Overview
Bắc Ninh is a vibrant city located in northern Vietnam. With a rich cultural heritage and a strategic location, this city offers a unique blend of history, traditional charm, and modern development. Bắc Ninh is known for its famous pagodas, ancient temples, and lively festivals. It is also a major center for traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, particularly ceramics and textiles. Visitors to Bắc Ninh will be greeted by friendly locals, delicious local cuisine, and an enchanting atmosphere that showcases the best of Vietnam’s cultural traditions.
Highlights
Some key highlights of Bắc Ninh include:
- Dong Ho Painting Village: Explore the village known for its traditional Vietnamese woodblock paintings.
- But Thap Pagoda: Admire the beautiful Buddhist pagoda, which dates back to the 17th century and features intricate architecture and ancient relics.
- Dinh Bang Village: Visit this historic village, famous for its traditional Vietnamese houses and impressive communal house.
- Phat Tich Pagoda: Discover one of Vietnam’s most ancient pagodas, with stunning stone sculptures and tranquil surroundings.
- Do Temple: Pay a visit to this historic temple complex dedicated to Vietnam’s founders, featuring striking architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Kinh Duong Vuong Tomb: Explore the tomb of the legendary king, known as the first ruler of Vietnam, with its intricate design and serene atmosphere.
- Ceramic villages: Visit the ceramics villages of Bat Trang and Phu Lang, known for their traditional pottery and ceramics production.
- Traditional festivals: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of traditional festivals like Lim Festival and Quan Ho Folk Singing Festival.
- Location: Bắc Ninh province, northern Vietnam
- Language: Vietnamese
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
- Time zone: Indochina Time (ICT, GMT+7)
- Climate: Bắc Ninh has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn when the weather is pleasant.
- Transportation: Bắc Ninh is easily accessible by bus or train from Hanoi, which is approximately 20 kilometers away. Within the city, taxis and motorbike taxis are popular modes of transportation.
Local Food
- Bun Dau Mam Tom: Rice noodles served with tofu, pork, herbs, and shrimp paste.
- Nem Ran: Deep-fried spring rolls filled with minced pork and vegetables.
- Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with rice noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce.
- Mien Luon: Stir-fried eel with glass noodles and vegetables.
- Com Chay: Crispy rice crackers served with various toppings.
Safety Tips
- Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting temples and pagodas.
- Take precautionary measures against mosquito bites, particularly during the wet season.
- Be cautious of your belongings, especially in crowded areas, and avoid displaying valuable items.