1. Overview of Quang Ninh Museum: Why visit?
Overview of what the Quang Ninh Museum has to offer. (Source: Collection)
1.1. Location, architecture, and unique highlights in 2025.
From the moment you set foot on Tran Quoc Nghien street, Hong Gai ward, everyone will be impressed by the unique architecture of the Quang Ninh Museum . This work was designed by architect Salvador Perez Arroyo from Spain, inspired by the coal stone - the symbol of the mining region.
The building covers 14,000 m², with its entire surface covered in semi-tempered black glass, creating a captivating reflective effect, making the museum like a sparkling "black gem" on the shore of Ha Long Bay. This effect changes continuously depending on the daylight, bringing a constantly fresh and impressive appearance to the structure.
After a comprehensive upgrade in 2025, the Quang Ninh Museum offers more differences thanks to the addition of outdoor exhibition areas and a digitalized experience system, allowing visitors to interact with modern content. Its convenient location in the center of Ha Long also helps tourists connect their itineraries and discover many other famous destinations on their journey to the heritage region.
1.2. History of formation and mission to preserve Quang Ninh's values.
Construction began in 2012 and it officially opened in October 2013, the Quang Ninh Museum was established with the orientation to become a bright spot in sustainable cultural tourism development. This is not only a place to preserve artifacts but also to jointly educate the community and spread the image of Quang Ninh globally.
With nearly 20,000 artifacts preserved under standard conditions, the museum plays a role as a center for research, historical education, and inspiring national pride for all generations. Large-scale exhibitions and cultural programs here contribute to making Quang Ninh's name known far and wide on the international tourism map.
In the 2024-2025 period, the museum focuses on digital transformation by digitizing its artifact collection and building a smart management application, offering a pioneering "smart museum" experience in Vietnam. This direction helps heritage reach a wide community, especially attracting the younger generation passionate about technology.
2. What are the highlights inside the Quang Ninh Museum?
What's inside the Quang Ninh Museum? (Source: Collected)
2.1. Outdoor Space: "Giant" Artifacts.
Right outside the building, the outdoor exhibition area of the Quang Ninh Museum makes a strong impression with large-sized artifacts arranged harmoniously on the grounds and around the entrance, creating a sense of open, airy space.
The massive monolithic anthracite coal block placed at the entrance serves as a distinctive welcome, helping visitors easily feel the value of the mining region. Military artifacts such as anti-aircraft missiles, ancient cannons, or artillery guns contribute to telling the resilient historical story of the local people during wartime periods.
The highlight outside also includes statues depicting miners and Uncle Ho with workers, showing the deep connection between the leader and the working people. Each outdoor artifact is associated with a meaningful historical message, creating an ideal backdrop for capturing emotional souvenir photos.
2.2. Exploring 3 Thematic Exhibition Floors.
Floor 1: Nature and the Sea of Quang Ninh
Upon entering the first floor, visitors are led into the mysterious ocean world with giant whale and shark skeletons displayed right at the entrance. Here, what's impressive about the Quang Ninh Museum is the interactive LED screen system, helping visitors explore the ocean's evolutionary journey over millions of years.
The 'digitized ocean' space is designed for all ages, allowing both adults and children to experience, explore, and learn together. 3D marine animal models combined with sound effects create the feeling of adventuring underwater. Not only a place for knowledge transfer, this area also creates joy of discovery and excitement for children.
Floor 2: History and Famous Relics
From the first floor, visitors continue their journey to the second floor to admire the collection of valuable archaeological artifacts marking the thousand-year history of Quang Ninh. Relics from the Dong Son, Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties are displayed in modern glass cabinets under specialized lighting.
Notably, here are preserved national treasures such as the Dau Ram Ceramic Vase and the Ngoa Van - Yen Tu Gold Box in a strictly controlled preservation environment. The exhibition area about Yen Tu relics and the Tran dynasty applies screen technology connected online to field sites, helping visitors gain a comprehensive view of outstanding cultural heritage.
Floor 3: The Journey of the Coal Industry and Miners
The third floor is a space that vividly recreates the coal mining industry, a characteristic of Quang Ninh. The mine tunnel model is built to scale, giving visitors a realistic feeling as they enter the miners' working space.
Sculptures simulating miners are meticulously carved alongside tools and historical documents, telling the story of the miners' sacrifices and contributions. The attractive highlight of this floor is the 'mine tunnel experience' with advanced virtual reality technology, allowing visitors to experience the unique working environment and the solidarity of Quang Ninh miners.
3. What's Special About National Treasures and Artifacts?
What national treasures are at Quang Ninh Museum? (Source: Collected)
3.1. List of national treasures on display.
Currently, Quang Ninh Museum preserves and introduces 13 national treasures, among which the Dau Ram Ceramic Vase, dating back 3,000-4,000 years, is a representative artifact. This vase was found at Dau Ram Hill, not only reflecting the craftsmanship of ancient residents but also serving as evidence for the historical development of Quang Ninh from ancient times.
The Ngoa Van - Yen Tu Gold Box, originating from the 14th century under the Tran Dynasty, is a precious treasure meticulously preserved. The lotus-shaped gold box, weighing 56.44 grams, was once used in Buddhist rituals, demonstrating the connection between Buddhism and the Tran court in the sacred Yen Tu mountain region.
Additionally, the Quang Chinh Bronze Drum from the Dong Son culture (3rd-2nd century BC), Dong Son bronze jars, and painted glazed ceramic vases from the early Le period are also unique historical artifacts. Each treasure is both an archaeological find and a vivid testament to each stage of Quang Ninh's development.
3.2. Other collections and rare artifacts.
Besides national treasures, what else is special about Quang Ninh Museum is its valuable collection of revolutionary memories. Images and documents recording the August Revolution's imprint in Quang Ninh are scientifically arranged, vividly recreating heroic historical moments.
The lives and labor tools of mine workers through generations are also authentically recreated, from old flashlights, safety helmets, pickaxes, and shovels to black and white photographs depicting labor scenes. All contribute to telling the story of the perseverance and diligence of the miners here.
The collection of models, ancient maps, and documentary photos of Ha Long Bay is a highlight that attracts visitors' attention. Through these valuable materials, the formation and development journey of this world natural heritage are clearly depicted. Many artifacts also utilize digital technology, making it easier for visitors to explore information in a more intuitive and lively way.
4. Visiting and learning experience at Quang Ninh Museum
Experiencing tours and learning at Quang Ninh Museum. (Source: Collected)
4.1. Interactive and learning activities for groups and schools.
Thematic guide services at Quang Ninh Museum offer engaging learning experiences for school groups. Diverse themes ranging from history, natural environment to the coal industry culture are designed to suit different ages and levels.
The "hands-on with artifacts" workshop program always attracts students with activities like role-playing as archaeologists, learning about minerals, and trying simple pottery making. These activities not only provide useful knowledge but also stimulate creativity and leave unforgettable impressions on the students.
The "A Day as a Young Scientist" extracurricular program is also a favorite choice for many schools. Here, students directly participate in research, discover the secrets of ancient artifacts, motivating the younger generation to develop a passion for history and science.
4.2. Exhibition programs and art events 2025.
Quang Ninh Museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions on topics such as cultural heritage, the history of the coal industry, and contemporary art. This is not only an activity that attracts tourists but also creates a space for connection and sharing for the community that loves culture and art.
Art workshops combined with digital technology are a novel highlight, attracting many young people in Ha Long to participate. Many young people have the opportunity to test their creativity with artists and experts, creating modern artistic works that still bear traditional imprints.
The 30/10 Square area adjacent to the museum also frequently hosts major events and vibrant summer festivals. These events not only promote local culture but also attract media and domestic and international tourists to participate and experience.
5. Ticket information, opening hours, and how to get to the museum
Information about Quang Ninh Museum entrance tickets. (Source: Collected)
5.1. Latest 2025 ticket prices for visiting Quang Ninh Museum.
The entrance ticket price for Quang Ninh Museum in 2025 is clearly announced: adults are 40,000 VND per visit. Students only need to present a valid card to purchase tickets at a price of 20,000 VND.
Children under 6 years old are completely free, facilitating small families with children. For groups or school groups, the museum always offers preferential prices along with many attractive promotional programs during the peak tourist season.
5.2. Opening hours, online and on-site ticket purchase process.
Quang Ninh Museum opens to welcome visitors from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, including weekends and holidays. During the peak tourist season, the museum may adjust its operating hours to serve the large number of visitors.
Visitors can buy tickets directly at the reception counter or use QR codes for electronic payment, receive online tickets and enter conveniently. This system helps save time and provides a quick, modern visiting experience.
Professionally trained reception staff are always ready to assist visitors, especially with large groups or school groups. Dedicated consulting services help visitors build their itinerary and enjoy the most effective experience.
5.3. Directions to the museum from famous locations.
If departing from Hanoi, visitors can choose a premium Limousine bus, taking about 3-4 hours to travel to Bai Chay Bus Station. From here, just take a taxi, electric car, or local bus to reach Quang Ninh Museum quickly.
From Sun World Ha Long complex, the distance to the museum is only 3 km, so you can travel by taxi or rent an electric car to enjoy the scenery of Ha Long city along the way. Means of transport such as ride-hailing motorbikes, bicycles, or local buses are also flexible and economical options.
The area around the museum is home to many beachfront cafes, famous seafood restaurants, and high-end hotels. Visitors can easily find places to rest, enjoy local cuisine, or stay overnight to continue their journey exploring Ha Long more fully.
Quang Ninh Museum in 2025 is worthy of being a place where tradition and modernity intersect, standing out with its unique "black pearl" architecture along with a special collection of national treasures. Don't forget to spend at least 2-3 hours to fully enjoy this cultural space and share memorable photos and feelings on social media!
