Thai Binh Must-Visit Destinations: Cultural & Eco-Tours in Hung Yen

A Blend of Cultural Heritage and Coastal Beauty

Thai Binh, now a vibrant ward of Hung Yen province following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative reform, is a captivating destination 110 km southeast of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, attracting over 60,000 visitors annually. Spanning 1,500 hectares, Thai Binh boasts historic sites like Keo Pagoda, pristine beaches like Con Vanh, and biodiverse ecosystems like Con Den, with entry fees at $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND). It’s a must-visit for travelers seeking authentic Vietnamese culture, coastal adventures, and sustainable tourism.

Thai Binh’s allure lies in its vibrant festivals, such as the Keo Pagoda Festival (lunar September 13–15), and its natural wonders, including mangrove forests and rice paddies. Sustainable practices, like biodegradable materials and solar-powered homestays, align with Hung Yen’s green initiatives, preserving its charm. The temperate climate (dry season: November–April, 15–26°C or 59–78.8°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–33°C or 71.6–91.4°F) ensures year-round exploration. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours immerse you in Thai Binh’s cultural and natural treasures. Book via the links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s 2025 reform merged Thai Binh province into Hung Yen, with Thai Binh City now a ward. Communes like Vu Thu, Thai Thuy, and Tien Hai remain key hubs in Thai Binh, Hung Yen, easily navigated with updated maps referencing “Thai Binh, Hung Yen.”

Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism with over 17 years of experience, offers eco-friendly tours in Thai Binh, tailored for cultural and nature enthusiasts. Our low-impact tours use electric vehicles or bicycles, led by English-speaking guides who share insights into Thai Binh’s heritage, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hung Yen’s green goals. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, planning is seamless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Thai Binh responsibly!

Thai Binh, 110 km from Hanoi, is a tourism gem established in the 1990s, blending cultural landmarks with coastal ecosystems. Its 1,500-hectare landscape includes Keo Pagoda’s ancient architecture, Con Vanh’s UNESCO-recognized mangroves, and Dong Xam’s silver carving village. Festivals like the Dong Xam Temple Festival (lunar April 1–3) and culinary specialties like banh gai enhance its appeal. Sustainable practices, including recycled materials and local staffing, make Thai Binh a model of eco-tourism, offering immersive experiences for all travelers.

These budget-friendly destinations ($0–$5) offer cultural and natural immersion:

1. Keo Pagoda

Explore the 17th-century Keo Pagoda in Vu Thu Commune, best at 10:00 AM, for free (donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND). Admire its Ly Dynasty architecture and join the Keo Pagoda Festival (lunar September 13–15) for water puppetry and Cheo singing.

• Cost: Free; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM; festival 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle to minimize impact; supports local heritage.

• Tip: Dress modestly; included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

2. Con Den Ecological Area

Discover Con Den in Thai Thuy Commune, 40 km from Thai Binh ward, best at 8:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Explore its 3-km sand dune, mangrove forests, and 200 bird species, including rare storks.

• Cost: $1–$2; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid disturbing wildlife; supports conservation.

• Tip: Take a boat ride ($2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND); included in Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90).

3. Con Vanh Beach

Visit Con Vanh Beach in Tien Hai Commune, best at 10:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND). Enjoy its mangrove ecosystem, rare birds, and Ba Lan Lighthouse views, ideal for summer beach activities.

• Cost: $1–$2; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid littering; supports UNESCO biosphere reserve.

• Tip: Bring sunscreen; included in Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90).

4. Dong Xam Silver Carving Village

Explore Dong Xam in Hong Thai Commune, 20 km from Thai Binh ward, best at 10:00 AM, for $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) for workshops. Discover 600-year-old silver craftsmanship and the Dong Xam Temple Festival (lunar April 1–3).

• Cost: $2–$4; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses recycled metals; supports artisans.

• Tip: Buy silver souvenirs ($2–$10); included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

5. Bach Thuan Garden Village

Visit Bach Thuan in Vu Thu Commune, best at 9:00 AM, for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) to explore fruit orchards and flood-season boat rides.

• Cost: $1–$2; entry $0.50–$1.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Hand-rowed boats; supports farmers.

• Tip: Visit in summer for ripe fruits; included in Thai Binh Rural Tour ($50–$80).

• November–April (Dry Season, 15–26°C or 59–78.8°F): Ideal for visiting Keo Pagoda, Bach Thuan, and cycling, with cool, dry weather and fewer crowds (100–150 daily visitors) on weekdays.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 22–33°C or 71.6–91.4°F): Best for Con Vanh and Con Den beach activities, with lush greenery and seafood like raw jellyfish salad (April–May). Rain gear needed; expect larger crowds (300–500 on weekends).

• Festival Seasons: Spring (February–April) for Dong Xam Temple Festival (lunar April 1–3); autumn (September–October) for Keo Pagoda Festival (lunar September 13–15). Avoid Lunar New Year (January/February) for fewer crowds (1,000+ during Tet).

• Timing Tip: Early mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) for calm exploration and photography; afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) for festivals and dining.

Thai Binh, in Hung Yen, is 110 km from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, reachable in 2–2.5 hours:

• By Private Car: Drive via Hanoi–Hai Phong Expressway, costing $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people. Book via Legend Travel Group.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): Eco-friendly VinFast taxis, $30–$40 (750,000–1,000,000 VND) one-way; $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND) round-trip. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Private Motorcycle: Ride via Highway 1A, $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND) fuel; rental $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND). Helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Public Bus: Bus from Giap Bat to Thai Binh ward (2 hours, $2–$3 or 50,000–75,000 VND), totaling $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) round-trip.

• By Private Tour Bus (Legend Travel Group): Group bus from Hoan Kiem Ward, $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND)/person for 20+ people, including guide.

• From Noi Bai Airport: Private car ($50–$70 or 1,250,000–1,750,000 VND, 2.5 hours, 140 km); Xanh SM taxi ($45–$60 or 1,125,000–1,500,000 VND); or Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min) + private car ($30–$40 or 750,000–1,000,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow signs from Nam Dinh or Thai Ha Bridge. Parking: $0.60–$1 (15,000–25,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis or group buses reduce emissions; cycling in Thai Binh minimizes impact.

• Safety: Wear helmets on motorcycles; confirm fares.

Thai Binh’s flat terrain is ideal for eco-friendly exploration:

• Cycling: Rent bikes at homestays or Thai Binh ward for $2–$3/day (50,000–75,000 VND) or electric bikes for $5–$7/day (125,000–175,000 VND). Perfect for 5–15 km loops to Keo Pagoda or Con Vanh.

• Motorbiking: Rent motorbikes for $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND) plus $2–$4 fuel, ideal for longer trips to Con Den (40 km).

• Xe Om (Motorbike Taxis): Short trips within Thai Binh for $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Bikes and electric motorbikes minimize emissions; support local rental providers.

• Tip: Check vehicle condition; helmets mandatory for motorbikes.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable visit:

• Clothing: Light layers, sturdy shoes for cycling; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season; hat for sun.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), mosquito repellent ($0.50 or 12,500 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.50).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Activity Gear: Small backpack, binoculars for birdwatching, camera for festival shots.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Notebook for festival notes; cash for vendors.

Costs for Thai Binh Destinations

Entry and Activity Fees

• Entry: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) adult; free for children under 1.3m.

• Keo Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$1.

• Con Den/Con Vanh: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Dong Xam Workshop: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Bach Thuan Boat Ride: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$3/day (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Homestay: $12–$18/night (300,000–450,000 VND).

• Drinks (Tea, Water): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Silver Crafts): $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

• Guided Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Private Car: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Private Motorcycle: $21–$30 (525,000–750,000 VND).

• Public Bus: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND).

• Private Tour Bus: $12–$18 (300,000–450,000 VND).

• Airport to Thai Binh: $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.60–$1 (15,000–25,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$20 (bus, entry, activities).

• Mid-range: $25–$45 (private car, workshop, guided tour).

• Luxury: $70–$110 (Xanh SM taxi, homestay, premium tour).

• Tip: Budget for entry ($0.50–$1), activities ($1–$5), and transport ($4–$80); carry cash (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 7:00–10:00 AM for cool weather; November–April for Keo Pagoda and cycling; April for Dong Xam Festival; summer for Con Vanh. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–150 vs. 300–500 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter visits.

• Booking: Buy entry tickets on-site (QR code e-tickets); reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits or homestays. Book festival activities at commune centers.

• Sustainability: Support artisans with food ($1–$2) or craft ($2–$10) purchases; use reusable bottles. Respect ecosystems in Con Vanh and Con Den.

• Navigation: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me); ask locals in Thai Thuy or Vu Thu for directions. Avoid night travel due to rural roads.

• Safety: Secure valuables; follow safety guidelines at beaches. Carry a flashlight for evening festivals.

• Weather: Dry season for comfortable exploration; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and waterproof bags ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at Keo Pagoda; say “xin chào” to locals. Avoid disturbing wildlife in mangroves.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent and hand sanitizer.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Thai Binh’s top destinations:

• Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Visit Keo Pagoda, Dong Xam workshops, and water puppetry, with local lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90/person, 1 day): Explore Con Vanh and Con Den, cycle Thai Thuy, with seafood lunch. Includes guide, transport.

• Hanoi & Hung Yen Journey ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Visit Keo Pagoda, Con Vanh, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ninh Binh’s Trang An, homestays ($12–$18/night). Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Thai Binh Region, with entry at $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), captivates over 60,000 visitors yearly, 110 km from Hanoi. From Keo Pagoda’s ancient architecture to Con Vanh’s UNESCO mangroves and Dong Xam’s silver craftsmanship, its cultural and natural treasures shine, preserved by sustainable practices like solar-powered homestays. Legend Travel Group’s Hung Yen Tours guide you through these must-visit destinations, ensuring a sustainable Hung Yen Travel experience filled with immersive, responsible adventures. Whether exploring Bach Thuan’s orchards or joining Keo Pagoda’s festival, Thai Binh promises an unforgettable Hung Yen adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to discover Thai Binh’s must-visit destinations in Hung Yen? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an authentic adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, 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, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:
By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group