1. Overview of Yen Tu: The Famous Northern Mountain Climbing Journey
1.1. Where is Yen Tu? Why is it called the "Sacred Peak of the North"
Yen Tu is located in the northeastern region of Vietnam, mostly belonging to Dong Yen commune, Quang Ninh province, and partly to Bac Ninh province. This peak is 1,068 m above sea level, ranking among the high mountains in the Northeast region.
Yen Tu is considered an important spiritual destination because it is associated with history when King Tran Nhan Tong chose this place to practice Buddhism and founded the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect. The area is famous for its ancient pagoda system, such as Dong Pagoda and Hoa Yen Pagoda, creating a solemn spiritual space. The natural scenery with vast pine forests and year-round cloud cover makes this place an ideal destination for those who aspire to seek purity and peace.
Yen Tu is considered an important spiritual destination because it was associated with history when Duc Tran Nhan Tong chose this place for spiritual practice. (Source: Collected)
1.2. How many km is the total Yen Tu mountain climbing distance?
From the foot of the mountain to Dong Pagoda, the total walking distance is about 6 km with an altitude of up to 1,068 m. The entire journey consists of many stone staircase sections, some winding sections, requiring endurance from the walker. There are about 6,000 stone steps in total, with the section from Do Pier to Dong Pagoda accounting for over 3,700 steps, and the section from Giai Oan Pagoda to the summit having about 3,427 steps.
The slope of the route gradually increases, especially the sections near the summit requiring a lot of stamina and determination. Along the way, visitors can stop to rest at famous spots like Trinh Pagoda and Hoa Yen Pagoda to regain strength and sightsee.
2. Guide to traveling to Yen Tu and suggested one-day itinerary
2.1. From Hanoi/Hai Phong/Ha Long to Yen Tu
From Hanoi, you can reach Yen Tu by motorbike via QL5, QL18, Uong Bi, taking about 3-4 hours. To ensure enough time for climbing and sightseeing, it is advisable to depart between 4 and 5 AM. For departures from Hai Phong, it only takes about 1-2 hours to travel along the Nui Deo Town, Road 10 route.
If departing from Ha Long, the travel time to Trinh Temple at the foot of Yen Tu mountain ranges from about 2.5-3 hours. Departing early in the morning will help you take advantage of the cool weather, avoid the harsh sun, and make it convenient for travel and visiting all important spots.
2.2. Sample time-saving one-day itinerary to Yen Tu
A typical itinerary starts from Hanoi at 4-5 AM, arriving at Yen Tu around 8-9 AM. If combining the cable car and hiking, you need 2-3 hours to reach the summit, including time for rest and worship at the pagodas.
In a one-day itinerary, the total travel and sightseeing time is about 10-12 hours. It is important to descend the mountain before 4 PM to get home on time and note the last operating time of the cable car to avoid interrupting the journey.
3. How long does it take to climb Yen Tu mountain?
3.1. Hiking the entire way from the foot of the mountain to Dong Pagoda
If you choose the option of hiking from the foot of the mountain to Dong Pagoda, the average time to complete the ascent is 4-6 hours, depending on health condition and rest time. This mode of travel is suitable for those with good endurance, wanting a complete experience and to challenge themselves.
Continuously climbing the rugged stone steps may require many people to stop and regain strength. However, the feeling of overcoming challenges oneself to reach the 'sacred peak' is very memorable. Along the way, the fresh air and the opportunity to visit ancient pagodas create a worthwhile journey. For those with strong physical fitness and climbing experience, the time to complete the ascent can be as short as 2 hours.
3.2. Combining cable car and hiking
Yen Tu currently has 2 cable car routes serving visitors. The first route goes from the foot of the mountain to the area near Hoa Yen Pagoda, with a round trip travel time of about 1-1.5 hours. The second cable car route continues to take visitors close to the summit.
According to this itinerary, you can use the cable car for the first section to Hoa Yen Pagoda, then continue hiking the remaining section to Dong Pagoda. With this option, the total time to conquer Yen Tu peak is about 2-3 hours. The advantage is that it helps save a lot of energy for the initial part, while still retaining the hiking experience in the spirit of pilgrimage for the final section. However, the remaining hiking section is still quite challenging, requiring mental and physical preparation.
Yen Tu currently has 2 cable car routes serving visitors. (Source: Collected)
3.3. Going entirely by cable car (up to near the summit)
Using both cable car routes entirely to get close to the mountain summit saves considerable effort. The total time for this option is about 3 hours, including waiting and travel time. The round-trip ticket price for adults is about 280,000 VND, and for children, it is 200,000 VND. From the final station, you still need to walk a short distance to reach Chua Dong.
This option is very convenient, suitable for those not strong enough to climb or who want to spend time on other sightseeing activities. Visitors also have the opportunity to admire the panoramic view of Yen Tu's mountains and forests from above with a wide-open vista.
3.4. Combining cable car up, walk down (or vice versa)
Choosing the option to take the cable car up and walk down, the average time is about 3-4 hours. This method helps reduce the difficulty of the uphill section, while also facilitating observation of the scenery when descending the mountain. Families with young children or the elderly often prefer this choice because it is both convenient and safe.
Additionally, many people who enjoy the sense of accomplishment can choose to climb up and then take the cable car down. The overall time does not differ much, but the feeling of overcoming a natural challenge will remain more deeply upon reaching the summit.
3.5. Factors affecting the time to climb Yen Tu mountain
The climbing time is clearly affected by individual physical strength. Healthy individuals can complete the journey in about 3-5 hours. Weather is also an important factor; the period from September to April with its cool climate is usually conducive to climbing.
Stopping to visit, take photos, or worship at pagodas along the way can extend the journey by 1 to 2 hours. Many visitors take the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, offer incense, and capture memorable moments with friends and family. Furthermore, the group's travel speed also depends on the slowest member, so it is necessary to agree on a suitable pace for the entire group.
4. Detailed itinerary for climbing Yen Tu mountain section by section
4.1. Total number of steps and main sections to overcome
The journey up Yen Tu can be divided into 3 main stages with a total of 6,000 stone steps. The first stage starts from Ben Giai Oan or Ben Do to Chua Hoa Yen, lasting about 1-1.5 hours. The terrain is relatively flat, suitable for getting acquainted with the climbing pace.
The next stage, from Chua Hoa Yen to intermediate pagodas like Chua Trinh, the slope gradually increases and requires more patience. The final stage, from Chua Giai Oan to Chua Dong, is the biggest challenge, with climbing time usually around 3 hours, overcoming more than 3,427 stone steps. Notably, the section near the summit has a very steep slope, causing many people to stop and rest to regain strength, simultaneously challenging both willpower and physical strength.
The journey up Yen Tu can be divided into 3 main stages with a total of 6,000 stone steps. (Source: Thanh Niên Newspaper)
4.2. Resting points, restaurant locations, water stalls on the way up
Hoa Yen Pagoda is considered a prominent resting point thanks to its spacious area, views of the Dong Trieu mountain range, and numerous water stalls serving visitors. Places like Trinh Pagoda and Hoa Yen also have restaurants and water stalls to help tourists replenish their energy before continuing their journey.
Along the mountain path, there are also small resting spots where you can enjoy the beauty of pine forests and small streams along the way. These stops not only help restore strength but also provide an opportunity to admire the wild, tranquil natural scenery of the Yen Tu mountains.
Hoa Yen Pagoda is considered a prominent resting point thanks to its spaciousness. (Source: Collected)
5. Experience and tips to shorten the time to climb Yen Tu mountain
5.1. Attire and items to prepare
Choosing trekking shoes with good grip plays an important role in ensuring safety and limiting slippage throughout the journey. A light jacket is necessary because the temperature at the summit of Yen Tu is usually 5-7 degrees Celsius lower than at the foot of the mountain. Each person should prepare 2 to 3 liters of water to maintain stamina, especially on sunny days.
Bringing light snacks such as energy bars, candies, and dried fruits will help replenish sugar and energy when the body is tired. In addition, a sweat towel, a sun hat, and sunscreen are essential items. A lightweight shoulder bag will help you keep your hands free and easily maintain balance on steep sections.
5.2. Advice for different groups of people
Young people or those who exercise regularly can choose to climb the entire route on foot, taking short breaks to avoid exhaustion. Families with young children or the elderly should prioritize taking the cable car up and walking down, while spending more time resting at the pagodas.
The time it takes to climb Yen Tu mountain will be shortened if you apply a reasonable resting method. It is advisable to rest for 5 to 10 minutes after each stage, combined with light energy replenishment. Breathing evenly and maintaining a stable pace instead of going fast and resting for a long time will help save energy. When traveling in a group, you should move together, waiting for the slowest member to ensure the safety of the entire group.
The time it takes to climb Yen Tu mountain can be shortened if you apply proper rest methods. (Source: Collected)
5.3. Important notes on customs and worship at Yen Tu
The custom of lighting incense and worshipping at large pagodas like Hoa Yen, Chua Dong is a traditional cultural feature in Yen Tu. When entering pagoda areas, you should wear polite attire, maintain general hygiene, and avoid making noise to create a serene atmosphere for everyone. Waste should be disposed of in designated areas.
Learning about the historical significance and spiritual value of each pagoda will make the trip more profound. Many visitors say that the feeling of peace when standing on the summit of Yen Tu is a precious gift for all the effort put into the journey.
6. Suggested combined experiences at Yen Tu
6.1. Sightseeing and enjoying services in the area
After sightseeing and resting at the foot of the mountain, visitors can move to Sun World Ha Long (about 15-20 minutes from the center) to continue their journey. Here, you can experience the Queen Cable Car with its large capacity cabins, enjoying panoramic views of Ha Long Bay from above. A must-visit spot is the Sun Wheel on Ba Deo hill, which is especially beautiful at sunset and in the evening.
Additionally, the park features Dragon Park with thrilling games, Typhoon Water Park for families and young groups, and various dining areas serving diverse Asian-European dishes. In the evening, visitors can stroll along Bai Chay beach, enjoy fresh seafood, and stay overnight at hotels or resorts near the Sun World area, concluding a fulfilling day of experiences from spirituality and nature to modern entertainment.
After visiting and resting at the foot of the mountain area, visitors can move to Sun World Ha Long.
6.2. Tips for planning a combined vacation/filming/photo hunting trip at Yen Tu
If you plan to stay overnight at resorts near the foot of the mountain, climbing and sightseeing will become more comfortable and less time-constrained. Early morning or during autumn and winter, when mist covers the landscape, is the ideal time to capture impressive photos of the Yen Tu mountains and forests. Especially from Hoa Yen Pagoda, you can take in the panoramic view of the rolling mountains, which many people love to capture beautiful photos of.
When filming or taking photos, pay attention to maintaining solemnity, ask for permission beforehand at sensitive spots, and prepare spare batteries and large memory cards because the scenery here is diverse, attractive, and easily makes you want to capture many memorable moments.
How long does it take to climb Yen Tu mountain depends on your choice of transportation, personal fitness, and experience goals. The journey to conquer Yen Tu is not just about the feeling of standing on the “sacred peak” but also an opportunity to enjoy the fresh air, connect with nature, and find inner peace. Plan to conquer Yen Tu fully and share your experiences and feelings in the comments below!