Travel

Exploring Hanoi’s Hidden Gems: A Weekend Adventure Along the Red River

Have you ever embarked on a weekend adventure, cruising along the majestic Red River? This exhilarating journey promises an array of novel and memorable experiences. Get ready to uncover the unknown and embark on a trail less traveled!

Administrator

27 August, 2024

Have you ever tried a weekend adventure, cruising along the Red River? This journey promises to offer you incredibly fresh and memorable experiences. Along the banks of the Red River, you’ll be greeted by a romantic and majestic natural landscape, featuring lush alluvial fans, peaceful rural villages, and a gentle flowing stream.

Moreover, cruising along the Red River is a chance to explore the unique cultural characteristics of the Northern Delta region. You can visit traditional craft villages, indulge in delicious rustic cuisine, and chat with the friendly and hospitable locals.

Let’s embark on this experience together today!

1 Visit Chu Dong Tu Temple and the legend of Princess Tien Dung

Let’s start the journey early in the morning, around 7 to 8 a.m. to fully enjoy the beauty of this place. After a 40-minute drive, you will arrive at the first destination – Chu Dong Tu Temple, located near the famous Me So Pagoda with its majestic statue of the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Goddess of Mercy.

The Chu Dong Tu Temple is nestled romantically on the banks of the Red River. Leading up to the temple are two rows of shady trees, where you can find and purchase rustic treats such as rice crackers, dried butterfly peas, and longan. Sipping a cup of rustic tea and admiring the picturesque river scenery at a riverside cafe is also an unforgettable experience.

This place is affectionately called the “Temple of Love” by locals due to its association with the beautiful love story of Chu Dong Tu and Princess Tien Dung. Visitors can stroll around the temple grounds, explore the surroundings, and learn about this touching legend of love.

Visit Chu Dong Tu Temple and relive the legend with Princess Tien Dung

2 Indulge in unique delicacies in the ancient Phu Thi village

After leaving the sacred Chu Dong Tu Temple, take some time to explore the ancient Phu Thi village and savor its distinctive culinary offerings.

The Phu Thi village of old, also known as “Ben Street”, was once a bustling commercial area with lively trading activities along the river. Through the ups and downs of history, including wars and floods, the villagers have moved their homes inside the dike and switched to growing kumquats and ornamental trees. However, Phu Thi still retains the charming simplicity and rusticity of the old Northern Delta villages.

When in Phu Thi, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the village’s specialty – thick and flavorful rice rolls that need no fresh herbs as accompaniment. Another unique culinary experience is the village’s fried tofu, which has a chewy texture and rich flavor.

Your culinary journey in Phu Thi would be incomplete without trying dishes made from “vo vo”, a type of insect resembling a yellow bee that appears from April to July. According to locals, “vo vo” usually emerges after their nests are washed away by the Red River. Villagers will use nets to catch them and sell them to adventurous foodies.

Indulge in unique delicacies in the ancient Phu Thi village

3 Exciting experiences await at Bat Trang Ceramic Village

After a light lunch in Phu Thi, take some time to relax and breathe in the fresh air of the village. As the afternoon turns to dusk, you can continue your journey to discover Bat Trang Ceramic Village, famous for its traditional ceramic and pottery-making industry.

Bat Trang Ceramic Village is not only a repository of Hanoi’s long-standing cultural heritage but also one of the largest suppliers of ceramics and pottery in Vietnam. Through the ups and downs of history, the village has become a popular destination for tourists attracted by its rustic beauty and exciting experiences.

At Bat Trang, you’ll have the chance to learn about the ancient art of pottery, participate in hands-on ceramic-making activities, and take home exquisite traditional pottery products.

With its unique architecture, spacious grounds, and diverse decorative items, Bat Trang Ceramic Village is also an ideal spot for the youth to capture Instagram-worthy photos. As you wander through the winding village paths and past the moss-covered tile roofs, you’ll easily discover scenic spots that will make your photos stand out.

Additionally, you can experience cruising along the dike, admiring the golden fields of mustard greens, lush bamboo groves, or orchards laden with kumquats. Traveling by boat is also an interesting option to explore the charming simplicity of the Red River countryside, featuring green cornfields and stretches of white sandy beaches.

Exciting experiences await at Bat Trang Ceramic Village

This weekend cruise along the Red River will not only help you unwind from the stresses of work but also provide an opportunity to improve your health and challenge yourself. So, let’s plan an exciting weekend adventure and discover the wonderful experiences that Hanoi has to offer!

Frequently asked questions

The Old Quarter is a bustling hub of activity with a unique blend of old and new. You’ll find historic temples and pagodas alongside modern cafes and shops. Some highlights include wandering the charming streets, exploring the night market, and visiting iconic sites such as Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi Cathedral.

Hanoi offers a plethora of delicious dining options. For authentic Vietnamese cuisine, head to the local markets, such as Dong Xuan Market, or explore the Old Quarter’s side streets. You’ll find mouthwatering dishes like pho (noodle soup), banh mi (sandwiches), and fresh spring rolls. Don’t miss the chance to try Hanoi’s famous egg coffee, a unique and delicious treat!

A weekend in Hanoi can be packed with exciting activities. Start your day with a stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake and a visit to the Ngoc Son Temple. Explore the Old Quarter and its hidden gems, including the ancient houses on Ma May Street. Take a cyclo ride through the city for a unique perspective. In the evening, catch a water puppet show, a traditional Vietnamese performance art form. End your day with a delicious dinner in the French Quarter or by sampling street food at the night market.

Yes, there are several fascinating day trips you can take from Hanoi. One popular option is a cruise on Halong Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters. You can also explore the ancient capital of Ninh Binh, home to the UNESCO-listed Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. Other day trip options include the ethnic minority villages of Mai Chau, the Perfume Pagoda, and the historic town of Hue.

Hanoi offers a diverse range of shopping experiences. For traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, head to the Hang Da Market or the Vietnam Craft Guild. You’ll find beautiful silk products, lacquerware, and embroidered textiles. The Old Quarter also has numerous shops offering custom-made clothing and shoes. For a more modern experience, visit the Vincom Center or the Trang Tien Plaza for high-end fashion and electronics.