Long Tien Pagoda, Ha Long - a tall tower with a clock on top of it
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Long Tien Pagoda Ha Long

Discover Long Tien Pagoda, Ha Long's largest pagoda, steeped in dragon legends and offering stunning city views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Long Tien Pagoda, Ha Long - a tall tower with a clock on top of it

Long Tien Pagoda Ha Long

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Long Tien Pagoda, Ha Long's largest pagoda, steeped in dragon legends and offering stunning city views.

4.5
(793 reviews)

"A cultural gem with breathtaking views, Long Tien Pagoda is a must-visit in Ha Long."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚶‍♀️ Climb for the Views

The climb to the top offers stunning panoramic views of Ha Long City. Worth the effort!

🐉 Embrace the Dragon Lore

Learn about the legend of the dragon that inspired Ha Long Bay's name – a fascinating cultural tidbit.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Grand Pagoda Structure

The Grand Pagoda Structure

Ha Long City

Explore Vietnam's largest pagoda in Ha Long, a significant spiritual site with impressive architecture.

Dragon Symbolism

Dragon Symbolism

Pagoda grounds

Discover the dragon motifs that are said to have inspired Ha Long Bay's name, a unique cultural connection.

Panoramic Views

Panoramic Views

Upper levels of the pagoda

Enjoy breathtaking scenic views of Ha Long City and the surrounding bay from elevated vantage points.

Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit to Long Tien Pagoda

To experience the Long Tien Pagoda with fewer crowds, aim for weekdays outside of peak tourist seasons. Early mornings or late afternoons offer a more serene atmosphere for exploration and photography. TikTok

Getting to Long Tien Pagoda

The pagoda is located within Ha Long City. Many visitors arrive via scooter or taxi from nearby accommodations. Consider combining your visit with a trip to the local market for a fuller experience. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour for photos
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Phi long thần tốc của các bạn đây. Anh chị em chơi xong nhắc tên huệ hơi nhiều nhé. #philongthantoc #halongpark #travel #tiktokvietnam
@kiki_haiduong
168.3K likes • 4.4M views

🚶‍♀️ Climb for the Views

The climb to the top offers stunning panoramic views of Ha Long City. Worth the effort! Instagram

🐉 Embrace the Dragon Lore

Learn about the legend of the dragon that inspired Ha Long Bay's name – a fascinating cultural tidbit. Instagram

【カンボジア🇰🇭ベトナム🇻🇳はじめての海外一人旅シリーズ✈️DAY 8-6】  世界遺産のハロン湾へ向かう前の立ち寄りスポット、二箇所目はロンティエン寺🚌 この場所はハロン湾の名前の由来になった龍が降り立った場所とされています🐲 (※この投稿は2019年9月下旬の旅行の模様です。)   [Cambodia 🇰🇭 Vietnam 🇻🇳 First overseas solo travel series ✈️ DAY 8-6] The second stop before heading to Halong Bay, a World Heritage Site, is Long Tien Temple 🚌 This place is said to be the place where the dragon that gave the name of Hal...
ryoichi3
43 likes • 0 views
Panoramic scenic view excursion of Ha Long Bay. Stopped at Long Thien Pagoda then local market to shop!
eileen.levinson
5 likes • 0 views

🛵 Scooter for Access

Rent a scooter for easy access to the pagoda and to explore the local market nearby. Instagram

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the pagoda out of respect for the religious site. Reddit

Guess what we stumbled upon in Ha Long Bay? 🏍️🏞️ On a random weekday, we hopped on a scooter, climbed a mountain, and bam! The Long Tien Pagoda was waiting at the top, like a secret just for us. Vietnam’s got this knack for surprises. You think you’re just visiting a pagoda, but what you get is so much more. Long Tien isn’t just the largest pagoda in Ha Long; it’s like stepping into a whole new w...
travelacrosshorizons
0 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚶‍♀️ Climb for the Views

The climb to the top offers stunning panoramic views of Ha Long City. Worth the effort! Instagram

🐉 Embrace the Dragon Lore

Learn about the legend of the dragon that inspired Ha Long Bay's name – a fascinating cultural tidbit. Instagram

🛵 Scooter for Access

Rent a scooter for easy access to the pagoda and to explore the local market nearby. Instagram

🙏 Respectful Attire

Dress modestly when visiting the pagoda out of respect for the religious site. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(793 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors appreciate Long Tien Pagoda for its cultural significance as the largest pagoda in Ha Long and its connection to the dragon legend. The panoramic views from the upper levels are a major highlight, offering a different perspective of the city. Some find the climb a bit strenuous, but the overall experience is considered enriching and a worthwhile addition to a Ha Long itinerary.

"Long Tiên Pagoda is a beautiful and peaceful retreat amidst the busy city of Ha Long. The pagoda is nestled at the base of Bai Tho Mountain, with stunning architecture that reflects Vietnam's rich Buddhist heritage. The intricate carvings, vibrant statues, and serene courtyard create a calming atmosphere perfect for reflection and appreciation. The site is well-maintained and offers an authentic cultural experience that feels like stepping back in time."

Linh Doan (thatglobetrotter)

"Just climbed with my family! We had a great time there! Wish everything goes well with us all!"

吴廷

"📍 We stumbled upon this Buddhist Guanyin temple while walking around the neighborhood close to the Halong Market.
🚻 There are restrooms available though not the cleanest.
🐒 Watch for the monkeys on the roofs! Please don't feed them and let them be.
💲 Entrance if free. Don't wear shoes or hats when entering the prayer space and please dress accordingly, so cover your shoulders ans knees."

Sarah Chen Lin

What People Like

Cultural significance
Dragon legend connection
Panoramic city views

What People Dislike

Strenuous climb for some

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Long Tien Pagoda is located in Ha Long City. Many visitors arrive by taxi or scooter from their accommodation. It's often combined with a visit to the local market. Instagram+1

Parking is generally available, especially if you arrive by scooter. Be prepared for potential crowds during peak times. Instagram

The pagoda is in Ha Long City, which is a short taxi or scooter ride from the main cruise ports. Walking might be too far depending on your starting point. Instagram

Scooters offer flexibility for exploring Ha Long City and reaching the pagoda. Taxis are also readily available. Instagram

While local buses exist, they might not be the most direct or convenient for tourists. Taxis and ride-sharing apps are more common. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Entry to Long Tien Pagoda is generally free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors. Instagram

The pagoda is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon or early evening. It's best to check locally for exact times. Instagram

No, there is no entrance fee to visit Long Tien Pagoda. Donations are welcome to support its upkeep. Instagram

Yes, the pagoda is open year-round. However, visiting during the dry season (October to April) offers more pleasant weather. Instagram

Visitors are expected to dress respectfully and behave appropriately within the sacred grounds. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The upper levels offer panoramic views, while the intricate architecture and dragon motifs provide excellent close-up photo opportunities. Instagram+1

Photography is generally allowed in most areas, but it's always respectful to avoid intrusive shots during prayer times or in restricted areas. Instagram

Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light, while early mornings can provide a serene atmosphere with fewer people. Instagram

Be mindful of local customs and avoid taking photos of people without their permission. Reddit

Drone usage is often restricted in religious sites and populated areas. It's advisable to check local regulations before flying a drone. Instagram

🎫 🙏 Onsite Experience

Explore the pagoda's architecture, learn about its history and dragon symbolism, and enjoy the scenic views from the upper levels. Instagram+1

A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, allowing time to explore the grounds and take in the views. Instagram

Yes, children can explore the grounds, but the climb might be challenging for very young children. Instagram

Basic facilities are usually available, but it's always a good idea to be prepared. Instagram

It's the largest pagoda in Ha Long and is culturally significant, believed to be where dragons descended, giving the bay its name. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Long Tien Pagoda can be an interesting stop for families, offering a glimpse into Vietnamese culture and mythology. While the climb to the top might be a bit challenging for very young children, the lower levels are easily accessible and visually engaging with their intricate designs and dragon motifs. Instagram

Consider making it a part of a broader exploration of Ha Long City, perhaps combined with a visit to a local park or market. The pagoda provides a good opportunity to discuss legends and history in a tangible way, making it an educational and memorable experience for older children. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Long Tien Pagoda offers a wealth of opportunities. The pagoda's architecture, with its vibrant colors and detailed carvings, provides excellent subjects for close-up shots. The dragon statues and motifs are particularly photogenic and tied to the area's famous legend. Instagram

The real prize for photographers, however, is the panoramic view from the upper levels. Visiting during the golden hour in the late afternoon can yield stunning shots of Ha Long City bathed in warm light. Early mornings offer a more serene and less crowded setting for capturing the pagoda's grandeur. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legend of the Dragon and Long Tien Pagoda

Long Tien Pagoda holds a special place in Ha Long's lore, as it's believed to be the very spot where dragons descended from the heavens, giving the iconic Ha Long Bay its name. This rich mythology makes the pagoda more than just a religious site; it's a gateway to understanding the cultural heart of the region. Visitors can often find intricate dragon carvings and statues throughout the pagoda grounds, serving as a constant reminder of this ancient legend. Instagram

Exploring the pagoda allows you to connect with this history. The architecture itself often reflects traditional Vietnamese styles, with ornate roofs and vibrant colors. Many visitors find the climb to the upper levels particularly rewarding, not just for the spiritual experience but also for the increasingly impressive views of Ha Long City that unfold with each step. Instagram

This connection to the dragon legend is a key reason why Long Tien Pagoda is a must-visit for those seeking a deeper understanding of Ha Long's identity beyond its natural beauty. It offers a tangible link to the stories that have shaped the area for centuries. Instagram

Experiencing Ha Long City Beyond the Bay

While Ha Long Bay is the main draw, Ha Long City itself offers unique cultural experiences, with Long Tien Pagoda being a prime example. Many visitors, like those who rent scooters, discover the pagoda as a delightful surprise during their explorations. It provides a different perspective on the area, away from the typical tourist routes on the water. Instagram

Combining a visit to the pagoda with a trip to the nearby local market is a popular suggestion among travelers. This allows for a more immersive experience of daily life in Ha Long. You can sample local snacks, observe bustling commerce, and get a feel for the community. Instagram

This approach to exploring Ha Long City, venturing beyond the well-trodden paths of the bay, often leads to unexpected discoveries and a more well-rounded understanding of the region's charm. Long Tien Pagoda stands as a testament to the cultural richness that complements the natural wonders. Instagram

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