Experience Yen Tu’s stunning natural beauty and spiritual depth. From tranquil temples to breathtaking views, Yen Tu offers a unique journey for all travelers. Hãy nghe Trần Thuỳ Thanh Xuân (Đồng Nai) một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .
Hidden amidst the majestic beauty of the mountains, the Yen Tu heritage site and scenic area exudes a timeless, ancient charm, closely linked to the formation and development of the Truc Lam Zen school in Vietnam. If you are seeking a destination for a spiritual journey, Yen Tu will be the perfect choice.
Every year, the Yen Tu Festival takes place from the 10th day of the first lunar month until the end of March. This is also the period when Yen Tu attracts the largest number of visitors. Visitors here can immerse themselves in the sacred atmosphere of the Buddha while also having the opportunity to admire the pristine, majestic natural scenery.
1. Where is the Yen Tu Mountain Tourist Area located?
Yen Tu Mountain, also known as Elephant Head Mountain, is situated at the boundary between the two provinces of Bac Giang and Quang Ninh. This mountain is part of the Dong Trieu range in the northeastern region of Vietnam, with an elevation of 1,068 meters above sea level. It is also home to a diverse and rich array of flora and fauna.
The Yen Tu Tourist Area is renowned for preserving historical and cultural relics associated with the formation and development of the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen school. Along with its stunning mountainous landscapes, cool climate, and pristine nature, it has become a popular spiritual tourism destination attracting visitors from near and far.
(Source: Collector)
2. When is the best time to visit Yen Tu?
Quang Ninh has a typical climate of the Northern region with four distinct seasons throughout the year. The best time to visit Yen Tu is during the spring, from January to March of the lunar calendar. At this time, the weather is cool and pleasant. It is also the period when many festivals take place, attracting numerous visitors for sightseeing and Buddhist ceremonies.
Note: If you want to fully enjoy the festival atmosphere, you can visit Yen Tu Temple after the opening ceremony on the 1st day of the 10th lunar month. However, this is a peak time, so if you prefer to avoid crowds or are traveling with elderly people or children, you may want to consider this. From March onward, the number of festival-goers decreases, the weather remains relatively cool, and the festivals are less crowded, making it a great time for those who enjoy festivals but prefer fewer crowds.
(Source: Collector)
3. Transportation and how to get to Yen Tu tourist area
3.1. Transportation for Spiritual Tourism to Yen Tu
By Personal Vehicle (Car, Motorbike): The distance from Hanoi to Yen Tu Tourist Area in Quang Ninh is approximately 140 km. Starting from central Hanoi, you can take the following route: Head towards Chương Dương Bridge and then follow Nguyễn Van Cu street, continue along National Route 18 to Bắc Ninh. From there, continue straight, turn left when you reach Chùa Trình, and proceed for about 10 km to reach Yen Tu.
By Passenger Bus: From Hanoi, you can take buses heading to Cam Pha, Uong Bi, or Hạ Long to reach the Yen Tu spiritual tourism area. When the bus arrives at the Chua Trinh area on National Route 18, you should get off the bus. From there, you can take a local bus to Yen Tu. The bus fare is 10,000 VND per person per trip.
3.2. Directions to Yen Tu Spiritual Tourism Area
From Hanoi to Yen Tu Tourist Area: Travel from Hanoi to Bac Ninh, then follow National Route 18 to reach the Đền Trình area. From there, turn left and continue for about 10 km to arrive at the Yen Tu spiritual tourism area.
From Hai Phong, Thai Binh, Nam Dinh: Travel from these provinces to the junction of National Route 10 and Route 8, then turn left to reach Đan Trinh. Continue for about 10 km from there to reach Yen Tu.
(Source: Collector)
4. Transportation to the summit of Yen Tu mountain
4.1. On Foot
The hiking route to the summit is approximately 6 km long and typically takes about 6-8 hours during less crowded times. Walking is both a form of physical exercise and a personal challenge for many visitors seeking to conquer Yen Tu. The journey can be quite strenuous, but you will be rewarded with the pristine beauty of the mountainous landscape. From the parking area, visitors walk about 300 meters to the Giai Oan Stream, then climb through the Tùng cổ path to Thap To, Hoa Yen Pagoda, Mot Mai Pagoda, Bao Sai Pagoda and finally reach Đong Pagoda.
4.2. By Cable Car
The modern cable car system, with a length of 1.2 km and an elevation of 450 meters, offers a convenient and time-saving way to reach the summit of Yen Tu. It also provides a panoramic view of the stunning Yen Tu mountain scenery from above.
Ticket Prices (for reference):
- Round-trip Ticket: 350,000 VND/person.
- One-way Ticket: 200,000 VND/person per route.
- Free for seniors over 70 years old and children under 1.2 meters tall.
(Source: Collector)
5. Souvenirs to Buy from Yen Tu
- Fresh Bamboo Shoots (Mang Truc Yen Tu): Bamboo shoots from Yen Tu are considered a gift from nature to this sacred land. The shoots are small, tender, and sweet, making them suitable for various delicious dishes.
- Yen Tu Apricot Wine (Ruou Mo Yen Tu): This is another local specialty that many visitors choose to bring home as a souvenir. Made from traditional rice wine infused with fresh apricots grown in the Yen Tu forest, this apricot wine has a distinctive flavor that leaves a lasting impression on travelers.
- Yen Tu Lam Tea (Che Lam Yen Tu): This is a unique snack characterized by the chewy texture of glutinous rice flour, the sweetness of honey, a hint of spicy ginger, and the nutty flavor of peanuts.
(Source: Collector)
Yen Tu is not only a destination for those seeking peace and tranquility but also a place to experience the perfect blend of majestic nature and rich spiritual culture. Whether you are a festival enthusiast or someone who loves exploration, Yen Tu is always ready to welcome you with memorable experiences and unique souvenirs.