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Thanh Hoa Vietnam

Thanh Hoa, Vietnam: A comprehensive guide for tourists

22/09/2024 1.698 views

Thanh Hoa Vietnam, a land rich in historical legacy and natural beauty, beckons travelers with its unique blend of heritage and landscapes. Nestled in the heart of North Central Vietnam, this province offers a diverse array of attractions, from ancient temples and scenic caves to vibrant festivals and delicious dishes.

1. An overview of Thanh Hoa, Vietnam

Thanh Hoa is a vast province in the northern part of Central Vietnam, located 150 kilometers south of Hanoi. Geographically, it is bordered to the north by the provinces of Son La, Hoa Binh, and Ninh Binh, to the south by Nghe An Province, to the east by the East Sea, and to the west by Laos.

Renowned for its tourism potential, Thanh Hoa Vietnam offers a diverse range of attractions for your Vietnam travel. The province boasts a 102-kilometer-long coastline and is home to several beautiful beaches. Beyond its coastal allure, Thanh Hoa is blessed with national parks and nature reserves that preserve many rare animal and plant species.

Thanh Hoa Vietnam is also celebrated as a land of spiritual practices and local talents, with a long, heroic history and distinct traditions. The province is home to numerous cultural relics, which have been preserved to cater to the religious needs of locals and the sightseeing activities of visitors.

Thanh Hoa Vietnam

A Thanh Hoa Vietnam map is essential for understanding the layout of the province (Source: Collected)

2. Top places to go on your trip to Thanh Hoa Province

2.1. Thanh Hoa beaches

2.1.1. Sam Son Beach

Sam Son Beach, stretching 9 kilometers long, is divided into four sections labeled A, B, C, and D, each offering its own charm. The best time to visit Sam Son Beach is summer, particularly from May to August. During these months, the beach comes alive with clear skies, warm sunshine, and gentle breezes, creating the perfect setting for water activities. Here, beachgoers can enjoy everything, from lounging on the sandy shore to engaging in water sports.

2.1.2. Hai Tien Beach

Hai Tien Beach is one of the two stunning beaches in Thanh Hoa that have been heavily invested in as key destinations for sea tourism in the province, alongside Sam Son Beach. What makes this beach special is the blend of its untouched beauty with the tranquil atmosphere, which are complemented by modern infrastructure. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air and escape the bustle of city life. In addition, this Thanh Hoa Vietnam beach provides various exciting beach activities. You can also savor fresh seafood caught by the local fishermen, making your visit both enjoyable and flavorful.

Hai Tien Beach

The crystal-clear water at Hai Tien Beach, Thanh Hoa Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.1.3. Hai Hoa Beach

Hai Hoa Beach is located about 45 kilometers south of the center of Thanh Hoa Vietnam, near the border with Nghe An Province. Known for its peaceful environment, Hai Hoa Beach features clear water, calm waves, and a long stretch of sandy shore, making it an ideal relaxing spot. At dawn, the beach comes alive with the sight of fishermen pulling in their nets, offering a glimpse into the local life. Here, there are fresh seafood dishes offered at affordable prices, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists. From Hai Hoa Beach, you can also catch a view of Hon Me Island in the distance.

2.1.4. Bai Dong Beach

Bai Dong Beach is located approximately 40 kilometers southeast of the center of Thanh Hoa Vietnam. The sea here is calm, making it an ideal spot for swimming. Bai Dong Beach features a long coastline framed by high mountains and rocky cliffs. Unlike busier beaches like Sam Son or Hai Tien, Bai Dong remains relatively uncrowded, providing a more tranquil experience. The beach is also a great location for camping overnight and watching the sunrise. For those looking for accommodations, Bai Dong Beach offers several bungalows that allow guests to fully enjoy its natural beauty.

Bai Dong Beach

The peaceful charm of Bai Dong Beach in Thanh Hoa Province Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.2. Pu Luong Nature Reserve

Known for its stunning landscapes of rice fields, palm groves, waterwheels, and cascading waterfalls, Pu Luong offers a refreshing escape from the city. Spanning over 17,500 hectares, this nature reserve provides cool weather and a serene environment, with a highlight being the mountain peak standing 1,700 meters high. Pu Luong has two rice harvest seasons in May and October, which draw many visitors eager to witness the golden fields in full bloom. During the Pu Luong trekking tour, visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including Pu Luong Peak, Tom Village, Don Village, Hieu Waterfall, and Bat Cave. 

2.3. Ham Rong Historical Cultural Relic

Ham Rong Historical Cultural Relic is a significant site in Thanh Hoa Vietnam that features several attractions that highlight its heritage.

  • Ham Rong Bridge: Built in 1904, this was the most modern bridge in Indochina at the time. During the Second Indochina War, the bridge was the site of intense fighting. The local soldiers and people defended the bridge with bravery, shooting down enemy aircraft, capturing enemy pilots, and ensuring the bridge’s safety.
  • Mat Rong Cave: Mat Rong Cave offers a panoramic view of Thanh Hoa Vietnam from its entrance. The cave’s captivating scenery has long attracted notable figures such as Nguyen Trai, Le Thanh Tong, Cao Ba Quat, and Pham Su Manh to visit. Inside the cave, visitors can see stone carvings of poems praising the landscapes of Ham Rong Mountain and the Ma River.
  • Ham Rong Truc Lam Zen Monastery: This monastery is renowned for its large scale and tranquil setting. Nestled within a vast pine forest on gentle hills, it offers a serene atmosphere where visitors can enjoy the calming sounds of the wind and the echoes of the temple bells.
  • Dong Son Village: This village preserves the features of traditional architecture, including a village gate, a communal house, and numerous old houses. It also boasts cultural sites such as Duc Thanh Ca Temple, Mau Temple, Am Van Pagoda, and Bo De Pagoda. In the village, you can also find many excavated artifacts such as agricultural tools, weaponry, pottery, jewelry, drums, etc.
Ham Rong Bridge

Ham Rong Bridge – an iconic landmark of Thanh Hoa Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.4. Ben En National Park

Ben En National Park boasts a rich ecosystem with hundreds of medicinal herbs and a range of rare animals such as red-eyed monkeys. Here, you can go boating, swimming, or diving to explore the riverbed. For a more laid-back experience, you can camp along the shore or try your hand at fishing. Ben En National Park is also home to Ngoc Cave, which is known for its impressive stalactites, and Ben En Museum, where you can see a collection of preserved antiques.

2.5. Lam Kinh Historical Relic

Lam Kinh Historical Relic is part of the Lam Son cultural space, an ancient area that dates back to the time of the Hung kings. The site is surrounded by Dau Mountain, Chua Mountain, and Huong Mountain, with the clear Ngoc River meandering through. It includes a variety of structures such as palaces, temples, tombs, etc. This historical site offers a valuable glimpse into the Later Le Dynasty, making it a significant attraction for history enthusiasts and those interested in Vietnam’s heritage.

Lam Kinh Historical Site

Lam Kinh Historical Site attracts both domestic and foreign tourists (Source: Collected)

2.6. Ho Dynasty Citadel

Located about 45 kilometers away from the center of Thanh Hoa Vietnam, Citadel of the Ho Dynasty was established by Ho Quy Ly in 1397 as the capital of Dai Ngu, which was the name of Vietnam during the Ho Dynasty. This impressive citadel is renowned for its construction being entirely with stone blocks, some of which weigh over two tons. The citadel’s massive stone walls and structures have earned it recognition from UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site. As one of the few remaining stone citadels in the world, Ho Dynasty Citadel offers a glimpse into the history of ancient Vietnam.

2.7. Cam Luong Stream

Cam Luong Stream Ecotourism Area is located about 80 kilometers west of the center of Thanh Hoa Vietnam. Despite its short length of just 150 meters, the stream is home to thousands of fish in various sizes and colors. The water here never dries up and remains clear almost all year round. The best time to visit the stream is from April to September, when the water level is at its highest, providing an excellent opportunity to see the abundance of fish swimming. This tranquil spot is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful retreat.

Cam Luong Stream

Cam Luong Stream is an ideal place to relax in Thanh Hoa Vietnam (Source: Collected)

2.8. Cloud Waterfall (May Waterfall)

Cloud Waterfall is a stunning attraction located in Thach Lam Commune, Thanh Hoa Vietnam. Standing about 100 meters tall, the waterfall is surrounded by a pristine primeval forest that serves as a habitat for many animals and contributes to the local ecosystem. The waterfall’s steps, formed by yellow stone slabs, make it easy for visitors to ascend and explore the area. The combination of natural charm and accessible terrain makes Cloud Waterfall an ideal spot for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

2.9. Tu Thuc Cave

Tu Thuc Cave, located in Nga Thien Commune, is one of the most stunning caves in Thanh Hoa Vietnam. It is famous for its association with the legend of Tu Thuc and Giang Huong. In 1992, Tu Thuc Cave was designated a national monument. The cave features numerous rock formations with unique shapes that resemble dragons, turtles, and elephants. These formations are said to represent various figures and myths, adding to the cave’s mystical allure.

Tu Thuc Cave

Be amazed by the beauty of Tu Thuc Cave (Source: Collected)

2.10. Ba Trieu Temple

Ba Trieu Temple, located on Gai Mountain, was established during the reign of King Ly Nam De to honor the heroic figure Trieu Thi Trinh, known for her bravery in defeating the Eastern Wu army The temple comprises three main buildings: the front hall, the middle hall, and the rear hall. Each hall plays a role in the temple’s ceremonial and religious functions, contributing to the overall atmosphere of reverence here.

In addition to these attractions, Thanh Hoa Vietnam boasts a myriad of other charming places such as Sai Khao Village, Canh Chim Lake, Le Thi Hoa Temple, Dong Quan Waterfall, Le Loi Temple, Vinh An Cave, Ngu Duc Well, etc.

Check out the Thanh Hoa map to better plan your itinerary!

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3. Famous foods on the culinary map of Thanh Hoa, Vietnam

3.1. Cha tom (grilled shrimp rolls)

Cha tom is a beloved dish from Thanh Hoa Vietnam that captivates diners with its unique flavors. This dish features succulent shrimp mixed with a blend of seasonings and grilled to perfection, resulting in a crispy and fragrant exterior. What makes cha tom truly special is its delightful pairing with sour and spicy fish sauce, which enhances the shrimp’s natural taste. This dish is often served with a side of raw vegetables, adding a refreshing contrast to the rich shrimp.

Cha tom

Cha tom is a must-try dish for every visitor in Thanh Hoa Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.2. Nem chua (fermented pork rolls)

Nem chua is a popular dish found throughout Vietnam, but Thanh Hoa Vietnam offers a unique twist on this classic treat. The main ingredients in Thanh Hoa’s nem chua include lean pork, guava leaves, ginseng leaves, and a blend of spices such as garlic and chili. These ingredients are combined and wrapped tightly, resulting in a deliciously crisp, sweet, and tangy roll with a distinctive aroma from the leaves and spices.

3.3. Goi ca nhech (paddy eel salad)

Goi ca nhech features sliced paddy eel meat, which is marinated with a blend of spices. It is then mixed with roasted sticky rice powder and crispy fried fish skin, adding a delightful crunch to the dish. The accompanying dipping sauce is made from crushed fish bones, contributing a savory element to the salad. This Thanh Hoa Vietnam dish is typically served with a variety of leafy vegetables, including fig leaves, lemon leaves, perilla, basil, mint, pennywort, and fish mint. These greens complement the eel meat and add freshness to the dish.

Goi ca nhech

Goi ca nhech is often served with various types of herbs (Source: Collected)

3.4. Ca ro Dam Set (Dam Set grilled perch)

Ca ro Dam Set is a popular Thanh Hoa Vietnam dish known for its distinctive flavor and versatility. This small fish, roughly the size of two fingers, is light yellow in color and prized for its firm, delicious meat. Perch can be prepared in various ways to highlight its unique taste. It is often grilled to perfection to bring out its umami. Additionally, it can be fried or dipped in a flavorful fish sauce that enhances its natural taste. For a different twist, perch can also be cooked in a flavorful soup.

3.5. Banh cuon (rice rolls)

Banh cuon in Thanh Hoa Vietnam is crafted with a distinct method that sets them apart from those found in other provinces. The process begins with steaming rice flour in a pot covered with a cloth, then spreading it out on a small tray to form delicate, thin sheets. The filling for Thanh Hoa’s banh cuon consists of a flavorful mixture of peeled shrimp, minced pork shoulder, wood ear mushrooms, and onions. This combination is carefully rolled, giving the rice rolls a rich taste with a hint of sweetness and umami.

Banh cuon Thanh Hoa

Banh cuon is a perfect choice for your breakfast (Source: Collected)

3.6. Che Phu Quang (Phu Quang sweet soup)

Che Phu Quang is a delightful sweet soup from Thanh Hoa Vietnam, featuring crispy sticky rice, roasted peanuts, and fresh ginger in a rich molasses coating. The preparation involves grinding and roasting the sticky rice, pounding the roasted peanuts, and stewing these ingredients in a glossy molasses until they meld together. The result is a chewy, sweet dessert with a spicy ginger kick. It is best enjoyed with a cup of green tea which balances the dessert’s sweetness and enhances the overall flavor experience.

3.7. Com lam (rice in bamboo tube)

Com lam is a signature dish of the mountainous areas in Thanh Hoa Vietnam. This special rice is cooked in bamboo tubes, infusing it with the unique aroma of the bamboo and forest. The process starts with choosing the right bamboo trees, which are ideally at a stage just after leaf sprouting. Sticky rice, mixed with a bit of salt, is placed inside the bamboo tube, which is then grilled over an open fire. The tube is rotated evenly to ensure the rice cooks uniformly. The result is fragrant, tender rice that pairs perfectly with sesame salt and hill chicken.

com lam Thanh Hoa

Diners are always impressed by the flavor of com lam (Source: Collected)

Besides these specialties, travelers to Thanh Hoa Vietnam should not miss out on other delectable dishes including rice cakes, Hoang Hoa coconut, paddy ell porridge, Kim Tan sugarcane.

Don’t miss out on the chance to savor Central Vietnamese food!

4. Guide for first-time visitors to Thanh Hoa, Vietnam

4.1. When is the best time to visit?

The best time to visit Thanh Hoa Vietnam is from March to August, when Thanh Hoa weather is more pleasant. Particularly, the summer season from May to August is perfect for enjoying the beaches. Meanwhile, autumn from September onwards brings cooler temperatures for a relaxing vacation.

In terms of festivals, visiting Thanh Hoa Vietnam allows you to experience cultural events like the Muong Kho Festival in Ba Thuoc District (1st lunar month – 10th day), the Set Booc May Festival in Nhu Thanh District (1st lunar month – 10th day), and the Nang Han Festival in Van Xuan Commune (1st lunar month – 5th day). Other notable festivals in Thanh Hoa Vietnam include the Duc Thanh Ca Temple Festival, the Cau Ngu Festival, and boat racing festivals.

Muong Kho Festival

Thanh Hoa Vietnam has many local festivals (Source: Collected)

4.2. How to get there?

To travel from Hanoi to Thanh Hoa, which is about 160 kilometers away, travelers have multiple transport options:

  • Train: The train offers a scenic and economical route. Ticket prices range from 140,000 to 280,000 VND depending on the seat class and train number.
  • Coach: Numerous coaches go from My Dinh Bus Station or Giap Bat Bus Station in Hanoi to Thanh Hoa, with ticket prices averaging 150,000 VND.
  • Limousine bus: This is the more comfortable, more expensive alternative to traveling by coach. You will need to book tickets with the bus operator in advance, such as Binh Hoai Limousine or Van Anh Limousine. Ticket prices average 250,000 VND.

For travelers departing from Ho Chi Minh City, which is over 1,400 kilometers away, flying is the best option. To fly from Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City to Tho Xuan Airport in Thanh Hoa Vietnam, you can book tickets with Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, or Vietjet Air. Fares range from 2 million to 3 million VND, with a flight duration of nearly 2 hours.

Upon arrival in Thanh Hoa Vietnam, you can catch a local taxi or bus to reach your hotel. Some major taxi companies in Thanh Hoa include Mai Linh Taxi, Mekong Taxi, and Taxi 36.

Thanh Hoa Airport Vietnam

Thanh Hoa Airport Vietnam welcomes thousands of tourists annually (Source: Collected)

4.3. Where to stay?

In Thanh Hoa Vietnam, accommodation options cater to a range of budgets and preferences. In the city center, you can find hotels with average room rates ranging from 600,000 to over 1 million VND per night. For those seeking seaside retreats, Sam Son Beach is a popular choice, featuring hotels, resorts, and villas with beautiful ocean views. The room rates vary from 800,000 to approximately 4 million VND per night, providing a luxurious experience by the shore. Alternatively, budget-conscious travelers can opt for motels in the city center or nearby districts. These motels offer essential amenities at more affordable rates, typically around 300,000 VND per night.

4.4. What to bring home as gifts?

After your trip to Thanh Hoa Vietnam, consider bringing home some local specialties as gifts for your loved ones. Popular items include nem chua, che lam, Ha Yen shrimp paste, and Ba Lang fish sauce. In addition to food, you can consider items like Nga Son sedge mats or souvenirs crafted from sea snail shells. These items capture the cultural essence of Thanh Hoa Vietnam and serve as memorable keepsakes.

Nem chua Thanh Hoa

Nem chua makes for a wonderful gift from Thanh Hoa Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Thanh Hoa Vietnam, with its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable experience for travelers. From exploring ancient citadels and mystical caves to savoring local delicacies, this province provides a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

After exploring the captivating Thanh Hoa tourist attractions, why not extend your adventure to the nearby province of Nghe An. Here, you will find VinWonders Cua Hoi, a brand-new recreational hub that promises to elevate your journey with countless surprises. As the largest tourism and entertainment complex in North Central Vietnam, VinWonders Cua Hoi offers an array of attractions that cater to all ages. From the thrilling sea-crossing cable car and expansive water park to the vibrant commercial area and diverse dining options, every corner of VinWonders Cua Hoi is designed to captivate and entertain. 

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