Halong Bay - A Cultural Tourism Treasure

Famous for its unique natural scenery, Halong Bay offers much more than just sightseeing for visitors in 2025. This breathtaking destination is a natural wonder that also carries deep cultural significance, which visitors can truly appreciate upon arrival.

Sightseeing

As a must-see destination for travelers exploring Vietnam, Halong Bay is renowned for its stunning beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage site has garnered global acclaim for its harmonious blend of uniquely shaped limestone islands, expansive waters, and a stunning sky that together create an extraordinary natural landscape. This captivating environment attracts countless visitors from all corners of the globe.

Photo : viator.com

If you've visited Phang Nga Bay in Thailand and were enchanted by the striking limestone cliffs and emerald waters, you may find Halong Bay even more breathtaking. The striking natural formations, including various grottos filled with spectacular stalactites, provide visitors with countless surprises and unforgettable experiences.

Cultural Tourism

Halong Bay also offers tourists a remarkable opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and daily life of its indigenous communities. Recent trends have seen a rise in popularity for homestay experiences and visits to fishing villages. Locations like Cua Van and Vong Vieng have turned into popular spots for travelers, offering unique homestay tours organized by numerous travel agencies.

Photo : mytour.vn

The warm and friendly smiles of the local residents create a welcoming atmosphere for visitors. Travelers can gain insights into the locals' way of life by learning traditional fishing techniques, such as casting nets and catching fish like a local fisherman. Additionally, participating in activities like the “Vong Vieng Night” provides deeper cultural understanding. Enjoying a tranquil moment on a coracle while listening to traditional folk melodies, or fishing for cuttlefish under the stars, heightens the overall experience.

Spiritual Tourism

Halong Bay, literally meaning "Descending Dragon," is steeped in legend and surrounded by a sacred ambiance. This region is also known as the birthplace of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, established by King Tran Nhan Tong in the 13th century. Many visitors come to Halong not only to admire the bay’s stunning vistas but also to seek tranquility and spiritual rejuvenation.

Yen Tu Mountain, famous for its majestic landscapes and ancient religious architecture, is closely linked to Truc Lam Zen and serves as another prominent spiritual destination. This site attracts many visitors in the spring, especially during the annual Yen Tu festival, which occurs from the beginning of the lunar calendar (generally in late January) through the end of March. This time is traditionally associated with pagoda pilgrimages across Vietnam, symbolizing good luck, and the enjoyment of the bay's beautiful nature and mild climate.

Photo : dulichchat.vn

Local beliefs suggest that those who reach Dong Pagoda at the peak of Yen Tu Mountain will have their wishes granted. Therefore, any visitors to Halong Bay should consider taking the challenge of reaching the summit to see if their desires will come true.