Things To Do
in Hòa Thượng
Hòa Thượng is a tranquil rural commune in northern Vietnam, set among green fields and gentle hills just outside Hanoi. The area exudes a slow-paced charm, with temples, pagodas, and traditional houses dotting the landscape. It serves as a gateway to nearby nature trails and vibrant local markets, offering an authentic glimpse of rural Vietnamese life.
Visitors come for peaceful scenery, friendly locals, and the chance to sample northern Vietnamese cuisine away from the hustle of big cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Hòa Thượng and settle into your accommodation. Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a local café, savoring dishes like Pho or Bánh mì. Take a leisurely stroll through the surrounding area to get a feel for the vibrant culture.
Visit the ancient temples, such as the Linh Ung Pagoda, and immerse yourself in the history and spiritual significance of these sites. Engage with local artisans and learn about traditional crafts through interactive workshops. Enjoy a light lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling local specialties.
As the sun sets, join a cooking class where you can learn to make authentic Vietnamese dishes. Relish the meal you've created alongside new friends and share stories of your travels. End the night with a peaceful walk along the riverside, enjoying the serene atmosphere under the stars.
Start your day with a traditional meditation session at a local monastery, finding tranquility among ancient spiritual practices. Afterward, have breakfast with monastic fare, designed to nourish both body and mind. Take some time to reflect on the experience and write in your travel journal.
Head out for a guided tour of the surrounding countryside, exploring lush rice paddies and meeting villagers who uphold timeless customs. Participate in farming activities, gaining a firsthand understanding of local agricultural practices. Enjoy a picnic lunch featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients at a scenic viewpoint.
Return to town to participate in a cultural festival if available, where traditional music and dance performances bring the local culture to life. Afterward, unwind with a cup of Vietnamese tea at a quaint café, soaking up the evening ambiance. Reflect on the day's experiences before resting at your accommodation.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛍️Street market souvenirs | $2-15 |
| 🚲Bike rental (day) | $5-10 |
| 🏥Basic medical visit | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful rural atmosphere
- Rich local cuisine and markets
- Gateway to northern hills and parks
- Friendly locals and safe travel environment
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Smaller transport networks outside town centers
- Rural roads can be bumpy and less developed
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu?" - How much is it?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tôi muốn mua cái này" - I would like to buy this
Places to Visit in Hòa Thượng
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft morning light, mist over fields, and a quiet, atmospheric approach to the temple precincts.
Calm water, silhouettes of trees, and warm golden hues as the sun sinks over the river.
Narrow lanes, traditional houses, and lantern-lit corners ideal for candid street photography.
Food in Hòa Thượng
Hòa Thượng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A steaming beef or chicken noodle soup served with herbs, lime, and chili. A cornerstone of northern cuisine often enjoyed for breakfast.
Must-Try!
Grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and a tangy dipping sauce; commonly enjoyed with fresh vegetables and herbs.
Turmeric-seasoned grilled fish served with dill and rice noodles; a flavorful dish typical of Hanoi-adjacent regions.
Soft rice rolls filled with seasoned pork and mushrooms, served with nước chấm (dipping sauce) and herbs.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning stalls offering fresh produce, herbs, and quick bites; a great place to observe daily trading and sample ready-to-eat snacks.
A cluster of tiny stalls selling grilled meats, fresh spring rolls, and noodle soups—best explored with local recommendations.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes where required, speak softly, and avoid pointing feet at sacred spaces.
Greet warmly, show appreciation, and offer small courtesy gestures when visiting homes or family-run venues.
Ask for permission before photographing people, particularly in homes or private settings.
Safety
Tipping in Hòa Thượng
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5–10% in nicer restaurants; small change for street stalls is common.
Cash is widely used in rural areas; some establishments in towns accept cards or mobile wallets. ATMs are more common in larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and blooming flora; great for temple visits and outdoor strolls.
Hot and humid with a chance of sudden showers; carry water, sunscreen, and a light rain layer.
Pleasant weather with lower humidity; ideal for hiking and long walks.
Cool to chilly, especially in the evenings; layering recommended and dry conditions predominate.
Hòa Thượng at Night
Hiking in Hòa Thượng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested trails with viewpoints, waterfalls, and wildlife; suitable for day hikes and nature photography.
Cool, misty hills with scenic outlooks and moderate hikes near the Hanoi area.
Airports
How to reach Hòa Thượng by plane.
Main gateway for northern Vietnam; international and domestic flights; typically accessed by road from the area.
Hai Phong-based airport serving northern Vietnam; accessible by road and rail from Hanoi region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the region, forming most urban and rural communities.
Small communities in hillier areas with distinct languages and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in parks and schools; local matches and pickup games are common.
Popular in community halls and clubs; often played in evenings.
A favorite way to explore rural scenery and villages around the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hòa Thượng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for vegetable pho, tofu dishes, and rice or noodle bowls. Request no fish sauce or broth made from meat; look for clear vegetable-based broths.