Top 10 Most Beautiful and Famous Tourist Attractions in Bac Ninh Province

But Thap Pagoda (also known as Ninh Phuc Pagoda) is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Bac Ninh. Recognized as a National Special Monument, But Thap Pagoda stands out with its ancient, serene beauty, and is particularly famous for housing the largest wooden statue of the Thousand-Hand and Thousand-Eye Avalokitesvara in Vietnam.

Located on the banks of the Duong River, But Thap Pagoda is a serene and ancient structure, exuding a spiritual charm. The pagoda, resembling a giant pen, stands majestically amidst vast fields. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and wander through the spacious, tranquil grounds. But Thap Pagoda remains an ideal stop for those seeking a connection to their spiritual roots. While there is no confirmed historical record of its origin, some sources suggest that the pagoda dates back to the Tran Dynasty and has undergone numerous renovations over the centuries.

This architectural masterpiece owes much of its current form to the efforts of Empress Dowager Ngoc Truc and Princess Ngoc Duyen. In 1619, Lord Trinh Tung forced Emperor Le Kinh Tong to commit suicide and installed his son, Prince Duy Ky, as Le Shen Tong. Despite being well-educated and intelligent, the emperor was forced to marry Ngoc Truc, who had been previously married to Le Tru, a man executed along with his four children. Le Shen Tong ruled until 1643, passing the throne to his son, Crown Prince Duy Huu, also known as Le Chan Tong. The Empress Dowager then returned to Thanh Hoa, where she constructed the Mật Pagoda, which is now completely destroyed. After a tumultuous life, the Empress Dowager sought refuge in Buddhism, visiting Phat Tich Pagoda to hear teachings from the Zen Master Chuyet Chuyet. She later obtained the emperor's permission to restore But Thap Pagoda, which was in ruins at the time, and later formally entered the Buddhist monastic life.

As one of the oldest pagodas in Bac Ninh, But Thap Pagoda seamlessly blends its architectural design with its natural surroundings, creating a unique charm that attracts many visitors. The main pagoda, consisting of three sections – the Front Hall, the Heavenly Incense Hall, and the Upper Shrine – is shaped like the character 'công.' Inside, there are statues of Avalokitesvara and other revered figures. A notable feature of the pagoda is the Bao Nghiem Tower, which resembles a giant pen reaching towards the sky. The stone slabs are intricately carved with detailed designs, showcasing exceptional craftsmanship.

The next notable destination on the list of top tourist spots in Bac Ninh is the Dinh Bang Village Communal House. This communal house was built in the late 18th century to honor the village's tutelary deities. Its unique architecture features a central main hall and two side sections that gradually rise, creating an expansive space for village gatherings. Visitors can admire nearly 500 intricately carved dragon and phoenix reliefs in a tranquil, solemn setting. A famous saying about Dinh Bang Village Communal House goes:

"First is Dong Khang Communal House,

Second is Dinh Bang, third is Diem."

The Dinh Bang Village Communal House was constructed between 1700 and 1736 during the Later Le period. It was funded by Nguyen Thac Luong, a local official from Dinh Bang, and his wife, Nguyen Thi Nguyen, both from Thanh Hoa. They purchased precious and durable lim wood, which was used to build the house. The communal house features a grand main building connected to the rear sanctuary, shaped like a “hoe” (a traditional agricultural tool), or in Chinese characters, a “Dinh” structure. The main building measures 20 meters long, 14 meters wide, and 8 meters tall, with a roof that extends 5.5 meters in height.

At Dinh Bang Village Communal House, you will experience its unique architectural style, with a vast roof and numerous elaborate carvings. The interior is adorned with various motifs, such as dragons, phoenixes, swords, pine trees, and bamboo. This distinctive design is part of what makes the Dinh Bang Village Communal House so attractive to visitors seeking to learn about the local culture and history.

Designated a National Heritage Site in 1961, the Dinh Bang Village Communal House has been preserved and maintained to this day. A visit to this historical site offers not only a peaceful and open atmosphere but also the opportunity to deepen your knowledge of the unique cultural heritage of the region.

It would be remiss not to mention Dong Ho Painting Village in Bac Ninh – one of the most visited attractions that draws both local and international tourists. Visitors come to observe the traditional painting-making process and to admire the stunning masterpieces created by seasoned artisans. Dong Ho Village is located approximately 33 km east of Hanoi, along the southern banks of the Duong River. Known as one of the oldest craft villages in the area, it is now part of Song Ho commune in Thuận Thành district, Bac Ninh province. This village is the birthplace of the famous Dong Ho woodcut paintings, a unique form of folk art recognized and admired both domestically and internationally. These paintings have long been a part of the spiritual and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. Dong Ho paintings have even been proposed for recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. Each painting showcases daily life and reflects the traditions of the local people.

Historically, Dong Ho paintings were primarily sold during the Lunar New Year festivities. Today, these works of art continue to gain popularity and are preserved for their cultural significance. What makes Dong Ho paintings particularly distinctive is the special paper used and the vibrant color palette. The unique “diep” paper used in these paintings allows artists to capture the essence of daily life with bright, harmonious colors that blend beautifully together to form stunning images.

If you visit Bac Ninh, don't forget to stop by Dong Ho Painting Village to witness firsthand these unique works of art. It's a chance to gain a deeper understanding of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the Vietnamese people.

Phat Tich Pagoda (also known as Van Phuc Pagoda) is located on the southern slope of Mount Phat Tich (also called Mount Lan Kha or Mount Tien), in Phat Tich commune, Tien Du district, Bac Ninh province. It is home to the largest stone statue of the Buddha from the Ly Dynasty in Vietnam. Phat Tich Pagoda was recognized as a Historical and Cultural Monument by Decision No. 313/VH-VP on April 28, 1962, and later listed among the 62 National Special Monuments of Vietnam by the Prime Minister.

Situated in Phat Tich commune, this area marks the historic convergence of Indian Buddhism and ancient Vietnamese folk beliefs, forming the country’s first Buddhist center (Dau – Luy Lau). According to ancient records, the pagoda was first established in 1057 during the reign of Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, with numerous structures spread across the site. In 1066, the king ordered the construction of a towering pagoda. After the tower collapsed, a miraculous discovery was made inside – a large green stone statue of Amitabha Buddha, covered in gold leaf. To commemorate this extraordinary find, the village was renamed Phat Tich and the pagoda was moved to the mountainside.

The green stone statue of Amitabha Buddha, seated on a lotus throne, stands 1.87 meters tall, showcasing a remarkable feat of Vietnamese sculpture. This statue is one of the most iconic features of Phat Tich Pagoda. The current pagoda complex consists of 7 halls for receiving visitors, 5 sanctuaries dedicated to Buddha Amitabha and the Three Buddhas, 8 halls for ancestors, and 7 halls for worshipping the Mother Goddesses. The architecture of Phat Tich Pagoda reflects the Ly Dynasty’s style, with three terraced levels built into the mountainside, supported by a 58-meter-long stone wall, rising 3–5 meters high, with a 5-meter-wide stone path in the middle leading up 80 steps.

The Phat Tich Pagoda festival is held annually over three days, from the 3rd to the 5th day of the Lunar New Year, with the main celebration on the 4th. On the first day of the festival (the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year), thousands of visitors flock to the pagoda to pray for peace and prosperity, making the pathways to the pagoda and the bell tower crowded with worshippers.

Ba Chua Kho Temple is situated on the slopes of Kho Mountain, in the Co Me area of Vu Ninh Ward, Bac Ninh City, Bac Ninh Province. This historical site is part of the Co Me complex, which includes a communal house, pagoda, and temple, and it is a popular pilgrimage destination for people from across Vietnam every year, due to its religious significance.

The temple is connected to the historical event in 1076 when General Ly Thuong Kiet led the Vietnamese resistance against the Song Dynasty. During this time, places such as Co Me village, Kho Mountain, and Cầu Gạo served as military supply depots for the Ly army, located on the southern side of the Như Nguyệt River (Sông Cầu). Kho Mountain, along with Dinh Mountain and Thị Cầu, was strategically positioned to control the route from Lang Son to the ancient capital of Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi).

Ba Chua Kho Temple is dedicated to the memory of a remarkable Vietnamese woman who efficiently organized the storage and distribution of provisions, managing the national granaries before and after the victory at Như Nguyệt. During the Ly Dynasty, she was entrusted with overseeing the granary at Kho Mountain, and after her death in 1077 during the resistance against the Song, the king honored her by posthumously declaring her a deity. The local people, in deep respect, built this temple at the former royal granary and affectionately called her Ba Chua Kho.

The Bac Ninh Citadel is deeply intertwined with the cultural life of its people and has become a proud symbol of Vietnam's history and heritage. Built during the reign of King Gia Long in 1804, it has undergone numerous phases of construction and renovation over the centuries.

Located in Bac Ninh City, this historical and cultural site is an important destination for visitors. The citadel's distinctive hexagonal design is one of its most striking features, making it a captivating spot for history and architecture enthusiasts. Not only is it an architectural marvel, but it also holds significant historical and cultural value. Before being occupied by French colonial forces, the citadel served as the administrative center for both Bac Ninh and Thai Nguyen provinces. In 1925, it was officially recognized as a national architectural monument.

The Bac Ninh Citadel also holds a pivotal place in Vietnamese history. It once served as the capital of the Au Lac and Dai Viet kingdoms during the 3rd and 13th centuries. Several dynasties, including the Tran and Ly, chose this citadel as their royal residence and administrative hub. The citadel's rich history and cultural diversity have contributed to making it a treasured national heritage.

Beyond its historical and cultural significance, the Bac Ninh Citadel is also renowned for its local cuisine. Visitors can indulge in traditional delicacies such as fried bao, grilled bread, fish cakes, Bac Ninh-style bun cha, La Vong grilled fish, Ly Nhan spring rolls, and Thot Not dessert. These dishes not only delight the palate but also offer a taste of the region's unique culinary traditions.

Dai Bai Copper Casting Village is located in Tien Du District, Bac Ninh Province, and offers a unique and captivating destination for those interested in art and traditional culture in northern Vietnam. With a history spanning over 900 years, Dai Bai is renowned for its fine copper casting craftsmanship. Historical records indicate that the village's copperworking tradition dates back to the 11th century, with Nguyen Cong Truyen (989-1069) recognized as the founder. He taught the art of casting domestic items such as basins, pots, and pans, laying the foundation for the village's remarkable development.

Dai Bai Copper Casting Village is divided into four main quarters: Son, Tay, Giua, and Ngoai. Each area specializes in a particular aspect of copper casting, from crafting copper pots and trays to creating ceremonial items and statues. This division of labor has helped Dai Bai to specialize, making it a renowned center for copper production. Visitors to the village can admire thousands of copper products crafted by skilled artisans, showcasing intricate designs and meticulous attention to detail. From religious statues and cultural relics to decorative items like the Four Seasons paintings, flower vases, and tea sets, the village presents a rich and diverse world of artistic creations.

In addition to its artistry, Dai Bai is home to several important historical and cultural landmarks. Notable sites include the tomb of the copper casting ancestor Nguyen Cong Truyen, the Van Lang Communal House, the Dien Loc Communal House, and the Dien Phuc Pagoda. These locations provide visitors with the opportunity to explore and learn about the village's deep-rooted traditions.

A visit to Dai Bai not only offers a chance to discover its unique copper casting art but also provides insight into the lives and culture of the local people. Thanks to the cooperative model and technological advancements, the copper industry in Dai Bai has contributed to the improvement of local living standards and the expansion of export markets. This has helped fuel the growth and popularity of the village.

Do Temple, also known as the Ly Bat De Temple or Co Phap Dien, is a famous historical site in Bac Ninh, rich with the thousand-year history of the Ly Dynasty. Spanning over 31,000m², the temple exudes an air of solemnity, ancient grandeur, and the distinctive spirit of the Thang Long era.

Do Temple was originally built on the 3rd of March in the year Canh Ngo (1030) by King Ly Thai Tong and has undergone several reconstructions and expansions throughout history. Despite being completely destroyed during wartime, the temple was restored in 1989 based on thorough research and surviving relics. This revered structure now beautifully mirrors the ancient and majestic features of the Ly Dynasty.

Upon entering the temple grounds, visitors are greeted with the exquisite architectural details and the sacred, dignified atmosphere of the main temple and other worship areas. Inside the central hall, visitors will find carvings of King Ly Thai To's decree on relocating the capital, along with the poem "Nam Quoc Son Ha"—the first declaration of Vietnam's independence. The fragrant incense that fills the air in the temple creates a serene, ancient, and spiritual ambiance.

The expansive grounds around Do Temple are adorned with greenery and well-maintained stone pathways. The Crescent Moon Lake within the grounds is often used for hosting Quan Ho Bac Ninh performances, a unique cultural heritage of the region. Do Temple also hosts several vibrant festivals, including the traditional celebration on the 15th day of the 3rd lunar month, honoring the Ly kings for their contributions to the country's defense and development. Do Temple is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Bac Ninh. Explore this sacred space and immerse yourself in the ancient atmosphere of the Ly Dynasty.

Dau Pagoda, also known as Dien Ung Pagoda, Phap Van Pagoda, or Co Chau Pagoda, is a renowned spiritual destination in Bac Ninh. It is considered the first pagoda built in Vietnam and is home to the oldest Buddhist center in the country. With its long history and spiritual significance, Dau Pagoda attracts visitors eager to explore the cultural and spiritual beauty of the region.

Located on a high, expansive piece of land, the pagoda offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. Its architecture follows the "internal imperial, external folk" style, featuring unique structures such as the Tam Quan gate, the front hall, Hoa Phong Tower, the Three Jewels Hall, the rear hall, and various auxiliary buildings. Over the centuries, Dau Pagoda has undergone restoration, maintaining its ancient beauty and solemnity.

As the first Buddhist pagoda in Vietnam, Dau Pagoda is not only worth visiting for its historical value but also for the special myths and legends associated with it. Visitors will be drawn to the sacred and spiritual ambiance of the pagoda. Statues of the Buddha, Bodhisattvas, the Three Realms, the Old Man, the Holy Monk, and many others create an exceptional atmosphere, offering a sense of peace and tranquility.

One of the unique experiences at Dau Pagoda is participating in the annual festival. On the 8th day of the 4th lunar month, the pagoda hosts a traditional festival, regarded as one of the oldest festivals in Vietnam. Visitors can join ancient rituals and discover the rich cultural heritage of this place.

Dau Pagoda is a perfect destination for those interested in spirituality and those wishing to explore the distinctive culture and history of Bac Ninh. With its sacred space and unique architecture, Dau Pagoda offers visitors a memorable experience and a peaceful retreat. Take time to visit and feel the sacredness of this remarkable temple.

If you're passionate about ceramics and eager to discover the colorful artistry and skillful craftsmanship of potters, make sure to visit Phu Lang Ceramic Village during your trip to Bac Ninh. Located in Que Vo District, just 4 kilometers from the Luc Dau River and beside the stunning Cau River, this village is not only a scenic paradise but also a place where you can learn about the process of creating unique ceramic pieces like cups, teapots, plant pots, clay pots, and much more.

Phu Lang Ceramic Village has a long and storied history, dating back to the Tran Dynasty, and it has preserved its significance to this day. Lu Phong Tu, recognized as the founder of the village’s pottery tradition, played a crucial role in mastering ceramic techniques and establishing the renowned Phu Lang Ceramic Village. He studied pottery during his time in China, and this knowledge has been passed down through generations, ensuring the village's continued success.

The village specializes in three main categories of ceramics: those used in traditional folk rituals, household ceramics, and decorative pottery. Each item is carefully crafted with exquisite detail, resulting in some of the finest ceramic works. Notably, some ceramics from Phu Lang, dating back to the 17th to 19th centuries, are preserved in the Vietnam History Museum, showcasing the village’s cultural and artistic heritage.

A visit to Phu Lang Ceramic Village allows you to not only experience the pottery-making process and admire its traditional products but also delve into the history and artistry of the skilled artisans. It’s a chance to explore the unique creativity in each handcrafted piece, offering a fascinating and lively experience at Phu Lang Ceramic Village.