Top 10 Best Explanatory Essays on the Landmarks of My Hometown

The Tam Chuc Tourist Complex (Ba Sao, Ha Nam) is often called 'Ha Long Bay on land,' known for its vast and stunning beauty. Visitors here experience an extraordinary sense of purity, tranquility, and serenity.

Located in Ba Sao, Kim Bang, Ha Nam, the Tam Chuc complex was recognized as a national tourist site by the Prime Minister through Decision No. 201/QD-TTG on January 22, 2013. Notably, the Tam Chuc Pagoda hosted the 2019 Vesak Festival (World Buddhist Congress) in May 2019, coinciding with the completion of the first phase of the Pagoda.

Spanning nearly 5,000 hectares, the site includes a 1,000-hectare lake, 3,000 hectares of natural forest mountains, and 1,000 hectares of valleys. The Tam Chuc Pagoda is a remarkable site with majestic landscapes: in the front, there are six mountains floating in the middle of the lake, believed to be six heavenly bells, while behind the pagoda, seven mountains illuminate in the night when light touches them.

The pagoda was constructed by skilled artisans from Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity. During a 2000 survey for the Tam Chuc Lake irrigation project, numerous relics related to the ancient pagoda were discovered. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Tam Chuc Pagoda dates back over 1,000 years.

After many years, the only remaining remnants are wooden columns, stone columns, and large stone beams, which raise questions about how the ancients were able to build such a monumental structure.

The new Tam Chuc Pagoda features 12,000 stone carvings depicting the stories of Buddha, crafted by skilled Indonesian Muslim artists from volcanic stone, which were then transported to Vietnam.

The site is also home to a massive pillar garden with 1,000 stone columns, each standing 12 meters tall and weighing 200 tons. Currently, about 36 of these columns have been erected by talented Vietnamese craftsmen. When complete, this will be the largest pillar garden in the world.

The sacred path of Tam Chuc includes: Ngoc Pagoda, Tam The Hall, Phap Chu Hall, Quan Am Hall, the Tam Quan Gate, and the International Conference Room. These structures and the Buddha statues at Tam Chuc are monumental in both size and significance.

Ngoc Pagoda, located atop the Shat Tinh Mountain, is being built by Hindu artisans and is expected to be completed by 2018.

The Tam The Hall stands 39 meters tall with a floor area of 5,400 square meters, accommodating up to 5,000 Buddhists for ceremonies. Beneath it is the Phap Chu Hall, housing a 150-ton bronze statue of Buddha.

The International Conference Room, sitting on the surface of a lake, spans 10,000 square meters and can seat 3,500 people. The Tam Quan Gate is still under construction. The entire complex is expected to be completed by 2048, marking 50 years of construction.

The Tam Chuc Tourist Complex is a truly captivating spiritual destination, blending the ancient beauty of a thousand-year-old pagoda with the awe-inspiring grandeur of nature. The fresh air and the sound of birds singing among the vast mountains create an unforgettable experience for all visitors.

Currently, travel between Hanoi and Ha Nam is very convenient. Tam Chuc Pagoda is 30 kilometers from Bai Dinh Pagoda and 4.5 kilometers from Huong Pagoda, forming a 'Golden Triangle' of spiritual tourism. This area is expected to become a major contributor to the economic and social development of Ha Nam province.

Ghenh Da Dia, also known as Ganh Da Dia, is a stunning natural landmark with unique geological features located in An Ninh Dong Commune, Tuy An District, Phu Yen Province, Vietnam.

Spanning about 2 square kilometers, the site is 50 meters at its narrowest point and stretches 200 meters at its longest. Ghenh Da Dia lies approximately 30 kilometers north of Tuy Hoa City on National Highway 1A. From the Chi Thanh town, it’s another 12 kilometers east to the site. Alternatively, a scenic coastal road connects Tuy Hoa to Ghenh Da Dia, spanning around 35 kilometers.

Ghenh Da Dia stretches about 50 meters wide and 200 meters long, offering one of the most breathtaking sights in Phu Yen. From above, the site reveals a sea-facing formation of hexagonal rocks closely aligned like giant honeycombs, creating a firm structure in glossy black. This remarkable formation emerged when volcanic lava poured into the sea. The interaction of hot lava and cold sea water solidified the lava while pressure forces fractured the surface, creating the fascinating landscape we see today.

The area is characterized by columns of stone shaped like prisms, stacked closely together, standing tall against the waves. The rocks, arranged in layers, give the appearance of a giant stack of plates, leading to its name, Ghenh Da Dia (Plate Stone Beach). Seen from a distance, the formation resembles a colossal natural beehive.

The place is home to raw, rough stones layered in a cliff formation that extends all the way to the sea. This vista is often likened to the scales of a giant whale peacefully resting beneath the clear waters and blue skies of Phu Yen.

Despite centuries of weather changes, the sound of crashing waves continues to echo on the shores. Visitors can approach the rocky formations, where the waves gently meet the coast, offering a stunning view of the deep blue sea. Further down, a cave carved into the foot of the mountain is visible, with foam splashing against the entrance. Farther in the distance, Bai Bang beach presents its crystal-clear waters reflecting the sky.

In 1998, Ghenh Da Dia was officially recognized as a national scenic landmark and has since been developed as a tourist destination by Phu Yen Province. However, its remote location, requiring travel through several villages, made it difficult to promote tourism effectively. Local residents have turned the site into a popular weekend picnic spot, unfortunately leading to waste accumulation.

By 2010, the road leading to Ghenh Da Dia was completely paved with clear signage. The area has also been cleaned, with efforts to maintain and preserve the environment. Today, it has become a must-see attraction for travelers visiting Phu Yen.

During a visit to Ghenh Da Dia, don’t miss the ancient Mang Lang Church at the entrance, as well as a leisurely drive through peaceful villages and the fresh, constant breeze from the ocean.

At sunset, the rocks appear golden, almost like gilded plates from above. The stunning landscape was created when lava from a volcanic eruption met the sea, rapidly cooling and fracturing due to pressure, forming the spectacular scenery we see today. Below the rocks, Bai Bang beach offers calm, cool waters. Due to its remote location, the water remains incredibly clear, and the sea floor is visible from above.

With its majestic raw beauty and the romantic natural hues, Ghenh Da Dia is an ideal location for beautiful photos, drawing not only young travelers but also professional photographers and couples seeking a picturesque wedding photoshoot.

Though wild and rugged, Ghenh Da Dia still holds a touch of romance, especially at dusk. You can soak in the refreshing water, feeling the gentle waves against your skin, while the breeze tousles your hair and the salty scent of the sea fills the air. Immersed in the untouched beauty of nature, visitors are sure to leave with a sense of peace and renewed spirit.

Before visiting, one cannot fully appreciate the beauty of Sa Pa. But once there, you'll witness layers of clouds, a sight that dazzles the eyes, and the sun illuminating the Silver Waterfall with a warm embrace, as if love itself floats through the air.

Sa Pa is a city veiled in mist, with breathtaking landscapes that capture the heart. The towering Phanxiphang Mountain, known as the Roof of Indochina, and the shimmering golden terraces of rice fields during harvest are just the beginning. You cannot forget the famous Ham Rong Tourist Area, which is both grand and poetic in its beauty.

Ham Rong Mountain is located right in the center of Sa Pa, with its lowest point at 1450 meters and its peak soaring to 1850 meters above sea level. The mountain’s vast, majestic slopes are covered in an endless sea of greenery. Due to its high altitude, winter brings the possibility of frost, or even snow, a spectacle that fascinates visitors from across the country.

The Ham Rong tourist area, one of Sa Pa's most famous destinations, began construction in 1996 and spans 148 hectares. The area showcases the untouched beauty of nature, drawing visitors with its unique charm. The journey from the base to the summit reveals a variety of natural landscapes, both awe-inspiring and peaceful. It features expansive orchid gardens, with over 6000 pots containing 194 different species. The air is filled with fragrance from flowers that bloom year-round, while bees and butterflies flutter around. Alongside the orchids are colorful flower gardens filled with vibrant species like butterfly flowers, dahlias, hydrangeas, and everlasting flowers. Additionally, several rare flowers from Russia, France, and Japan are being tested here. The once-rough path leading to the summit has been paved with stone steps, making it easier for tourists to conquer. Along the way, travelers must pass through a narrow path leading to the Tam Mon Cave. Only one person can pass at a time, but once through, a vast landscape opens up, revealing an orchard with fruits such as peaches, pears, and plums.

At the summit, at 1800 meters, a majestic view unfolds before you. The cool air contrasts with the warm sunlight below, and clouds swirl gently, brushing through your hair. The scene is stunningly romantic. Ham Rong Mountain is one of Lao Cai’s most significant tourist attractions. If you haven’t hiked Ham Rong, you haven’t truly visited Sa Pa. This destination plays an essential role in the economic development of Lao Cai, a land rich in natural resources.

Sa Pa’s charm, enhanced by Ham Rong, offers not only economic benefits but also a peaceful escape from the noise of the city. Here, visitors can truly relax and embrace the beauty of nature.

Moreover, Sa Pa and Ham Rong inspire many generations of artists, as seen in the lyrics:

"Sa Pa afternoon – Huyền Thanh
Ham Rong with its solitary stone gate
Lam Garden’s misty smoke veils the moon
Evening light touches the village
Where an old mother waits in solitude..."

One visit to Sa Pa leaves lasting memories of the charming Hmong children, their smiles bright under the radiant sun. You'll remember the grand Ham Rong, with its rugged yet delicate beauty. Sa Pa’s chill only adds to its natural splendor, and the warmth of its people leaves a lasting impression.

When discussing popular tourist destinations in our country, places like Ha Long Bay, Cat Ba Island, and Phan Thiet often come to mind. However, one landmark that should never be overlooked is Phong Nha Cave – a UNESCO World Heritage site. The magical allure of Phong Nha Cave takes visitors into what feels like a fairy-tale world. Phong Nha Cave is truly a natural gift to our country.

Phong Nha Cave is located within Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park in Quảng Bình Province, about 50 kilometers northwest of Đồng Hới City and approximately 500 kilometers south of Hanoi. The park spans over 200,000 hectares of limestone mountains and is home to 300 caves of various sizes. Its unique features include limestone formations, underground rivers, and rare animal species listed in both the Vietnam Red Book and the International Red Book. While the cave system stretches over 80 kilometers, only 20 kilometers have been explored by British and Vietnamese explorers.

In April 2009, a team from the British Royal Cave Association discovered an even larger cave, but Phong Nha remains the holder of many records: the longest water cave, the widest and highest cave entrance, the most beautiful sand and rock banks, the most stunning underground lake, the most magnificent stalactites, and the longest underground river in Vietnam. It is also home to the largest dry cave in the world.

Before Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng became a national park, the area was designated as a natural reserve. On August 9, 1986, its boundaries were expanded to 41,132 hectares, and on December 12, 2001, it officially became a national park, retaining its current name.

The formation of the cave system was a lengthy geological process. The limestone mountains of Kẻ Bàng began to take shape during the Paleozoic era, and over millions of years, internal and external forces have carved out the unique beauty of Phong Nha. Crisscrossing fault lines on the limestone surface allowed water to seep into the rocks, gradually eroding and dissolving the limestone, ultimately forming the cave system.

Phong Nha Cave consists of both dry and water caves. The most notable of the dry caves is Tiên Sơn Cave, which stretches for 980 meters. Visitors are permitted to explore up to 400 meters from the entrance, where a deep chasm awaits. Beyond that, the cave becomes more dangerous. Tiên Sơn is known for its spectacular stalactites and the eerie sounds made by striking the stone formations, which resonate like the tolling of gongs. According to the Royal British Cave Association, this cave was formed tens of millions of years ago when a river cut through the limestone, hollowing out the mountain. Eventually, geological changes caused a collapse that sealed off the water flow, creating the dry Tiên Sơn Cave. The most famous of the water caves is Phong Nha Cave, where nature has sculpted colorful and intricately shaped stalactites, producing a magical ambiance that leaves visitors in awe. Phong Nha is 7,729 meters long, with the longest section reaching 145 meters. The cave has earned the nickname 'Thủy Tề Tiên' (Water Spirit Cave), due to its enchanting atmosphere. The sound of water echoing off the rocks further enhances its mystical beauty. Phong Nha Cave is truly a living masterpiece of nature.

In addition to its tourism value, Phong Nha Cave is also an important archaeological site. Explorers and locals have uncovered ancient inscriptions, pottery, stone statues, and other artifacts within the cave. These findings include pottery fragments and ceramic items from the Cham civilization, as well as remains of royal relics dating back to the time of Emperor Hàm Nghi, who once sought refuge in the cave during the resistance against French colonial rule.

Phong Nha Cave stands as a proud symbol of Vietnam's natural heritage. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site, it is a testament to the country's rich natural beauty and the awe-inspiring power of nature.

Located about 17 kilometers east of Thanh Hóa City and 170 kilometers south of Hanoi, Sầm Sơn has been a famous tourist destination in the North Central region since the early 20th century. Its nearly 6-kilometer long beach stretches from the foot of Trường Lệ Mountain to the mouth of Lạch Hới. In 1906, the French deemed Sầm Sơn 'the ideal holiday destination of Indochina' based on several factors such as the slope of the coastline, the salinity of the water, and the strength of the waves.

In 1907, the French began to develop tourism in Sầm Sơn's mountain village and beach, catering to French officials and local nobility. French scholar Le Breton praised Sầm Sơn's beach, saying, 'This is the best beach for health recovery.' With its fine white sand sloping gently into the sea, moderate waves, no submerged rocks, and safe swimming areas extending hundreds of meters from shore, Sầm Sơn quickly became a popular destination for tourists. Since the establishment of Sầm Sơn Town on December 18, 1981, it has become a well-known tourist and resort town in Thanh Hóa province. In the summer of 2007, the town celebrated its centenary of tourism.

To the south of Trường Lệ Mountain, there's another beautiful beach in a pristine environment. This is Tiên Beach, hidden in a valley at the base of the mountain, which is poised to become a promising resort area in the future. Further north, visitors can explore the Vạn Chài ecological area, where traditional Vietnamese thatched houses and fishermen working with nets offer a glimpse of local life. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, grilled seafood, or rent bicycles to explore the vibrant town after dark. They can also take a ride in charming cyclo rickshaws along the scenic coastal road. The friendly and welcoming drivers are eager to share the sights and stories of Sầm Sơn.

When visiting Sầm Sơn, tourists cannot miss its rich and high-quality seafood, which is considered superior to other regions. The seafood here is known for its firm, delicious, and flavorful meat. Visitors can enjoy a variety of dishes, from squid and shrimp to crab and delicious fish such as Chim, Thu, and Nục. Specialties like Fish Salad and Sea Snake Hotpot are particularly popular. To make the fish salad, fresh fish caught from the sea is prepared and seasoned with special spices. The preparation of sea snake hotpot is more complex, involving the careful slaughtering and skinning of sea snakes before cooking them into a flavorful stew. Locals believe that sea snake meat has medicinal properties for back pain.

Truly, nature has blessed Thanh with a remarkable coastline. Visitors to Sầm Sơn not only get to immerse themselves in the picturesque nature, listening to the soothing symphony of the sea, mountains, and swaying palm trees, but they also step into a land rich in myths and legends, known for its unique folk festivals such as the Độc Cước Temple Festival, An Dương Vương Festival, and Khải Minh Temple Festival. Sầm Sơn always leaves a lasting impression on all who visit.

Among the many tourist destinations today, not all of them attract a large number of visitors. However, located just a 40-minute drive from Hanoi, there is a unique place that draws the attention of young people, the Vietnamese Ethnic Culture Village.

The Vietnamese Ethnic Culture Village is part of the Đồng Mô tourist area, located in Sơn Tây, Hanoi. It was inaugurated on September 19, 2010, to mark the 1000th anniversary of Thăng Long – Hanoi. It is approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. This cultural site is home to various interesting attractions and spans an area of about 198.61 hectares. The village is divided into four clusters representing the different regions of Vietnam, with the architecture designed to recreate the traditional villages and hamlets of the country's various ethnic groups, promoting the preservation and development of Vietnam's unique historical and cultural values.

Upon entering the village, visitors can rent electric vehicles to travel to the various ethnic villages at an affordable price: 30,000 VND for adults, and children under 6 can enter for free. The order of visiting the villages is flexible, according to the visitors' preferences. The final stop is the Cham Tower and the Khmer Pagoda. The Khmer Pagoda, built with a golden yellow exterior, features pointed roofs, wide ceilings, and large pillars, with a large Buddha statue inside. The Cham Tower, standing at 21 meters tall, is connected to the entrance by the East Tower, which is designed similarly to Cham towers and made of fired clay. Afterward, visitors can visit the Central Highlands area, featuring simulated stilt houses that offer cool, comfortable interiors, with some of them serving as resting spots for lunch. The Rong House, a large structure with a tall roof, is another notable highlight. From here, visitors can continue to the Thai Ethnic Culture Village, where they can explore a field of buckwheat flowers, visit the main house, and enjoy cultural performances by ethnic artisans. The peaceful and open landscape here is perfect for relaxation.

At the site, visitors can also participate in a variety of traditional festivals, which attract many tourists and help promote the village's cultural values. The spring festival, typically held at the beginning of the year, features numerous folk games such as swings and bamboo pole games.

It can be confidently said that the Vietnamese Ethnic Culture Village is a place that vividly showcases the rich cultural heritage of all 54 Vietnamese ethnic groups. This is a wonderful destination for both domestic and international visitors. Through this tourism experience, visitors can learn more about the unique characteristics of each ethnic group in Vietnam while enjoying healthy recreational activities, sports, and cultural performances.

With its distinctive attractions and a diverse array of cultural and artistic activities, the village helps visitors deepen their love for the country and strengthens the spirit of unity among the various ethnic communities.

"The surface of Hoan Kiem Lake gleams with the reflection of the sky and clouds, exuding the fragrant scent of Hanoi's flowers..." When people mention Hanoi, they instantly picture the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, with the iconic Turtle Tower casting its shadow across the water. Hoan Kiem Lake, along with its surrounding architecture, has become a sacred and beautiful symbol of Hanoi - the heart of Vietnam.

Hoan Kiem Lake has a long history. About six centuries ago, the lake stretched from the current Hàng Đào Street to Hàng Chuối Street, connecting with the Red River. The water of the lake is a constant vivid green, earning it the nickname Lục Thủy Lake. In the 15th century, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, an event closely tied to the legendary story of the Golden Turtle returning a divine sword to the king. The legend tells that during the Lam Son uprising against the Ming invaders (1417–1427), Le Loi, the leader of the revolt, discovered a sword in the lake, which he later used in his battles. One day, while boating on Lục Thủy Lake, a giant turtle surfaced and spoke to King Le Loi, asking him to return the sword. The king complied, and the sword flew back into the turtle's mouth, sinking into the depths of the lake. From then on, the lake became known as Hoan Kiem, meaning 'Return the Sword,' symbolizing the Vietnamese people's love for peace and their resistance against invaders. This story was highlighted during Hanoi’s designation as a "City of Peace." In the Lê Dynasty, the lake was also used as a training ground for the navy, and it was sometimes referred to as the Navy Lake.

Hoan Kiem Lake is one of Hanoi’s most famous landmarks. Surrounding the lake, one can find a variety of plants and flowers, including weeping willows and branches of red-leafed trees leaning over the water. In the center of the lake stands Turtle Tower, and nearby is Ngoc Son Temple with its "Pen Tower". The reflection of the lake’s beauty is like a mirror in the heart of the city, capturing the affection of Hanoi's residents. Many locals, especially in the summer, have the habit of visiting the lake for morning exercise, with the area around the lake commonly known as Bờ Hồ (Lake's Edge).

Although it is not the largest lake in Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake holds a special place in the hearts and minds of the people. The lake, located in the midst of a district full of narrow old streets, provides a serene space for cultural activities. The lake is not only home to beautiful landscapes but also rich with historical and legendary significance, symbolizing the country's yearning for peace and the brilliance of Vietnam’s intellectual and military heritage. Consequently, many artists have drawn inspiration from Hoan Kiem Lake in their works. The poet Trần Đăng Khoa once wrote:

"Hanoi has Hoan Kiem Lake,
Water as green as ink,
Beside the lake stands the Pen Tower,
Writing poetry up to the sky."

And so, Hoan Kiem Lake will forever live in the memories of the people of Hanoi and all of Vietnam as a sacred symbol of the country’s history and cultural traditions.

When it comes to breathtaking landscapes, Vietnam’s natural wonders, especially Ha Long Bay, is one that is impossible to overlook. Ha Long Bay is famous to all Vietnamese people and has been celebrated not only in modern times but throughout history, even referenced in the poetic verse of Nguyen Khoa Diem: "The rooster, the frog from my hometown, has turned Ha Long into a natural wonder." Recently, Ha Long Bay has earned recognition from UNESCO as one of the seven most beautiful natural wonders in the world. But what makes Ha Long Bay so remarkable to receive such acclaim?

One popular legend behind Ha Long Bay tells of the Jade Emperor sending a mother dragon and her children to the earth to assist the Vietnamese people in fighting invaders. As enemy ships approached from the sea, the dragon family appeared and immediately breathed fire, burning the enemy’s ships. The dragons also scattered precious pearls, which formed a stone wall, causing the enemy ships to crash and halting the invaders' advance.

After the battle, the mother dragon and her children, seeing the peace and prosperity in the land, chose not to return to the heavens. Instead, they stayed on earth, safeguarding the people of Đại Việt. The place where the mother dragon landed became known as Ha Long, and where the baby dragons landed became Bai Tu Long. The tail of the dragon, where the waves crashed, is now known as Bach Long Vi (Trà Cổ Peninsula, with its 15 km long sandy beach).

Another version of the legend tells of a lone dragon flying along a river, eventually landing on the shores of North East Vietnam, forming a natural barrier that repelled invading enemy forces. This place, where the dragon touched down to protect the land, was also named Ha Long.

Ha Long Bay is located in the northeastern region of Vietnam, and it is part of the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay includes areas of Ha Long City, Cam Pha Town, and part of Van Don Island District. To the southwest, Ha Long Bay is bordered by Cat Ba Island, and to the east lies the sea. It also has a coastline that stretches for 120 km, situated between longitudes 106°05′ and 107°02′ East and latitudes 20°45′ and 20°50′ North, covering a total area of 1,553 square kilometers.

Ha Long Bay contains 1,969 islands, of which 989 are named, and the remaining 980 are yet to be named. The islands here are primarily limestone and granite, and they are concentrated in Bai Tu Long Bay and Ha Long Bay. The bay is also home to a wealth of caves and other natural features. The area recognized as a World Heritage site covers 434 square kilometers, which includes 775 islands and forms a rough triangle, with the three points being Dau Go Island (west), Ba Ham Lake (south), and Cong Tay Island (east), alongside buffer zones and national monuments as designated by the Ministry of Culture and Information in 1962.

Visitors to Ha Long Bay are immediately captivated by its scenery. The towering mountains and crystal-clear waters create a mesmerizing sight that draws people to explore every corner of this vast and mysterious land. The towering cliffs seem like giants, and sitting in a boat, you can barely take in the enormity of these majestic peaks. The beauty of Ha Long Bay lies in its grandeur and tranquility, where land and water come together in perfect harmony. The salty sea breeze fills the air, and the caves with stalactites, resembling shimmering pearls, hang from the ceiling but never seem to fall.

The people of Ha Long are equally charming and welcoming. They are not only hospitable but also act as local guides, steering boats through the bay while sharing stories of its breathtaking sights. The warm, friendly people of Ha Long leave a lasting impression, making visitors feel at home in this tranquil haven surrounded by natural beauty.

In conclusion, Ha Long Bay truly deserves its place as one of the seven wonders of the world. Those who have visited are undoubtedly struck by the beauty of the bay and the kindness of its people. For those who have not yet had the opportunity to experience it, it is time to visit and witness the wonders that nature has so graciously provided.

Visiting the Ancient Capital of Đinh Lê

"The green mountains and crystal-clear waters surround the land like a painting."

Anyone who has visited Ninh Bình cannot resist the urge to explore the ancient Trang An – the heart of the Hoa Lư capital. Like many others, my friends and I had the privilege to witness the breathtaking beauty of this landscape, and we couldn't help but be in awe of it.

Traveling a long, endless road, passing through fields of reed grass intertwined with historical battle victories, we arrived at the sacred land of Trang An. Ninh Bình is the birthplace of a brilliant ruler, Đinh Bộ Lĩnh, who founded an independent dynasty and united the country in 968, becoming the first emperor of Vietnam. Every landmark in Trang An is connected to a historical event, creating a link to the Đinh Tiên Hoàng dynasty. Trang An holds deep historical significance, with the natural landscape beautifully preserving these legacies. Guided by nature’s design and the generous hand of creation, Trang An is a treasure trove of cultural richness.

Following the footsteps of Emperor Đinh, the journey through Trang An is designed along the old southern path taken by the emperor as he led his army to battle. The scenery here is not just a picturesque landscape but also a sacred book of history. As we explored, we were able to appreciate the intricate details of Vietnam’s glorious past.

We, as descendants returning to our roots, felt the spiritual atmosphere in this place, where Emperor Đinh once resided. Visiting the historical Trang An site was an unforgettable experience. Although Trang An is close by, it is smaller and carries a stronger historical imprint from the reign of the Lê dynasty. Upon arrival, we noticed the sign marking the Trang An historical site, which offered a serene and peaceful escape from the bustle of the city. The surrounding environment invited us to absorb its peaceful atmosphere and immerse ourselves in stories of ancient legends.

As we ventured deeper into Trang An, we were enveloped by the sounds of nature and the serenity of the ancient Hoa Lư capital. Climbing the stone steps, we arrived at the memorial shrine dedicated to Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng and his loyal officials, where visitors can offer incense and pay respects. The temple itself is like a gem nestled between the dragon’s jaws. Here, we could admire sacred relics from the era of Emperor Đinh Bộ Lĩnh.

Legend has it that before going to battle or performing ceremonies, Emperor Đinh and his generals would always conduct a thank-you ritual. The inscription above the temple’s entrance reads: “Opening the gate brings good fortune,” symbolizing wishes for prosperity and peace. Visitors here join in prayer for happiness, good luck, and abundance. The sacred space also allows us to pay tribute to the devoted officials who sacrificed their lives for the nation. It felt like stepping into a monumental era in history.

Inside the main hall lies the royal altar for Emperor Đinh Tiên Hoàng, the ruler who united the country under the name Đại Cồ Việt. Here, visitors can reflect on the emperor’s vision for a peaceful world. Beyond the shrine, we continued our journey, climbing more stone steps to the sacred Well of Exoneration, a place where unjust spirits are freed and liberated. This is a key part of local beliefs.

As we continued, we visited the Đại Tôn Cave, home to the temple of the Eighteen Dragons, a site of deep spiritual significance. It is believed that those who face hardship visit this place and offer sincere prayers for protection and rescue.

The tour concluded with a scenic boat ride down the historical Sào Khê River, where our guide shared stories of Vietnam’s rich history. As we paddled through caves and over river bends, we encountered ancient carvings still preserved in the stone – a testament to Trang An's lasting legacy. We passed under limestone cliffs that glittered in the sunlight, adding to the region's allure.

Trang An is not only a place of historical importance, but it is also an oasis of natural beauty. Along the riverbanks, you’ll find ancient villages such as Tràng An and natural wonders like Gieo Lớn and Gieo Nhỏ valleys. The sunlit mountains and peaceful river views create a serene and idyllic atmosphere. Visiting Trang An provides a unique blend of historical exploration and natural beauty.

Today, Trang An is preserved to maintain its ancient charm, but it is also evolving. Ongoing excavation and restoration projects allow visitors to experience even more of the historical and cultural significance of this sacred land, tied to the powerful Đinh dynasty.

Trang An has long been a vital destination for those seeking to connect with the cultural heritage of Vietnam. It stands as a symbol of pride for the people of Ninh Bình and for all Vietnamese, offering a window into the country’s rich cultural legacy for international visitors to experience.

Every year, during exam season, many students from Northern Vietnam visit the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu Quốc Tử Giám) to pray for luck. Many graduates also choose this place for commemorative photos to capture their beautiful student years. Why is this site so closely linked to academic activities? It is because it is a place rich in cultural and educational traditions.

The Temple of Literature, located in Hanoi, is considered a symbol of the lasting cultural and educational heritage of the nation, as well as a place that honors respect for teachers.

According to the Đại Việt historical chronicles, the temple was built in 1070 during the reign of King Lý Thánh Tông to honor the revered scholars and teachers of Confucianism. It also served as a royal academy. In 1253, Emperor Trần Thái Tông expanded the academy to accept talented students from ordinary backgrounds.

The temple complex covers 54,000 square meters, surrounded by large brick walls that create a dignified and ancient atmosphere. Upon entering, visitors are immediately captivated by the ancient architecture that blends with lush foliage, creating an inviting sight. Within the temple, there is the Văn Lake, where poetry competitions used to be held. The inner courtyard is divided into five sections. The first section is from the Văn Miếu Gate to the Đại Trung Gate. To enter the Văn Miếu Gate, visitors pass four stone pillars and three curved archways. From the gate, a straight path leads to the Đại Trung Gate, which consists of three brick archways. Continuing along the brick-paved path, visitors reach Khuê Văn Các, a two-story, eight-roofed pavilion that symbolizes Vietnam’s literary culture. Beyond Khuê Văn Các is the Thiên Quang Well, a square pond with perfectly still water. The path around the well leads to the Stelae of Doctors, which features 82 stone steles engraved with scholarly essays and set on the backs of tortoises, symbolizing the nation's intellectual heritage. After passing the Stelae of Doctors, visitors come to a wide courtyard paved with Bát Tràng tiles. The final section is the Thái Học House, which was once a place of higher education for future leaders. The Temple of Literature honors great educators such as Chu Văn An and kings who contributed to the development of education.

With its significant historical and cultural value, the Temple of Literature is also used for conferences and special events, honoring the top students and scholars. In May 2012, the site was recognized as a special national heritage site. It is a popular tourist destination for those interested in Vietnam's cultural and historical legacy, a place where students pray for good luck and a popular spot for graduation photos.

As a national cultural heritage site, visitors must respect the rules: do not litter, do not step on the red carpets, do not touch the turtle heads, dress appropriately, and maintain a reverent attitude.

Despite the passage of time, the Temple of Literature remains a symbol of Vietnam's long-standing tradition of education and scholarship, continuing to be a proud emblem of Hanoi's cultural identity.