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Discover the spiritual beauty of Yen Tu Mountain on a day trip from Hanoi. Explore the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, ride a cable car, and visit the Dong Pagoda at the summit.

Highlights

• Feel the tranquility of Yen Tu Mountain, a sacred spiritual destination
• Explore the Truc Lam Zen Monastery and learn about Zen Buddhism
• Enjoy a scenic cable car ride over ancient forests and mountain views
• Visit the Hoa Yen Pagoda and the Mot Mai Pagoda on your journey
• Reach the summit to see the Dong Pagoda, a bronze temple at 1,068 meters

Description

Begin your journey with a pickup from your hotel in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Leave the bustling city behind and enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive through the tranquil countryside of northern Vietnam. Upon arrival, make your first stop at the Truc Lam Zen Monastery, nestled at the foot of the mountain. Spend about 30 minutes walking through peaceful courtyards, admiring the architecture, and learning about Zen Buddhism’s unique influence on Vietnamese spiritual life. Afterward, take a short transfer to the base station of Yen Tu Mountain. Check in, store any unnecessary belongings, and prepare for the ascent. The first cable car ride is a breathtaking experience, lifting you above a dense canopy of ancient forest. As you glide upward, admire the views of mountains and pagodas tucked between clouds and treetops. When the cable car touches down, take a short walk to the Hoa Yen Pagoda, perched at 534 meters above sea level. Once the residence of King Tran Nhan Tong during his years as a monk, this temple offers both historical significance and natural beauty, with stone steps shaded by old pine trees and panoramic views of the valleys below. Continuing the journey, walk a gentle path to visit Mot Mai Pagoda (One-Roof Pagoda), a humble shrine built into a rock face, offering a quiet and spiritual retreat. Then, head to the second cable car station, where a final ride takes you even closer to the summit. As you arrive near the peak, a short hike leads to the statue of An Ky Sinh, a mythical figure revered for achieving enlightenment on this very mountain. Surrounded by mist and mountain air, this spot is both a cultural monument and a stunning viewpoint. The final stretch of the journey is a walk along a stone path to reach the legendary Dong Pagoda, a small temple entirely made of bronze and located at 1,068 meters above sea level. Set against the sky, this sacred pagoda is often the highlight of the tour, offering visitors a place to light incense, reflect, and enjoy sweeping views across the northern landscape. On clear days, you may even catch glimpses of the distant Halong Bay. After spending time at the summit, descend using the same cable car route, returning to the base where your driver awaits. On the way back to Hanoi, stop in Hai Duong Province, a region known for its traditional sweets and local specialties. Browse for souvenirs such as green bean cakes, dried lychees, or herbal teas — perfect for taking a taste of Vietnam home with you.

Includes

Hotel pickup and drop-off English or Korean-speaking guide Cable car tickets Visit to Truc Lam Zen Monastery Visit to Hoa Yen Pagoda Visit to Mot Mai Pagoda Visit to Dong Pagoda Stop in Hai Duong Province Lunch

Important Information

• The tour is suitable for families and seniors. The tour involves some walking, but strenuous hiking is not required. Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so dress accordingly.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund