Top 9 Travel Tips for Visiting Yên Tử You Should Know

You have multiple transportation options with different routes to reach this destination.

• By Bus:
  • From Hanoi, you can take a bus to Ha Long, Uong Bi, or Mong Cai, and get off at the Yên Tử or Trình Yên Tử temple stop, then proceed to Yên Tử. The distance from Hanoi to Yên Tử is approximately 125km, and from the drop-off point at Yên Tử road to the base of the mountain is about 10km, which can be covered by motorbike taxi or regular taxi. The bus ride from Hanoi to Yên Tử takes over 2 hours. Many bus companies operate routes to Quảng Ninh, so it’s easy to book tickets. Note: If you're visiting Yên Tử for the day, it’s advisable to depart early, around 5:30 AM, for a smoother sightseeing experience.
  • From Hai Phong & Ha Long: The journey from Hai Phong to Yên Tử is about 45km, and from Ha Long to Yên Tử is around 59km. You can easily catch a bus from either Hai Phong or Ha Long bus stations to Yên Tử.

• By Motorbike: You can ride a motorbike to Yên Tử from Hanoi or any northern province. While the distance isn’t long, it’s advisable to have an experienced rider if you are unfamiliar with the route or unsure of your driving skills.
• By Tourist Bus: If you’re traveling in a group from Hanoi or nearby areas, you can hire a tourist bus to Yên Tử. It’s both comfortable and cost-effective for group travel.

Yên Tử is situated on a high mountain, so you can choose from several options to reach the top:

• On Foot: From the base of the mountain, you can hike up along a 6km path with a hilly terrain. While the hike can be challenging, the expansive views and fresh air will surely energize you. Along the way, you can explore several scenic spots.
• By Cable Car: If you're not up for hiking, you can take the cable car. Yên Tử’s cable car system is one of the most modern in Vietnam, stretching 1.2km with some sections reaching 450m above ground. The cable car offers a unique, panoramic view of Yên Tử from above.
  • Ticket Prices:
    • Round-trip: 350,000 VND per person
    • One-way: 200,000 VND per person per route
    • Seniors over 70 and children under 1.2m: Free
• Combination of Hiking & Cable Car: This is a popular choice among tourists. You can take the cable car up and then hike down, allowing you to rest and still enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Yên Tử is home to many fascinating spots waiting for you to explore:

• Yên Tử Market: Located at the foot of Yên Tử mountain, this market is the perfect place to pick up supplies or snacks before your climb.
• Dao Thanh Y Ethnic Minority Village: Situated at the foot of Yên Tử, this village is a great stop before heading up the mountain.
• Khe Sú Valley: At the base of the mountain, this tranquil area offers picturesque rice fields and is ideal for a visit before or after your exploration of Yên Tử.
• Trúc Lâm Zen Monastery: Also known as Lân Temple, this peaceful retreat sits on a hill just below Yên Tử.
• Giải Oan Stream: Found at the mountain’s base, this crystal-clear stream with its rocky bed creates a soothing, musical sound.
• Giải Oan Pagoda: Close to the stream, this pagoda is linked to the story of King Trần Nhân Tông, who built it to honor the souls of concubines who had taken their lives.
• Lò Rèn Shrine: Located 400 meters from Giải Oan Pagoda, this shrine houses the tomb of Trần Nhân Tông and is home to relics of the revered leader.
• Quy Đức Tomb: Situated in the Tower of the Ancestors area, this is the final resting place of King Trần Nhân Tông.
• Hoa Yên Pagoda: Just 150 stone steps from the Tower of the Ancestors, Hoa Yên is the largest temple in the area, with distinctive architecture and attractions like Ngự Dội Waterfall, Long Khê Waterfall, Thiền Định Hermitage, and Vàng Waterfall.
• One-Leaf Pagoda: About 200 meters from Hoa Yên, this pagoda clings to a cliff and is known by other names such as Bán Mái Pagoda and Bồ Đà Pagoda.
• Ngọa Vân Hermitage: Close to One-Leaf Pagoda, this hermitage is a serene retreat.
• Tử Waterfall: Located before Ngọa Vân Hermitage, this waterfall stands 10 meters high.
• Thung and Dược Hermitages: These peaceful sites lie just ahead of Ngọa Vân, surrounded by beautiful scenery.
• Bảo Sái Pagoda: Located above Ngọa Vân, this pagoda clings to a cliff over 700 meters high.
• Vân Tiêu Pagoda: Near Bảo Sái, this pagoda has undergone several restorations due to damage over time.
• Tiên Cung Tower: At 7 meters tall, this is the highest tower in Yên Tử, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Hàm Long Stream: Close to Vân Tiêu Pagoda, this stream flows from the base of the Vàng Waterfall.
• Bamboo, Plum, and Bamboo Groves: These peaceful natural settings line the route from Giải Oan Pagoda to Bảo Sái Pagoda.
• An Kỳ Sinh Statue: A remarkable stone formation resembling a monk in meditation, located 600 meters from Vân Tiêu Pagoda at 900 meters above sea level.
• Phật Stele and Heavenly Gate: Situated between the An Kỳ Sinh and Đồng Pagodas, these impressive natural rock formations resemble a gateway.
• Đồng Pagoda: The most iconic site at the summit of Yên Tử, this pagoda is the largest and most unique bronze structure in Vietnam.
• Trình Pagoda: Also known as Đền Trình, this ancient temple sits 1,000 meters above sea level and is renowned for its distinctive architecture, drawing visitors seeking both spiritual and natural beauty.

Visitors to Yên Tử often seek places to stay, but due to limited accommodations in the area, many opt for nearby Uông Bí city. Here are some affordable hotels and guesthouses you can consider when visiting Yên Tử:

Legacy Yên Tử MGallery Resort: This resort, perched 1,068 meters above sea level, offers a perfect blend of luxury and meditation-inspired relaxation. With 133 rooms in Deluxe and Superior categories, it provides a serene environment combined with modern comfort.

1. Address: Thượng Yên Công, Uông Bí City, Quảng Ninh
2. Contact: 020 3625 9888
3. Room Rates: 2.5 – 4.5 million VND/night
4. Amenities: 24-hour reception, dual air conditioning, satellite TV, hot and cold water, free Wi-Fi, bar, restaurant, meditation hall, etc.
5. Highlights: The resort is set in a unique location atop Yên Tử Mountain, offering cool, fresh air. It boasts distinctive, elegant design and professional service, ideal for both relaxation and spiritual rejuvenation. The food is varied and delicious.

Lodge Làng Hành Hương Yên Tử: A traditional village replicating the architecture of the Trần Dynasty, this resort offers a one-of-a-kind experience. With 75 well-furnished rooms, it promises both comfort and cultural immersion.

1. Address: Thượng Yên Công, Uông Bí City, Quảng Ninh
2. Contact: 020 3651 8888
3. Room Rates: Contact directly
4. Amenities: Free parking, air conditioning, hot water, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, restaurant, 24-hour reception, etc.
5. Highlights: Located at the foot of Yên Tử, the resort is a convenient stop before heading up the mountain. The unique design offers guests a fresh experience, with rooms that are clean and fully equipped. Friendly staff and a peaceful atmosphere make this a great choice.

Ngọc Hải Hotel and Restaurant: Positioned conveniently near the Zen Monastery, this hotel offers comfortable stays with the added benefit of an on-site restaurant serving delicious meals. It has 26 rooms, ranging from single to five-bed rooms, and even a dormitory-style room.

1. Address: Thượng Yên Công, Uông Bí City, Quảng Ninh
2. Contact: 0986 197 240
3. Room Rates: 300,000 – 1,000,000 VND/night
4. Amenities: 24-hour reception, free parking, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, hot water, TV, etc.
5. Highlights: Located at the foot of Yên Tử Mountain, this hotel offers great value for money. The food is tasty, the rooms are comfortable, and the spacious grounds provide a pleasant environment. The staff are helpful and friendly.

Tình Thương Yên Tử Hotel and Restaurant: This hotel is ideally located near the entrance to the Yên Tử spiritual tourism site. Besides offering room accommodation, it also has a restaurant serving a variety of local dishes.

1. Address: Thượng Yên Công, Uông Bí City, Quảng Ninh
2. Contact: 020 3366 0222
3. Room Rates: Contact directly
4. Amenities: 24-hour reception, free parking, air conditioning, hot water, free Wi-Fi, laundry service, etc.
5. Highlights: Located near the Yên Tử spiritual site, this hotel offers a quiet retreat. The meals are delicious and feature traditional dishes. The staff are friendly and provide excellent service.

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When visiting Yen Tu, don’t miss the chance to bring home these unique and delicious specialties as souvenirs:

• Fresh Yen Tu Bamboo Shoots: Bamboo shoots are a signature delicacy of Yen Tu. These tender, slender shoots are sweet and crunchy. They can be prepared in various dishes like boiled, stir-fried, or stuffed with meat. However, many locals believe that the best way to enjoy bamboo shoots is simply boiled and dipped in sesame salt. Bamboo shoots are sold along the road to Yen Tu, but they can easily be mistaken for bitter bamboo shoots. A good tip for identifying them is to break open the shoot and taste it—if it's not bitter, it’s safe to buy.

• Trầu Tiên Yen Tu Massage Oil: Yen Tu’s mountainous region is rich in medicinal plants. One of the most popular purchases here is the Trầu Tiên massage oil, made from a blend of herbs like ginger, turmeric, and wild betel leaf. This herbal oil is highly effective for relieving muscle soreness after long treks. It’s available at various shops in Yen Tu, but it’s best to buy from trusted vendors or the Uong Bi Red Cross for both personal use or as a gift.

• Yen Tu Fern Leaves: A unique wild vegetable found only in the Yen Tu forests, fern leaves are sweet, slightly slimy, and perfect for stir-frying with garlic or making salads. The best fern leaves are harvested in the rainy season when they are young, tender, and fat. Fern leaves are naturally clean and safe to eat, offering a pleasant crunch and sweetness.

• Yen Tu Plum Wine: A local specialty that’s well-known among visitors. You can buy it from local markets or trusted specialty stores at the foot of Yen Tu Mountain.

• Wild Honey: Yen Tu's honey is truly special. It’s available for purchase at the Yen Tu market or from reliable vendors in the area.

• Chè Lam Yen Tu: A local treat, Chè Lam is made from glutinous rice flour, sweetened with honey, and flavored with ginger and peanuts. It’s the perfect snack for a cool spring day, and it makes a wonderful souvenir for loved ones.

Additionally, don’t forget to check out other famous specialties from Quang Ninh:

• Tài Lồng Ệp Cake: A unique and labor-intensive specialty from the Sán Dìu people of Quang Ninh. This cake is made from glutinous rice, sweetened with honey, and has a chewy texture. The cake is usually served steamed, but locals often fry it for a softer, chewier texture. It's a popular offering during festive occasions.

• Quang Ninh Squid Cake: Known for its quality, Quang Ninh squid cakes are made from fresh squid, minced to the perfect consistency, and seasoned with pepper and fish sauce. The mixture is shaped into cakes and fried to a golden crisp. The result is a flavorful, crispy treat that showcases the freshness of the squid.

1-Day Yen Tu Itinerary:

If you’re planning a quick one-day trip to Yen Tu, here’s a suggested itinerary for you:

• Start early from Hanoi, which takes about 2.5 hours by car. Once you arrive at the foot of the mountain, park your car and take the cable car up to Dong Pagoda. You’ll need to take the cable car twice, with short walking intervals between the cable car stations. At the top, you can pray at the pagoda, rest, and enjoy lunch.
• Afterward, explore the surroundings, take photos, and enjoy the scenery. Finish your sightseeing by 3 PM and head back down the mountain. You should be back in Hanoi around 7:30 PM.

Some tips for a 1-day trip to Yen Tu:

• Start early—ideally before 6 AM—from Hanoi. This will give you time to catch the 8:30 AM cable car to Dong Pagoda.
• Opt for the cable car to save time, and bring some snacks along to keep you energized and flexible with your schedule.

2-Day, 1-Night Yen Tu Trip:

• Day 1: Begin your day at the Zen Monastery, then visit the Giải Oan Bridge, Hoa Yen Pagoda, One Roof Pagoda, An Kỳ Sinh, and the Hoang Buddha Statue, finishing at Dong Pagoda. From Dong Pagoda, walk down to Bao Sai Pagoda and take the cable car back to the parking area. At the foot of the mountain, stop by to purchase souvenirs.
• Day 2: Visit Ba Vang Pagoda. Afterward, conclude your trip and head back to Hanoi.

For a 2-day trip with an overnight stay, make sure to choose a comfortable place to stay in Quang Ninh. It will make it easier to travel to other attractions during your visit to Yen Tu.

Yen Tu Mountain, also known as Mount Tuong Dau, stands as one of the highest peaks in the Dong Trieu mountain range of northeastern Vietnam. It is situated on the border between two provinces: Bac Giang and Quang Ninh. This natural reserve is known for its diverse flora and fauna, making it an official nature preserve. The eastern section of the Yen Tu range lies in Quang Ninh, while the western part is in Bac Giang. In its entirety, the Yen Tu historical and scenic site holds immense significance due to its various values:

• Historical Value: Yen Tu is the birthplace of Vietnamese Zen Buddhism, founded and developed by the Vietnamese people themselves. It is one of the oldest and most significant historical sites in the country. The temples, pagodas, stupa, steles, and statues at Yen Tu are invaluable historical records linked to the life and teachings of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong, who was also the founder of the Zen sect. The inscriptions on these steles are a treasure trove of information, offering insights into the history of the monks who lived here, thus providing a glimpse into the development of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism over time. Through the ages – from the Ly, Tran, Le to the Nguyen dynasties – Yen Tu has been a sacred meeting place for revered Zen masters such as Chân Nguyên, Đàm Thái, and Emperor Tran Nhan Tong himself.

• Cultural Value: The Truc Lam Zen School, born in Yen Tu, has gifted future generations with invaluable texts and teachings. These writings, which guide monks and laypeople in meditation, repentance, and virtuous living, include important works such as the Thiền Tâm Thiết Chuỷ Ngữ Lục, Đại Hương Hải Ấn Thi Tập, and the Truyền Đăng Lục. These texts are not only cultural treasures but are also considered part of Vietnam's intangible cultural heritage. In addition, the Zen school has left behind significant physical cultural assets: temples, pagodas, and stupas that reflect the architectural, artistic, and sculptural developments in Vietnam throughout various historical periods, particularly during the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties.

• Philosophical Value: Between the 7th and 18th centuries, Vietnam's Buddhist traditions were largely shaped by Zen Buddhism. Most Zen schools were imported from China or India, yet Truc Lam Zen is distinct because it was founded by a Vietnamese master. This school was deeply attuned to the cultural practices and spiritual needs of the Vietnamese people, offering teachings that aligned with their unique customs and aspirations.

• Scenic Value: Yen Tu is not only one of Vietnam's most sacred mountains, but it also boasts a breathtaking natural landscape, home to a rich variety of rare flora and fauna. The area is known for its ancient trees such as pine, bamboo, and plum, as well as valuable medicinal plants. The striking beauty of Yen Tu blends majestic mountains with the timeless charm of ancient pagodas. The area's serenity, with its crystal-clear streams, misty skies, lush vegetation, and the sound of birds, makes it a truly enchanting place. As a result, Yen Tu has long been recognized as one of Vietnam's 72 sacred sites. According to historical texts, it was once praised as a “sacred mountain” by the Great Qing Dynasty’s records. Since then, every Vietnamese dynasty has honored Yen Tu as a major cultural and spiritual landmark.

With all these remarkable qualities, it's easy to understand why Yen Tu attracts so many visitors. Wouldn't you like to visit and explore it yourself?

Quang Ninh experiences a typical northern climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit Yen Tu is during the spring months, from January to March according to the lunar calendar. At this time, the weather is cool and pleasant, and it is also the peak season for festivals, drawing large crowds of visitors from across the country to worship and explore the area.

Things to consider:

• If you want to fully experience the festival atmosphere, it's best to visit Yen Tu after the opening day on the 1st of October (lunar calendar). However, this period can be very crowded, so if you prefer to avoid the crowds or are traveling with elderly people or children, you may want to reconsider.
• From March onward, the number of festival-goers decreases, and the weather remains relatively cool. While the festivals are less crowded, it’s still a good time for those who enjoy attending the events but prefer fewer people around.

Additionally, if you're interested in sightseeing, visiting temples, and making offerings, you can go at any time throughout the year. Just be sure to check the weather forecast and avoid rainy or stormy days that might make travel difficult.

Yen Tu is a sacred site, and reaching the holy mountain requires a long journey and a mountain climb. Here are some things to keep in mind when planning your trip:

• Bring all necessary items and gear for your trip. Pack 1-2 extra sets of clothes for when you sweat during the hike. Don't forget insect repellent and mosquito spray.
• Clothing: Keep it light and breathable. If visiting in winter, bring a warm jacket. Avoid revealing outfits, as this is a pilgrimage site as well as a tourist attraction.
• Footwear: Comfortable sports shoes are essential for hiking and navigating the hilly terrain.
• Snacks & Drinks: Pack a few light snacks and water to keep you energized along the way, but don't carry too much.
• Cash: It's best to bring enough cash for the trip, as ATM cards may not be accepted in all places.
• Souvenirs: Avoid buying souvenirs along the way, as these can often be overpriced.
• Phone & Camera: You'll still have signal at Yen Tu, so bring your phone and camera to capture the stunning views from various angles.
• You can take the cable car up and hike down the mountain to enjoy the scenery on foot.
• Rain Gear: Pack a lightweight raincoat in case of light rain.
• Keep the area clean: Avoid littering in the tourist area and on the hiking paths.
• The mountain trail is long, so take breaks along the way to rest and recharge. Don’t push yourself too hard, as this can cause fatigue, making it harder to complete the hike.
• When passing through the pine forest, be careful not to step on the roots or trunks of the ancient pine trees. These trees are 900-1000 years old, and stepping on them can harm their growth.
• The final stretch to the Đồng Pagoda is steep, and there are no steps. Exercise caution, especially in rainy weather when the path can be slippery.