Hai Phong

Hai Phong, an energetic seaside city in northern Vietnam, combines a dynamic urban environment, rich history, and breathtaking scenery. As one of the main port cities in Vietnam, it has long been a center of trade and cultural interaction, which adds to its special appeal. The city's architecture reflects its colonial past: big French-era buildings, boulevards lined with trees, and vibrant marketplaces displaying a mix of old and new.

Hai Phong offers lots for nature enthusiasts to discover since the impressive Cat Ba Archipelago entrance is part of Halong Bay, designated for UNESCO listing. Cat Ba Island is the most significant island in the area, which features perfect beaches, secret caverns, and rocky limestone karsts. Cat Ba National Park, a refuge for biodiversity where guests may walk through deep forests and find uncommon species, including the threatened Cat Ba langur, also calls the island home. Kayaking, boat trips, and snorkeling in isolated bays are possibilities in the nearby seas.

Beyond Cat Ba, another well-liked destination with golden sands and a laid-back seaside vibe is Do Son Beach. Locals and guests looking for a quiet haven from city life have long turned to this location. Do Son is particularly well-known for its yearly buffalo battle festival, an unusual cultural event spanning hundreds of years that attracts people throughout the area.

One more attraction of any trip is Hai Phong's cuisine. Being a seaside city, it is well-known for its fresh seafood; local favorites include fried crab spring rolls called nem cua bể and bánh đa cua, or crab noodle soup. Local restaurants and street food vendors provide a real experience of the city's culinary legacy, where guests may enjoy tastes strongly anchored in the way of life there.

Despite its fast growth, Hai Phong maintains a laid-back appeal that distinguishes it from other big cities in Vietnam. For those wishing to enjoy the calm serenity of nature and the vibrant pulse of an urban center, its well-preserved cultural traditions, friendly residents, and varied activities make it the perfect location. Hai Phong guarantees a fantastic trip, whether visiting historical places, starting island activities, or savoring its cuisine.

About 22 kilometers southeast of Hai Phong's city center, Do Son Beach is a seaside haven long preferred by residents and visitors looking for a laid-back vacation. Tucked on a gorgeous peninsula stretching into the Gulf of Tonkin, this beach town is surrounded by undulating hills, verdant pine forests, and a sequence of curled sandy beaches, producing a distinctive scene where the sea meets the mountains. Do Son has always been a popular vacation spot mainly due to its handy position; even during French rule, Vietnamese royal and colonial-era officials used it as a resort.

Son Beach consists of three central regions, each having a unique appeal. Perfect for enjoying fresh seafood while listening to the waves, the first beach area closest to the city is vibrant and busy with neighborhood seafood eateries and seaside cafés. The second section is perfect for leisurely walks or unwinding by the ocean. It is well-known for its quieter environment and laid-back setting with coast views. Ideal for those looking for peace and unspoiled beauty, the third area lower down the peninsula is calm and usually less busy.

Do Son has great historical and cultural value outside of the beaches. It hosts the yearly Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival, a custom steeped in Vietnamese mythology and culture. Held every autumn, this celebration attracts many people to see the spectacle of strong buffaloes fighting symbolic battles, which are said to bring wealth and good fortune. Apart from a fantastic show, the festival offers a unique window into the customs and communal attitude of the area.

Not far from the shore, guests may tour the Bao Dai Villa, a historical home initially used as a haven for Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam. Rising on a hill, the villa gives expansive views of the seaside and a window into the opulent way of life of the royal family. Reflecting the colonial era, the architecture and furniture combine Vietnamese and French inspirations.

Son also offers spiritual sites worth seeing, like the thousand-year-old Buddhist site, the Tuong Long Pagoda. Rising on a hill with a sea view, the pagoda is a serene haven where guests may marvel at exquisite carvings, historic artifacts, and fantastic shoreline views. Sunrise and sunset, when the sky is painted in tones of orange and pink, create a calm and almost magical environment on the site.

Another highlight is the gastronomic experience in Do Son; local seafood is a must-eat. From steaming and grilling to traditional Vietnamese soups and stir-fries, fresh-caught prawns, squid, clams, and fish are cooked in many ways. Serving a real sense of the coastal way, street sellers and seaside restaurants present mouthwatering cuisine such as grilled oysters with scallion oil, bánh đa cua (Hai Phong's well-known crab noodle soup), and crispy-fried seafood spring rolls.

The biggest and most well-known island in the Cat Ba Archipelago, a breathtaking collection of about 400 islands in the Gulf of Tonkin, Cat Ba Island is roughly 50 kilometers east of Hai Phong city. One of the most amazing locations in northern Vietnam, Cat Ba is tucked away on the southwest side of the UNESCO-listed Halong Bay and is a paradise of rugged limestone mountains, secret caverns, rich tropical woods, and immaculate beaches. Renowned for its outstanding natural beauty and rich diversity, the island presents the ideal fusion of adventure, leisure, and cultural encounters.

Cat Ba National Park covers almost half of the island, one of Cat Ba's most impressive characteristics. One of the rarest primates in the world, the severely endangered Cat Ba langur, calls this national park home. Visitors can explore the park by means of several walking paths, some of which go to Ngu Lam Peak and provide panoramic views of the island's stunning karst terrain. Guided eco-tours allow individuals looking for a closer relationship with nature to see rare species and learn about island conservation initiatives.

Beautiful beaches abound on the island; the most often used are Cat Co 1, Cat Co 2, and Cat Co 3. Just a short drive from Cat Ba Town, these beaches have beautiful golden sands and glistening clean waves ideal for swimming, tanning, or just savoring the peace of the coast. A wooden walk linking the beaches along the cliffs provides a picturesque coastal walk with fantastic bay views. There is a gorgeous sunset at Cat Co Beach since the vivid orange and pink sky dreamily illuminates the sea.

Lan Ha Bay south of Cat Ba Island is remarkable for those who enjoy adventure. Often regarded as a quieter and more immaculate substitute for Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay boasts floating fishing communities, emerald waters, and tall limestone cliffs. A popular sport is kayaking the bay, which lets guests discover limestone caverns, secret lagoons, and quiet beaches. Many boat trips also stop at Monkey Island. On this little island, guests may trek to a breathtaking view or lounge on the shore while seeing energetic monkeys.

The island experience gains an unusual cultural element from the floating fishing settlements of Cat Ba. Two more well-known settlements are Cua Van and Viet Hai, where residents have used aquaculture and traditional fishing to support themselves for centuries. A tour of these communities offers insight into the daily life of the islanders, with chances to eat fresh seafood, engage with local fishermen, and even visit a homestay in a floating house.

Hospital Cave, a covert underground hospital run during the Vietnam War, is among Cat Ba's most fascinating sites. Designed into the limestone rocks, this multi-level cave provided soldiers with a bomb-proof refuge and medical center. Investigating its dark hallways, operation rooms, and secret chambers provides a remarkable window into the island's military past and resiliency.

Another highlight is the gastronomic scene on Cat Ba Island; fresh seafood is quite popular. Among the local favorites are grilled squid, steaming mantis shrimp, hot stir-fried sea snails, and the well-known Cat Ba seafood hotpot. A must-try experience that accentuates the seaside appeal of the island is dining at a floating restaurant where seafood is caught and cooked just on demand.

One of the first and most beautiful floating fishing communities in Vietnam, Cai Beo Fishing Village is situated in the seas off Cat Ba Island. Just two kilometers from Cat Ba Town, this ancient village is tucked away in the magnificent Lan Ha Bay seascape, encircled by tall limestone karsts and emerald-green waves. Having a history spanning more than 7,000 years, Cai Beo is regarded as one of the first human communities in Vietnam and provides guests with a distinctive window into the age-old way of life maintained for centuries.

Unlike contemporary fishing villages, Cai Beo is a floating community where residences, fish farms, and docks are erected on rafts that softly swing with the tides. Many residents, who have spent decades here, depend primarily on aquaculture and fishing for their livelihood. One of the most photogenic locations in northern Vietnam, wooden fishing boats, vibrant floating homes, and big fish cages create a whimsical and surreal scene.

The best way to see this intriguing town is by boating through Cai Beo Village. Hoping in a little wooden boat or kayak, visitors may paddle over the calm waters, dodging fish farms and floating homes. Many of these houses are joined by little wooden planks, where residents go about their daily business fixing fishing nets, feeding fish, and cooking seafood for the market. Seeing their way of life helps one respect their tenacity and close connection to the water.

Fish and seafood farming is their specialty; grouper, cobia, and sea bass species are kept in big netted enclosures under their floating dwellings. Specific households also grow oysters and other shellfish, therefore supporting the thriving seafood market in Cat Ba. Stopping by floating seafood restaurants, where freshly caught fish and shellfish are cooked on the water, provides a unique eating experience against limestone cliffs.

Besides its cultural and financial relevance, Cai Beo is a significant archeological site offering proof of past human communities in the area. Stone tools, pottery, and shell remains among the ancient relics unearthed by local excavations point to prehistoric communities flourishing here thousands of years ago. This renders Cai Beo not just a fishing community but also a living museum of Vietnam's maritime past.

The community stays primarily traditional, but modern ideas are gradually finding their way in. Some families have modified their floating homes to suit guests, providing homestay opportunities whereby guests may spend a night on the water, engage in fishing, and enjoy the local way of life.

Lan Ha Bay is a stunning landscape of emerald waters with towering limestone karsts and isolated sandy beaches just south of the well-known Halong Bay. Lan Ha Bay provides a quieter, more pure substitute even though its more famous neighbor usually dominates it, which makes it a perfect place for visitors looking for natural beauty free from the tourists. Comprising about 7,000 hectares, the Bay is a part of the Cat Ba Archipelago. It may be reached from Cat Ba Island, the primary entrance for tourism.

Lan Ha Bay distinguishes itself with its close concentration of about 400 limestone islets and karst formations—many of which are covered in rich vegetation. While most of the islands in Halong Bay are deserted, Lan Ha Bay boasts floating fishing towns that have flourished for decades. Among the most remarkable are Cua Van and Viet Hai, where residents maintain their way of life using aquaculture and conventional fishing. With chances to see a floating house, sample fresh seafood, and even engage in fishing, a trip to these settlements provides a window into the daily life of the people living on the Bay.

Kayak is one of the most excellent methods to see Lan Ha Bay since tiny boats only allow access to the peaceful beaches, lagoons, and secret caverns that define the Bay. Paddling across little streams between limestone cliffs, kayakers can find unspoiled areas ideal for swimming and finding. Among the most well-known locations are Ba Trai Dao Beach, renowned for its silky white sand and glistening clean waves, and Dark and Bright Cave, a picturesque water tunnel leading into a calm lagoon flanked by sheer cliffs.

Rock climbing is a well-liked pastime for adventure seekers in Lan Ha Bay. With various areas with overhanging cliffs that drop straight into the sea, allowing for deep-water soloing, the limestone formations of the Bay give excellent conditions for climbers of every ability. There are guided climbing trips, which provide an exciting approach to view the dramatic scenery of the Bay closely.

Monkey Island, a little-known location called after the cheeky monkeys living on Lan Ha Bay, is another attraction. A little climb up the rocky slopes of the island yields a panoramic view of the Bay, where the emerald seas run as far as the eye can reach. Boat trips frequent the island since its beach is excellent for swimming and leisure.

Lan Ha Bay will also appeal to divers and snorkelers, as the seas have vivid coral reefs bursting with aquatic life. Some of the best snorkeling sites are near Van Boi Beach and the nearby islets, where vibrant fish and coral formations may be seen under the glistening, shallow waves.

Lan Ha Water's opulent overnight cruises are another highlight since they offer a unique approach to seeing the calm beauty of the water. Lan Ha Bay, unlike Halong Bay, where big cruise ships predominate, is well-known for its boutique cruises, which provide a more private and exclusive experience. Often including onboard cuisine, kayaking trips, squid fishing at night, and morning tai chi sessions on deck, these cruises let guests enjoy the Bay's peace.

The fresh and delicious cuisine Lan Ha Bay offers will also thrill seafood aficionados. Local cuisine, including grilled squid, steaming mantis shrimp, and fresh oysters taken straight from the Bay, is showcased at floating restaurants and cruise dining experiences. Fresh seafood, breathtaking surroundings, and a serene atmosphere create a unique dining experience.

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Hidden jewel in Hai Phong's coastal area, Long Chau Island, sometimes known as Dragon Eye Island, is roughly 15 kilometers southeast of Cat Ba Island; comprising over thirty rocky islets, the Long Chau Archipelago is part of which this island is renowned for its rocky limestone formations, glistening clean seas, and historical importance. Long Chau Island provides a sense of unspoiled wildness, making it an interesting place for adventurers and nature enthusiasts looking for an off-the-beaten-path experience, even if it is less well-known among visitors than Cat Ba or Lan Ha Bay.

Long Chau Island's stunning landscape, with soaring limestone cliffs formed by millennia of wind and seas, is among its most arresting characteristics. Unlike the verdant surroundings of Cat Ba, Long Chau is essentially desolate, covered with sharp rocks and little flora. The island gains raw, enigmatic beauty from its unusual terrain, which produces an unearthly atmosphere. Excellent for snorkeling and diving, where guests may discover vivid coral reefs and varied marine life, the surrounding seas are remarkably clean.

The island is known for its old lighthouse, which has guided ships across the Gulf of Tonkin for over a century. Constructed by the French in 1894, Long Chau Lighthouse is among the oldest and most significant lighthouses in Vietnam and significantly contributes to marine safety. Perched on a rocky slope, the lighthouse provides impressive sweeping views of the neighboring sea and islands. Though some climbing is involved, reaching the summit pays off with a breathtaking view that justifies the trip.

Long Chau Island is a significant ecological site as it hosts a range of seabirds and aquatic life. Both fishermen and environmentalists understand the area's abundant marine life, which includes many species, schools of fish, and sporadic sea turtle sightings. The island is still mostly underdeveloped, thus its purely natural surroundings—a dramatic contrast to the more commercialized sections of Halong Bay and Cat Ba.

Long Chau Island is not as readily reachable as other Hai Phong locations because of its distance and lack of tourism infrastructure. Usually, private boat trips or fishing boats set from Cat Ba Island help most guests access the island. Usually visited as a day excursion, the island lacks hotels or restaurants; hence, visitors carry their own supplies and have a peaceful, undisturbed experience apart from the throngs.

One of Vietnam's far-off and least visited islands, Bach Long Vy Island lies roughly 110 kilometers from Hai Phong's mainland in the center of the Gulf of Tonkin. Being Hai Phong's farthest offshore district, this little island is vital for Vietnam's maritime sovereignty and a significant fishing base. Bach Long Vy has a rugged appeal for those who visit despite its isolated position and little infrastructure; it offers stunning seascapes, untouched natural beauty, and a singular cultural experience.

The name "Bach Long Vy," which means "White Dragon's Tail," comes from an old myth about a dragon descending to guard the region and leaving behind a long, curving island like its tail. According to its legendary reputation, with cliffs, undulating hills, and miles of immaculate shoreline, the island's terrain is wild and dramatic. Unlike the limestone karsts of Halong Bay, Bach Long Vy's landscape is more rocky, covered with coastal bushes and thorny vegetation resistant to the strong sea winds.

The Bach Long Vy Lighthouse, a guiding beacon for ships negotiating the congested waters of the Gulf of Tonkin, is among the most famous sites on the island. Rising on a hill, the lighthouse provides broad views of the nearby sea. It emphasizes the island's importance as a major nautical outpost on a clear day. Tourists may see out over the boundless blue sea with fishing boats dotting the horizon.

With its strategic location, Bach Long Vy has long been a bustling fishing area, drawing fishermen from all northern Vietnamese coastal districts. Though isolated, the island boasts a tiny but substantial population mainly made of fishermen and their families, creating a close-knit society. Specialties, including dried squid, sea snails, and several kinds of fish harvested daily from the nearby waters, make the local seafood relatively fresh. Those who make it to the island can savor basic but delicious seafood dishes cooked in traditional coastal Vietnamese.

Unlike more developed tourist islands like Cat Ba, Bach Long Vy is mostly unaltered by business tourism. For those looking for a raw and real island experience, this is the perfect location, as there are no fancy resorts or main tourist attractions. Though less well-known, the beaches provide pure waves and a serene environment ideal for individuals who value isolation and surroundings. The rocky coast offers chances for seeing tidal pools and spotting aquatic creatures in their native habitat.

Getting to Bach Long Vy is difficult since the island is only reachable by water, and Hai Phong only provides sporadic ferry services, which are targeted largely at island residents and fishermen. Depending on the weather, the trip can last six to ten hours, so it is ideal for individuals who are really courageous and ready to welcome the uncertainty of sea travel.

Situated at No. 66 Điện Biên Phủ Street in the center of Hai Phong City, Hai Phong Museum is an intriguing cultural and historical site offering a thorough understanding of the town's rich legacy. Built-in a magnificent French colonial-era structure from the early 20th century, the museum is an architectural wonder with tall windows, a graceful façade, and minute decorative elements reflecting Hai Phong's past as a major trading port during the French colonial era.

Carefully placed exhibits spanning a broad spectrum of subjects follow Hai Phong's historical, cultural, and socioeconomic development. The first portion highlights Hai Phong's prehistoric and ancient past with remnants from early human communities, including stone tools, pottery, and bronze objects from the Đông Sơn civilization. These works emphasize the area's rich historical background and part in the early northern Vietnamese civilizations.

One of the museum's highlights is its collection honoring Hai Phong's marine past. One of Vietnam's biggest ports and a major coastal city, Hai Phong has long been the hub for trade, shipbuilding, and naval operations. The exhibits comprise old maps, replicas of traditional boats, and historical records proving the city's significance in Vietnam's marine growth. From its early days of wooden junks crossing the Red River Delta to the contemporary deep-water port acting as a vital gateway for international trade, visitors can also learn about the growth of Hai Phong's port system.

The museum also features a section dedicated to Hai Phong's opposition movements during several historical events, especially the fights against American and French soldiers. Battle relics, including weaponry, pictures, letters, and personal items of local revolutionaries who helped Vietnam become independent, are on exhibit. These displays provide a gripping story of the city's resiliency and the bravery of its inhabitants across several war and occupation periods.

The museum also exhibits Hai Phong's artistic and cultural legacy. Exhibits on local celebrations, mythology, and religious traditions coexist with traditional crafts like ceramics, textiles, and woodwork. The museum also emphasizes the several ethnic groups that call the city home and shows how various cultural influences have molded Hai Phong's character across millennia.

Beyond the inside displays, the museum's courtyard houses relics from ancient architecture, stone sculptures, and old cannons, augmenting the outdoor experience. The serene garden provides a quiet haven where guests may consider the rich history they have seen indoors.

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About 20 kilometers northeast of Hai Phong's city center, Trang Kenh Relic Area is a remarkable historical and cultural treasure in the lovely Thuy Nguyen District. Particularly during Vietnam's fight against foreign invaders, this region was well-known for its amazing limestone mountains, historic temples, and strong link to its rich past. Ignoring the Bach Dang River, Trang Kenh is a site of great natural beauty and historical importance, making it an interesting location for history buffs and environmentalists.

Trang Kenh's connection to the well-known Bach Dang River naval conflicts where Vietnamese soldiers under General Tran Hung Dao routed the Mongol invaders in the 13th century defines it. Strategically fought utilizing wooden stakes buried under the river's surface to capture and destroy enemy ships, this battle one of the biggest triumphs in Vietnamese military history marked Visitors to Trang Kenh today can see monuments and memorials honoring this important event to learn about military tactics supporting Vietnam's sovereignty protection.

Comprising a complex of historic temples and pagodas reflecting the spiritual and cultural legacy of the area, the property also boasts. Among them, the Tran Hung Dao Temple honors the fabled general by which residents and guests pay respects and learn about his leadership and contributions. Beautifully perched atop a hill, the temple provides sweeping views of the nearby karst mountains and the winding Bach Dang River. With its calm environment and complex architectural features, the Trang Kenh Pagoda nearby offers a pleasant haven for anybody looking for spiritual introspection.

Trang Kenh's magnificent limestone formations, which rise majestically from the riverbanks and create a fantastic scene reminiscent of Halong Bay but in a more peaceful and less-known environment, will enthrall nature enthusiasts. The area has many caverns, each with individual rock formations and historical stories. Some of these caverns were used as strategic hideouts and shelters throughout past wars, giving the site another level of historical mystery.

Trang Kenh also boasts a fantastic mountaintop view. A little climb up the limestone hills pays guests a panoramic view of the Bach Dang River, verdant woodlands, and the surrounding landscape. Perfect for photography and peaceful reflection, the sight of fishing boats floating down the river against the height of the cliffs produces a landscape of everlasting beauty.

Archaeological findings also abound at Trang Kenh; experts have found traces of prehistoric human communities, including stone tools and ceramics, spanning thousands of years. These results imply that early Vietnamese civilizations lived in the area long before written history, underscoring its importance as a historical and cultural gem.

Rising on Long Sơn Hill in the Do Son District, Tuong Long Tower is an excellent tribute to Vietnam's Buddhist past and a famous sight in Hai Phong. Rising gently above the coast at about 100 meters, the tower provides a fantastic panoramic view of Do Son Beach and the surrounding sea, enhancing a spiritual and scenic site. With architectural beauty and historical relevance, this ancient tower is evidence of northern Vietnam's rich religious and cultural traditions.

One of Vietnam's most respected Ly Dynasty kings, King Ly Thanh Tong, oversaw the construction of the Tuong Long Tower in the eleventh century, at a time noted for significant Buddhist influence. Historical accounts say the king commissioned the building of this tower upon dream divine inspiration. Originally an excellent construction, the tower's high elevation made it a crucial military outpost and a religious place. While serving as a defense of the northern coast against foreign invaders, it was also a significant prayer site for monks and pilgrims.

Completed recently, the present rebuild of Tuong Long Tower painstakingly preserves the core of its Ly Dynasty design. The tower is about thirty meters tall and is a graceful, multi-tiered construction covered in complex carvings and Buddhist symbolism-reflecting motifs. Every tower tier is exquisitely crafted with delicate designs inspired by lotus flowers, a Buddhist emblem representing enlightenment and purity. Ly Dynasty pagodas are mainly composed of red bricks, a prevalent building material that lends unique historical appeal.

The significant stone dragon relief that covers Tuong Long Tower's base is among its most arresting elements. Carved in the classic Ly Dynasty style, this dragon powerfully symbolizes strength and wealth, accentuating the site's spiritual relevance. With "Tuong Long," which means "Dragon's Image," the name captures the close relationship between the tower and the iconography of dragons in Vietnamese mythology and Buddhism.

The surrounds of Tuong Long Tower are equally fascinating and provide visitors with a quiet haven away from the busy metropolis. With its fresh sea wind and rich vegetation, the hilltop position produces a calm environment ideal for meditation and introspection. Clear days provide visitors with an unmatched perspective of Do Son's shoreline, with the glistening blue waves running ceaselessly into the distance.

Tuong Long Tower is a significant pilgrimage site for persons from Hai Phong who have a Buddhist background. Monks and followers who come to pay reverence to the Buddha and give prayers frequently visit it. Traditional ceremonies and Buddhist celebrations draw residents and visitors looking for spiritual enlightenment.

About 20 kilometers southwest of the city center, in the An Lao District, Elephant Mountain, sometimes known as Núi Voi, is among the most well-known natural and historical sites in Hai Phong. The form of this magnificent limestone mountain which is supposed to resemble a big elephant lying down gives it its name. Elephant Mountain is a must-visit site for history buffs, explorers, and nature lovers. Its stunning karst formations, enigmatic caverns, and close relationship to Vietnamese history and mythology make it a must-visit site.

One fantastic aspect of the scene is the mountain, whose sheer limestone cliffs are covered in rich flora. Rice fields and little towns surround it, producing a lovely panorama that wonderfully combines the quiet countryside with the rugged beauty of nature. Visitors may enjoy amazing views of the surrounding lowlands, where they can see vast areas of vegetation, twisting rivers, and the sporadic glimpse of traditional Vietnamese homes dotting the terrain as they climb the mountain.

Elephant Mountain's system of caverns, each with its own distinct rock formations and historical value, is one of its main draws. The three most well-known are Hang Bể (Broken Cave), Hang Cá Chép (Carp Cave), and Hang Họng Voi (Elephant's Throat Cave). For the residents, these caverns have cultural and spiritual worth in addition to being impressive geological structures. During prior battles, especially the resistance against the French and Americans, many of these caverns were utilized as hiding places and secret meeting sites by Vietnamese fighters. Discovering underground caverns helps guests respect the tenacity and creativity of people who used to hide there.

Elephant Mountain also boasts rich mythology and folklore. One of the most well-known stories is about a strong elephant that assisted the nearby inhabitants in defending their territory from invaders. Following death, the elephant was turned into stone, creating the modern mountain. Many residents gather here to pay their respects and seek blessings for strength and protection since this legend has given the spot spiritual value.

Apart from its historical and cultural features, Elephant Mountain is a great place for outdoor exploration and trekking. The limestone rocks guide the hiking paths, giving visitors the opportunity to ascend to different points of view and take in expansive vistas of the surrounding landscape. It's the ideal vacation from Hai Phong's busy daily life—the fresh air combined with the peace of nature.

The area around Elephant Mountain also organizes traditional celebrations, particularly in the spring, when residents come to celebrate with cultural events, customs, and folk games. These celebrations provide guests with a special chance to fully experience the local way of life and see customs passed down for decades.

About 20 kilometers from Hai Phong city center, in An Sơn Commune, Thuy Nguyen District, Tuyệt Tình Cốc is a hypnotic natural beauty that has enthralled visitors. Often referred to as the "Love Valley" or "Heavenly Lake," this little treasure is a stunning turquoise lake encircled by tall limestone cliffs, producing an almost surreal scene. Though recently added to the tourist map, Tuyet Tinh Coc has become somewhat well-known among adventure seekers, photographers, and environmentalists.

Initially, quarrying operations in the vicinity helped construct the lake. Rainwater and subterranean springs gradually filled the deep excavation site, producing an intensely blue-green body of water. The lake's hue changes with the angle of sunlight; it sometimes seems emerald green, other times a deep sapphire blue, creating a fantastic environment for photography. Remarkably beautiful and reminiscent of well-known scenic locations in China and other Southeast Asian regions, the contrast between the vivid water and the surrounding white-gray limestone cliffs gives the site a dramatic and attractive aspect.

Tuyet Tinh Coc's calm and unspoiled environment is among its main attractions. Unlike other packed tourist attractions, this one provides a quiet haven in nature, making it perfect for people wishing to escape the rush of city life. The lake's peaceful, mirror-like surface reflects the nearby cliffs, producing an image like entering a painting. Many guests come here to enjoy the peace, soak in the fresh air, and enjoy the breathtaking natural surroundings.

For Instagram buffs and photographers, Tuyểt Tình Cốc is heaven. The pure blue sea, tough granite formations, and brilliant sky contrast make for a perfect backdrop for amazing views. This location is popular among many couples and young visitors for pre-wedding picture sessions or creative vacation photography. The lake's magnificent look, particularly at sunrise or sunset, enhances its alluring allure.

The place offers opportunities for light walking and exploration, even if its main appeal is its natural beauty. The limestone cliffs provide excellent vantage points for panoramic views of the lake and environs. Though the terrain might be steep and rocky, adventurous guests regularly ascend to higher areas under advice to get the greatest angles.

Tuyet Tinh Coc is still quite an undeveloped location without commercial facilities, despite its increasing appeal. Visitors should arrive ready with their food, drink, and basics. Swimming is not advised as quarrying activities create the lake, and unknown depths and any underwater hazards could cause problems. Instead, guests are urged to appreciate the beauty from vantage points of safety.

Among the most famous religious sites in Hai Phong is Hai Phong Cathedral, sometimes known as Our Lady of the Rosary Cathedral. Right in the middle of the city at 46 Hoàng Văn Thụ Street, this magnificent Catholic church represents Hai Phong's colonial past and strong Christian legacy. Apart from being a place of worship, the cathedral is a cultural attraction that fascinates residents and tourists with its remarkable French Gothic architecture, serene environment, and long legacy.

Designed during the French colonial era in 1925, Hai Phong Cathedral reflects the architectural tastes of European churches from that day. Tall, pointed arches, large stone walls, and graceful stained-glass windows illustrating biblical events define the façade of the cathedral. Seen from a distance, its imposing bell tower accentuates the majesty of the cathedral. It acts as a familiar sight in the city. Despite its age, the cathedral has been well-preserved. It serves as the religious hub for the nearby Catholic population while retaining its historical appeal.

High vaulted ceilings, complex wooden pews, and an altar covered in religious figures and golden highlights define the equally remarkable interior of the cathedral. Sunlight streaming through the vibrantly colored stained-glass windows produces a calm, nearly magical atmosphere. The tranquility of the church offers a clear contrast to the busy streets outside, which makes it ideal for introspection and quiet thought.

Daily Mass services for local parishioners keep Hai Phong Cathedral open for active prayer. Particular religious celebrations, particularly during Christmas and Easter, draw large numbers of people, turning the cathedral into a vibrant hub of faith and celebration. These times, the church is exquisitely adorned with lights, nativity figures, and flower arrangements, thereby fostering a cozy and spiritual environment that welcomes both devout and inquisitive guests.

The church is fundamental historically since Hai Phong has just one surviving French colonial building. Hai Phong Cathedral has endured over time, conserving some of the city's heritage. However, many of the structures from that age have been replaced by contemporary construction. Its existence reminds us of the ethnic variety that molded Hai Phong and still shapes its character.

One of the most old and important Buddhist sites in Hai Phong is Du Hang Pagoda, at 121 Du Hang Street in Le Chan District. With a history spanning more than three centuries, this pagoda is not only a site of spiritual meditation but also an architectural and cultural gem reflecting the strong Buddhist traditions of northern Vietnam. Tucked away in the busy metropolis, Du Hang Pagoda provides a quiet haven where guests may enjoy the rich spiritual life of the nearby community and the tranquility of classic Vietnamese Buddhist architecture.

Du Hang Pagoda, initially constructed in the Early Le Dynasty (15th century) and subsequently rebuilt under the Nguyen Dynasty, has seen multiple renovations while retaining its historical character. The pagoda's design reflects the historical style of Vietnamese Buddhist temples, featuring curved, tiled rooftops, finely carved wooden pillars, and ornamental dragon patterns. Guardian figures and classical calligraphy cover the entrance gate, which stands for knowledge and protection.

Entering the pagoda, guests are met with a peaceful courtyard dotted with old stone sculptures, rich bonsai trees, and shrines loaded with incense. The pagoda complex comprises several prayer halls devoted to numerous Buddhist deities including Shakyamuni Buddha, Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy), and other Bodhisattvas. Surrounded by golden ornaments and flickering lamps, the great Buddha statue in the main hall creates a holy and meditating environment.

Du Hang Pagoda's notable features include its extensive collection of Buddhist books, antiquated relics, and centuries-old sculptures. The pagoda is a Buddhist learning and practice hub, with resident monks performing ongoing rituals, meditation sessions, and Dharma teachings. Those drawn to Buddhist philosophy can observe these spiritual ceremonies and even engage in times of quiet contemplation.

Apart from its religious value, Du Hang Pagoda is an integral part of Hai Phong's cultural and historical fabric. The pagoda provided cover and a venue for resistance activities, acting as a haven for residents and revolutionaries during the war. Still a gathering place for the Buddhist community today, it hosts yearly celebrations and events, especially during Vesak (Buddha's Birthday) and the Lunar New Year.