Bánh Nhãn: Savor the Sweet Longan Cake in Ninh Binh Province’s Nam Dinh Region

In the Nam Dinh region, now a vibrant ward of Ninh Binh Province following Vietnam’s administrative merger, bánh nhãn stands out as a beloved culinary gem. These bite-sized, golden sweets, named for their resemblance to longan fruit (“nhãn” in Vietnamese), are a hallmark of local tradition, offering a crispy exterior and a sweet, aromatic flavor. Crafted from glutinous rice flour and sugar, bánh nhãn is a must-try for travelers seeking authentic Vietnamese delicacies. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, invites you to experience this treat through our expertly curated food tours—book via links throughout this guide. Indulge in the irresistible charm of bánh nhãn today!

Legend Travel Group is committed to delivering authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability, cultural immersion, and expert-guided tours. Our bánh nhãn tours feature eco-conscious exploration, partnering with local artisans to preserve culinary heritage and support communities. Aligned with Ninh Binh Province’s “Culinary Tourism” initiative, we use low-impact transport like bicycles and contribute to local economies. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless culinary journey. Discover our tours—book via the links on this page!

Bánh nhãn, a traditional sweet from the Nam Dinh region of Ninh Binh Province, is a crispy, golden confection shaped like the longan fruit. Made from glutinous rice flour, sugar, and sometimes egg yolk, these small, round treats are deep-fried to achieve a crunchy exterior and a subtly sweet, fragrant interior. Originating in Hai Hau, a coastal area known for its culinary craftsmanship, bánh nhãn is a popular snack or gift, often enjoyed with tea. Affordable and widely available, a 500g pack costs ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD), making it a budget-friendly delight. Pair your bánh nhãn tasting with visits to nearby sites like Thinh Long Beach for a complete Ninh Binh experience.

Administrative Update: Following Vietnam’s administrative restructuring, the former Nam Dinh Province is now a ward within Ninh Binh Province, with Ninh Binh City as the provincial hub. The district level has been abolished, improving access to culinary hotspots like Hai Hau with enhanced infrastructure. Ninh Binh Province’s focus on “Cultural Preservation” elevates the Nam Dinh region’s food scene.

Bánh nhãn’s distinct qualities set it apart from other Vietnamese sweets:

• Texture: A crispy outer layer gives way to a light, airy interior, creating a satisfying crunch.

• Flavor: Subtle sweetness with a hint of caramelized sugar, often enhanced by natural aromas like vanilla or egg.

• Shape: Small, round balls resembling longan fruit, making them visually appealing and easy to share.

• Ingredients: Simple yet high-quality glutinous rice flour, sugar, and minimal additives, reflecting traditional recipes.

• Craftsmanship: Handmade by artisans in Hai Hau, ensuring authenticity and consistency.

This combination of simplicity and skill makes bánh nhãn an addictive treat and a cultural icon.

1. Bánh Nhãn Bà Triệu

A renowned shop in Hai Hau, famous for its traditional recipe and consistent quality.

• Cost: ~100,000–150,000 VND (~$4–$6 USD/500g).

• Highlights: “The best bánh nhãn in Ninh Binh” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Buy a gift box for souvenirs; pair with green tea.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Sweet Delights Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

2. Bánh Nhãn Hồng Phúc

A local favorite offering freshly made bánh nhãn with a rich, aromatic flavor.

• Cost: ~120,000–160,000 VND (~$4.80–$6.40 USD/500g).

• Highlights: “Crispy and addictive” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit in the morning for the freshest batches (8:00–10:00 AM).

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD).

3. Bánh Nhãn Hải Hậu

Known for its artisanal approach and eco-friendly packaging, located near Thinh Long Beach.

• Cost: ~110,000–150,000 VND (~$4.40–$6 USD/500g).

• Highlights: “Perfect for gifting” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Try their vanilla-infused version for a unique twist.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Coastal Food Trail (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD).

4. Bánh Nhãn Giao Thủy

A small, family-run shop offering authentic bánh nhãn with a homemade feel.

• Cost: ~100,000–140,000 VND (~$4–$5.60 USD/500g).

• Highlights: “A taste of tradition” (Vietnam Tourism, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Combine with a visit to nearby Xuan Thuy National Park.

• Book Now: Included in Legend Travel Group’s Artisan Food Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD).

From Hanoi (100–110 km, ~2–2.5 hours)

• Bus: From Giap Bat Station to Ninh Binh City, then taxi to Hai Hau.

  • Cost: Bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours bus + ~30 minutes taxi.

• Train: Reunification Express to Ninh Binh Station, then taxi.

  • Cost: Train: ~75,000–150,000 VND (~$3–$6 USD); taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours train + ~30 minutes taxi.

• Motorbike: Scenic ride via National Highway 1A and Highway 37B.

  • Cost: Rental: ~100,000–250,000 VND (~$4–$10 USD/day); fuel: ~50,000 VND (~$2 USD).

  • Duration: ~2–2.5 hours.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD) include eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (1,300 km, ~2 hours flight + 2.5 hours road)

• Flight + Road: Fly to Hanoi’s Noi Bai Airport, then bus/taxi to Hai Hau.

  • Cost: Flight: ~750,000–1,750,000 VND (~$30–$70 USD); bus: ~100,000 VND (~$4 USD); taxi: ~200,000 VND (~$8 USD).

  • Duration: ~2 hours flight + ~2.5 hours road.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~3,500,000 VND, ~$140 USD) include transfers.

From Ninh Binh City Center (25–30 km, ~30–45 minutes)

• Motorbike: Direct ride via Highway 37B.

  • Cost: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~30,000 VND (~$1.20 USD).

  • Duration: ~30–45 minutes.

• Taxi/Grab: Quick and convenient.

  • Cost: ~150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD/trip).

  • Duration: ~30 minutes.

• Bicycle: Scenic but longer.

  • Cost: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

  • Duration: ~1.5–2 hours.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~1,000,000 VND, ~$40 USD) include transfers.

Within the Nam Dinh Region (1–10 km, ~5–20 minutes)

• Bicycle: Ideal for short distances between shops.

  • Cost: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD/day).

  • Duration: ~5–20 minutes.

• Motorbike: Fast and flexible.

  • Cost: Rental: ~120,000–200,000 VND (~$5–$8 USD/day); fuel: ~20,000 VND (~$0.80 USD).

  • Duration: ~5–15 minutes.

• Book Now: Legend Travel Group’s tours (~750,000 VND, ~$30 USD) include eco-transfers.

Route Tip: From Ninh Binh City, take Highway 37B to Hai Hau for bánh nhãn shops; from Hanoi, use National Highway 1A then Highway 37B. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: ~5,000–15,000 VND (~$0.20–$0.60 USD/motorbike).

• Year-Round: Bánh nhãn is available daily, best enjoyed fresh from 8:00 AM–12:00 PM at local shops.

• Spring (February–April): Mild weather (15–25°C), ideal for combining with cultural tours; try during the Phu Day Festival (lunar March).

• Autumn (September–November): Cool (18–28°C), perfect for cycling to shops and exploring.

• Summer (May–August): Warm (25–35°C), busier; book tours 2–3 weeks ahead.

• Winter (December–January): Cooler (10–20°C), quieter, with 10–15% tour discounts.

• Tip: Morning visits ensure the freshest bánh nhãn; pair with tea for the best experience.

• Bánh Nhãn: ~100,000–160,000 VND (~$4–$6.40 USD/500g).

• Drinks: Tea/soft drinks: ~10,000–30,000 VND (~$0.40–$1.20 USD).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi: Bus + taxi: ~300,000 VND (~$12 USD); train + taxi: ~275,000–350,000 VND (~$11–$14 USD); motorbike: ~150,000–300,000 VND (~$6–$12 USD).

  • From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight + road: ~1,050,000–2,150,000 VND (~$42–$86 USD).

  • From Ninh Binh City: Motorbike: ~150,000–230,000 VND (~$6–$9 USD); taxi: ~150,000–250,000 VND (~$6–$10 USD); bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD).

  • Within Nam Dinh Region: Bicycle: ~50,000–100,000 VND (~$2–$4 USD); motorbike: ~140,000–220,000 VND (~$5–$9 USD).

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses: ~300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$24 USD/night); mid-range hotels: ~800,000–1,500,000 VND (~$32–$60 USD); luxury resorts: ~3,000,000 VND (~$120 USD) and up.

• Total Daily Cost: ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD) (budget: ~$20–$35 USD; mid-range: ~$35–$50 USD; luxury: ~$50–$70 USD).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Ninh Binh City (Vietcombank, Agribank); book tours for seamless planning.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 1–2 weeks in advance for festival seasons via Legend Travel Group or 12GoAsia (+84 938 123 456). Shops open 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Pack Smart: Bring small cash (VND) for vendors, reusable bag for purchases, and light clothing for warm days.

• Budget Wisely: Expect ~500,000–1,750,000 VND (~$20–$70 USD/day); confirm prices at smaller shops.

• Stay Safe: Secure valuables; avoid eating on busy streets to enjoy calmly.

• Sustainability: Support local artisans; use reusable items to reduce waste; choose eco-tours.

• Cultural Respect: Thank vendors (“cảm ơn”); tip ~10,000–25,000 VND (~$0.40–$1 USD) for great service; respect shop customs.

• Navigation: Allow 1–2 hours for tasting and shopping; combine with Thinh Long Beach (~10 km) for a half-day itinerary.

Our sustainable food tours immerse you in the region’s sweet traditions:

• Sweet Delights Tour (~1,250,000 VND, ~$50 USD/person): Bánh Nhãn Bà Triệu, Giao Thủy shops, local markets. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Culinary Explorer Tour (~1,500,000 VND, ~$60 USD/person): Bánh Nhãn Hồng Phúc, Phu Day Relic Complex, phở tasting. Includes transfers and lunch.

• Coastal Food Trail (~1,750,000 VND, ~$70 USD/person): Bánh Nhãn Hải Hậu, Thinh Long Beach, seafood. Includes transfers and meals.

• Ninh Binh Food Odyssey (~8,500,000–13,500,000 VND, ~$340–$540 USD/person, 3–4 days): Bánh nhãn, Nam Dinh phở, homestays (~300,000–600,000 VND, ~$12–$24 USD/night). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, activities, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) available. Book now via links around this page!

Bánh Nhãn, the longan-shaped sweet of Ninh Binh Province's Nam Dinh region, is a delightful taste of Vietnam's culinary heritage. Its crispy texture and subtle sweetness make it a perfect snack or souvenir, best enjoyed at Hai Hau's artisanal shops. Legend Travel Group's Ninh Binh Tours offer a sustainable way to savor bánh nhãn while supporting local artisans and cultural preservation, ensuring a sustainable Ninh Binh Travel experience filled with authentic flavors and eco-conscious practices. Don't miss this delectable treat—browse our featured tours and book your bánh nhãn adventure today!
Ready to taste Ninh Binh's iconic bánh nhãn? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable culinary journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.