Things To Do
in Hải Dương
Hai Duong is a northern Vietnamese city and provincial capital set in the Red River Delta, surrounded by lush farmland and historic sites. It blends quiet street life with a growing appetite for culture, food, and easy day trips to nearby nature. The city is a gateway to northern Vietnam’s rural charm, with approachable markets, pagodas, and friendly local communities.
Its broad rice paddies, rivers, and traditional crafts offer a relaxed pace for travelers seeking authentic provincial experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the revered Côn Sơn Pagoda, a peaceful spiritual site surrounded by lush greenery. As you explore the ancient architecture, immerse yourself in the rich history and legends of the Trần dynasty. Enjoy the gentle morning light filtering through centuries-old trees, creating a serene atmosphere perfect for reflection.
Head to Kiếp Bạc Temple, dedicated to the national hero Trần Hưng Đạo. Wander through the expansive complex, admiring intricate carvings and traditional Vietnamese design. Stop at local vendors nearby to sample authentic Hải Dương snacks, savoring flavors unique to this region.
Return to Hải Dương city center to stroll along the vibrant streets filled with lantern-lit shops. Dine at a traditional restaurant offering specialties such as bánh đa cua, a crab noodle soup famous in Hải Dương. Finish your evening with a leisurely walk by the scenic Cửa Lục River, watching the sunset paint the sky.
Venture to the renowned Đông Xuyên pottery village where artisans have honed their craft for generations. Observe the potters shaping clay on spinning wheels and creating beautiful ceramics with intricate designs. Engage with locals to learn about their traditional techniques passed down through centuries.
Travel to the Phạm Ngũ Lão embroidery village and witness delicate handiwork being meticulously crafted. Try your hand at stitching under the guidance of experienced artisans, gaining appreciation for this fine art. Explore the village's quaint streets and visit small shops showcasing exquisite embroidered products.
Return to the city to enjoy a performance of traditional Vietnamese music and dance at a local cultural center. Savor a dinner featuring Hải Dương's fresh agricultural produce paired with regional herbs and spices. End your night sipping cà phê đá at a bustling street café, soaking in the lively evening ambiance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🚲Scooter rental per day | $5-10 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-50 |
| 🧶Local crafts souvenir | $3-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Accessible provincial capital with friendly locals
- Strong street-food scene and authentic Northern Vietnamese flavors
- Limited nightlife and international dining options compared to bigger cities
- Smaller scale of attractions; many sights are spread around nearby countryside
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có món ngon gì?" - What good dishes are here?
- "Tôi có thể đi đến… không?" - Can I go to…?
- "Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Hải Dương
Visit one of these nice places.
Calm waters, morning mist, and soft light along the river offer tranquil compositions of boats, reflections, and groves.
Colonial-era facades and busy street life provide dynamic urban imagery with humanity, color, and texture.
Serene courtyards, stone steps, and intricate carvings create intimate shots of spiritual architecture.
Expansive paddies, irrigation canals, and silhouettes of farmers create wide, painterly landscapes.
Food in Hải Dương
Hải Dương Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Iconic crab noodle soup featuring crabmeat, fish balls, and thick yellow rice noodles in a savory broth.
Must-Try!
Tomato-based broth with crab or crab paste, tofu, and rice noodles; a tangy, herbal favorite in the region.
Sweet mung bean dessert often served over crushed ice; a refreshing treat in hot weather.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main local market where you can sample fresh produce, herbs, and quick bites like bánh đa cua and grilled skewers.
Evenings are ideal for wandering small stalls offering noodles, bánh cuốn-inspired wraps, and grilled options along the city streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples or religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in intimate or market settings.
Greet with a smile and use polite language; removing shoes when entering certain homes or temples is customary.
Safety
Tipping in Hải Dương
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist areas; rounding up the bill or leaving small tips for good service is common practice.
Cash in VND is widely accepted; some larger establishments may take cards or mobile wallets (e-wallets like Momo or ZaloPay). Carry small denominations for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Moderate temperatures with fresh greenery; pleasant for outdoor walks and market visits. Occasional showers may occur; carry a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot and humid; expect heat in the afternoons. Stay hydrated, wear a hat, and enjoy early morning or late afternoon activities.
Pleasant and mild with comfortable conditions for exploring streets and countryside; ideal for photography and outdoor markets.
Cool to mild with cooler evenings; temperatures are comfortable for city walks but bring a light jacket for evenings.
Hải Dương at Night
Hiking in Hải Dương
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular hillside hikes with forested trails, cooler air, and viewpoints; reachable within a few hours by car from Hai Duong.
Extensive forested areas with hiking routes, temples, and scenic overlooks; a common day trip from the northern delta.
Airports
How to reach Hải Dương by plane.
Located near Hanoi; major international and domestic hub accessible by road or rail; about 60-90 minutes’ drive from Hai Duong depending on traffic.
Located in Hai Phong; serves domestic and some regional flights; practical option for fast access from Hai Duong by road.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Main ethnic group, rural-to-urban lifestyle with strong agricultural roots plus growing services and commerce.
Smaller communities and migrant workers; cultural exchange occurs in markets and cultural events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in local leagues and informal pickup games.
Common in community centers and schools; easy to join for visitors seeking a quick sport session.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hải Dương.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in local eateries; request vegetable-forward dishes and clarify if seafood or broth is used. Ask for tofu or mushroom-based dishes and avoid broth made with meat stock.