Quang Ninh - The North’s pearl for tourism
Quang Ninh is considered a miniature Vietnam due to its combination of seas, islands, plain, midland, mountain, and border. With a centuries-long history, this province appears as a melting pot of diverse cultures and ethnicities, making it an intriguing place to explore.
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| Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and popular travel destination in Quang Ninh (Source: Vietnam National Tourism Administration) |
In 2023, the city ranked third in Vietnam with a gross domestic product growth rate of 11.03%, twice that of the country. The strength of Quang Ninh can be seen in its transportation infrastructure, which includes a highway system connecting Hanoi and Hai Phong as well as an airport and seaport network.
Historical and cultural heritage
Numerous significant historical sites that provide insight into Vietnam's past can be found in Quang Ninh. Yen Tu Complex is a well-known Buddhist centre that draws pilgrims from all across the country. This sacred site, often referred to as the “Buddhist centre of Vietnam,” is where King Tran Nhan Tong founded the Truc Lam Zen sect in the 13th century. Visitors can trek up the mountain to the Dong Pagoda and enjoy the serene atmosphere and panoramic views.
Quang Ninh is also famous for its vibrant festivals. The annual Yen Tu Festival appears as the largest Buddhist festival in northern Vietnam. Pilgrims and tourists flock to Yen Tu Mountain to participate in ceremonies and enjoy traditional performances, making it a spiritual and cultural highlight of the year.
A highly recommended place to visit is the Cua Ong Temple, which honours the national hero Tran Quoc Tang. The temple complex's intricate carvings and statues are a testament to the region's rich cultural and spiritual heritage.
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| Ha Long night market. |
Another significant occasion that highlights the cultural variety of the province is the Carnaval Ha Long. This annual festival features colourful parades, music, dance, and fireworks, reflecting the joyful and dynamic spirit of Quang Ninh.
Tourist attractions and entertainment
Quang Ninh’s natural landscapes are nothing but spectacular. With its emerald waters and thousands of limestone karsts and isles, Ha Long Bay shows up as a crown jewel. Cruising around Ha Long Bay, visitors can explore stunning caves such as Sung Sot Cave and Thien Cung Cave, as well as enjoy activities like kayaking and swimming.
Visitors may enjoy swimming and sunbathing on the lovely sandy beach of Bai Chay, as well as a bustling and colourful ambience along the beach, which surrounds several hotels, restaurants, and bars.
For those who want to taste regional dishes and live a local lifestyle, Quang Ninh's night markets are a pleasure. Vendors selling everything from fresh seafood to handcrafted items are hopping at the Ha Long Night Market. It’s an excellent place to shop for souvenirs and taste local delicacies.
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| Scattered at a height of about 1,000 meters in the Dong Trieu mountain range, Yen Tu is a relic complex with eleven pagodas and hundreds of temples, towers, sculptures, and forests of old trees. (Source: baoquangninh) |
After Resolution No. 07-NQ/TU in 2012 on Quang Ninh's tourism development, Quang Ninh’s tourism potential has truly been awakened by methodically exploiting the available values of nature, culture, and infrastructure. In just a short time, a system of high-class accommodation facilities and themed entertainment areas was established, ranging from high-end beach hotels to luxury hot mineral resorts.
Culinary delights
A trip to Quang Ninh is not complete without tasting its food. A specialty of the coastal region, cha muc, or squid cakes, showcases the abundance of fish available there. The chewy and delicious cakes made from freshly caught squid are best consumed with dipping sauce.
In Quang Ninh, a kind of sea worm called “sa sung” serves as a delicacy. Adventuresome foodies shouldn't miss this unique culinary experience. It's often stir-fried or dried and snacked on.
International travel magazines and websites, such as Lonely Planet, National Geographic, and CNN Travel, have featured Quang Ninh, especially Ha Long Bay, in their travel guides and articles. These publications often rank Ha Long Bay among the top natural wonders of the world and recommend it as a top travel destination. Documentaries produced by channels like BBC Earth and Discovery Channel have featured Ha Long Bay, exploring its geological formations, marine life, and cultural significance and delving into the efforts to preserve its ecosystem.
The province of Quang Ninh skillfully integrates historical significance, natural beauty, and cultural diversity. It provides travellers with an amazing experience with its breathtaking scenery, lively festivals, and delicious cuisine. We invite you to explore Quảng Ninh, discover its hidden gems, and immerse yourself in its unique charm.
