Lang Son

Lang Son Travel Guide

Lang Son, a northern province of Vietnam, is a perfect destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and foodies. From breathtaking mountains to ancient caves and bustling markets, there’s plenty to explore.

Top Things to Do in Lang Son

1. Explore Tam Thanh Cave & Temple

Why Visit?

• A stunning limestone cave with natural stalactites and Buddhist relics.
• Houses an ancient temple with a large Buddha statue carved into the rock.

Tam Thanh Cave is one of the most famous attractions in Lạng Sơn. The entrance is framed by lush greenery, leading into a mystical world of rock formations and hidden altars. The temple inside the cave adds a spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history lovers.

📍 Location: Tam Thanh Ward, Lạng Sơn City

2. Hike to the Top of To Thi Mountain

Why Visit?

• Offers panoramic views of Lạng Sơn City and surrounding valleys.
• Home to the famous To Thi Statue, a legendary rock formation resembling a woman carrying her child.

To Thi Mountain is tied to the touching legend of a woman who waited endlessly for her husband to return from war. Today, the statue and the scenic viewpoint make it a popular site for visitors looking for both history and breathtaking landscapes.

📍 Location: Near Tam Thanh Cave, Lạng Sơn City

3. Discover the Historic Chi Lăng Pass

Why Visit?

• One of Vietnam’s most important battle sites, where Vietnamese forces defeated Chinese invaders.
• Surrounded by lush green hills and dramatic mountain landscapes.

Chi Lăng Pass is a historical treasure and a must-visit for anyone interested in Vietnam’s past. The pass witnessed numerous battles, including the famous victory of Vietnamese troops against the Ming Dynasty in 1427. Today, the area is a peaceful escape with scenic views and historical significance.

📍 Location: Chi Lăng District, about 20 km from Lạng Sơn City

4. Visit the Bustling Kỳ Lừa Night Market

Why Visit?

• A great place to experience local culture and buy traditional handicrafts.
• Offers delicious street food, including roast duck and sticky rice cakes.

Kỳ Lừa Market is the heart of Lạng Sơn’s nightlife, where both locals and tourists gather. You’ll find everything from handmade textiles to Chinese-imported goods. The market is also famous for its vibrant atmosphere and is a great place to experience ethnic minority culture.

📍 Location: Lạng Sơn City (open in the evenings)

5. Trek Through Mẫu Sơn Mountain

Why Visit?

• One of the highest mountains in northern Vietnam, known for misty landscapes and cool weather.
• Home to ethnic minority villages and ancient French colonial ruins.

Mẫu Sơn Mountain is a paradise for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers. During winter, it even experiences rare snowfall, making it one of the few places in Vietnam where you can see snow! The area is also famous for Mẫu Sơn wine, made from local herbs and rice.

📍 Location: 30 km east of Lạng Sơn City

6. Explore Đồng Đăng Border Gate and the Famous Temple

Why Visit?

• A historical and cultural site at the Vietnam-China border.
• Visit Đồng Đăng Temple, dedicated to generals and legendary figures.

Đồng Đăng is not just a border checkpoint but also a cultural landmark. The Đồng Đăng Temple is a sacred place where locals pray for prosperity and protection. Many travelers also come here to experience the bustling trade atmosphere between Vietnam and China.

📍 Location: Hữu Nghị Border Gate, Đồng Đăng Town

7. Enjoy the Beauty of Bắc Sơn Valley

Why Visit?

• A stunning valley with golden rice fields and breathtaking karst mountains.
• Ideal for photography, trekking, and experiencing local ethnic culture.

Bắc Sơn Valley is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful hidden gems. During harvest season, the rice fields turn golden, creating a picture-perfect landscape. Climbing Ná Lay Mountain for a 360-degree panoramic view of the valley is an unforgettable experience.

📍 Location: Bắc Sơn District, 80 km from Lạng Sơn City

8. Try Local Specialties – Roast Duck & Khâu Nhục

Why Visit?

• Lạng Sơn is famous for its roast duck (Vịt Quay Lạng Sơn), marinated with honey and local spices.
• Khâu Nhục is a flavorful steamed pork belly dish influenced by Chinese cuisine.

A trip to Lạng Sơn is incomplete without trying its famous dishes! The roast duck has a crispy golden skin and a juicy, flavorful inside. Another must-try dish is Khâu Nhục, a slow-cooked pork belly dish with a rich sauce, commonly served at festivals and family gatherings.

📍 Best places to eat: Restaurants in Lạng Sơn City and Kỳ Lừa Market

9. Visit the Ancient Mac Dynasty Citadel

Why Visit?

• A 16th-century stone fortress built by the Mạc Dynasty.
• Offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s feudal history with ancient ruins.

The Mạc Dynasty Citadel, though partly in ruins, remains an important historical and architectural site. Walking through the remains of the fortress, visitors can imagine how it once stood as a defensive stronghold against invaders.

📍 Location: Lạng Sơn City

10. Experience the Long Tùng Festival

Why Visit?

• A traditional Tày and Nùng ethnic festival celebrating harvest and prosperity.
• Features folk music, traditional dances, and unique cultural performances.

Held in early spring, the Long Tùng Festival is a lively event showcasing the vibrant traditions of the ethnic communities in Lạng Sơn. If you visit during this time, you can witness fire jumping rituals, lion dances, and ethnic music performances.

📍 Location: Various villages in Lạng Sơn

Lang Son Culture

1. Ethnic Diversity and Traditions

Lạng Sơn is one of Vietnam’s most ethnically diverse provinces. The Tày and Nùng people make up a large portion of the population, followed by the Dao and Kinh. These ethnic groups maintain distinct languages, traditional attire, and customs, which are still preserved in daily life.

Tày and Nùng Communities:

• Known for their wooden stilt houses, which are built to adapt to mountainous terrain.
• Famous for traditional weaving, embroidery, and silver jewelry.

Dao People:

• Recognized by their elaborate red and black embroidered clothing.
• Their spiritual beliefs are tied to Taoism and ancestor worship.

Many villages in Lạng Sơn still practice traditional farming methods, cultivating rice, corn, and tea in the mountainous landscapes.

2. Folklore and Legends

Lạng Sơn is steeped in myths and legends that reflect the beliefs of its people. One of the most famous legends is about To Thi, a woman who turned into stone while waiting for her husband to return from war. The To Thi Mountain still stands today as a symbol of loyalty and love.

Another well-known site is Chi Lăng Pass, a historical battlefield where Vietnamese forces won significant victories against foreign invaders. The stories of heroism from this region are passed down through generations.

3. Traditional Music and Performing Arts

Music and dance play a vital role in the culture of Lạng Sơn, especially in ethnic festivals and ceremonies.

Then Singing and Lượn Singing

• Then Singing: A spiritual and poetic form of music performed by the Tày and Nùng people, often accompanied by a đàn tính (a traditional string instrument).
• Lượn Singing: A form of call-and-response singing, where men and women express love and emotions through lyrics.

Lion and Dragon Dances

• Often performed during Lunar New Year (Tết) and festivals, these dances symbolize prosperity and protection from evil spirits.
• Lạng Sơn's lion dance is more acrobatic than those found in other parts of Vietnam, with performers skillfully maneuvering lion costumes.

4. Festivals and Celebrations

Festivals in Lạng Sơn are colorful and deeply rooted in spiritual beliefs, agriculture, and history.

Kỳ Lừa Festival (Held on the 22nd - 27th of the first lunar month)

• One of the biggest traditional festivals in Lạng Sơn.
• Features rituals, processions, and performances honoring Tày and Nùng deities.
• Locals participate in folk games, music, and dance.

Long Tùng Festival (Lễ Hội Lồng Tồng)

• A harvest festival of the Tày and Nùng ethnic groups.
• Farmers pray for a prosperous year with good crops.
• Traditional games, including buffalo fighting and tug-of-war, take place.

Tam Thanh Temple Festival

• Celebrated at the famous Tam Thanh Cave Temple.
• Pilgrims visit to pray for luck and peace.
• Features incense offerings and folk music performances.

5. Architecture and Religious Beliefs

Lạng Sơn’s architecture reflects its history and spiritual traditions.

• Tam Thanh Pagoda: Located inside Tam Thanh Cave, this ancient temple blends natural limestone formations with Buddhist statues.
• Đồng Đăng Temple: A sacred site near the Chinese border, dedicated to legendary generals and deities.
• Mạc Dynasty Citadel: The ruins of a fortress from the 16th century, representing Vietnam’s feudal history.

The people of Lạng Sơn primarily follow Buddhism and ancestor worship, but elements of Taoism and animism (belief in spirits of nature) are also present in ethnic minority communities.

6. Traditional Cuisine and Culinary Culture

Lạng Sơn’s food reflects a fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese influences, along with ethnic minority traditions.

Must-Try Dishes

• Vịt Quay Lạng Sơn (Lạng Sơn Roast Duck): Marinated with honey, herbs, and spices, then roasted to perfection.
• Khâu Nhục: A slow-cooked pork belly dish with a rich, flavorful sauce.
• Coóng Phù: A sticky rice ball dessert, often enjoyed during festivals.
• Mẫu Sơn Wine: A famous rice wine infused with local herbs, produced by ethnic communities in Mẫu Sơn Mountain.

Food in Lạng Sơn is known for its bold flavors, aromatic spices, and slow-cooked dishes, making it distinct from other northern Vietnamese cuisines.

7. Handicrafts and Local Markets

Traditional handicrafts play an essential role in Lạng Sơn’s economy and culture.

• Brocade Weaving: The Tày and Nùng people produce colorful, handwoven textiles used for clothing and decorative purposes.
• Silver Jewelry: Crafted by ethnic minorities, silver accessories are worn during ceremonies and festivals.
• Incense Making: Villages in Lạng Sơn specialize in crafting traditional incense sticks used in temples and homes.

For an authentic experience, visit Kỳ Lừa Market or Đồng Đăng Border Market, where you can find handcrafted goods, ethnic clothing, and delicious street food.

Lang Son Weather

Spring (February – April)

• Temperature: 12°C – 25°C
• Weather: Cool and humid, with occasional drizzle
• Best For: Sightseeing, festivals, and exploring caves

Spring in Lạng Sơn is mild and misty, with light rain and fog covering the mountains. This is also the season of blooming flowers and traditional festivals, such as the Kỳ Lừa Festival and Lồng Tồng Festival.

Summer (May – August)

• Temperature: 22°C – 35°C
• Weather: Hot and humid, with occasional heavy rain and thunderstorms
• Best For: Trekking, nature exploration, and visiting waterfalls

Summers in Lạng Sơn can be warm and humid, but the mountains and forests offer a cooler retreat compared to the lowlands. The region receives frequent rainfall, especially in July and August, making the landscape lush and green. This is a great time to visit Bắc Sơn Valley and Mẫu Sơn Mountain for outdoor activities.

Autumn (September – November)

• Temperature: 15°C – 28°C
• Weather: Cool, dry, and pleasant
• Best For: Photography, trekking, and cultural experiences

Autumn is one of the best seasons to visit Lạng Sơn. The weather is cool and dry, with golden rice fields covering the valleys of Bắc Sơn. The skies are often clear and blue, providing stunning views of the karst mountains and terraced fields.

Winter (December – January)

• Temperature: 3°C – 15°C (can drop below 0°C in the mountains)
• Weather: Cold, foggy, and sometimes frosty
• Best For: Experiencing snowfall in Mẫu Sơn, enjoying winter markets

Winter in Lạng Sơn is chilly, with temperatures sometimes dropping below freezing in high-altitude areas like Mẫu Sơn Mountain, where snowfall occasionally occurs. It’s an exciting time to visit for those wanting to experience a winter atmosphere in Vietnam.

Lang Son Transportation

1. How to Get to Lạng Sơn from Hanoi

By Bus (Most Popular)

Buses from Hanoi to Lạng Sơn are frequent and affordable.

• Duration: 3 – 4 hours
• Cost: Around 150,000 – 300,000 VND (~$6 – $12)

Departure Points in Hanoi:

• Gia Lâm Bus Station
• My Đình Bus Station
• Yên Nghĩa Bus Station

Several bus companies offer seater and sleeper buses, making the journey comfortable.

By Train

Trains are a scenic and comfortable way to travel to Lạng Sơn.

• Route: Hanoi ➝ Đồng Đăng (Lạng Sơn)
• Duration: About 4 hours

Train Stations:

• Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội)
• Gia Lâm Railway Station (Ga Gia Lâm)
• Lạng Sơn Railway Station (Ga Lạng Sơn)
• Đồng Đăng Railway Station (Ga Đồng Đăng) (Near the China border)

The railway connects Hanoi and China, making Lạng Sơn an important transit point for international travelers.

By Private Car or Motorbike

For a more flexible trip, renting a car or motorbike is an option.

• Route: Hanoi ➝ National Highway 1A ➝ Lạng Sơn
• Duration: 3 – 3.5 hours by car
• Motorbike rental: Available in Hanoi for 200,000 – 400,000 VND/day

The scenic drive passes through lush mountains and valleys, making it a great choice for adventure travelers.

2. Getting Around Lạng Sơn

By Taxi & Ride-Hailing Services

• Taxis are available in Lạng Sơn City, with local taxi companies operating in major areas.
• Ride-hailing apps like Grab and Be may be available but are less common in remote areas.

Estimated Taxi Fares:

• Short trips: 30,000 – 50,000 VND (~$1.5 – $2)
• Longer distances (e.g., to Mẫu Sơn Mountain): 200,000 – 500,000 VND (~$8 – $20)

By Motorbike Rental (Best for Exploration)

For those who love adventure, renting a motorbike is a great way to explore Lạng Sơn’s mountainous landscapes and villages.

• Rental Cost: Around 150,000 – 300,000 VND/day (~$6 – $12)

Best Places to Ride:

• Mẫu Sơn Mountain (30 km from Lạng Sơn City)
• Bắc Sơn Valley (80 km from Lạng Sơn City)
• Chi Lăng Pass (20 km from Lạng Sơn City)

By Bicycle

Cycling is a great way to explore rural areas and enjoy the peaceful countryside. Some homestays and hotels offer bicycle rentals for exploring villages and rice fields.

By Walking

In Lạng Sơn City, many attractions like Kỳ Lừa Market, Tam Thanh Cave, and To Thi Mountain are within walking distance. However, for longer distances, taxis or motorbikes are recommended.

3. Border Crossing to China from Lạng Sơn

Hữu Nghị (Friendship) Border Gate

• Located 18 km from Lạng Sơn City
• The main international crossing for travelers heading to Guangxi, China
• Open from 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Đồng Đăng Border Market

• A lively area near the border where travelers can shop for Chinese and Vietnamese goods.
• Visa Requirement: If you plan to cross into China, make sure you have a valid visa.

Lang Son Travel Tips

1. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (February – April): Cool weather, blooming flowers, and traditional festivals.
• Autumn (September – November): Pleasant temperatures, golden rice fields, and clear skies.
• Winter (December – January): Cold temperatures, and possible snowfall in Mẫu Sơn Mountain.
• Avoid July – August: Heavy rains and occasional landslides in mountainous areas.

2. Packing Essentials

Clothing:

• Spring & Autumn: Light jacket, comfortable clothing.
• Summer: Breathable clothes, sunscreen, hat, raincoat.
• Winter: Warm clothing, gloves, scarves (especially if visiting Mẫu Sơn).
• Shoes: Comfortable walking or hiking shoes for exploring caves, mountains, and markets.

Other Essentials:

• Insect repellent (for nature trips)
• Motion sickness medicine (if traveling on winding mountain roads)
• Cash (ATMs are available, but small vendors prefer cash)

3. Transportation Tips

Getting There:

• Bus from Hanoi (3-4 hours, ~150,000 – 300,000 VND) is the most convenient option.
• Train from Hanoi (4 hours, scenic but slower).
• Motorbike (for adventurous travelers, scenic drive through mountains).

Getting Around:

• Motorbike rental (~150,000 – 300,000 VND/day) is best for exploring remote areas.
• Taxis available in the city but may be limited in rural areas.
• Walking is possible in Lạng Sơn City for nearby attractions.

4. Must-Try Foods

• Vịt Quay Lạng Sơn (Lạng Sơn Roast Duck): Crispy, flavorful, and best enjoyed with a dipping sauce.
• Khâu Nhục: A tender, slow-cooked pork belly dish.
• Phở Chua (Sour Pho): A unique local twist on Vietnam’s famous noodle dish.
• Mẫu Sơn Wine: A traditional rice wine brewed in the mountains.

Where to Eat:

• Kỳ Lừa Night Market (for street food and local specialties)
• Restaurants near Đông Kinh Market

5. Top Attractions & Activities

Historical & Cultural Sites:

• Tam Thanh Cave & Temple: A scenic cave with Buddhist statues inside.
• Kỳ Lừa Market: A bustling market with local crafts and food.
• To Thi Mountain: Famous for its rock formation shaped like a woman waiting for her husband.

Nature & Adventure:

• Mẫu Sơn Mountain: Best for hiking, cool weather, and winter snowfall.
• Bắc Sơn Valley: Stunning views of rice fields and karst mountains.
• Chi Lăng Pass: A historic battlefield with breathtaking scenery.

Shopping:

• Đồng Đăng Border Market: A mix of Vietnamese and Chinese goods.
• Local handicraft villages: Great for buying woven textiles and silver jewelry.

6. Cultural & Safety Tips

Respect Local Customs:

• When visiting temples, wear modest clothing and remove shoes before entering.
• Ask for permission before taking photos of locals, especially in ethnic villages.

Bargaining:

• Haggling is expected in markets, but keep it friendly and respectful.

Border Crossing to China:

• Bring your passport and visa if planning to visit China via the Hữu Nghị Border Gate.

Safety Tips:

• Be cautious when traveling in remote areas at night.
• Always check the weather if heading to Mẫu Sơn Mountain in winter (roads can be icy).

Final Tips

• Learn basic Vietnamese phrases (English is not widely spoken in rural areas).
• Try local food—Lạng Sơn’s cuisine is unique compared to other regions.
• Plan for cash payments, as some places do not accept credit cards.