Spiritual pilgrimages in Quang Ninh during Tet
Quang Ninh province is a hub for spiritual tourism, especially during the Tet holiday. Visitors flock to its sacred sites to pray for health, luck, and prosperity in the new year.
Yen Tu Mountain
Yen Tu Mountain is located in the northeast of Vietnam, in Uong Bi city, Quang Ninh province, about 50km from Ha Long Bay and about 110km from the cpital city of Hanoi. The mount has become a Buddhist centre of Vietnam since King Tran Nhan Tong gave up the throne, put on a monk's robes and established a typical Buddhist sect of Vietnam, namely Truc Lam Zen Buddhism.
The beauty of Yen Tu is the grandeur and tranquility of the mountains and forests mingled with the serenity and ancientness of the system of pagodas, towers and Zen realms, making it ideal for both tourism and spiritual activities to wish for luck in a brand new year.
Cua Ong Temple
Cua Ong Temple is located nearby Bai Tu Long Bay in Cam Pha city, which is close to the World Heritage Ha Long Bay. Recognized asone of 17 new items on the national intangible cultural heritagelist by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, it is not only an impressive historical relic site but also a tourist attraction that lures a large number of visitors from far and wide thanks to its charming beauty and sacredness.
Itis dedicated to Tran Quoc Tang, a hero in the resistance war against Mongolinvaders under the Tran Dynasty in the 11th century. The Cua Ong Temple festival is held to commemorate his contributions to defeatingthe aggressors and defending the Northeast region.
Long Tien Pagoda
Long Tien pagoda is a notable spiritual and cultural site in Quang Ninh province, located at the foot of Bai Tho Mountain in Ha Long City. It is one of the largest and most significant pagodas in the region, drawing both locals and tourists, especially during the Tet holiday.
Built in 1941, Long Tien Pagoda is a relatively modern Buddhist temple but holds deep cultural and spiritual importance. The pagoda showcases traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture with intricate carvings and ornate decorations.
Cai Bau Pagoda
Cai Bau pagoda, also known as Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery, is a peaceful and picturesque spiritual destination located in Van Don District, Quang Ninh Province. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Bai Tu Long Bay, it is an ideal place for those seeking serenity and spiritual renewal, especially during the Tet holiday.
Established in 2009, Cai Bau Pagoda was built on the grounds of an ancient temple to honor Buddhist teachings and provide a sanctuary for meditation and worship. The pagoda is part of the Truc Lam Zen lineage, founded by King Tran Nhan Tong, who is revered as a spiritual leader in Vietnamese Buddhism.
Ngoa Van Temple
Ngoa Van Temple, located in Dong Trieu District, is a revered spiritual site that holds significant historical and cultural value in Vietnam. Nestled on Bao Dai Mountain, this temple is an important destination for pilgrims, especially during the Tet holiday.
Ngoa Van Temple is closely associated with King Tran Nhan Tong (1258–1308), who abdicated his throne to become a monk and founded the Truc Lam Zen sect of Vietnamese Buddhism. The temple is believed to be the place where King Tran Nhan Tong achieved Nirvana, making it a sacred site for followers of Buddhism and those seeking spiritual enlightenment.
The temple complex includes ancient structures and modern restorations, maintaining a harmonious blend of historical and contemporary Buddhist architecture. Key features include the main sanctum, stone steps leading to the temple, and intricate carvings that reflect traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship. Especially, perched on a mountainside, Ngoa Van Temple offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys and forests.