Hanoi and Halong are both highlights of your trip to Vietnam, but what most people don’t know, is that there are tons of lesser known destinations that are worth the visit between the two cities. The journey from Hanoi to Halong Bay is more than just a scenic drive; it’s a treasure trove of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re cruising through lush rice paddies, exploring ancient craft villages, or marveling at intricate temples, each stop offers a unique slice of Vietnamese culture and history. In this post, we've handpicked 15 incredible stops between Hanoi and Halong Bay, that will turn your road trip into an unforgettable adventure.

Bat Trang Pottery Village, Hanoi

Just 15 kilometers from Hanoi, Bat Trang is a real gem for pottery enthusiasts. This pottery village has existed for over 700 years, and every street corner seems to breathe art. In the alleyways, you'll find craftsmen shaping works of art before your very eyes. You can also visit the Bat Trang Museum, honoring the craftsmanship of the local community through its impressive exhibitions.

Here, the experience is immersive: take part in a pottery workshop, shape your own piece, and leave with a souvenir made with your own hands. It's a unique moment to get to know Vietnam’s artistry while having fun at the same time.

Phu Lang Pottery Village, Bac Ninh

Phu Lang, another historic pottery village, is known for its unique techniques that date back to the Ly dynasty. Unlike Bat Trang, Phu Lang uses traditional wood-fired methods, resulting in ceramics with a rustic finish and earthy tones. The peaceful landscapes surrounding the village provide a perfect setting to explore this centuries-old art.

Visitors can stroll through the small streets and watch artists in action, from modeling to painting. Phu Lang is ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in local traditions away from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.

But Thap Pagoda, Bac Ninh

Along the way, don't miss the But Thap Pagoda, an architectural marvel hidden away in Bac Ninh province. This Buddhist temple, one of the oldest in Vietnam, is a place of absolute serenity, with its remarkably fine wood carvings. The highlight of the visit is the thousand-armed statue of the Quan Am, protector of compassion, whose intricate detail and spirituality captivate visitors. 

Strolling through the pagoda’s courtyards offers a peaceful stop between Hanoi and Halong Bay, allowing visitors to connect with the spirituality and history of Vietnam. The location is perfect for those who enjoy ancient architecture and serene landscapes.

Bo Duong Village, Hai Duong – the cradle of water puppetry in Vietnam

Bo Duong is a unique village, considered to be the birthplace of water puppetry, a Vietnamese art form dating back over a thousand years. The traditional art form features wooden puppets animated on a body of water, with folk stories and legends told to the rhythm of folk music. To attend a show in this village is to plunge into the magic of Vietnamese intangible heritage. The movements of the puppets, the brilliance of the costumes, and the ingenuity of the staging enchant people of all ages.

In addition to the performances, Bo Duong offers workshops where visitors can see how the puppets are hand-carved and painted. It’s a fascinating cultural stop between Hanoi and Halong Bay, ideal for families and traditional art enthusiasts.

Yen Duc Village, Quang Ninh

Want to discover Vietnam in all its authenticity? Yen Duc is a picturesque village where you can immerse yourself in the daily life of Vietnamese farmers. Take part in agricultural activities such as rice harvesting, traditional fishing, and walks through lush green fields. It's a real return to nature, where you'll discover the simple, tranquil lifestyle of the Vietnamese countryside while sharing special moments with the locals.

In addition to agricultural activities, Yen Duc is also known for its outdoor water puppet shows, offering a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life. It’s an ideal stopover for those looking to experience rural life before heading to the bustling Halong Bay.

Dong Trieu Pottery Village, Quang Ninh

In Quang Ninh province, Dong Trieu is another pottery village, but with a more modern twist. Here, artisans produce earthenware and decorative tiles that combine ancestral techniques with contemporary designs. Here you can discover how traditional methods are evolving to meet modern tastes. If you're looking for authentic and unique souvenirs, Dong Trieu's ceramics, with their elegant and refined designs, will do just the trick.

Tourists can explore the workshops and even join workshops to create their own pieces. The proximity to Halong makes Dong Trieu a convenient and interesting stopover. It’s a great place to not only shop for souvenirs but to learn more about the region’s traditional craft.

Quang Ninh pearl farms

Before heading off to Halong Bay, why not discover the fascinating art of pearl farming? Quang Ninh is home to plenty of pearl farms where you can learn all about the process of creating a pearl, from rearing oysters to transforming them into fine jewelry. There is also a vast collection of pearl jewelry available for purchase.

This stop offers a good mix of education and luxury shopping, making it ideal for those who appreciate fine jewelry and want to learn about this traditional Vietnamese industry.

Con Son and Kiep Bac, Hai Duong

For lovers of natural landscapes and history, Con Son and Kiep Bac Complex in Hai Duong province are not to be missed. This region is packed with temples dedicated to Vietnamese heroes, including General Tran Hung Dao, an emblematic figure in the resistance against the Mongols in the 13th century. Con Son Pagoda, at the foot of Con Son mountain, houses multiple Buddha statues dating back to the Le dynasty in Vietnam. A stroll in Con Son Pagoda offers not only interesting architecture but also a journey through Vietnam's heroic history.

Kiep Bac is the combination of the names of two villages: Kiep Village and Bac Village. This used to be Tran Hung Dao’s military base during the war against the Mongols. Kiep Bac temple (dedicated to Tran Hung Dao) was built in the 14th century in the center of Kiep Bac valley. The temple is also known for its traditional ceremonies and festivals that attract many tourists and locals. It is a cultural stop between Hanoi and Halong Bay that is rich in history and ideal for those seeking a spiritual connection during their trip.

Keo Pagoda, Thai Binh

Tucked away in the Thai Binh countryside, Keo Pagoda is a hidden gem that few tourists know about. With its ancient sculptures and elegant architecture, this pagoda offers a spiritual atmosphere conducive to meditation and reflection. An ideal stopover for travelers seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and reconnect with nature and the sacred.

The Keo Pagoda is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient architecture in Vietnam. Dating back to the 17th century, the pagoda houses an impressive collection of wooden statues and other works of art. The structure of the pagoda itself is a magnificent example of the Vietnamese craftsmanship.

The peaceful ambiance around Keo Pagoda makes it a great place to relax and reflect during your trip from Hanoi to Halong. It’s a lesser-known stop, but one that offers an authentic cultural experience.

The village of Nhan Hoa, Hai Phong

Like Bo Duong, Nhan Hoa village is known for its rich tradition of water puppetry. This unique performance, which originated in the flooded rice paddies, features wooden puppets moving on water, manipulated by puppeteers hidden behind a bamboo curtain. In Nhan Hoa, this heritage is passionately preserved. Local craftsmen handcraft each puppet, carving and painting colorful characters from Vietnamese folklore. 

The village organizes captivating shows featuring traditional stories, combining humor and legends, accompanied by traditional Vietnamese music. For visitors, Nhan Hoa is an authentic immersion in this ancestral art, offering interactive workshops to understand puppet-making and the puppeteer's craft.

Coal Carving Village, Quang Ninh

Coal mining is an integral part of the history of the Quang Ninh region, and the Coal Carving Village, located not far from Hai Phong, is a fascinating example of how this natural resource has shaped the lives of local people. In this village, craftsmen transform coal into art, such as sculptures and decorative tools, highlighting the versatility of this raw material. It's also an opportunity to discover the daily lives of miners and understand the importance of coal to the local economy.

Visiting this village is an opportunity to explore a rare and fascinating type of craftsmanship, as well as take home an authentic and unique souvenir. The contrast between the initial stiffness of the coal and the delicacy of the sculptures makes this a cultural and visually stunning experience for those looking for something out of the ordinary.

Mong Cai Pottery Village, Quang Ninh

The village of Mong Cai, close to the Chinese border, is a pottery mecca. Here, craftsmen perpetuate ancestral techniques, but what sets Mong Cai apart is the everyday utility of its creations. Unlike other ceramic villages, which focus on the decorative aspect, Mong Cai produces utilitarian objects such as pots, kitchen utensils, and decorative items, essential in Vietnamese life. The pieces that emerge are solid, simple, and marked by a rustic charm.

Walking through the workshops is like taking a trip back in time, where you can see the process of shaping and firing the pieces up close. For art lovers who want to take home an authentic piece of Vietnamese culture, Mong Cai is a must-see.

Hung Hoc Fishing Gear Weaving Village, Quang Ninh

Hung Hoc is a picturesque village where you can discover a craft essential to the survival of fishing communities: fishing gear weaving. Local craftsmen hand-weave nets, baskets, and other tools used in traditional fishing from bamboo or rattan. These techniques, handed down from generation to generation, bear witness to the strong bond between the local people and the sea. When you visit this village, you'll be able to see this meticulous craft up close, and perhaps even try your hand at weaving a fishing net under the guidance of a craftsman. A unique experience to understand the way of life of coastal communities.

In addition to learning about the hammock-making process, you can learn about the locals’ daily routine and enjoy the peaceful scenery of the village. It’s an excellent stop for those looking for an authentic experience away from the usual tourist routes.

Van Don Pearl Village, Quang Ninh

Van Don is a must for anyone interested in sea pearl culture. Just a stone's throw from Bai Tu Long Bay, this region is renowned for the exceptional quality of its natural pearls.

Visitors can explore the farms and learn about the pearl farming process, from the breeding of oysters to the extraction of precious gems. The farm offers guided tours that explain each step of this fascinating production process.

Beyond the learning, the scenery around Van Don is breathtaking, with stunning views of the bay and islands beyond. For those looking for a fine souvenir or simply wanting to appreciate the natural beauty and meticulous work of the pearl farmers, Van Don is an excellent choice.

Ha An boat-building and repairing village

The coastal village of Ha An is a veritable shipbuilding center. For centuries, Ha An's carpenters have been building and repairing the traditional boats that ply Halong Bay. Here, everything is done by hand, with rudimentary tools but remarkable precision. Craftsmen use traditional techniques to build sturdy, durable vessels that are used for both fishing and trading. Their skills are passed down from generation to generation, and you can witness the process up close, from the shaping of the hull to the finishing touches.

Visiting Ha An offers a fascinating insight into Vietnamese maritime culture, as well as being an educational experience. The open-air shipyards, with boats in various stages of construction, form a stunning backdrop, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in local life and traditions.

By taking the time to explore these 15 incredible stops between Hanoi and Halong Bay, you’ll experience the true essence of northern Vietnam. If you're interested in any of the destinations above, don't hesitate to reach out to Vietnam Original Travel, as we will be more than delighted to help you craft the perfect tour! Write us an email, contact us on WhatsApp, or leave a message on one of our fanpages! Safe travels! 

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