1. Overview of the Thu Bon River in Vietnam
1.1. Location
Originating from Ngoc Linh Mountain in Quang Ngai Province and stretching about 200 kilometers, the Thu Bon River flows north then east through narrow plains and low hills before reaching the East Sea at Cua Dai in Hoi An. On its way, it connects to the Vinh Dien River, which then flows into the Han River in Da Nang. Near its mouth, the Thu Bon River splits into several branches - the Truong Giang, Co Co, and Hoai Rivers.
The basin of the Thu Bon River spans most of Da Nang City and the former Quang Nam Province, formed by tributaries from the Truong Son Mountain Range. Covering 10,350 square kilometers, it is one of Vietnam’s largest inland basins.
1.2. Origin of the name
The Thu Bon River was named after Thu Bon Village, where a temple honors Lady Thu Bon in the Mother Goddess tradition. Legends say she was the wife or daughter of a general or a king, known for her long, pretty hair. During a battle, her troops lost and had to retreat. While fleeing, her hair got caught in a tree, causing her to fall from her horse and die, eventually ending up in the Thu Bon River. Her body reached Thu Bon village, radiating a fragrant aroma and refusing to drift further.
The people, admiring her noble sacrifice and miraculous protection, held a grand funeral, building a tomb and temple in her honor to worship her. In times of drought, flood, or famine, she was believed to bless the people and help restore their crops.
1.3. Significance
The Thu Bon River has long nurtured central Vietnam’s economy and the history of Hoi An. Along its banks lie two UNESCO World Heritage Sites - My Son Sanctuary and Hoi An Ancient Town. For centuries, the river has sustained life with fertile soil, fish, and trade routes, including the historic “salt road” linking the mountains and coasts. It connected highland and coastal communities, with sites like Tra Nhieu Lagoon, Hoi An Port, and Ban Thach Wharf welcoming merchant ships.
Beyond its economic value, the Thu Bon River remains a cultural symbol, flowing through local legends, folk songs, and literary works - a timeless source of inspiration.
>>> Discover rivers in Vietnam and interesting facts you should know about
2. Unmissable things to do on a Thu Bon River adventure
2.1. Take a scenic boat tour
With a boat tour, tourists can enjoy the stunning beauty of the Thu Bon River while experiencing the local culture. Here are some recommended tours:
- Sunset tour: Watch the river bathe in golden light as the sun sets and observe local fishermen. You’ll get a real sense of their daily life along the river.
- Combined tour - Boat, kayak and Tra Nhieu Village: Enjoy a sunset boat tour with kayaking. Then, visit Tra Nhieu Village to see local crafts like mat weaving and noodle making, listen to folk songs, and sample riverine specialties.
- Bay Mau Coconut Forest tour: Explore Bay Mau Coconut Forest, visit traditional stilt huts, and ride historical waterways by basket boat, tracing the paths once used by resistance fighters.
2.2. Release floating lanterns
Another thing to do is join the magical tradition of releasing floating lanterns on the Hoai River, a branch of the Thu Bon River. Celebrated in Hoi An on full-moon nights and holidays, the Lantern Festival lights up the river with hundreds of glowing lanterns. As night falls, their shimmering reflections mingle with lanterns along the banks, creating a truly enchanting scene.
2.3. Experience traditional fishing tours
In the Thu Bon River, rich fish and crab populations have supported local communities for generations. Visitors can join eco-tours to explore riverine traditions, cast nets, catch shrimp, and immerse themselves in the lush waterways. Local tour operators offer guided experiences where you can spend a day living like a traditional fisherman, gaining hands-on insight into the daily life here.
2.4. Explore historical and cultural sites along the river
The Thu Bon River winds through the heart of central Vietnam, offering tourists a journey through history and culture. Along its banks, craft villages like Dai Binh, Ban Thach, Phuoc Kieu, Thanh Ha, and Cam Kim showcase heritage. The river also links three world-renowned attractions: My Son Sanctuary, Hoi An Ancient Town, and the Cham Islands Biosphere Reserve. Traces of ancient Cham culture remain at Bang An, Chien Dan, and Khuong My towers. Near the river’s lower course, Thanh Ha Pottery Village, once a bustling Cham port, offers a glimpse of centuries-old trade activity and cultural exchange.
2.5. Savor local delicacies
While visiting the Thu Bon River, don’t forget to savor the region’s unique flavors:
- Uc fish sour soup: A refreshing sour soup with a balance of tangy, savory, and spicy notes.
- Braised Doi Coi fish with pickled mustard greens: Offering a delicate sweetness and a hint of tang.
- Sao fish sour soup: A flavorful soup featuring tender fish, a staple in local households.
- Denh fish rice porridge: A fragrant fish porridge with aromatic herbs, leaving a memorable taste after every spoonful.
2.6. Paddle a kayak
Tourists can explore the river by kayak, gliding along its calm water at sunrise or sunset. This hands-on experience lets you admire the scenic riverbanks, watch daily life unfold along the river, and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings. Kayaking offers a unique way to connect with the river, enjoy gentle adventure, and see Hoi An from a fresh perspective.
>>> Check out the top attractions in Hoi An for diverse experiences!
FAQs about the Thu Bon River in Hoi An
Where is the Thu Bon River located?
The river originates in Ngoc Linh Mountain (Quang Ngai Province) and flows into the sea at Cua Dai, Hoi An (Da Nang City).
When is the best time to visit the Thu Bon River?
From March to August when the weather is dry, perfect for boat rides. Avoid the period from October to December - the rainy season, when high water levels can make river travels unsafe.
What festivals take place on the Thu Bon River?
The river hosts vibrant cultural events throughout the year. The Hoi An Lantern Festival, held monthly on full-moon nights, lights up the river with glowing lanterns. In spring, there is the Lady Thu Bon Festival taking place on the 12th day of the 2nd lunar month.
What activities can tourists enjoy on the Thu Bon River?
Popular activities include taking boat tours at sunset, releasing floating lanterns, going fishing, and exploring craft villages.
The Thu Bon River blends history, culture, and nature. From an ancient trade route to a modern eco-tourism gem, it remains a living heritage, inviting visitors to connect with the beauty of central Vietnam.
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