Is Hung Yen worth visiting as a day trip from Hanoi?

Yes, it's an excellent day trip offering authentic rural Vietnam, historical sites, and craft villages just 1.5-2 hours from Hanoi.

What is Hung Yen most famous for?

Hung Yen is famous for its high-quality longan fruit (especially during harvest season) and numerous ancient pagodas and temples.

Do I need a guide to visit Hung Yen?

Not necessary, but a local guide can enhance visits to craft villages and temples with cultural context and translation.

What local foods should I try?

Must-try foods include Hung Yen longan, tương Bần (soybean paste), bánh dày (sticky rice cakes), and various noodle dishes from local markets.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

No, carry Vietnamese Dong (VND) cash, especially in rural areas and markets. Some hotels and restaurants in Hung Yen City may accept cards.

Varies by nationality; many get e-visa or visa on arrival. Check with Vietnamese embassy.

What language is spoken?

Vietnamese. English is limited; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

Is credit card widely accepted?

No, cash (VND) is king. ATMs available in Hung Yen City.

What is the local currency?

Vietnamese Dong (VND). $1 ≈ 24,000 VND.

Can I drink tap water?

No, stick to bottled or boiled water.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes, especially in Buddhist temples and local eateries.

About 60 km, 1-1.5 hours by bus or car.

What souvenirs to buy?

Lychee products, com (young rice), and traditional pottery.

Is it safe for solo female travelers?

Yes, but avoid walking alone late at night.

Do I need a power adapter?

Vietnam uses types A, C, F (220V). Bring a universal adapter.

Hung Yen

ProvinceVietnam, Asia

Hung Yen is a STATE in Vietnam, Asia.

Hung Yen Province, nestled in Vietnam's Red River Delta just 60 kilometers southeast of Hanoi, offers travelers a serene escape into Vietnam's agricultural heartland and rich cultural heritage. Known as the 'Land of Longan,' Hung Yen's lush orchards produce the country's most prized variety of this sweet fruit, celebrated annually during the Longan Festival. The province is dotted with ancient pagodas and temples, most notably the magnificent Chu Dong Tu Temple complex, a spiritual site dedicated to one of Vietnam's Four Immortals. Hung Yen's traditional craft villages, like Phu Lang pottery village and Ninh Hiep incense village, provide fascinating glimpses into centuries-old artisan traditions. The provincial capital, also called Hung Yen, features well-preserved French colonial architecture alongside traditional Vietnamese markets. Food enthusiasts will delight in local specialties such as Hung Yen longan, tương Bần (fermented soybean paste), and bánh dày (sticky rice cakes). With its peaceful countryside, historical depth, and authentic rural experiences, Hung Yen offers a perfect day trip or weekend getaway from Hanoi's hustle.

Best time to visit Hung Yen

October to April offers the most pleasant weather with cooler, drier conditions. September-October is ideal for the Longan Festival. Avoid June-August (hot, humid, heavy rainfall). Spring (February-April) has comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Mild 22-28°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Medium
Prices: Medium

Best weather for travel

Know before you go

Getting there

HAN

Noi Bai International Airport

International

70 km away

HPH

Cat Bi International Airport

International

90 km away

Getting around

"Local buses connect towns but schedules are irregular. Motorbike taxis (xe om) and cycle rickshaws (xich lo) are common for short trips. For flexibility, rent a motorbike (license required) or hire a car with driver. Taxis (Mai Linh, Thanh Cong) are available in Hung Yen City. Ride-hailing apps (Grab) work in urban areas. Bicycles are excellent for exploring the flat countryside and craft villages."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in town

Local SIM

Local SIM available at Hanoi airport from $5

Calling code

+84

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Low crime, but traffic and minor scams possible.

Night safety

7/10

Low crime, but traffic and minor scams possible.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Hung Yen is generally safe with low violent crime. Exercise normal precautions: secure valuables, avoid isolated areas at night. Traffic safety is the primary concern—be extremely cautious when crossing roads and consider hiring local drivers. Common scams are rare but beware of overcharging by unofficial taxis or at markets. Rural areas are very safe. Political demonstrations should be avoided. Keep copies of passport and visa."

Police

113

Ambulance

115

Fire

114

Tourist Police

Entry and health

Health information

"Hung Yen has provincial hospitals (Hung Yen Provincial General Hospital) and district medical centers providing basic care. For serious conditions, travelers are advised to go to Hanoi. Common health concerns include seasonal flu, dengue fever (especially during rainy season), and food/waterborne illnesses. Recommended vaccinations: routine vaccines plus Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis for rural stays. Drink bottled water, avoid raw vegetables, and use mosquito repellent. Pharmacies are available in towns but may not stock specific Western medications."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting pagodas/temples (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes and religious sites. Greet elders first. Tipping is not expected but appreciated in tourism services. Avoid public displays of affection. When giving/receiving items, use both hands. Don't touch people's heads. At meals, wait to be seated and invite elders to eat first."

Vietnamese

Costs and practicals

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND) · ₫

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $2-5

Hotels

$15-40 | budget hotels range $15-40/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Very affordable compared to Hanoi.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,300,000

Area

923.1 km²

Government

Provincial People's Committee

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Provinsi Hung Yen, ہونگ ین صوبہ, HY, Хинґ'єн, Хинг Јен, Hưng Yên Province, Prowincja Hưng Yên, 兴安省, Tỉnh Hưng Yên, VN-66, Province de Hưng Yên, استان هونگ ین, フンイエン, 興安省, Хинг'єн, محافظة هونغ اين, 省興安, Hung Yen Province, Provincia di Hung Yen, Хынгйен, Hưng Yên, Hung Yen, จังหวัดฮึงเอียน, 흥옌성, Хыниэнь, Хунг Йен, Mkoa wa Hưng Yên, Yen Lac, Yên Lạc, Yến Lạc

Major HubRuralCulturalHistoricalFoodieOff-the-Beaten-Path