant owner in advance if you prefer a milder taste.
  • Check the condition of your motorcycle and remember to refuel before starting your motorbike adventure.

The ancient capital of Hue is already well-known to everyone, isn’t it? But for those who are traveling to Hue for the first time and embarking on a motorbike adventure in this city, this article will be extremely useful for you. So, what are you waiting for? Pick up your backpack and start the journey to explore this sacred land.

The Nho Que River in Ha Giang – A place carrying timeless beauty

The Nho Que River in Ha Giang is a perfect suggestion for avid hikers planning to visit the foggy city in the Northeast. If you want to capture timeless photos during your upcoming trip to Ha Giang, be sure to visit the Nho Que River to fully experience the majestic nature of the land!

General introduction to the Nho Que River in Ha Giang

What is the origin of the Nho Que River in Ha Giang?

Originating from the Nghiem Son mountain range (Yunnan, China) at an elevation of 1,800 meters, the Nho Que River in Ha Giang flows in a northeast direction, passing through treacherous and rugged mountain forests, pouring into the Lũng Cú commune, Đồng Văn district, to enter Vietnam. The river continues its course through the Tu San mountain pass, along the Ma Pi Leng mountain range. Upon reaching Mèo Vạc, it splits into two branches and flows into the territory of Cao Bằng province, ultimately merging with the waters of the Gâm River at the Nà Mát intersection.

The Nho Que River in Ha Giang is a special gift bestowed by Mother Nature, gracing the majestic mountains with its emerald-hued river

Must-visit places in the Northeast featuring the Nho Que River in Ha Giang

The Nho Que River peacefully lies at the foot of the Ma Pi Leng Pass, a famous destination known to many young travelers exploring Ha Giang. For most of the year, the water of the Nho Que River has a stunning emerald green color, shining amidst the cold gray stone mountains. The serene river flows alongside lush greenery in the grand space of ancient forests, rocky mountains, and the sky.

Visiting this region and exploring the Nho Que River in Ha Giang, one will be eager to conquer the Ma Pi Leng Pass and vice versa, crossing the pass to admire the magnificent scenery of the dreamy green river. Nho Que and Ma Pi Leng form a perfect pair of picturesque landscapes in Ha Giang tourism because without one of them, the beauty would not be complete.

How to get to the Nho Que River

By bus

Currently, Ha Giang does not have an airport or a train station, so the only transportation option is by road. From Hanoi, you can book a bus ticket to Ha Giang. Once you reach the city center of Ha Giang, it’s recommended to take a taxi for a safer journey rather than renting a vehicle if you are not familiar with the road conditions. There are various types of buses to Ha Giang, including traditional buses, sleeper buses, and limousines, depending on your preferences and budget.

Here are some reputable bus companies serving the Hanoi – Ha Giang route that you can consider:

  • Limousine Express: Departure from My Dinh Bus Station at 20:30 and arrives in Ha Giang at 3:00 am. The ticket price for a sleeper bed is 350,000 VND.
  • Quang Nghi Limousine: Different departure times (7:40, 7:45, 16:00, 16:15, 16:45) with a basic ticket price of 300,000 VND.
  • Bang Phan: Departure times range from 0:30 to 22:30, with ticket prices averaging from 250,000 to 550,000 VND.

Additionally, you can also pre-book a tour for convenience and safety during the journey to the Nho Que River in Ha Giang. Sinh Tour Vietnam is a reputable company with over 10 years of experience, offering attractive Ha Giang exploration tours. We take pride in providing various competitive deals in the market.

By motorcycle

If you are an adventurous person, you can choose to ride a motorcycle to Ha Giang. However, this is a long and challenging route. Therefore, thorough preparation for the vehicle, health, and driving experience is essential. While riding, you can fully enjoy the beautiful landscapes and experience the simple lifestyle of the local people.

There are two recommended routes to fully explore the beauty of Ha Giang by motorcycle:

  • Route 1: Hanoi – Cau Trung Ha – Co Tiet – Cau Phong Chau – Doan Hung – Tuyen Quang – National Highway 02 – Ha Giang – National Highway 34 – National Highway 4C – Nho Que River.
  • Route 2: Hanoi – Vinh Phuc – Son Duong – Tuyen Quang – Ha Giang – National Highway 4C – DT 182 – DT 176 – DT 182 – National Highway 4C – Nho Que River.
Private car is the most popular means of transportation when traveling to Ha Giang

Private Car Service

A private car would be highly suitable for a large group of family or friends. Additionally, having the flexibility of time depending on your preferences will make the journey more convenient. To meet this need, the private car service with a driver in Hanoi from DanangPrivateCar.com will help ensure your trip is as smooth as possible.

With a team of professional drivers with many years of experience, they will pick you up from anywhere in Hanoi. Along the way, you can relax, visit tourist attractions, and enjoy the scenery. Book your private car trip from Hanoi to Ha Giang today to explore the Nho Que River in the best possible way.

The Beauty of the Nho Que River

Tu San Gorge – The Deepest Gorge in Southeast Asia

When exploring the Nho Que River, you cannot miss Tu San Gorge and the journey to discover this river. Taking a boat is the only way to travel along the Nho Que River. Nowadays, due to the increasing number of visitors to Nho Que, there are two boat docks serving tourists: one in Ta Lang village and the other in Xin Cai commune. The fascinating journey to explore the Nho Que River typically takes about 2 hours.

Tu San Gorge – The Deepest Gorge in Southeast Asia in Ha Giang

When mentioning the Nho Que River, hardly anyone can forget Tu San Gorge. Recognized as the deepest gorge in Southeast Asia with a depth of over 1000 meters, Tu San Gorge is a dream and desire for every long-distance traveler. Sitting in a boat on the Nho Que River, you will undoubtedly be overwhelmed by the majestic scenery that Mother Nature has crafted for the land of Ha Giang. The deep green river, towering mountain gorges reaching almost to the sky—all await your exploration.

Admire the Entire Nho Que River from the Peak of Ma Pi Leng

Ma Pi Leng, one of the “four great mountain passes” in the Northern Vietnam mountainous region, is closely connected with the Nho Que River. It is not only a challenging route for drivers but also the gateway to the “land of fairies” when visiting the Nho Que River in Ha Giang. You can combine conquering Ma Pi Leng with exploring other beautiful attractions during your journey to discover Ha Giang and the Nho Que River.

Admiring the Entire Nho Que River from the Peak of Ma Pi Leng

There are not many places in the S-shaped land that provide such magnificent scenery as Ma Pi Leng Pass. Standing on the peak of Ma Pi Leng during the journey to the Nho Que River in Ha Giang, you will witness the spectacular view of the winding river flowing through the high, rugged mountain ranges beneath the tranquil clouds. Therefore, don’t miss the opportunity to witness the most charming, majestic, and memorable moments in your Ha Giang journey.

Kayaking on the Nho Que River

In addition to boating to admire the beauty of the Nho Que River, you can also experience kayaking. This allows you not only to conquer the beautiful scenery but also to capture unique perspectives of Tu San Gorge that are only possible when kayaking.

The ideal times of the year for conquering the Nho Que River are October to November or February to March. During this period, you can witness the vibrant red color of blooming buckwheat flowers and the golden color of ripened rice fields. Admiring buckwheat flowers, triangular circuit flowers, or immersing in the local people’s harvest season are experiences waiting for you in the rocky plateau of Ha Giang. To rent a kayak for the journey to the Nho Que River in Ha Giang, it is advisable to contact the kayak rental service at least one day in advance. The average price is around 100,000 – 150,000 VND per person for about 30 minutes to 1 hour.

The Challenging Rock Walls

As the deepest gorge in Southeast Asia, the rock walls along both sides of the Nho Que River pose a high level of danger. This prohibits tourists from climbing and taking photos on these cliffs independently. However, even though you cannot physically conquer these rock walls, gazing at them will leave a profound impression in your mind. In general, Tu San Gorge will mark a beautiful memory in your exploration diary of Ha Giang.

Stunning is the lush and gentle Nho Que River, flowing gracefully amidst rocky mountains.

Some Notes When Traveling to the Nho Que River

Appropriate Attire

In addition to aspects such as geographical location, routes, transportation, and accommodation, clothing is also an important factor for any traveler when visiting the Nho Que River. If you visit during the cool and fresh seasons, choose comfortable and dynamic clothing. A T-shirt paired with jeans is always a fashionable choice regardless of the time. Additionally, you can wear a dress when sitting on the boat to add a touch of elegance to your photos.

If you visit the Nho Que River in winter, it is important to prepare warm and waterproof clothing to protect yourself from the cold. Hoodies, long coats, and waterproof jackets are suitable choices to both protect your health and maintain a fashionable appearance regardless of the weather. You can pair them with sneakers, a hat, and a scarf to add a stylish touch to your outfit.

Avoid Giving Money to Local Children

One of the “annoying” things when traveling to Ha Giang is that local children may ask for money from tourists. Instead of giving money, you should prepare a small amount of biscuits or candies to share with them. Due to the influx of many tourists, children in this area may prefer staying at home to help their families sell goods and earn money rather than going to school. This is why it is challenging for teachers to encourage them to attend school in this region.

The Nho Que River in Ha Giang truly offers an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern Vietnam. Whether you choose to embark on a boat journey, conquer the mountain peaks, or kayak along the river, the Nho Que River will leave you in awe of its beauty. Plan your visit to this enchanting destination and immerse yourself in the wonders of Ha Giang province. Contact DanangPrivateCar.com’s for detailed advice on your journey.

Suggested detailed itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh

What interesting things await you to experience in just 1 day of exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh? What should you pay attention to on this trip to ensure safety? Let’s explore the highlights of Quang Binh tourism together with the travel guide from DanangPrivateCar.com.

Detailed Itinerary for Exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh

Overview of Tra Ang Cave

Tra Ang Cave is located in the Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park, possessing a pristine and simple beauty. The advantage of this place lies in a relatively convenient route, without too many challenging obstacles compared to other caves in Quang Binh. Tra Ang Cave has a total length of about 700m, with the cave entrance width ranging from 40 to 50m. Inside the cave is an underground river with clear water, pristine stalactites, and a beauty that captivates the heart.

This place has a clear and cool underwater lake

The itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh is currently favored by many young people because in just one day, you can explore all the romantic beauty of this place. Additionally, Tra Ang Cave has been a filming location for the legend of Quán Tiên, recorded episodes of the Amazing Race Vietnam 2019, and the Steps of Exploration program, among others. There are many impressive spots here for you to take captivating photos and experience the journey of exploring Quảng Bình tourism with friends.

Detailed Itinerary for Exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh

7:30 AM: In the morning, find a place for breakfast and then prepare your belongings to start the itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quảng Bình.

9:00 AM: Departure on Route 20 Quyết Thắng to enter Phong Nha – Kẻ Bàng National Park.

10:00 AM: Park your vehicle at km34 station and then hike down to Trạ Ang Valley.

10:15 AM: Arrive at Tra Ang Valley, prepare safety gear for swimming and exploring the wet cave.

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Swim through the 600m-long stream into the cave, explore the unique beauty of the area.

12:00 PM: Choose a flat area, enjoy lunch together. After eating, remember to clean up all trash and bring it down the mountain to the designated location.

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM: Experience kayaking, stream bathing, and relax by the Trạ Ang stream.

4:00 PM: Start the hiking journey back to Route 20 Quyet Thang, retrieve the vehicle, and return to Đồng Hới city, concluding the itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh.

The itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh is chosen by passionate trekking and adventure enthusiasts among tourist groups

Notes for Exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh

  • Firstly, based on the adventure travel experience in Quảng Bình, to have an itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave, you need to prepare complete safety equipment to help you swim through the 600m stream into the cave. Bring a backpack and a waterproof bag to safely store your belongings.
  • Secondly, as lunch is at the cave, prepare food according to your preferences, such as instant snacks, sausages, or, if you prefer, a more elaborate outdoor barbecue or picnic. However, try to bring the lightest and most compact items possible for a smoother hiking experience.
  • Finally, since the one-day exploration of Tra Ang Cave allows for more time, you may explore other caves in Phong Nha – Kẻ Bàng, such as the itinerary for exploring Hổ Cave in Quảng Bình for 3 days and 2 nights or explore Pygmy Cave, Tu Lan Cave, and others.

Above is the detailed itinerary for exploring Tra Ang Cave in Quang Binh that the travel guide DanangPrivateCar.com’s would like to suggest to you. Wishing you a smooth journey and memorable experiences when visiting this beautiful cave. Don’t forget to use the private car service in Quang Binh from DanangPrivateCar.com for the best trip to Tra Ang Cave, Quang Binh.

Top 14 specialties of Ho Chi Minh City to enjoy on the spot or buy as gifts, all of high quality.

The specialties of Ho Chi Minh City are the first thing that tourists should experience in the city named after Uncle Ho, where it is a convergence point of many cultures, bringing various unique flavors. Let’s go through the specialties to enjoy on the spot and the gifts to buy through the following article with DanangPrivateCar.com.

Must-Try Specialties of Ho Chi Minh City when Traveling

Saigon Broken Rice

  • Average price: About 25,000 – 60,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Ba Cuong Broken Rice, Bà Nam’s Kho Lòng Đào Broken Rice, Nguyễn Văn Cừ Broken Rice, Ba Ghien Broken Rice…
This is not just an ordinary delicious dish; it is also a culinary symbol of Ho Chi Minh City

When exploring Ho Chi Minh City, DanangPrivateCar.com recommends that you definitely should not miss this Saigon broken rice dish. The rich flavor of the rice combined with shiny and fatty pork ribs can captivate every diner at first sight. The main type of rice used for this Saigon specialty is broken rice, and it is accompanied by other side dishes such as fried eggs, shredded pork skin, pork sausage, pickled vegetables, and cucumber.

Nam Vang Noodle Soup

  • Average price: About 35,000 – 60,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Thành Đạt Nam Vang Noodle Soup, Nhân Quán, Liến Húa, Tài Anh…
Whether it’s Nam Vang noodle soup with broth or dry, both are equally delicious specialties of Ho Chi Minh City

A Saigon specialty originating from Cambodia and imported into Vietnam a hundred years ago, Nam Vang noodle soup requires the preparation of bone broth for 7-8 hours with various vegetables such as ginger, purple onions, radishes, and celery. There are two ways to enjoy this dish: dry or with soup. However, the main ingredients remain the same, including Nam Vang noodles, pork liver, shrimp, minced meat, clear broth, and fresh vegetables.

Dried Beef Salad

  • Average price: About 15,000 – 30,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Lê Văn Tám Park Dried Beef Salad, Ông Năm, Phương Liên…

The rich and full-flavored dried beef salad is a Saigon specialty loved by many young people due to its various toppings. Upon trying it, you can feel the chewiness of the dried beef, the intense flavor of the sauce, spicy chili, and the crispiness of shredded green papaya.

The street-style dried beef salad still possesses a unique and enticing charm

Fried Rice Cake

  • Average price: About 20,000 – 30,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Đạt Thành Fried Rice Cake on Võ Văn Tần Street, Sáu Fried Rice Cake on Tên Lửa Street, Bảo Lâm Nguyễn Tất Thành Fried Rice Cake…

Originating from China, fried rice cakes have become a popular breakfast or snack in Vietnam. Thinly sliced and covered with a soft egg layer on the outside, they are served with flavorful broth that mesmerizes diners far and wide.


Fried rice cake is often most favored during snack times

Mixed Rice Paper

  • Average price: About 15,000 – 30,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Chú Viên Mixed Rice Paper, Aunt Năm, Aunt Thảo on Nguyễn Thượng Hiền Street, Hòa Hảo Mixed Rice Paper in District 10…

One of the most beloved Saigon specialties among young people is probably mixed rice paper. Small pieces of rice paper are mixed with fried shallots, satay, peanuts, quail eggs, dried beef, and shredded mango, all coated with a rich and flavorful sauce, providing an impressive culinary experience.

Nowhere else does this street-side snack stand out and garner as much love as it does in Saigon

Saigon Specialty Milk Tea

  • Average price: About 30,000 – 75,000 VND per cup
  • Recommended places: Phúc Long, Cheese Coffee, Là Việt…

When visiting Saigon, you will undoubtedly be familiar with the numerous milk tea stalls scattered everywhere. Each shop offers a unique flavor that captivates every customer.

Fresh Spring Rolls

  • Average price: About 7,000 – 10,000 VND per roll
  • Recommended places: LLQ’s Jumping Shrimp Fresh Spring Rolls on Lạc Long Quân Street, Lê Văn Sĩ Fresh Spring Rolls, Ngon Ngon Fresh Spring Rolls on An Dương Vương Street…

A popular Saigon specialty loved by both visitors and locals alike, fresh spring rolls use familiar ingredients such as pork, boiled shrimp, vermicelli, lettuce, all rolled in a crispy rice paper. The standout feature is the dipping sauce, either fish sauce with minced garlic or black bean sauce, accompanied by enticing pickled vegetables.

Shrimp spring rolls can be dipped in peanut sauce or fermented shrimp paste for added flavor

Beef Offal Hotpot

  • Average price: About 15,000 – 30,000 VND per serving
  • Recommended places: Aunt Thảo’s Offal Hotpot on Tôn Đản Street, Aunt Nủi on Tôn Đản Street, Marie Curie’s Dim Sum – Beef Offal Hotpot…

A Saigon specialty that cannot be overlooked, especially favored by young people and students. The piping hot offal hotpot comes with a variety of quality toppings such as tripe, young fern, honeycomb, beef heart, all eaten with a broth simmered with fresh coconut. The accompanying baguette with crispy offal, bitten along with beef heart, dipped in the broth, is an unparalleled delight.

Beloved Specialties of Ho Chi Minh City as Gifts

Crispy Rice with Pork Floss

  • Average price: About 55,000 VND per 250-gram portion
  • Recommended places: Rộp Rộp Crispy Rice on National Highway 1A, Lan Anh Crispy Rice with Pork Floss on Tân Sơn Nhì Street.

This Saigon specialty is highly favored as a gift. Crispy rice with pork floss uses clean and hygienic ingredients, ensuring it can be consumed within a certain period. The rich flavor of the rice combined with pork floss is addictive.

Crispy rice, neatly packaged, makes a clean and delightful gift

Pia Cake

  • Average price: About 70,000 VND per 300-gram box
  • Recommended places: Tân Huê Viên, Hưng Thành Pia Cake, specialty store on Ngô Tất Tố Street in the Mekong Delta.

One of the top-loved pastries in Saigon, Pia Cake originates from the southwestern region of Vietnam. With an appealing orange color, a soft and chewy filling, and a thin crust that melts in the mouth, the main ingredients include flour, sweet potatoes, mung beans, durian, and a salted egg yolk.

Golden Thread Mooncake with a unique twist

Purple Leaf Tet Cake

  • Average price: About 70,000 – 100,000 VND per portion
  • Recommended places: Specialty store on Điện Biên Phủ Street in the Mekong Delta, Út Tết Tet Cake on Lê Hồng Phong Street, Mẹ Quê Bakery on Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street.

Purple Leaf Tet Cake, a Saigon specialty, is a popular choice as a gift due to its lingering aroma from the banana leaf wrapping. The fragrant, sticky rice, flavorful meat filling, and impressive colors are significant highlights. With carefully selected ingredients and no preservatives, it ensures the health of the consumers.


The specialty of purple leaf Tet cake is loved for its impressive color

Phuc Long Tea

  • Average price: About 45,000 – 100,000 VND per box or package
  • Recommended places: Various Phuc Long branches within the city

The Phuc Long tea brand offers a characteristic mild bitterness, not harsh, and is favored by many visitors. Packaged in various forms such as boxes, bags, cans, and packets, it is neatly presented and suitable for gift-giving. Flavors to consider include peach, grape, lychee, and dragon fruit.

Phuc Long’s filtered tea comes in various flavors

Roll Cake with Salted Egg and Pork Floss

  • Average price: About 65,000 – 100,000 VND per portion
  • Recommended places: MUP Cake on Nguyễn Hữu Cảnh Street, Lala Bakery on Dương Bá Trạc Street, Bánh Nhà Mình on Đào Duy Anh Street.

Fresh roll cake is made from wheat flour, chicken eggs, and fresh milk, offering just the right amount of natural sweetness. The harmonious combination of roll cake, salted egg, and pork floss is truly irresistible, though it’s important to note that this delicious treat is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. Consider gifting it immediately upon your return from your trip.

Roll cake with salted egg and pork floss is mouthwatering but has a short shelf life

Fresh Roasted Salted Cashews

  • Average price: About 135,000 – 180,000 VND per 1 kg
  • Recommended places: Hadifood on Lê Văn Lương Street, VinaNuts Roasted Cashews on Trịnh Đình Trọng Street.

This healthy Saigon snack makes a suitable gift for both adults and children. Saigon’s roasted salted cashews use high-quality ingredients, ensuring hygiene and popularity due to their delicious flavor. The meticulous and eye-catching packaging adds extra value to your gift.

Add the list of specialties from Ho Chi Minh City here to your travel guide before starting your journey. Don’t forget to use the private car rental service with drivers in Ho Chi Minh City from DanangPrivateCar.com for the best travel experience.

Top 10 most beautiful must-visit cloud hunting spots in Sapa

Hunting clouds in Sapa is one of the most fascinating activities that tourists love when experiencing Sapa travel. So, have you discovered the most beautiful cloud hunting spots in Sapa yet? Refer to the article below from DanangPrivateCar.com for experiences in cloud hunting and capturing the most fantastic photos with Sapa’s sky in your upcoming journey!

Fansipan Peak

Fansipan Peak is the most captivating cloud hunting location in Sapa. It is the highest peak in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and also the highest mountain in the three Indochina countries, with an accurate height of 3143m. With this elevation, Fansipan is often referred to as the “roof of Indochina,” a must-visit and explore spot for travelers experiencing Sapa tourism.

Fansipan Peak is the most captivating cloud hunting location in Sapa

From the summit of Fansipan, visitors can admire the panoramic view of Sapa town hidden in the mist. On a beautiful sunny day, if lucky, you may even have the chance to witness the sea of clouds drifting gracefully across the Fansipan sky. Standing at the legendary “Roof of Indochina,” Fansipan, it is a proud and joyful experience to feel such a unique sensation.

The best time for cloud hunting at Fansipan is around October, November, or February, March of the following year. During this time, Sapa’s climate is mild, with less rain, making the appearance of drifting clouds quite frequent.

O Quy Ho Pass

Besides Fansipan, O Quy Ho Pass continues to be an enchanting cloud hunting destination in Sapa. O Quy Ho Pass is part of the “Four Great Passes” – the four most challenging mountain passes in Vietnam, located in O Quy Ho ward, Sapa, Lao Cai.

Situated at an altitude of over 2000m above sea level, O Quy Ho Pass winds through mountain cliffs, with one side being towering and majestic mountains, and the other side being deep valleys and distant small villages scattered on the hillside. Crossing this challenging road, travelers arriving at O Quy Ho Pass will truly feel amazed when witnessing the unique scenery with floating clouds resembling a fairyland.

Cloud hunting experience on the peak of O Quy Ho Pass

The best time for cloud hunting at O Quy Ho is around October and November. During this period, the weather is beautiful, not too cold, with less rain, and the golden sunlight shining through the white clouds creates a stunning rainbow effect.

Ham Rong Peak

Ham Rong Peak is not only one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Northwest mountainous region but also a renowned cloud hunting spot in Sapa. It is considered a glimpse of paradise amidst the misty town of Sapa.

The most addictive coordinates at Ham Rong Mountain
The most addictive coordinates at Ham Rong Mountain

At an altitude of 1800m, just behind the Sapa stone church, visitors can easily move around and hunt for clouds at any time of the day. However, the best time to hunt for clouds at Ham Rong is in the evening when the sunset bathes the Sapa landscape in a vibrant orange glow. At this time, the sea of clouds covering the city is illuminated, creating an incredibly charming scene for travelers.

On a sunny day, you may have the opportunity to see sparkling clouds under the golden light on the top of Ham Rong Peak. It will be an unforgettable moment and a picturesque scene.

Hang Da Village

Hang Da Village, located in Hau Chu Ngai hamlet, Hau Thao commune, Sapa, Lao Cai, offers a completely different cloud hunting experience in a poetic and rustic way.

Hang Da Village is a poor village, less known due to its difficult access. It is precisely because of this that the place maintains the simple and rustic beauty, from natural landscapes to culture and people. Despite being poor in material wealth, the natural scenery, the sky, and clouds in Ban Hang Da are incredibly beautiful, serving as a compensation for any shortcomings and enriching the spiritual life of the people here. Visit Ban Hang Da on a late November day, open your arms wide, and breathe in the pure air while admiring the breathtaking scenery in the early winter morning.

Sapa Heaven’s Gate

Sapa Heaven’s Gate is another cloud hunting location that travelers should experience when visiting Sapa. Located about 18 km north of the town center on the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, this area has not been explored much, making the road winding and challenging, especially the climb up the mountain.

Heaven’s Gate Sapa

Upon arrival, you will be stunned by the magnificent natural scenery, resembling a watercolor painting. In the distance, there are lush green terraced fields and winding Hoang Lien Son mountains. This place is dubbed as a paradise because of the breathtaking landscape that makes visitors feel like they are standing in a heavenly scene.

One reason not to miss cloud hunting at Sapa Heaven’s Gate is the changing natural scenery throughout the day. Particularly, during sunrise, visitors can enjoy a space filled with colors, white clouds, green mountains, and the impressive morning sun. The sunset, on the other hand, brings a completely different beauty, creating a romantic and serene atmosphere. According to legend, couples who admire the sunset at Heaven’s Gate will have enduring love.

Y Ty

Y Ty is also an ideal cloud hunting spot for tourists when visiting Sapa. Y Ty is a highland commune in Lao Cai, located at an altitude of over 2000m above sea level, ensuring a cool climate year-round and attracting travelers from all directions. The road to Y Ty passes through the forest, with few people passing by, so visitors need to pay more attention if choosing to hunt for clouds here.

The best time for cloud hunting in Y Ty is from September to November. During this time, Y Ty rarely experiences rain, and the vibrant yellow sunshine creates an impressive scene with white clouds floating in the sky. In Y Ty, the quiet valley seems to merge into the sky and touch nature. You can admire the harmonious landscape with floating clouds and captivating terraced fields, creating a charming and majestic natural scenery.

Sau Chua Village

Sau Chua Village is another cloud hunting location in Sapa that visitors can consider. Sau Chua Village is about a 17-minute drive from the Sapa town center. The road from the town to the village is straightforward, following Dien Bien Phu Street towards Lao Cai market, and you will find Ban Sau Chua near Bridge 32.

Ban Sau Chua boasts incredibly beautiful natural scenery and a cool atmosphere. Every morning, waking up to the sound of singing birds and breathing in the fresh air, visitors are treated to a peaceful atmosphere. Especially during the gradually brightening moments towards the dawn, the early sunlight seems to awaken every landscape here. The sunlight piercing through the dense fog creates a sea of clouds floating around the mountains. In addition, visitors can taste local specialties and take many beautiful photos against the charming and poetic backdrop of this attractive cloud hunting destination.

Hau Thao Commune

Hau Thao Commune is a beautiful cloud hunting spot in Sapa but is less known to tourists. It is mainly inhabited by the Mong ethnic group, and life here is still challenging and tough. Perhaps this is why, in a Sapa seemingly being commercialized for tourism, Hau Thao remains a beautiful cloud hunting spot, giving travelers a sense of peace and comfort as if returning to and blending with the clouds floating between the land, mountains, and forests of Sapa.

Sapa cloud hunting in Hau Thao commune

When visiting Hau Thao, tourists can admire the hidden sea of clouds behind the rock mountains. This uniqueness makes this land strange, beautiful, and captivating to those who love to explore.

Hau Chu Ngai Village

Located at an altitude of over 1,700m above sea level and about 7km from the Sapa town center, Hau Chu Ngai Village, in Hau Thao commune, Sapa, is an ideal cloud hunting spot for those who love traveling and exploration.

As a village far from the town center, not yet affected by tourism industrialization, Hau Chu Ngai is still a beautiful cloud hunting spot, providing visitors with a sense of peace and relaxation, as if they are returning to and blending with the clouds drifting between the land, mountains, and forests of Sapa.

The best time to hunt for clouds in Hau Chu Ngai village is around November and December

The best time to hunt for clouds at Ban Hau Chu Ngai is around November, December, or from February to March of the following year. During this time, the temperature starts to drop, humidity is high, and the sunrise is ideal for a successful cloud hunting moment. This is also the perfect time for visitors to witness a magnificent sea of clouds and admire the garden full of pear and plum blossoms in the vibrant sunlight.

Rock Garden Sapa Homestay

Rock Garden Sapa Homestay is located in Hau Chu Ngai hamlet, Sapa town. Situated about 15 minutes drive from the city, Rock Garden Sapa Homestay is a place where you can relax, stay, and hunt for clouds in Sapa, immersing yourself in the nature of the sky and land. Being located in a secluded position on the top of a hill, Rock Garden Sapa Homestay allows visitors to extend their vision to the Linh Ho valley, admire the floating sea of clouds around the majestic Hoang Lien Son range.

Rock Garden Sapa Homestay is located in Hau Chu Ngai hamlet

The above is a compilation from DanangPrivateCar.com’s of the most beautiful and worthwhile cloud hunting spots in Sapa. It is hoped that through this article, you have gathered useful information for your upcoming trip. If you are looking for a private travel service from Hanoi to Sapa, contact DanangPrivateCar.com now for advice and to book services at the best prices!

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