1. Is Yen Tu Mountain worth visiting?

Yen Tu Mountain stretches across three northern provinces of Vietnam: Quang Ninh, Bac Giang, and Hai Duong. Its highest peak, at 1,068 meters, provides a stunning view, frequently enveloped in ethereal clouds, crafting a poetic and mystical scene.

Yen Tu is a sacred Buddhist site deeply tied to Emperor Tran Nhan Tong (1258-1308), who twice led Vietnam to victory over the Mongols' invasion before abdicating to pursue enlightenment, founding the Truc Lam Zen sect. The eastern slope of Yen Tu is where he practiced, while the western slope marked his path of spreading the Dharma.

Blending natural beauty and spiritual heritage, Yen Tu Mountain is a must-visit destination for North Vietnam cultural tours. Throughout Vietnam’s dynasties, Yen Tu remained a key Buddhist hub, with ancient temples and monuments reflecting centuries of history. As part of the Dong Trieu arc, its Quaternary-era terrain features sandstone, conglomerates, and alluvium, forming striking landscapes like the Golden and Silver waterfalls, the Heavenly Gate, pine-lined paths, and bamboo groves.

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2. How to get to Yen Tu Mountain?

To reach Yen Tu from Ha Long, travelers must first head to Giai Oan Stream in Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh. From there, they can choose between trekking and taking the cable car to reach the summit. The route from Bai Chay Bridge to Giai Oan Stream spans about 55 kilometers via the following roads: Bai Chay Bridge – Ha Long Road – Hoang Quoc Viet Street – National Highway 18 – Trung Vuong Street – Song Uong Bridge – Quyet Tien Road – Bac Son Road – Provincial Road 326 – Yen Tu Road.

2.1. By trekking

For people who love trekking in Vietnam, climbing Yen Tu is an unforgettable adventure. The pilgrimage trail begins at Giai Oan Stream at the mountain’s base and stretches about 6 kilometers, involving a challenging climb of over 6,000 stone steps. Reaching the summit at an elevation of 1068 meters, where Dong Pagoda stands, takes 4-5 hours on foot. A bamboo walking stick is an essential tool for this journey.

2.2. By cable car

For time-pressed or energy-conscious visitors, Yen Tu’s cable car halves the journey to Dong Pagoda to around 2 hours, offering stunning aerial views. There are currently two cable car routes:

Hoang Long Route: From Giai Oan Pagoda to Hoa Yen Pagoda.
Bach Long Route: From Mot Mai Pagoda to the An Ky Sinh Statue, followed by a hike to the summit’s Dong Pagoda.

Yen Tu Mountain cable cars operate daily, year-round:

Festival season: From 6 AM until the last guest.
Off-season: From 7 AM to 6 PM.

Ticket prices:

Hoang Long Route or Bach Long Route: 180,000 VND one-way / 230,000 VND round-trip per person.
Combined one-way descent: 280,000 VND per person.
One-way up (1 route) + combined one-way descent (2 routes) (in case visitors hike halfway up and then take the cable car for the remaining route): 260,000 VND per person.
Combined round-trip: 260,000 VND per person.

* Note: Prices are subject to change. For the latest updates on operating hours and tickets, contact the management at +84 203 6518 888 or email: [email protected].

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3. Unmissable highlights of Yen Tu Mountain, Vietnam

3.1. Rich ecosystem

Yen Tu National Forest, spanning 2,783 hectares, boasts rich biodiversity with tropical evergreen and subtropical broadleaf forests. Scientists have catalogued 830 plant species, including 38 rare species listed in Vietnam’s Red Book, such as ironwood and Buddhist pine. Over 500 species have practical uses, ranging from medicinal herbs to timber and ornamental plants.

Many trees here are hundreds of years old, some dating back over 700 years, such as ancient golden apricot, pine, and frangipani trees associated with King Tran Nhan Tong’s spiritual journey. The forest also shelters 151 vertebrate species, including 35 mammals, 77 birds, 34 reptiles, and 15 amphibians, with 20 species under national protection, like the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey and flying squirrels.

3.2. Sacred sites

Beyond its ecological richness, Yen Tu Mountain is a major spiritual site, offering insight into Vietnamese Buddhist traditions through the Truc Lam Zen sect. Notable religious landmarks in the complex of Yen Tu Pagoda include:

Suoi Tam Pagoda: Nestled at the mountain’s base, it symbolizes the threshold from the ordinary world to the spiritual realm. Legend says Emperor Tran Nhan Tong and his disciple bathed in its stream before ascending the mountains.
Cam Thuc Pagoda: Rebuilt in 1993 on a Tran Dynasty temple’s foundations, this complex honors the king’s compassion, featuring a main pagoda, Mother Goddess shrine, and auxiliary structures.
Lan Pagoda: Set on a unicorn-shaped hill, this is one of the grandest temples in Yen Tu. It was reconstructed in 2002 with the main hall, bell tower, drum tower, and preserved foundations from the original temple.
Giai Oan Pagoda: Restored in 1994 from its Tran Dynasty origins, it now features the main temple, Mother Goddess house, ancestral hall, and other functional spaces.
Hue Quang Stupa Garden: At Yen Tu’s spiritual core, this tower garden houses nearly 100 towers and tombs, many in ruins, preserving monks’ relics. Its centerpiece is a 10-meter stupa for King Tran Nhan Tong, featuring a 102-petal lotus pedestal.
Hoa Yen Pagoda: Built during the Ly Dynasty, this mid-mountain temple is the central temple in the entire complex. From here, visitors can explore nearby sites like the ancient pine trail and majestic waterfalls.
Mot Mai Pagoda: Partially hidden in a cliffside cave, this temple, with only its roof visible, is reached via a narrow path, offering serene seclusion amid lush greenery.
Bao Sai Pagoda: Named after King Tran Nhan Tong’s disciple, this former meditation hut was used by Bao Sai to compile and distribute Truc Lam Zen scriptures.
Van Tieu Pagoda: Nestled among clouds, flanked by mountain ridges and a stream, this picturesque pagoda includes a tower garden featuring six stone and brick stupas.
Dong Pagoda: At the summit of Yen Tu Mountain, this 70-ton bronze lotus-shaped temple, Southeast Asia’s largest all-bronze Buddhist structure, is surrounded by mist and fossilized marine remnants.

3.3. Vibrant festival

Each spring, the mountain comes alive with the Yen Tu Spring Festival, starting on the 10th day of the first lunar month and lasting through spring. It draws numerous pilgrims and tourists with solemn spiritual rituals like ceremonial drumbeats, bell ringing, prayers for national peace and prosperity, processions, and pilgrimages up the mountain to honor Buddha and Emperor Tran Nhan Tong. Complementing the rituals are colorful cultural performances such as the flower lantern night, folk games, traditional music and dance, dragon and lion shows, and cultural exhibitions.

3.4. Tasty culinary specialties

Yen Tu Mountain’s cuisine offers a flavorful journey through local ingredients from the mountains, forests, and sea. Whether you crave rustic country fare or refined dishes once served at court, you will find memorably tasty options at:

Tho Quang Restaurant (Legacy Yen Tu)
Thien Quan Lounge (Legacy Yen Tu)
Com Que Lang Nuong (Lang Nuong Yen Tu)
Riverside Restaurant (Lang Nuong Yen Tu)
Tung Lam Restaurant (Lang Nuong Yen Tu)

For souvenirs, don’t miss Yen Tu’s local specialties that make perfect gifts: Yen Tu bamboo shoots, che lam, fiddlehead fern, Quang Yen fermented pork roll, Tai Long Ep cake, herbal massage oil, Yen Tu apricot wine, wildflower honey, and squid patties, among others.

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4. Useful notes for visitors to Yen Tu, Vietnam

4.1. When is the best time to visit?

Yen Tu Mountain is a year-round destination, each season offering distinct charm. Spring bursts with vibrant yellow apricot blossoms and the lively Spring Festival. Summer offers tranquility, with cool breezes, lush greenery, and refreshing streams. Autumn provides serene walks on mossy stone steps under golden late-afternoon light. Winter brings crisp air, occasional frost, and rare snow atop Dong Pagoda, a remarkable sight.

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4.2. Where to stay?

At the base of Yen Tu are two distinctive options for people seeking Yen Tu Mountain hotels. Legacy Yen Tu - MGallery is an elegant retreat that blends heritage and luxury, with imperial architecture and five-star service. Meanwhile, Lang Nuong Yen Tu is designed like a traditional village, offering rustic rooms and cultural experiences.

After exploring Yen Tu, you can conveniently continue your journey to Ha Long, just over 50 kilometers away. For an unforgettable stay, consider Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long - the only resort in Northern Vietnam built entirely on the sea. With private beaches, a vast pool, lush gardens, and fully equipped luxury rooms, it is the perfect place to unwind in comfort and privacy.

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

4.3. What to bring?

To make the most of your Yen Tu Mountain adventure, here are some packing tips:

Clothing: Lightweight, moisture-wicking, and modest (long pants and sleeves) for temple respect.
Footwear: Sturdy sports or hiking shoes with good grip - no heels, sandals, or flats.
Daypack: A small backpack for essentials.
Water & snacks: Stay hydrated and energized; roadside prices are higher.
First-aid kit: Basic medicines, plasters, and muscle rub.
Sun protection: Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Walking stick: Bamboo poles are sold at the trailhead for under 10,000 VND.
Portable charger: Ensure your phone stays powered for photos and navigation.

4.4. What to note?

Some useful visitor guidelines for a smooth visit to Yen Tu Mountain:

Keep it clean: Carry out all trash and avoid littering.
Secure belongings: Crowds at festival time can attract pickpockets - stay vigilant.
Respect rules: Speak softly, follow temple regulations, and do not touch sacred objects.
Donation etiquette: Place offerings in the designated donation boxes - do not leave money on statues or altars.
Book ahead: During peak seasons, reserve accommodation, transport, and cable-car tickets in advance.

Yen Tu Mountain offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and spiritual depth. Whether you are seeking peaceful moments or meaningful exploration, Yen Tu promises an unforgettable journey into Vietnam's sacred past. It is a destination that leaves both the heart and mind enriched.