The Red River Delta, the cradle of wet rice civilization, is not only a fertile granary but also a treasure trove of Vietnamese culture and long-standing history. A journey to explore this land will take you back in time, admire ancient architectural works, immerse yourself in the unique spiritual cultural space, and enjoy the rich cuisine imbued with homeland flavors. The Red River Delta tour promises unforgettable experiences, helping you deeply understand the Vietnamese cultural identity.
Vinh Bao, Hai Phong: Pilgrimage to the Land of Trang Trinh and Explore Traditional Craft Villages
The starting point of the Red River Delta exploration can begin in Vinh Bao district, Hai Phong, a land of outstanding people, the birthplace of Trang Trinh Nguyen Binh Khiem, a national prophet and cultural figure.
Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple: Honoring a Distinguished Cultural Figure
The Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple relic site, located in Trung Am village, Ly Hoc commune, Vinh Bao district, is a must-visit destination on the Red River Delta tour. The temple was built to commemorate Trang Trinh’s great contributions to the country. Coming here, visitors will not only admire the ancient and majestic architecture but also have the opportunity to learn about his life, career, and great contributions. The peaceful and solemn atmosphere of the temple will help you feel the respect and admiration of the people for this distinguished cultural figure.
Bao Ha Wood Carving Village: The Exquisite Beauty of Traditional Art
Leaving Nguyen Binh Khiem Temple, visitors can visit Bao Ha wood carving village, one of the famous traditional craft villages of Hai Phong. This village is famous for its exquisite wooden statues, imbued with folk culture. Here, you will witness firsthand the meticulous and elaborate crafting process of artisans, from selecting wood and carving to engraving patterns. Bao Ha wooden statues are not only handicraft products but also unique works of art, reflecting the talent and dedication of the artisans of the Red River Delta region.
An artisan in Bao Ha village, Hai Phong, crafting wood carvings
Bao Ha Shrine: Discovering Spiritual Mysteries
Bao Ha Shrine is another spiritual destination in Vinh Bao that visitors can explore. The shrine is dedicated to Linh Lang Dai Vuong, a legendary figure who made great contributions to the nation’s history of fighting foreign invaders. The ancient shrine with mysterious stories surrounding the 700-year-old statue of Linh Lang Dai Vuong that “can stand up and sit down” and the strange phenomenon of “the grapefruit mysteriously moving under the dragon eye well” always attracts the curiosity of visitors. Coming to Bao Ha Shrine, you will not only learn about folk beliefs but also admire the unique architecture and sacred space of the ancient shrine.
Thai Binh: Visiting Keo Pagoda – A Masterpiece of Ancient Architecture
The Red River Delta tour continues to Thai Binh province, home to Keo Pagoda, one of the most ancient and unique pagodas in Vietnam. Keo Pagoda, located in Vu Thu district, Thai Binh, is nearly 400 years old and is considered a masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese wooden architecture of the 17th century.
Keo Pagoda: Exploring Unique Architecture and Historical Value
Keo Pagoda is not only a sacred pagoda but also a priceless museum of wooden architecture. The pagoda still retains almost intact the ancient architecture characteristic of Vietnamese pagodas of the old days. The special feature of Keo Pagoda is its “inner palace and outer court” architecture, with structures arranged harmoniously and balanced, creating a space that is both solemn and peaceful. The three-tiered wooden bell tower with curved tile roofs is a prominent architectural symbol of Keo Pagoda and one of the most beautiful bell towers in Vietnam. Coming to Keo Pagoda, visitors will admire the unique architectural beauty, learn about the history and cultural value of this ancient pagoda, a significant highlight in the Red River Delta tour.
Nam Dinh: Exploring Cultural Heritage and Unique Religious Architecture
Leaving Thai Binh, the journey continues to Nam Dinh, a land rich in cultural and historical traditions. Nam Dinh is famous for its many historical and cultural relics and unique religious architecture, especially Catholic architectural works.
Bui Chu Bishop’s Palace: A Historical Witness of Vietnamese Catholicism
Bui Chu Bishop’s Palace is an ancient and majestic Catholic architectural work in Nam Dinh. This is one of the oldest bishop’s palaces in Vietnam, bearing the imprint of classical French architecture. Bui Chu Bishop’s Palace is not only an important religious work but also a historical and cultural relic, witnessing many ups and downs in the history of Vietnamese Catholicism. Visitors here will admire the unique architectural beauty and learn about the history of the formation and development of Catholicism in the Red River Delta region.
Phu Nhai Basilica: Magnificent Gothic Architecture
Phu Nhai Basilica, also known as Phu Nhai Church, is another famous Catholic architectural work in Nam Dinh. The church was built in a magnificent Gothic architectural style, with delicate, elegant lines and soaring arches. Phu Nhai Basilica is considered one of the most beautiful churches in Vietnam, attracting many tourists to visit and admire. During festivals, the space around the church becomes bustling and colorfully decorated, creating an impressive scene.
Tran Temple: Exploring Spiritual Culture and Traditional Festivals
If visitors come to Nam Dinh in early spring, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Tran Temple Relic Site, which worships 14 Tran Dynasty kings along with their families and meritorious mandarins. Tran Temple is not only an important historical relic but also a major spiritual cultural center of the country, especially famous for the Tran Temple Seal Opening Festival in early spring. This festival attracts millions of tourists and locals to participate, praying for a new year of peace, luck, and prosperity. Coming to Tran Temple, visitors will immerse themselves in the sacred space, learn about the heroic history of the Tran Dynasty, and experience the unique traditional festival atmosphere of the Red River Delta region.
Ninh Binh: Visiting Bai Dinh Pagoda and Enjoying Mountainous Specialties
The final stop on the Red River Delta tour is Ninh Binh, a land famous for its majestic natural landscapes and unique historical and cultural relics. Bai Dinh Pagoda is one of the must-visit destinations when coming to Ninh Binh.
Bai Dinh Pagoda: The Largest Pagoda Complex in Vietnam
Bai Dinh Pagoda is a large and famous pagoda complex, known for many Vietnamese and Asian records. The pagoda has the largest area in Vietnam, owns the largest bronze Buddha statue, the most Arhat statues, and many other impressive Buddhist architectural works. Bai Dinh Pagoda is not only a famous spiritual tourist destination but also a unique architectural and artistic work, attracting visitors with its majestic and magnificent beauty and peaceful, tranquil space. Visitors can choose to take an electric car (self-sufficient cost) to comfortably and efficiently visit this large pagoda complex.
Ninh Binh Cuisine: Distinctive Flavors of Mountains and Forests
Ending a long day exploring Ninh Binh, visitors should not forget to enjoy the famous specialties of this land. Ninh Binh is famous for dishes made from mountain goat meat such as goat meat with lemon, grilled goat meat, goat hotpot,… Ninh Binh burnt rice is also a must-try specialty, with a crispy, delicious, and distinctive flavor. In addition, visitors can also enjoy other specialties such as Yen Mac fermented pork roll, glass noodles with eel, and Nhuech fish salad,… Ninh Binh cuisine will be an indispensable part of the Red River Delta tour experience, bringing you unforgettable flavors of this land.
Conclusion
The Red River Delta tour is not only a journey to explore famous destinations but also an opportunity for visitors to learn more deeply about the culture, history, and people of the delta region. From ancient historical and cultural relics to traditional craft villages and distinctive cuisine, each destination on the journey offers unique and memorable experiences. Plan your Red River Delta tour today to discover the beauty and cultural values of this land! Are you ready for this exciting journey to explore the Red River Delta?