Hai Duong is a coastal province in northern Vietnam, located about 50km from Hanoi. It is one of Vietnam’s most vibrant cities, renowned for its colourful culture and beautiful scenery. Hai Duong is a city that has much to offer, ranging from ancient temples and fortifications, to unique historical sites, to delicious street food and a vibrant nightlife. It is a city that is sure to dazzle and delight, with something for everyone to enjoy.

A Brief History of Hai Duong

Hai Duong was once a small fishing village, formed as part of the larger Hai Duong Province in 1831. The city expanded in the late 19th century, when French colonists arrived and built several landmarks and monuments, including a fortification and the Dai Cau, or “Big Gate”. This gate was the main entrance to Hai Duong city and is still present today.

During the French occupation, Hai Duong was a major cultural centre, attracting many artists and intellectuals from around the world. After the French left, Hai Duong continued to grow and modernize, becoming an important industrial city and commercial hub. It is now one of Vietnam’s most vibrant cities, with a unique charm that is unlike any other place in the country.

Discovering the Best of Hai Duong

Hai Duong is a dazzling city that has much to offer visitors, from beautiful historical sites to delicious street food and a vibrant nightlife. Here are the top 7 things to see in and around Hai Duong.

  • Dai Cau: This is the main entrance to Hai Duong, a massive gate built by the French in the late 19th century. Today, it is a popular landmark and symbol of the city.
  • Nam Anh Lake: This is a beautiful lake in the heart of Hai Duong, a great spot for walking and fishing.
  • Phuong Mi Pagoda: This is a stunning temple complex built in the 19th century, dedicated to the Buddha and still active today.
  • Nguyen Trung Truc Temple: This temple is dedicated to the famous Vietnamese hero Nguyen Trung Truc and was built in his honour.
  • Hai Duong Citadel: This is an ancient fortress built by the French in the late 19th century, a great spot for sightseeing and history buffs.
  • Hang Dua Market: This is a bustling market located in the heart of Hai Duong, selling everything from antiques to fresh produce.
  • Hai Duong Nightlife: Hai Duong boasts a vibrant nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs and live music venues to explore.

Taste the Delightful Food of Hai Duong

Hai Duong is renowned for its delicious and diverse cuisine, with something to please every palate. There are plenty of local eateries and restaurants serving up fresh and tasty dishes, ranging from traditional Vietnamese dishes to international cuisines like French and Japanese. There are also plenty of street food vendors selling snacks like Banh Mi and Pho.

Do not miss the chance to try the local specialty of Banh Cuon, a delicious dish consisting of steamed rice rolls filled with ground pork, shrimp and mushrooms.

Unique Experiences in Hai Duong

Hai Duong is a city that offers plenty of unique experiences, from traditional performance arts to fun activities. One of the most popular activities is Xoan singing, an ancient form of local folk music that is still practiced today. There are also several art galleries and museums to explore, including the Hai Duong Museum and the Tran Phu Art Gallery.

Hai Duong is also home to two of the most important historical sites in Vietnam: the Hai Duong Citadel and the Dai Cau. Both are popular tourist attractions and well worth a visit.

Getting to Hai Duong

Hai Duong is easily accessible from Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. It is located about 50km from Hanoi and there are several buses running between the two cities every day. It is also possible to take a taxi or rent a car for the journey.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Hai Duong is during the dry season, from October to April. This is when the weather is at its best, with plenty of sunshine and mild temperatures. The monsoon season can bring heavy rainfall and humidity, so it is best to avoid if possible.

Exploring the Province of Hai Duong

Hai Duong is the gateway to the northern region of Vietnam and is close to several other popular destinations. In the Hai Duong Province, visitors can take a trip to the seaside town of Hai Phong, the historic city of Ha Long Bay, and the beautiful mountain region of Sapa. All of these destinations can be found on Tripfany.

Make Your Trip to Hai Duong Unforgettable

Hai Duong is a vibrant and colourful city with something for everyone. Whether you are looking for history, culture, or just a unique and memorable experience, Hai Duong is sure to have something for you. And with Tripfany, you can get help with your travel itinerary and make your trip to Hai Duong an unforgettable one.