Turn your device in landscape mode.
Book VinWonders tickets
Select a destination

Select a date
Adults
*Above 140cm
*Height from 140cm
Children
*от 80 см до 140 см
*Height from 100cm-140cm *Height from 80cm-140cm
Elders
*From 60 years old
*From 60 years old
Xa Tac Temple

Xa Tac Temple: A sacred national relic in Mong Cai City

06/05/2025 245 views

Nestled at the country’s northeastern border, Xa Tac Temple is a renowned relic in Mong Cai City. It stands out for its unique architecture and historical significance.

1. Overview of Xa Tac Temple

Xa Tac Temple is situated on the banks of the Ka Long River, which connects Vietnam and China. It is part of Ka Long Ward, Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam. Constructed around the end of the 13th century under the Tran Dynasty, the temple used to worship Xa Tac God – a local deity. Currently, the temple worships Xa Tac Dai Vuong, Hung Nhuong Dai Vuong, Cao Son Dai Vuong, the God of Land, and the ancient settlers of the area. In 2020, Xa Tac Temple was recognized as a national relic.

Xa Tac Temple is situated on the banks of the Ka Long River

Xa Tac Temple is situated on the banks of the Ka Long River (Source: Collected)

Read more: Cua Ong Temple: A sacred historical site in Quang Ninh

2. History of Xa Tac Temple, Mong Cai City

According to the locals, Xa Tac Temple was previously built on the banks of the Thac Mang River. At the beginning of the 20th century, during a big storm, the temple collapsed. It was later moved and rebuilt on a smaller scale at the current location. Therefore, the temple also has another name, Xoay Nguon Temple.

Xa Tac Temple went through many ups and downs in history. During the border war in 1979, it was destroyed, leaving behind only the foundation. After 1989, the temple was restored on a small scale. In order to meet the people’s needs for a spacious spiritual site, in 2009, the Quang Ninh Province restored Xa Tac Temple to the way it was before.

3. What to explore at Xa Tac Temple?

3.1. Stunning architecture

Situated on an elevated area, Xa Tac Temple has a main building of ​​308m². The front hall consists of three compartments and two lean-tos; the middle hall has two compartments, and the rear hall has three compartments. The temple is mainly built of ironwood, with tiled roofs and brick walls. The building is adorned with intricate carvings, and its roof is covered with curved-tile shingles.

Xa Tac Temple has intricate traditional architecture

Xa Tac Temple has intricate traditional architecture (Source: Collected)

3.3. Notable artifacts

Xa Tac Temple preserves three steles and three tablets, all made from sandstone. The content written on the steles and tablets provides information about the figures worshiped in the temple, including Xa Tac Dai Vuong, the God of Land, and those who contributed to the construction of the temple.

3.3. Traditional festivals

Every year, the Xa Tac Temple Festival is held from the 29th day of the first lunar month to the 1st day of the second lunar month (around February). This festival consists of two parts: the ceremony and the celebration. The ceremony includes rituals such as water fetching, statue bathing, processions, and offerings from the local communities. The celebration features folk performances and games. In addition to its cultural significance, the Xa Tac Temple Festival also educates the younger generation about the local long-standing traditions.

The annual Xa Tac Temple Festival holds great significance

The annual Xa Tac Temple Festival holds great significance (Source: Collected)

Read more: Travel to Cam Pha to enjoy breathtaking beaches!

4. Guide to visiting Xa Tac Temple

4.1. How to get there?

To reach Xa Tac Temple, you will first need to get to Mong Cai City. The best option is to take a limousine bus ride, either from Hanoi or Ha Long City. The journey from Hanoi to Mong Cai City takes about 4.5 hours, while the one from Ha Long City to Mong Cai City takes about 2.5 hours. Upon arrival in Mong Cai City, you can rent a motorbike and ride to the temple yourself. In this case, Google Maps is your best friend, and the ride won’t take too long as the city is quite small. Alternatively, you can just hop on a local motorbike taxi or taxi and they will take you to the temple with convenience.

 

4.2. What to note?

If you are planning your visit to Xa Tac Temple, here are some important things to keep in mind:

  • Do not wear revealing clothes
  • Do not litter
  • Bring some food and drinks to recharge your energy after the temple visit
  • Check the weather forecast in advance
  • Remain quiet when entering the temple grounds

Read more: Mong Cai weather: Best time to visit & essential travel tips

4.3. Nearby attractions

1.7 km away from Xa Tac Temple, Mong Cai International Border Gate is one of the first border gates established between China and Vietnam. Here, you can see the bustling trade activity between the two countries. 14 km away from the temple, Sa Vi Cape is a famous attraction in Mong Cai City. Here, you can admire the majestic beauty of Vietnam’s border and enjoy delicious local specialties. 9.4 km away from Xa Tac Temple, Tra Co Communal House was built during the Later Le Dynasty in 1461. Although having endured many renovations, the communal house still retains its traditional architecture.

Sa Vi Cape has a wonderful view of Vietnam's border

Sa Vi Cape has a wonderful view of Vietnam’s border (Source: Collected)

Read more: Vinh Thuc Island – A pristine haven for tranquil getaways

Xa Tac Temple, recognized as a national relic, holds deep spiritual significance in the life of the local people. A trip to this sacred temple offers a wonderful opportunity for visitors to learn about the local beliefs, admire the temple’s architecture, and take part in its traditional festivals.

After exploring Mong Cai City, you can retreat to Ha Long City to stay the night. In Ha Long, Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long offers a luxurious experience on a private island. With stunning limestone backdrops, this resort features private beaches, lush gardens, pools, a spa, and fine dining. Whether you are on a romantic getaway, a family excursion, or a business trip, Vinpearl promises an unforgettable stay.

Enjoy a wonderful beachside retreat at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

Enjoy a wonderful beachside retreat at Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long

 

Book rooms in Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long now

 

Beyond Quang Ninh Province, Vietnam offers a wealth of other captivating destinations waiting to be explored. You can wander through the charming streets of Hanoi, step back in time in Hoi An, soak up the sun in Nha Trang, or indulge in the tropical island of Phu Quoc. Each destination promises its own unique charm.

Wherever you go in Vietnam, you can always rely on VinWonders to provide you with the best entertainment, from amazing games to breathtaking shows. After a fun day, the best way to treat yourself is to unwind in a luxurious hotel or resort of Vinpearl.

The largest theme park in Vietnam - VinWonders Phu Quoc 

The largest theme park in Vietnam – VinWonders Phu Quoc

 

Book VinWonders Phu Quoc ticket now

 

The Tata Show is a must-see at VinWonders Nha Trang

The Tata Show is a must-see at VinWonders Nha Trang

 

Book VinWonders Nha Trang ticket now

 

Experience Vietnam’s culture at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

Experience Vietnam’s culture at VinWonders Nam Hoi An

 

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

Share news via:
  • Copy to clipboard

Related Posts

Tìm vé