Top 10 Things to Do in Thai Binh: Cultural & Eco-Adventures in Hung Yen

A Tranquil Blend of Culture and Nature

Thai Binh, now a vibrant ward of Hung Yen province following Vietnam’s 2025 administrative reform, is a serene coastal destination 110 km southeast of Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, attracting over 50,000 visitors annually. Spanning 1,450 hectares, Thai Binh offers lush rice paddies, pristine beaches like Con Vanh, and cultural landmarks such as Keo Pagoda, with entry fees at $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND). Known as the “rice basket” of northern Vietnam, it’s a haven for travelers seeking tranquility and authentic experiences.

Thai Binh’s rich heritage, from 600-year-old silver crafting to vibrant water puppetry, thrives alongside eco-friendly practices like biodegradable materials and solar-powered homestays, aligning with Hung Yen’s green tourism goals. 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 wonders. 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 Thai Thuy, Vu Thu, 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 travelers seeking authentic cultural and natural adventures. 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 haven established in the 1990s, blending agricultural roots with a 53 km coastline in the Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve. Its flat landscape hosts historic villages like Dong Xam, eco-tourism sites like Con Den, and culinary delights like banh gai. Sustainable practices, including recycled materials and local staffing, make Thai Binh a model of eco-tourism. From traditional festivals to serene beaches, Thai Binh offers diverse, immersive experiences for all travelers.

These budget-friendly activities ($0–$5) showcase Thai Binh’s cultural and natural allure:

1. Explore Dong Xam Silver Carving Village

• Where: Hong Thai Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (20 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) for workshops; entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

• Description: Visit this 600-year-old village along the Dong Giang River to witness intricate silver and bronze crafting. Artisans create jewelry and worship objects using secret techniques, with products exported to Japan and Europe. Join workshops to learn engraving or attend the Dong Xam Temple Festival (lunar April 1–3) for boat races and Cheo singing.

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

• Tip: Buy silver souvenirs ($2–$10); book workshops 24 hours ahead. Included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A rare glimpse into centuries-old craftsmanship unique to Thai Binh.

2. Relax at Con Vanh Beach

• Where: Tien Hai Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (30 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM

• Description: Unwind on Con Vanh’s golden sands, part of the UNESCO Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve. Explore mangroves hosting rare birds like storks, climb Ba Lan Lighthouse for panoramic views, or join summer festivals with beach volleyball and folk games.

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

• Tip: Visit April–May for seafood; bring sunscreen. Included in Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90).

• Why Try: A pristine coastal escape with rich biodiversity.

3. Discover Con Den Ecological Area

• Where: Thai Thuy Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (40 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM

• Description: Explore Con Den’s 3-km sand dune and mangrove forests, home to 200 bird species and 500 aquatic species. Take a hand-rowed boat ride ($2–$3) through mangroves or walk along casuarina-lined beaches, enjoying the untouched ecosystem.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Hand-rowed boats; supports Red River Delta Biosphere Reserve.

• Tip: Bring binoculars for birdwatching; visit 8:00 AM for calm. Included in Thai Binh Coastal Tour ($60–$90).

• Why Try: A serene eco-tourism site with rare wildlife.

4. Visit Keo Pagoda

• Where: Vu Thu Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (12 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–5:00 PM

• Description: Admire the 17th-century Ly Dynasty architecture of Keo Pagoda, featuring 128 compartments and a three-story bell tower. Join the Keo Pagoda Festival (lunar September 13–15) for water puppetry, Cheo singing, and traditional games like duck catching.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle to minimize impact; supports cultural preservation.

• Tip: Dress modestly; visit 10:00 AM for quiet exploration. Included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A cultural and spiritual icon with stunning craftsmanship.

5. Enjoy Water Puppetry with Cheo Singing

• Where: Nguyen Xa Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (12 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Weekends, 4:00 PM–6:00 PM

• Description: Experience traditional water puppetry in Nguyen Xa, dating to the Le Dynasty, featuring characters like Uncle Teu and Cheo singing from nearby Khuoc Village. Shows in a 300-seat village palace showcase over 1,000 handcrafted puppets.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Solar-powered venues; supports local artisans.

• Tip: Book front-row seats 24 hours ahead; arrive early for photos. Included in Thai Binh Overnight Tour ($90–$140).

• Why Try: A vibrant blend of music and storytelling unique to Thai Binh.

6. Learn Banh Cay Making in Nguyen Village

• Where: Nguyen Xa Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (12 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for workshops; entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM

• Description: Join artisans in Nguyen Village to craft banh cay, a 400-year-old layered cake made with glutinous rice, sesame, peanuts, and candied fruits. Taste your creation with green tea ($0.30) for a sweet, spicy treat.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses local ingredients; biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Book workshops 24 hours ahead; visit 9:00 AM for fresh cakes. Included in Thai Binh Culinary Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A hands-on culinary experience with a Thai Binh specialty.

7. Visit Hoi Mat Weaving Village

• Where: Hai Trieu Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (15 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) for workshops; entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

• Description: Discover 11th-century mat weaving in Hai Trieu, founded in the Ly Dynasty. Learn traditional techniques and attend the Quan Trang Temple Festival (lunar March) to see artisans compete for the best carpets.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses natural fibers; supports artisan heritage.

• Tip: Buy woven mats ($3–$10); visit 10:00 AM for workshops. Included in Thai Binh Cultural Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A rare insight into a centuries-old craft.

8. Savor Quynh Coi Fish Noodle Soup

• Where: Quynh Coi Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (20 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–1:00 PM

• Description: Taste rustic fish noodle soup with thin rice noodles, fresh fish, dill, and seasonal greens (scallions in winter, leafy greens in summer) at Quynh Coi’s local stalls, a dish celebrated nationwide.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Locally sourced ingredients; reusable bowls.

• Tip: Visit 11:00 AM for fresh servings; add chili paste ($0.10). Included in Thai Binh Culinary Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A comforting, authentic Thai Binh dish.

9. Taste Raw Jellyfish Salad in Thai Thuy

• Where: Thai Thuy Commune, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (25 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND); entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM

• Description: Enjoy nom sua, a spicy, sour jellyfish salad with onions, peanuts, coconut, and herbs, best in April–May. Savor it at coastal stalls for a refreshing seaside treat.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Sustainably sourced jellyfish; biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Pair with iced tea ($0.30); visit during peak season. Included in Thai Binh Coastal Food Tour ($60–$90).

• Why Try: A coastal delicacy with a bold, unique flavor.

10. Craft Banh Gai in Dai Dong Village

• Where: Tan Hoa Commune, Vu Thu, Thai Binh, Hung Yen (15 km from Thai Binh ward)

• Cost: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) for workshops; entry $0.50–$1

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–3:00 PM

• Description: Learn to make banh gai, a 400-year-old sticky rice cake with hemp, sesame, peanuts, lotus seeds, and banana oil, known for its sweet, fragrant texture. Enjoy your creation with locals.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Banana leaf wrapping; local ingredients.

• Tip: Book workshops 24 hours ahead; visit 9:00 AM for fresh cakes. Included in Thai Binh Culinary Tour ($50–$80).

• Why Try: A hands-on experience with a cultural delicacy.

• November–April (Dry Season, 15–26°C or 59–78.8°F): Ideal for cultural visits, cycling, and festivals like Dong Xam Temple Festival (lunar April 1–3). Fewer crowds (100–150 daily visitors) on weekdays; perfect for Quynh Coi dining.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 22–33°C or 71.6–91.4°F): Best for coastal activities at Con Vanh and Con Den, with vibrant greenery and seafood (April–May). Expect larger crowds (300–500 on weekends); Keo Pagoda Festival (lunar September 13–15) draws thousands.

• Timing Tip: Early mornings (7:00–10:00 AM) for markets and workshops; afternoons (2:00–5:00 PM) for beach relaxation and puppet shows. Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter visits.

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

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

• By Public Bus: From Giap Bat to Thai Binh ward, $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND) one-way; $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND) round-trip. Limousines: $6–$8 one-way.

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $45–$65 (1,125,000–1,625,000 VND) round-trip for 4 people, with direct drop-offs.

• By Motorcycle: Rental $6–$10/day (150,000–250,000 VND) + $15–$20 fuel; 2–2.5 hours via Highway 1A.

• 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 Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem ($1.40 or 35,000 VND) + bus ($2–$3).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps (Maps.me); specify communes like Thai Thuy for coastal sites. Parking: $0.60–$1 (15,000–25,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Buses or Xanh SM taxis reduce emissions; Legend Travel Group’s cars use eco-friendly routes.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

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

• 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 cultural 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 workshop notes; cash for vendors.

Activity Costs in Thai Binh

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

• Workshops (Silver, Banh Cay, Banh Gai): $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

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

• Con Den Boat Ride: $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND).

• Water Puppet Show: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Food (e.g., Fish Noodle Soup, Jellyfish Salad): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

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

• Homestay: $10–$20/night (250,000–500,000 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 Hanoi)

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

• Public Bus: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND); limousine $12–$16 (300,000–400,000 VND).

• Legend Travel Group Private Car: $45–$65 (1,125,000–1,625,000 VND).

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

• Mid-range: $25–$45 (limousine, workshops, homestay).

• Luxury: $70–$120 (private car, guided tour, premium dining).

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

• Timing: Visit 7:00–10:00 AM for markets and workshops; November–April for dry weather and cultural sites; April–May for coastal activities. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–150 vs. 300–500 on weekends). Avoid Lunar New Year for quieter visits.

• Booking: Reserve workshops and puppet shows 24–48 hours ahead; book Legend Travel Group’s tours 1–2 weeks ahead for festivals. No advance booking needed for beaches or food stalls.

• Sustainability: Support eco-friendly vendors with biodegradable packaging; buy local crafts ($2–$10) or food ($1–$2). Stay on paths to protect mangroves and rice fields.

• Navigation: Save “Thai Binh, Hung Yen” in offline maps; specify communes (e.g., Thai Thuy) for xe om ($1–$4). Ask locals for stall or village directions.

• Safety: Secure valuables in markets; follow safety guidelines at beaches. Check hygiene at food stalls; carry hand sanitizer.

• 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. Respect workshop tools and village etiquette.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50); carry mosquito repellent. Confirm food freshness at coastal stalls.

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

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

• Thai Binh Coastal Adventure ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Explore Con Vanh and Con Den, cycle Thai Thuy, homestay ($10–$20/night), and seafood dining. Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Hung Yen Journey ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Discover Thai Binh, Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Ninh Binh’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

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

Thai Binh Region, Hung Yen Provinces, in Vietnam’s Red River Delta, 110 km from Hanoi, captivate over 50,000 visitors yearly with their cultural and natural treasures, from crafting silver in Dong Xam Village to relaxing on Con Vanh’s UNESCO-protected beaches. Here are the top 10 experiences, priced at $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND):

1. Craft silver jewelry in Dong Xam Village, Hung Yen ($2–$5 workshop, 50,000–125,000 VND).

2. Relax on Con Vanh Beach, Thai Binh’s pristine shores (free entry).

3. Savor fish noodle soup (bún cá Quỳnh Côi, $0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND) in Quynh Coi, Thai Binh.

4. Weave traditional mats in Hai Trieu Village, Hung Yen ($1–$3 workshop, 25,000–75,000 VND).

5. Explore Phu Khe Lake, Hung Yen’s scenic spot (free entry).

6. Visit Phu Thi Temple, Thai Binh’s ancient site (free entry).

7. Cycle through Hung Yen’s rice paddies ($2–$5/day bike, 50,000–125,000 VND).

8. Discover Vinh Bao’s pottery craft, Thai Binh ($1–$2 workshop, 25,000–50,000 VND).

9. Stroll Con Son-Kiep Bac Relic Complex, Hung Yen’s UNESCO site ($0.50–$1 entry, 12,500–25,000 VND).

10. Taste bánh cuốn in Thai Binh markets ($0.50–$2, 12,500–50,000 VND).

Supported by sustainable practices like solar-powered homestays ($10–$30/night, 250,000–750,000 VND) and community-led conservation, Legend Travel Group’s Thai Binh Tours ensure a responsible, immersive Thai Binh Travel experience, blending these adventures with cultural and natural gems. Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore the top 10 things to do in Thai Binh and Hung Yen? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an authentic Red River Delta adventure!

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

Sources:

• Thai Binh and Hung Yen Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, vinpearl.com, localvietnam.com, hungyen.gov.vn, thaibinh.gov.vn, tripadvisor.com