After a long journey to discover different beautiful destinations in Vietnam, I take two of my new friends – Gayle and Saeed – to visit my hometown, Bac Ninh. In general, the experience was extremely wonderful and heartwarming because I not only take them to visit the best attractions in Bac Ninh but also went to eat and meet my family. The truly local experience in Bac Ninh won their heart and touched their soul.
SPIRITUAL VISIT AT BUT THAP AND KINH DUONG VUONG TEMPLES
Starting out the day, we went to the main attractions for the spiritual culture which is one of the proudest points for the cultural values of Bac Ninh. Thanks to the richness of the cultural values and the fantastic historical stories behind each attraction, the two foreign friends find the place so fantastic, and the trip becomes so meaningful for them. In addition, they expressed that it was not only about leisure purposes but also contributed to widening their understanding of Vietnam.
But Thap Temple
Before reaching the temple, we drove along the romantic Duong River and visited the local farmers’ market. Then, we visited But Thap Temple – the most well-preserved historical architecture in Vietnam. According to the historical data, there is no exact evidence until now to confirm the accurate year when building this temple. However, based on several historical data, the construction might start during the Tran dynasty under the era of King Tran Thanh Tong (1258-1278). Until the 17th Century, the temple had become more well-known due to the Head Master Chuyet Chuyet (1590-1644).
Along with antique and majestic architecture, the pure and peaceful vibes through the color and art installation are the things alluring the guests once visiting. Also, we visited the proud Bac Ninh – the mausoleum of Le Van Thinh who is the first graduated candidate of the province under the Ly Dynasty. Furthermore, the temple house is also famous for the biggest Avalokiteśvara statue with one thousand eyes and a thousand arms.
Kinh Duong Vuong Temple
Driving was also a meaningful and fun time as well. During that time, we shared together many great stories about the beautiful view of the rice padding field while heading to visit the mausoleum of King Kinh Duong Vuong.
The top place for spirituality is the Kinh Duong Vuong Temple. Slightly different from the But Thap Temple, this location is towards not only the spiritual culture but also the historical value. For more details, this temple belongs to the relic sites that were made with the purpose of worshipping the originators of Vietnamese including King Duong Vuong, Lac Long Quan, and Au Co. Hence, the temples and tombs carry significant meaning not only regional but also national historical values and cultural identities.
TRADITIONAL ART WITH DONG HO FOLK PAINTING
“Art is the fastest way to understand the culture of a country to the deepest place in your heart and mind”. Dong Ho Folk Painting is one of the Vietnamese intangible cultural heritages and is currently on its way to UNESCO’s recognition. Through the experience, the two friends learned more about the history and stories behind each painting. Hence, they could understand a deeper layer of Vietnamese culture.
Through the painting, there are various themes in the folk painting, such as historical figures, folk stories, spirits, fortune desires, traditional idioms, etc. With the colors combined with the folk sense of humor, the two friends were so impressed with the creativity of the artist and the well-preserved values over such a long period of time. If you are looking for an ideal souvenir to bring home after your trip to Vietnam, Dong Ho Folk Painting is definitely a good suggestion. Then, we ended the session with a true art experience and had lunch with the poetic view of the river.
THE TRUE ENGAGEMENT THROUGH THE LOCAL EXPERIENCE IN BAC NINH
Last but not least, the engagement with the local experience in Bac Ninh was the most heartwarming connection that our beloved friends had on their interesting day trip. Meeting an old lady selling betel nuts and incense under the banyan tree, the two guests experienced one of the most common cultures in the Northern area of Vietnam – street beverage vendors.
Afterward, it was an honor to take them to my home where my whole childhood memories of mine stay there. My family is in a very typical Vietnamese setting where all the generations live happily together in a cozy and warm house. Connecting to my family, eating the true local family dinner with the delicious dishes of Bac Ninh, and having real interactions with the Bac Ninh people were the highlights of that day.
The next morning, the two friends were so surprised with our natural alarm – the lovely roster. Besides, we had our morning routine of going to visit the local market. Then, all the parties had to come to an end. After breakfast with my family, the two friends said goodbye and visit the last stop Do Temple, where worships nine Kings of the Ly Dynasty, before coming back to Hanoi.
In general, the experience was raw, moving, and extremely emotional. Also, I can proudly say that this is a unique experience that not many operators can do up to this level of intimacy, genuineness, and authenticity.
GOOD NEWS FOR GOOD LOCAL EXPERIENCE IN BAC NINH
Good news for you. We have daily tours of Bac Ninh where you can have a chance to live up to all the fascinating local experiences in Bac Ninh that our two foreign friends have been through. However, don’t worry if you have your own preference because the team and I are always welcoming to listen to your wishes and demands. Plus, if you would like to have the full experience, one tip for you, stay overnights for the more amazing things coming up.
Now, let’s check out our amazing Day Tour in Bac Ninh or connect with us through our official social media platforms or Build Your Own Trip to share your interesting travel ideas.
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