As the most beautiful season of the year, autumn in Yen Tu unfolds a tranquil landscape of drifting clouds, forests taking on autumn hues and the lingering sound of temple bells. Against this serene backdrop, the “Yen Tu - Meditative autumn colors” programme offers a rich array of cultural, spiritual and artistic experiences in the heart of this World Heritage Site.
In 2026, the “Yen Tu – Meditative Autumn Colors” programme is scheduled to run from mid-August to December at the Yen Tu Monuments and Landscape Complex and several tourist attractions in Yen Tu Ward. One of the highlights is the “Sunrise at Dong Pagoda” tour, held on weekends. Setting off early in the morning, visitors make their way to Dong Pagoda to admire the sea of clouds, take in panoramic views across the sacred Yen Tu mountain landscape bathed in the first light of day, capture memorable photos and meditate in the tranquil surroundings at the summit. The experience combines the joy of discovery and spiritual pilgrimage with moments of relaxation and inner calm.
Another highlight is the “The Joy of Coming Home” tour, running daily from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. Connecting Khai Tam Gate with Truc Lam Zen Monastery, the tour is designed for guests staying at Legacy Yen Tu and Yen Tu Village. It offers a contemplative journey through the soft light of sunset and the peaceful atmosphere of the Zen space.
Regular activities include morning breathing meditation and yoga sessions at the heritage site. Visitors can also embark on a journey to explore the Yen Tu World Heritage Site through its system of pagodas, hermitages and ancient towers. At the Truc Lam Cultural Centre, they can join the “Discovering the Secrets of the Ancient Palace” tour. Meanwhile, “Yen Tu’s Mystic Sounds” takes place at the Zen Mirror at Khai Tam Gate. The “Deep Relaxation” sessions at the art and meditation rooms of Khai Tam Gate offer visitors moments of stillness and tranquillity throughout the day.
Yen Tu is not only a destination for pilgrims, but also offers a diverse range of experiences for families, groups of friends and young travellers who enjoy outdoor activities. At Minh Tam Square, visitors can try horse riding, archery and recreational shooting, combining entertainment with opportunities to develop their coordination, dexterity and concentration. The festive atmosphere is further enlivened by traditional Vietnamese folk games such as tug of war, human chess, swing riding, stick pushing, sack races and blindfolded pot smashing. Held at the square and the communal courtyard of Yen Tu Village, these activities create a vibrant community atmosphere reminiscent of traditional village festivals.
In addition, the “Return to the Beauty of the Past” programme invites visitors to dress in traditional Vietnamese costumes, stroll through the ancient village setting, slow down and immerse themselves in the heritage. As evening falls, the “ Yen Tu Village Night Show” takes place daily at the communal courtyard, bringing the cultural heritage of the Dao Thanh Y people to life through traditional folk performances. The programme concludes with a lantern procession and the release of floating lanterns, creating a magical scene amid the mountains and forests of Yen Tu.
The traditional village market and vegetarian dining area at Yen Tu Village further enrich the visitor experience, offering local Yen Tu specialties, Quang Ninh OCOP products and traditional handicrafts made by the Dao people.
Adding to the excitement is the Yen Tu Ultra Trail, taking place in September at the Yen Tu Monuments and Landscape Complex. The race features 5km, 15km, 25km and 50km distances, along with a new 70km category. In November, the 2026 “Yen Tu Chess King” Chinese chess tournament will be held, followed by the Yen Tu Heritage Marathon – “Touching the Heritage”, taking place on November 28 and 29 at the complex.
To fully experience autumn at this World Heritage Site, visitors are encouraged to catch the sunrise at Dong Pagoda, explore the pagodas and ancient towers of Yen Tu, and stay overnight at Yen Tu Village. The “Yen Tu – Meditative Autumn Colors” programme offers a journey of pilgrimage, relaxation and discovery, allowing visitors to connect more deeply with the culture and spiritual heritage of Yen Tu.
By Ta Quan
