Hai Phong news

On February 26, 2026, at the City Convention and Performance Center, Vice Chairmen of the City People's Committee Le Trung Kien and Nguyen Minh Hung chaired a working session with various departments, the City Tourism Association, and businesses in the hotel, restaurant, and tourism sectors. The meeting focused on discussing state management and proposing solutions to improve service quality while ensuring reasonable prices to attract visitors. Identifying Current Limitations During the session, city leaders frankly pointed out that Hai Phong's tourism still has shortcomings that do not match its potential. Specifically, the number of visitors remains low, stay durations are short, infrastructure is not synchronized, and the connection between travel and accommodation businesses is limited. Notably, service price disparities have affected the destination's competitiveness, alongside a shortage of high-quality specialized human resources. Key Tasks for Breakthrough To address these limitations, the City People's Committee leadership directed agencies to implement several specific tasks: Service and Price Management: The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism is assigned to review and re-evaluate the ratings of accommodation establishments, particularly in the 3-4 starcategory, to ensure that actual quality matches the recognized star rating. Additionally, inspections of price listings and public pricing will be increased to promptly rectify violations. Technology and Branding: Develop software to track and statistically analyze daily tourist stays to understand why guests do not stay longer, thereby proposing attraction solutions. Research the formation of night-time economy zones and widely distribute tourism maps and guidebooks to visitors. Business Connectivity: In March 2026, the city will organize a conference to connect travel, accommodation, and restaurant businesses with FDI enterprises to create stable guest flows and revenue. International Cooperation and Infrastructure: The Department of Foreign Affairs is tasked with proactively advising on and strengthening international cooperation and tourism promotion in key markets. The Department of Construction is assigned to advise on improving tourism infrastructure in association with transport infrastructure and urban renovation. The Role of the Association and Businesses City leaders requested the Tourism Association to play its role as a bridge, leading the linkage between businesses to build high-quality service packages with reasonable prices. Tourism businesses must strictly comply with price declaration and listing regulations, improve service attitudes, and proactively develop stimulus programs to increase guest stays. Furthermore, functional agencies such as the City Police, Health Department, and local People's Committees need to increase inspections and supervision to ensure absolute food safety, security, order, and environmental hygiene at local tourist sites.  

When traveling to Hai Phong, especially the Cat Ba archipelago, visitors are not only fascinated by the clear blue beaches but also have the opportunity to go back in time to learn about archaeological works and human history in magnificent caves. One of the "gems" hidden among the Northeast mountain range is Hoa Cuong Cave (also known as Da Hoa Cave) – an ideal stop for those who love pristine and mysterious beauty. Inside Hoa Cuong Cave (Source: Collected information) Sparkling Beauty Like Diamonds Underground Located deep within a large mountain, Hoa Cuong Cave impresses visitors right from its name due to the stalactite structures that shine like diamonds inside. The cave is approximately 100 meters long, with its widest point reaching up to 25 meters, and its rock walls emit a cool, refreshing breeze that provides a sense of relaxation and comfort as soon as visitors step into the entrance. Inside the cave is a wonderful world of nature's sculptures with countless stalactites in the shapes of people, animals, or giant hanging curtains. According to legend, thanks to its cool climate and charming scenery, this place was once a frequent playground for Kings along with Princes and Princesses. Fairytale Lake and Fascinating Legends The most special highlight in the heart of the cave is a clear, sweet water lake where white pebbles are clearly visible at the bottom. Local people in Gia Luan pass down the story that the girls in this region possess fair skin because they frequently bathe in the water from this lake. When light shines in, the stalactites and stalagmites reflect on the lake's surface, reflecting sparkling spots like blooming flowers, making visitors feel as if they are in a paradise on earth. Inside Hoa Cuong Cave (Source: Collected information) 100,000-Year Archaeological Mark Beyond its aesthetic value, Hoa Cuong Cave is also an important landmark on the historical research map. Here, scientists have excavated and discovered a fossilized tooth of an ancient ape dating back about 100,000 years. This discovery is important evidence demonstrating the very early existence of ancient apes in Vietnam, making Hoa Cuong Cave a "red address" for historical research travel journeys on Cat Ba Island. Information for Visitors Location: The cave is located in the Northeast mountain range, next to the road crossing Cat Ba – Gia Luan island, about 20km from the Cat Ba tourist center. Status: Although located not far from residential areas, Hoa Cuong Cave still maintains its original intact and wild state. If you are planning your upcoming trip to Hai Phong, take the time to visit this "giant stone painting" and feel the breath of history along with the magical beauty that nature has bestowed upon the pearl island of Cat Ba!  

If you are looking for a space completely separated from the hustle and bustle of the city to return to pure nature, Viet Hai Village is the most ideal destination in your journey to explore Hai Phong tourism. Tucked away in the northeast of Cat Ba Island, within the core zone of Cat Ba National Park, Viet Hai appears like a poetic landscape painting with majestic mountains and fertile valleys. The road from the pier to Viet Hai village (Image from collection source) An Exciting Journey Through Forests and Across the Sea To reach this "forgotten village," visitors will experience an emotional journey including 30 minutes of cruising on Lan Ha Bay by boat to arrive at the Viet Hai wharf. From there, you will conquer a 5km route through winding passes and slopes nestled within the primeval forest. You can choose to walk to challenge yourself, take a leisurely bike ride, or sit on an electric car to observe the "breath" of the mountains and forests. Experiencing Rustic and Pure Values Viet Hai not only possesses a rich natural landscape with high biodiversity but also preserves the unique cultural features of rural Vietnam. When coming here, visitors should not miss: Exploring Primeval Forests and Caves: Immerse yourself in the peace of Qua Vang, Tra Bau, and Tung Gau Caves, or learn about history through relics such as Hang Roi (Bat Cave) and Hai Quan Hill (Navy Hill). Foot Massage by Stream Fish: After a long journey of discovery, the feeling of soaking your feet in a cool stream and letting small schools of fish "massage" you naturally is an extremely interesting and relaxing experience. Immersing in Local Life: Walk through the fields and breathe in the air of the mountains and the sea to fully feel the purity of a pristine countryside. Exquisite Cuisine That "Captures" Diners After hours of exploration, diners will be treated to rustic yet flavorful local dishes such as: wild vegetables sautéed with garlic, field fish, frogs or bamboo shoots, fish salad, and grouper. These dishes are prepared from local ingredients, enough to satisfy even the most demanding travelers. Useful Information for Your Trip: Operating Hours: From 07:00 to 23:00 every day of the week. Note: Since it is located in the core zone of the National Park, visitors should wear convenient clothing for moving around and be conscious of protecting the environment and the pristine landscape. In addition to the vibrant international cultural and sports exchange activities on Cat Ba Island, visiting Viet Hai will help make your trip to Hai Phong more balanced and complete. Come and experience a rustic yet captivating Viet Hai! Images from various collection sources.    

In the joyful atmosphere of the early days of the Year of the Fire Horse (Binh Ngo), Hai Phong city is actively completing all preparations to welcome tourists from all over to the Con Son - Kiep Bac Spring Festival 2026. This is not only a meaningful spiritual activity but also an occasion to honor and promote the global outstanding values of the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac World Heritage site. The traditional Spring Con Son – Kiep Bac Festival (Source: collected information) The Heroic Spirit of the World Heritage Region: The Con Son - Kiep Bac Spring Festival 2026 carries a special significance, marking the 692nd anniversary of the passing of the Third Patriarch of Truc Lam, Huyen Quang Ton gia (1334 - 2026). This year's festival is organized on a large scale, associated with the pride of the inter-provincial heritage dossier of Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son, Kiep Bac being officially inscribed on the World Heritage List. In this achievement, Hai Phong proudly contributes 05 important component relic sites. The festival serves as a golden opportunity for the city to introduce international friends to a land of extraordinary people, where national cultural essence and the enduring spirit of the Truc Lam Zen Buddhism converge. A Unique Festival Space Imbued with Traditional Identity: According to the Organizing Committee's plan, the festival will feature a rich series of activities, intertwining solemn ceremonies and exciting festivities: Ceremonial Part: Includes traditional rituals such as the Procession of Chung cake and Giay cake; Incense offering ceremony; Rituals on Ngu Nhac Mountain; and especially the Commemoration Ceremony for the death anniversary of the Third Patriarch Huyen Quang. These rituals are conducted solemnly, recreating the spiritual cultural beauties from the Tran – Le dynasties. Festivity Part: Visitors will immerse themselves in a vibrant folk cultural space with traditional wrestling tournaments, a clay firecracker festival, contests for wrapping Chung cake and pounding Giay cake, and folk games characteristic of the Northern Delta region. The traditional Spring Con Son – Kiep Bac Festival (Source: collected information) Thorough and Professional Preparation: To ensure a safe, civilized festival season that leaves a good impression on visitors, Hai Phong city established a specialized Organizing Committee under Decision No. 336/QD-UBND. Preparations are being deployed synchronously: Security and Traffic: The City Police and functional forces have developed traffic diversion plans, ensuring security and order, and preventing superstitious activities and the commercialization of the festival. Environmental Sanitation and Landscape: Relic sites are being refurbished, and additional signage and guidance systems for tourists have been provided. Food safety and hygiene in service areas are strictly controlled. Promotion and Reception: The Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism is coordinating with media agencies to promote the event through publications, promotional clips, and a professional press contact department to provide the timeliest information to visitors. The Con Son - Kiep Bac Spring Festival 2026 is not just a journey back to the roots, but also a journey to discover the architectural beauty and majestic nature of the heritage land. Hai Phong City respectfully invites people from across the country, overseas Vietnamese, and international tourists to come to Con Son - Kiep Bac to light a stick of incense, pray for a peaceful new year, and enjoy the unique cultural values of the nation.  

Located peacefully along the Northern coastal strip, the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings in Co Trai Village (Hai Phong) is not only a majestic architectural work but also a bridge across time, leading visitors back to the mysterious and heroic historical pages of the Mac Dynasty. The Mạc Dynasty King Memorial Area viewed from the entrance gate (Source: collected information) Duong Kinh – An Epic from the Sea Unlike capitals located deep inland, the Mac Dynasty created a distinct mark by choosing ancient Duong Kinh (now Kien Hung) as its center of power. This is considered the first coastal capital in Vietnam's feudal history. Establishing headquarters in this coastal land not only demonstrated a strategic vision but also served as a testament to the blood bondbetween the dynasty and its origins from seafaring fishermen. Coming here, you will feel the breath of the sea blending into every historical vestige of a dynasty that, although ruling for only 66 years, left behind an enduring cultural heritage. Artistic Architecture The attraction of the Memorial Area also lies in its unique architectural beauty, where the solemnity of blue stone harmonizes with the warmth of ancient wood. Sculptural Essence: Visitors will be amazed at the Main Sanctuary, home to a large monolithic blue stone dragon statue with soft curves reminiscent of Ly Dynasty Art. Sacred mythical creatures such as the lion-like creature (Nghe), the Qilin (Lan), and Dragon are exquisitely decorated, reflecting the master carving techniques of ancient artisans. Solemnity of Worship: Stepping into the interior space, the scent of wood and the radiance of lacquered and gilded statues create a sacred and vigorous atmosphere. Dotted throughout the complex are unique stone steles, typically the one at Tra Phuong Pagoda, which tells cultural stories spanning a thousand generations. Main altar in the Mạc Dynasty Memorial Area (Source: HaiphongNews) Where the Academic Lineage Flows Eternally Co Trai is not only a royal land but also the cradle of educational tradition. This land has produced many high-ranking graduates who have held important national responsibilities throughout various periods. If you visit on the 6th day of the Lunar New Year, you will be immersed in the Spring Pen-Opening Ceremony—a cultural experience not to be missed. Amidst the solemn space of the "Divine Pen" procession ritual, hundreds of students and tourists together send their wishes for a happy and successful new year through the very first characters written in the new year. A journey to visit the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings is not just a tour, but an experience to understand the stature of the nation’s only coastal capital. Come to touch the thousand-year-old blue stone with your own hands, listen to the echoes of history, and find peace of mind in a land of extraordinary people. Vietnam is entering a new era of development, and heritage values such as the Memorial Area for the Mac Kings serve as a foundation for us to reach further and connect with global value chains while still preserving our national identity. Hai Phong welcomes visitors to the coastal capital!

On the evening of February 12, at the Tu Luong Xam Relic Site (Nam Hai Ward), Hai An District solemnly held a ceremony to receive the Certificate recognizing the Tu Luong Xam Area – Headquarters of Ngo Quyen in 938 – as a Special National Historical Relic, and to inaugurate the 2025 Tu Luong Xam Traditional Festival, commemorating the 1,087th anniversary of the Bach Dang victory and the 1,081st anniversary of the death of King Ngo Quyen. Attending the ceremony at the central level were Mr. Le Thanh Long, Member of the Party Central Committee, Deputy Prime Minister; Mr. Ho An Phong, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism; along with leaders from central ministries, the Vietnam Association of Historical Sciences, and the Ngo family council of Vietnam. On the city level, the event was attended by Mr. Le Tien Chau, Member of the Party Central Committee, Secretary of the Hai Phong Party Committee, and Head of the Hai Phong National Assembly delegation; Mr. Nguyen Van Tung, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, Chairman of the Hai Phong People’s Committee; Mr. Do Manh Hien, Standing Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee; Mr. Pham Van Lap, Chairman of the City People's Council; along with other members of the Party Standing Committee, leaders of the City People’s Council, People’s Committee, and Fatherland Front, departments and localities, Hai An District leaders, and a large number of local residents and visitors.   The traditional procession ceremony is a sacred and important ritual of the Tu Luong Xam festival. Tu Luong Xam is a sacred coastal site located by the Bach Dang River, closely linked to the glorious victory of King Ngo Quyen and the nation in resisting foreign invaders in 938. Through the ups and downs of history, this place has witnessed the tireless efforts of generations of Hai Phong and Hai An people in preserving, restoring, and promoting the historical value of the relic and its traditional festival — a proud part of the cultural and historical heritage of the Port City.    In 1986, under Decision No. 235/VH-QĐ dated December 12, 1986, the Ministry of Culture (now the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism) ranked the site as a National Historical Relic under the name: “Tu Luong Xam Area – Headquarters of Ngo Quyen in 938”, located in Nam Hai Commune, An Hai District. It was one of the "Four Sacred Temples" of the old An Duong District, and is now one of the three "sacred temples" of Hai An District (including Tu Luong Xam, Thuong Doan Shrine, and Phu Xa Temple). Among the sites worshipping Ngo Quyen in Hai An District, Tu Luong Xam is honored as the “Từ Cả” – the primary temple dedicated to Ngo Quyen. The Tu Luong Xam Festival is the largest-scale festival in Hai An District, held annually from the 14th to 18th days of the first lunar month. In 2022, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism recognized the traditional Tu Luong Xam Festival as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.   In her speech, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu – Secretary of Hai An District Party Committee – emphasized that the Government’s recognition of the Tu Luong Xam site as a Special National Historical Relic and its festival as a National Intangible Heritage is a great honor and pride. At the same time, it imposes a significant responsibility on the Party, government, and people of Hai An District in particular, and Hai Phong City in general, to preserve and promote the value of the site and its heritage. The district’s leadership pledged to continue efforts to protect and enhance the value of the site so that it remains a lasting spiritual and cultural address that nurtures patriotism in current and future generations.    In his speech, Deputy Minister Ho An Phong emphasized that Tu Luong Xam is the site chosen by Ngo Quyen to establish his headquarters, construct the Vanh Kieu ramparts, and command the historic battle that defeated the Southern Han invaders on the Bach Dang River in 938. The relic holds a special place in the system of sites dedicated to King Ngo Quyen in Hai Phong. Alongside numerous artifacts such as imperial decrees, stone steles, sacred objects, and architectural components with the artistic style of the Le Trung Hung period (17th century) and the Nguyen Dynasty (19th–20th centuries), the site bears witness to centuries of history and cultural development. It has become a unique cultural destination for the local community. The annual Tu Luong Xam Festival, held from the 16th to 18th of the first lunar month, expresses the people's devotion, remembrance, and reverence for King Ngo Quyen. With its outstanding cultural values, on January 17, 2025, the Prime Minister issued the decision to recognize the Tu Luong Xam Complex – Headquarters of King Ngo Quyen in 938 – as a Special National Historical Relic. The Deputy Minister called upon the city and Hai An District to develop a comprehensive conservation master plan, implement a heritage conservation and promotion project for the Tu Luong Xam Festival, and continue researching and conducting archaeological excavations to further clarify the site's historical value while improving its landscape and environment to create a complete cultural space. King Ngo Quyen is one of Vietnam’s 14 national heroes and is revered as the "king of kings" and the "Founding Father of National Restoration." In 938, he led the people to defeat the Southern Han army in the historic Bach Dang River battle, ending over 1,000 years of Chinese domination and ushering in a long era of national independence and sovereignty, laying the foundation for the brilliant dynasties of Ly, Tran, and Le, continuing into the Ho Chi Minh era.