Top 11 Must-Visit Tourist Spots in Bac Giang Province

Bac Giang is a region with significant potential for tourism development, especially in cultural and historical tourism, boasting over 2,000 historical sites across the province. Yen The, a district in Bac Giang, is considered a cradle of many historical landmarks. This historic land is marked by the Yen The Uprising led by national hero Hoang Hoa Tham, where locals rose up against French colonial invaders for nearly 30 years, from 1884 to 1913. It remains one of the longest and largest peasant uprisings in Vietnam's history before the establishment of the Communist Party. The site, known for its cultural and historical significance, has made a lasting impact both nationally and internationally. Over a century later, the valuable relics of this uprising remain, with the Yen The Uprising Historical Site as its central landmark. This destination is a must-see for both domestic and international tourists visiting Bac Giang. The site is located in Yen The district, about 28 km northwest of Bac Giang city, along provincial road 284, and serves as a reminder of the heroic resistance against French colonization.

March 16th is celebrated annually as a traditional festival at the site. Visitors to the Yen The Uprising Historical Site can also explore nearby attractions, including Suoi Cai Lake, Cau Re Lake, and the memorial house of writer Nguyen Hong. The area preserves numerous cultural and historical artifacts that are of immense value. It’s especially lively during the spring festival season, attracting large crowds with its vibrant celebrations and various activities.

Mỏ Stream Tourism Area is located in Nghia Phuong commune, Luc Nam district, approximately 32km northeast of Bac Giang city. It is one of Bac Giang's most well-known scenic spots, renowned for its unique blend of eco-tourism and spiritual tourism. The Mỏ Stream winds through the Huyen Dinh and Yen Tu mountain valleys, home to several waterfalls of varying sizes that spray white foam, alongside numerous natural bathing pools.

The Mỏ Stream Festival is held annually in early April according to the lunar calendar, during which visitors can immerse themselves in the grandeur of nature, enjoy the cool waters, and hear the legends of Princess Que Mi Nuong, daughter of King Hung Dinh, who is said to have opened the stream, providing a water source for the local community. The Mỏ Stream area also features a temple dedicated to Saint Tran and several historical remnants from the Tran Dynasty's battles against northern feudal invaders, making it a perfect destination for history enthusiasts. The Mỏ Stream Temple, with its ancient architecture and rich cultural and historical significance, was recognized as a National Historical Site in 1988. The festival, which takes place on the 30th of March and the 1st and 2nd of April on the lunar calendar, is a time for local people to pray for bountiful harvests and honor Princess Que Mi Nuong, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to seek blessings and prosperity.

Located about 50 km from Bac Giang city and 100 km northeast of Hanoi, Khuon Than Lake in Kien Lao commune, Luc Ngan district, spans an area of 240 hectares, surrounded by lush forests of pine, cajeput, and acacia trees that thrive year-round. Visitors to Khuon Than Lake can immerse themselves in the breathtaking green landscapes of forests, skies, and mountains, all set against a pristine and mysterious natural backdrop. The lake itself is dotted with five small islands, each covered with the vibrant greenery of pine trees.

Visitors can relax on a boat, soaking in the vast and tranquil waters of the clear lake, or explore the untouched nature on the islands. From the top of the lake's dam, guests can enjoy a panoramic view of the expansive, pristine, and dramatic scenery, which is truly poetic.

Moreover, those visiting between June and July can also enjoy the vast fruit orchards in the area, including the famous lychee gardens of Luc Ngan. This region is home to several ethnic groups such as the San Chi, Cao Lan, Tay, and Nung, preserving unique cultural traditions like folk songs and dances. The local cuisine is diverse, and after exploring the lake, visitors can sample local delicacies like gecko wine, honey, lychees, chestnuts, and the especially unique grilled goby fish cooked over an open flame by the indigenous people.

Cấm Sơn Lake is located in Luc Ngan district, Bac Giang, bordering Lang Son province. This natural lake spans 2,600 hectares, but during the rainy season, when the water level rises, the surface area can expand to 3,000 hectares. To reach the lake from Bac Giang, take National Road 1A towards Lang Son, traveling approximately 50 km, then turn off and drive an additional 4 km to reach the main dam area of Cấm Sơn Lake. This destination is perfect for outdoor activities such as camping, boating, hiking, and fishing. Visitors will be able to immerse themselves in the stunning beauty of the landscape, where mountains and sky converge to create a picture-perfect natural scene. Cấm Sơn Lake's breathtaking beauty even inspired composer Phó Đức Phương to write the famous song "Lake on the Mountain".

What makes the lake even more special are the surrounding hills that form a beautiful backdrop. The nearby villages, home to the Nung, Tay, and Kinh ethnic groups, still use traditional boats for transportation, adding to the charm and uniqueness of the area. Visitors can also hear fascinating local legends about Ba Hon Mountain, Cấm Stream, Mọc Stream, Vảy Rồng Stream, Kỉn Mountain, Mấn Village, and the Lăn Lóc Island.

Often called the 'Mẫu Sơn of Bac Giang', Đồng Cao is a small plateau located in the village of Gà, Thạch Sơn commune, Sơn Động district, Bac Giang province. The natural beauty of Đồng Cao is vast and awe-inspiring, with dramatic cliffs and lush green forests stretching as far as the eye can see. Situated around 20 km from the center of Sơn Động, the plateau reaches an altitude of nearly 1,000 meters above sea level. The main allure of Đồng Cao lies in its untouched natural scenery: vast open spaces, rolling hills, green meadows, and expansive grasslands that make it a perfect spot for adventurous travelers seeking thrills.

At Đồng Cao, you'll find scattered ancient rock formations, their strange shapes creating a surreal landscape on the grassy plains. The highlight of this destination is the mysterious 'King's Cave' at the top of the plateau, which is steeped in local folklore and waiting to be uncovered by intrepid explorers. Standing atop Đồng Cao, you are enveloped in the cool mist of the morning, surrounded by fresh, clean air and the serenity of nature. It's a place where you feel truly at one with the earth, the sky, and the winds, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you're planning a trip to Bac Giang, consider visiting Dinh Hương Tomb as a cultural destination. Located in Dinh Hương village, Đức Thắng commune, Hiệp Hòa district, Bac Giang province, this magnificent stone-carved architectural site from the Later Le Dynasty was recognized as a national historical and cultural monument in 1965. The tomb is an ideal spot for history enthusiasts or those with an interest in exploring ancient traditions.

The site features intricate stone statues of humans and animals, a true masterpiece of Vietnamese stone-carving art. As a key representation of Vietnam's architectural and artistic heritage, Dinh Hương Tomb is not only a significant cultural attraction in Bac Giang but also a symbol of the country’s rich tradition in stone sculpture. While it may not be a trendy spot for modern photoshoots, the tomb's timeless beauty and historical significance make it an invaluable destination for those who appreciate the past.

Located in Liên Trung commune, Tân Yên district, Dành Mountain is a beloved spiritual and ecological destination for many travelers. The mountain is covered by lush pine forests, brimming with vitality, offering an inviting atmosphere for visitors. Dành Mountain is the perfect place to fully experience the breathtaking beauty of nature and the vibrant spirit of Bắc Giang. The path leading up to the mountain is paved with 345 gradual stone steps. At the base of the mountain lies the Mũi Voi well, approximately 2 meters deep, with its waters remaining crystal clear and never running dry, according to locals.

Dành Mountain attracts visitors, especially foreigners, with its stunning natural scenery and a variety of native flowers. Many are captivated not only by the unspoiled beauty of the landscape but also by the artistic ambiance created by rows of trees and rocks. While visiting the Dành Mountain relic site, guests can also savor local specialties like ginseng, grilled spring rolls, and enjoy the region's traditional folk songs, including the Ống and Ví tunes, which enchant countless visitors.

Bắc Giang offers numerous natural spots perfect for capturing Instagram-worthy photos, especially popular among the younger crowd. Among these is the sunflower field in Thanh Mai Street, Đa Mai ward. With its vibrant yellow sunflowers in full bloom, visitors can take stunning photos surrounded by this beautiful landscape. Standing in the middle of the sunflower field, you can enjoy a sense of peace and tranquility as you gaze at the endless sea of blossoms under the sun. Located 55 km from Hanoi along National Road 1A, visitors can easily drive from Hanoi's center to the sunflower field by following the route through Việt Yên and then onto DT284. A quick turn onto Mỹ Độ street leads directly to the sunflower field.

When visiting the sunflower field in Nghĩa Đàn, you will step into a magical world of millions of blooming flowers. Besides bringing your camera, you can also rent a ladder for panoramic shots. Ladies, don’t forget to bring a few stylish outfits to capture beautiful moments amidst the flowers.

Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda in Đức La village, Trí Yên commune, Yên Dũng district, Bắc Giang province, Vietnam, also known as Đức La Pagoda, has long been recognized as not only a place of architectural beauty and scenic charm but also for its unique cultural significance in Vietnamese Buddhism. The pagoda is renowned as a major center for Buddhist teachings, training monks for the entire country, and is the birthplace of the Trúc Lâm Zen sect, which is a key part of Vietnamese Buddhism. In 2015, the Vietnamese government officially recognized Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda as a National Special Monument.

The pagoda is located at the confluence of the Lục Nam and Thương rivers (known as the Phượng Nhãn confluence), overlooking the meeting point of these rivers and the Lục Đầu Giang - Kiếp Bạc region. It is surrounded by mountains, including the sacred Cô Tiên Mountain. On the opposite side of the river is the palace of Trần Hưng Đạo and the Kiếp Bạc Temple.

Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda is also home to a vast collection of ancient woodblock prints, regarded as a national treasure. These woodblocks mainly contain Buddhist scriptures, historical records of the Trúc Lâm Zen school’s formation and development, as well as writings from its three founding masters: Trần Nhân Tông, Pháp Loa, and Huyền Quang. Additionally, the collection includes poems, proverbs, diaries by the famous Mạc Đĩnh Chi, and works by several other high-ranking monks.

Located in Nham Sơn commune, Yên Dũng district, Bắc Giang province, the Phoenix Mountain Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery has been a significant part of the local community for nearly a decade. It has become a popular cultural and spiritual tourism spot, recognized by both locals and visitors alike. The monastery is situated at the highest point of the Nham Biền mountain range, covering over 18 hectares. It sits atop the Non Vua peak, the highest mountain in the range, which is also home to the 'Heavenly Well'—a source of crystal-clear, fresh water. Below the peak lies the Hang Dầu stream, where the waters of nine Phoenix Mountains converge, surrounded by rich vegetation and abundant wildlife. This serene, natural setting offers visitors a peaceful retreat, allowing them to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature and leave behind the stresses of daily life.

The monastery's structures are thoughtfully designed, blending beautiful, majestic architecture with environmental harmony, ensuring the preservation of its tranquil atmosphere. To reach the monastery, visitors must ascend over 300 wide stone steps. The Phoenix Mountain Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery is a sanctuary of peace, filled with joy and serenity, surrounded by scenic landscapes, vibrant flowers, and the melodies of birdsong, all harmonizing with the sound of the bell, leaving a lasting impression on the soul.

Bắc Giang has long been known for its rich history, and one of its most famous destinations is Tây Yên Tử. Located just over 100 km from Hanoi, Tây Yên Tử is an enchanting cultural and natural site that attracts both domestic and international visitors. It consists of a network of historical, cultural, and scenic landmarks situated along the western and northern slopes of the majestic Yên Tử mountain range in Bắc Giang province. Visiting Tây Yên Tử allows tourists to immerse themselves in the misty mountains, ancient forests, and experience the tranquility and grandeur of its landscapes and architectural wonders.

The best time to visit Tây Yên Tử is during spring or summer when vibrant festivals with exciting activities take place. The air here is always cool and refreshing, offering a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Some must-see attractions when visiting Tây Yên Tử include the Đồng Pagoda, the Vietnamese version of the Great Wall, the Thượng Pagoda, and the Heaven Gate.