1. Overview of Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism
Spiritual tourism Thanh Hoa attracts many tourists. (Source: Collected)
Spiritual tourism Thanh Hoa is increasingly attracting tourists thanks to the harmonious combination of unique historical, cultural, and spiritual values. From the sacred Nui Nua – Am Tien to the Lam Kinh relic complex and ancient Dong Son village, each destination offers a profound spiritual experience, helping tourists both worship and explore the rich culture of Thanh Hoa land.
1.1. Why has Thanh Hoa become a new spiritual tourism center in the North?
Amidst the growing demand for pilgrimage and worship, many localities have oriented spiritual tourism as a strategic product, investing heavily in infrastructure and services to serve millions of tourists annually. Thanh Hoa stands out for its cultural and spiritual values that few places possess. This is the land associated with the national hero Lady Trieu, who rode a white elephant into battle against foreign invaders, leaving an indelible mark on history.
Nui Nua – Am Tien is honored as one of the three most sacred acupoints in Vietnam, along with Ba Den Mountain (Tay Ninh) and Da Chong Mountain (Ba Vi), forming a national spiritual triangle. In addition, the rich system of relics and pagodas such as Lam Kinh, Vinh Thai pagoda, and ancient Dong Son village contribute to affirming Thanh Hoa as a destination rich in unique historical, cultural, and spiritual values, worthy of the position as a new spiritual tourism center in the North.
1.2. Overview of outstanding spiritual tourism complexes in Thanh Hoa
From the summit of Am Tien, looking down, visitors can fully appreciate the scale of the spiritual tourism complex of Thanh Hoa. Located in a strategic position – a bridge between the North and Central regions, Thanh Hoa boasts a synchronized transportation infrastructure system with National Highway 1A, the North-South Expressway, and Tho Xuan Airport, just about 50 km from the center. From Hanoi, tourists can easily reach Thanh Hoa by car in about 3 hours or choose air travel with a flight time of only 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The major spiritual destinations of Thanh Hoa are concentrated in Trieu Son, Dong Son, Vinh Loc, and Thanh Hoa city, creating a continuous and attractive chain of experiences. The most prominent is Am Tien – Nui Nua with an area of over 350 hectares, considered the 'heart' of spiritual tourism here, associated with the legend of the female general Lady Trieu riding a white elephant into battle. Besides, the Lam Kinh relic complex – a special national relic – is where the enlightened Le kings are worshipped. Ancient Dong Son village offers unique archaeological value, preserving traces of the famous Dong Son culture, contributing to the rich tapestry of spiritual tourism in Thanh Hoa land.
2. Am Tien – Nui Nua Relic Complex: The Heart of Thanh Hoa's Spiritual Tourism
The Am Tien – Nui Nua relic complex is considered the 'heart' of Thanh Hoa's spiritual tourism, a place where historical values, legends, and sacred beliefs converge. From the image of the female general Lady Trieu riding a white elephant to experiences of meditation, incense offering, and watching the sunrise from the mountain peak, every moment here brings a sense of peace and unforgettable impressions to visitors.
2.1. History, Legends, and Sacred Significance of Am Tien
Upon arriving at Am Tien – Nui Nua, visitors can easily feel the sacred energy associated with the legend of the female general Lady Trieu. This is the starting point of the uprising movement against the Eastern Wu army in the 3rd century. The image of Lady Trieu riding a one-tusked white elephant with the heroic spirit of 'riding the strong wind, trampling the fierce waves' has become an immortal symbol, deeply engraving national pride and the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people.
Not only associated with the history of resisting foreign invasion, Am Tien is also evaluated by feng shui masters as one of the three most sacred acupoints in Vietnam, on par with Ba Den Mountain and Da Chong Mountain. Nui Nua mountain is 512m high, shaped like a giant sacred turtle lying in the land of Trieu Son, bringing a majestic and imposing aura. According to ancient beliefs, this is a place where national spiritual energy converges, considered a destination for praying for peace, blessings, and prosperity for individuals and the community.
2.2. Unique Spiritual Experiences at Am Tien, Nui Nua
Different from many other pilgrimage sites, the meditation experience at Am Tien – Nui Nua brings a sense of peace and mystery. Visitors can offer incense at the spiral Bonji pillars built in the Vajrayana Buddhist style, creating an unforgettable sacred atmosphere. Besides, the mandala well in the middle of the mountains is considered a place to purify the soul, where many believe they can wash away bad luck and find peace again.
The walking journey around the sacred acupoint takes about 2 hours, leading visitors through shaded forest paths with echoing wind chimes. The tinkling sound of thousands of small bells blending with the forest wind creates an impressive 'nature symphony'. Especially, the moment of watching the sunrise from the peak of Nui Nua, when the brilliant golden light stretches across the valley, is the most memorable experience in the spiritual tourism journey of Thanh Hoa.
2.3. Update on the Legend of Am Tien Project
The project is a combination of spiritual heritage and modern technology. (Source: Collected)
The Legend of Am Tien Project, invested by Sun Group with a total capital of over 35,000 billion VND on an area of 350 ha, is planned in three phases from 2027 to 2030. The highlight of the first phase is a cable car system covering 31.74 ha, expected to be operational in 2027, helping visitors reach the summit of Am Tien in just 12 minutes instead of taking nearly 2 hours to climb on foot.
In the design, international architect Shin Takamatsu drew inspiration from the image of a white one-tusked elephant – a symbol associated with the female general Ba Trieu – to build the White Spiritual Zone. The white color symbolizes wisdom, purity, and protective energy in Buddhism. In the second phase, the key project is the 99-meter-tall statue of Dainichi Nyorai Buddha, promising to become a new symbol of spiritual tourism in Thanh Hoa.
The project's highlight lies in the combination of spiritual heritage and modern technology. Visitors can experience 3D mapping projections, immerse themselves in the legendary stories of Ba Trieu, and enjoy high-class services such as internal electric vehicles, 4-5 star hotels, and luxurious vegetarian restaurants. The blend of past and present offers a journey to explore Am Tien that is both sacred and convenient, worthy of an international destination.
3. Other famous spiritual tourist destinations in Thanh Hoa
Besides Am Tien – Nui Chua, Thanh Hoa also boasts many other famous spiritual tourist destinations, from the majestic Ba Trieu Temple to the ancient village of Dong Son, deeply marked by history. The rich system of pagodas, temples, and cultural spaces not only helps visitors on pilgrimages but also fully explore the cultural, religious, and traditional artistic values of the Thanh Hoa region.
3.1. Ba Trieu Temple, Dong Son Ancient Village
Ba Trieu Temple is an attractive spiritual tourism destination in Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)
Ba Trieu Temple was built in the 4th century to commemorate the national heroine Trieu Thi Trinh. After many renovations, the structure still retains its ancient and majestic appearance, nổi bật with exquisite carvings bearing the strong imprint of traditional art. The temple is located at an altitude of 297 m above sea level, from where visitors can admire the panoramic view of the winding Ma River and the lush green rice fields – the homeland associated with the legend of Ba Trieu.
Meanwhile, Dong Son ancient village holds a special value in the journey of spiritual tourism in Thanh Hoa. This is where many Dong Son artifacts famous worldwide are preserved, including the Dong Son bronze drum with its vibrant sun motif, which has become a national symbol, appearing on the Vietnamese national emblem. The village by the Ma River not only contains traces of ancient Vietnamese residents through archaeological sites but also preserves a treasure trove of folk legends passed down through thousands of years.
3.2. Vietnamese cultural space and a system of spiritually connected pagodas and temples
The journey to explore spiritual tourism in Thanh Hoa cannot miss destinations such as Vinh Thai Pagoda, Lam Kinh, and Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery, offering a comprehensive view of the belief culture and history of the Thanh Hoa region. Each pagoda possesses its own characteristics: Vinh Thai Pagoda stands out with its ancient architecture and tranquil stupa garden, Lam Kinh is a place to commemorate the Le dynasty kings with a solemn atmosphere, while Truc Lam Ham Rong Zen Monastery carries a modern spirit, focusing on Buddhist studies and meditation.
Major festivals like Buddha's Birthday, Vu Lan, along with ceremonies commemorating national heroes, are often held annually on a large scale, attracting thousands of Buddhists and visitors from everywhere. Besides, traditional folk arts such as Xam singing, traditional Cheo, and water puppetry are performed within the premises, creating a space that harmoniously combines spirituality with Vietnamese culture and art, allowing visitors to both worship and experience the long-standing cultural values of Thanh Hoa.
4. Suggested 2D1N Itinerary for exploring Thanh Hoa's spiritual sites
Itinerary for Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism . (Source: Collected)
Day 1: Depart from Thanh Hoa city center at 6 AM to attend the early morning worship ceremony at Ba Trieu Temple. The serene atmosphere of the early morning, the distant ringing of bells, and the faint scent of incense create a sacred feeling, marking the beginning of a meaningful spiritual journey. In the afternoon, travel to Am Tien – Nui Nua to experience meditation on the mountaintop at sunset.
Day 2: Start the day with a prayer for peace at Vinh Thai Pagoda, then continue the journey to explore the Lam Kinh historical site, which preserves the palaces and tombs of the Le dynasty kings. In the afternoon, visit Dong Son rural market to enjoy Thanh Hoa's specialties and shop for local products as souvenirs, concluding a complete 2-day, 1-night trip rich in cultural and spiritual experiences.
5. Specialty Cuisine Associated with Thanh Hoa Spiritual Tourism Experiences
Thanh Hoa Cuisine for pilgrims. (Source: Collected)
Thanh Hoa cuisine is an inseparable part of the spiritual tourism experience, offering visitors rich and unique traditional flavors. From the pure vegetarian dishes around temples and pagodas to the rustic specialties in festival markets, each culinary experience reflects the culture, beliefs, and life of the people of Thanh Hoa.
5.1. Culinary Experience for Pilgrims
Thanh Hoa cuisine is closely associated with spiritual tourism, offering visitors unique cultural experiences right around temples and pagodas. The vibrant red Xoi gac symbolizes good luck, the crispy banh rang thua dipped in rich, sweet fish sauce, or Thanh Hoa nem chua with its harmonious sour and spicy taste that stimulates the palate. Don't miss the charcoal-grilled che lam, fragrant, served with shredded coconut and roasted peanuts, becoming an attractive traditional dessert.
Around the Am Tien area and Ba Trieu Temple, many vegetarian eateries offer a rich menu from Com Am Phu, vegetarian Bun Rieu to exquisite vegetarian grilled dishes. Lien Hoa Vegetarian Eatery near Vinh Thai Pagoda is famous for its vegetarian lotus salad and rich vegetarian curry, creating a pure culinary experience for pilgrims. The reasonable prices range from 25,000 – 45,000 VND/serving, convenient for all types of visitors.
5.2. Rural Market Atmosphere, Culinary Areas Characteristic of Festival Seasons
During major festivals, the markets around Thanh Hoa's historical sites become attractive culinary destinations, fully recreating the local culture. Dong Son rural market during the Ba Trieu festival season sells a variety of traditional cakes: Banh Phu The, Banh It La Gai, Banh Khuc, Banh Chung, carrying unique traditional flavors. Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism also becomes richer with dishes like banh mi nuong muoi vung, Hue beef noodle soup by Ms. Hanh, famous for 30 years, or Thanh Hoa's version of Cha Ca La Vong with its characteristic coastal fish sauce.
The bustling atmosphere of the rural market, combined with the aroma of baked cakes and the calls of vendors, creates a vivid picture of the culinary culture linked to Thanh Hoa's folk beliefs, making the pilgrimage experience more meaningful and memorable.
6. Festivals, Rituals, and Unique Cultural Activities
Festivals and traditional rituals in Thanh Hoa are unmissable highlights of the spiritual tourism journey, offering vibrant and meaningful cultural experiences. From the Ba Trieu festival to year-round pilgrimage activities, visitors have the opportunity to immerse themselves in sacred spaces, seek peace and luck, and discover the unique cultural identity of Thanh Hoa.
6.1. Am Tien Festival, Ba Trieu Festival
Ba Trieu Temple Festival attracts tourists. (Source: Collected)
The Ba Trieu Temple Festival, held annually from the 21st to the 23rd of the 2nd lunar month, is the most outstanding cultural event in Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism. Expected in 2025, the festival will attract approximately 500,000 domestic and international tourists, with a variety of activities ranging from traditional rituals to unique folk games. The highlight is the procession of Ba Trieu's palanquin from the temple down to the Song Ma River, recreating the heroic image of the female general riding a white elephant into battle.
Alongside the rituals, the festival also organizes many traditional cultural and sports activities such as folk wrestling, stick pushing, and duck catching in the pond, along with unique Quan Ho singing and dragon-lion dances. The Chung cake and Tet cake wrapping contest is open to tourists, creating a united and joyful atmosphere. The traditional markets during the festival season sell a variety of traditional handicraft products such as ceramics, rattan and bamboo crafts, and silk, along with rare traditional herbal medicines, offering a cultural experience deeply characteristic of Thanh Hoa.
6.2. Year-round activities for worship, praying for peace, and praying for prosperity
Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism attracts tourists year-round thanks to activities for praying for safety, peace, and prosperity suitable for each festival season. When participating, tourists should prepare simple offerings such as fresh flowers, sweets, and small change according to their wishes. The ideal time for worship is in the morning from 5:30 AM - 7:00 AM or in the afternoon from 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM, when the air is fresh, cool, and quiet.
Tourists should note the strict worship rules: wear modest clothing, maintain order and avoid making noise, do not touch offerings, and avoid pointing feet towards the altar when sitting. When taking photos, turn off the flash and avoid obstructing others' views to respect the sacred space. These experiences not only bring peace, luck, and prosperity but also help tourists better understand the traditional spiritual culture of Thanh Hoa.
7. Experience, notes, and useful tips for Thanh Hoa spiritual tourism
Rituals at the spiritual tourism destination Thanh Hóa . (Source: Collected)
When exploring spiritual tourism in Thanh Hóa , understanding experiences, notes, and useful tips will help make the journey safer, more comfortable, and more complete. From preparing attire, adhering to customs at historical sites, to choosing suitable accommodation, every small detail contributes to enhancing the pilgrimage experience and exploring the unique culture of Thanh Hóa.
7.1. Attire, rituals, and customs to know when visiting historical sites
When experiencing spiritual tourism in Thanh Hóa , preparing appropriate attire is very important to respect the sacred space and ensure comfort when moving. Men should choose long-sleeved shirts paired with dress pants or jeans, avoiding shorts, tank tops, or overly revealing clothing. Women should prioritize skirts below the knee, tops covering shoulders or long-sleeved, and avoid tight-fitting clothing. Clothing colors should lean towards soft tones like white, beige, and light blue, avoiding bright red or dazzling yellow to suit the solemn space.
Regarding the ideal time for photography, the morning from 6:00 AM – 7:00 AM is when the morning sunlight shines through the mist, creating a soft and magical effect. The afternoon from 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM, when the sunset dyes the mountaintop red-orange, is also an ideal time to capture the best photos. Visitors should prepare a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the panoramic view of the Mandala space and the majestic beauty of Nua mountain and forest from above.
7.2. Notes on accommodation and modern services
Spiritual tourism in Thanh Hóa offers diverse accommodation options, suitable for all needs and budgets of visitors.
If you want to experience modern amenities, Marissa Hotel & Spa Hai Tien is an ideal choice with room prices starting from 700,000 VND/night, equipped with full luxurious facilities.
For those who love spaces close to nature, Xứ Thanh Eco-village offers many rooms, priced from 600,000 VND/night.
Spiritual tourism in Thanh Hóa in 2025 promises to bring profound experiences, connecting visitors with the unique historical and cultural values of Thanh Hóa. Arrange time to explore these outstanding spiritual destinations to find peace and love the land rich in tradition even more.
