The Magic of Tea and Trains: Uniting Hanoi and Thai Nguyen’s Cultural Heritage

THE HANOI TIMES — Thai Nguyen, a northern province neighboring Hanoi, is a hidden gem boasting a rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and a renowned tea-growing region with untapped potential for tourism. With improved connectivity to Hanoi, this region is poised to become a must-visit destination.

Just a short drive from Hanoi’s bustling city center, Thai Nguyen Province beckons visitors with its serene tea hills, picturesque scenery, and vibrant ethnic minority traditions. However, this hidden gem remains relatively undiscovered.

Long Coc Tea Hill, Thai Nguyen: An Idyllic Tea Harvest Scene. Photo: Thai Nguyen Tourism Information Center

Unveiling a Gemstone Near Hanoi

Recognizing its untapped potential, Thai Nguyen has embarked on a journey to promote its diverse attractions. A recent conference, “Promoting and Advertising Thai Nguyen Tourism in Hanoi,” showcased the region’s tea culture and scenic beauty, organized by the Thai Nguyen Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, along with other stakeholders.

Le Ngoc Linh, Deputy Director of Thai Nguyen’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, highlighted the province’s wealth of historical relics, craft villages, and One Commune One Product (OCOP) commodities. With over 1,000 historical sites, nearly 300 craft villages, and more than 300 outstanding OCOP products, Thai Nguyen has a lot to offer.

Its tea-growing regions, especially Tan Cuong and La Bang, are steeped in centuries-old traditions. Thai Nguyen tea, celebrated for its unique flavor and quality, has earned international acclaim, making it a significant agricultural export for Vietnam.

Nui Coc Stream: A Tranquil Homestay Experience. Photo: Thai Nguyen Tourism Information Center

The province’s fertile soil, temperate climate, and rich history, dating back to the 1920s when tea cultivation began, create the perfect conditions for growing tea. Today, Thai Nguyen is home to 22,200 hectares of tea farms, producing over 267,000 tons of fresh tea annually, generating approximately VND13 trillion (US$553 million) in revenue in 2024.

The terraced tea hills and mist-shrouded mountains are a source of local pride and an ideal setting for ecotourism and community-based travel. Local businesses have invested in tea-themed experiences, offering tastings, accommodation, and local cuisine, solidifying Thai Nguyen’s reputation as the “Tea Capital of Vietnam.”

Beyond its famous tea, Thai Nguyen also boasts a stunning array of natural wonders. From the tranquil lakes of Nui Coc and Ghenh Che to the majestic peak of Tan Cuong Mountain, nature enthusiasts will be in awe. The region’s rich revolutionary history can be explored through sites like the Dinh Hoa Military Safe Zone and Memorial, offering a glimpse into the turbulent years from 1955 to 1975.

Exploring Thai Nguyen by Train

The Scenic Train Journey: Hanoi to Thai Nguyen. Photo: Thai Nguyen Newspaper

One of the most exciting initiatives to boost tourism in Thai Nguyen is the introduction of a train service from Hanoi. This innovative approach showcases the charm of Vietnam’s railways, combining lush scenery, tea culture, and folk music performances.

The train journey and tea culture experience offer a curated exploration of Thai Nguyen’s four renowned tea regions: Tan Cuong, La Bang, Trai Cai, and Phu Luong. Guests can indulge in tea tastings while learning about the health benefits and cultural significance of tea in Vietnamese culture.

Thai Nguyen also presents night tours of the Thai Nguyen Museum, featuring art performances, light displays, and a unique culinary experience with 153 dishes incorporating tea. This tour celebrates the versatility of tea, showcasing its use in both beverages and gourmet cuisine.

Envisioning Sustainable and Cultural Tourism

Preserving Traditions: An Old Ritual of the Tay Ethnic Group at Thai Hai Ethnic Village. Photo: Thai Hai Ethnic Village

Thai Nguyen has set its sights on doubling its visitor numbers by 2025, aiming to attract six million tourists. To achieve this, the province is targeting various groups, including students, business travelers, and MICE visitors, with flexible itineraries that blend work and leisure. It is also developing its sports tourism infrastructure, with new golf courses and a modern stadium planned for the coming years.

The Serene Beauty of Nui Coc Lake, Thai Nguyen. Photo: Van Dung

For international tourists, Thai Nguyen offers a rich cultural and natural experience. With a focus on tea culture, traditional cuisine, and community tourism, visitors can delve into the region’s deep connection to its environment and heritage. The ongoing development of hotels, resorts, and conference facilities will further enhance Thai Nguyen’s appeal as a destination for large events and international travelers.

This April, a week-long festival, “Experience the Land of Tea with Rich Identity,” will celebrate the region’s tea heritage with traditional ceremonies and performances showcasing its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and deep-rooted tea culture.