Spring Travel in Vietnam: The Trang An Scenic Complex Emerges as a Hidden Gem

Though winter’s chill still lingers in the air, spring has quietly arrived. This is the most beautiful season in northern Vietnam. If you want to experience Vietnam’s natural scenery beyond its French influences, consider a spring trip to northern Vietnam to explore its unique cave wonders and the lives of ethnic minorities. With limited-time promotional airfares starting from zero from airlines, you’ll find the journey well worth it.

According to locals, those who love natural beauty should visit the most picturesque region of northern Vietnam in spring. Under the azure sky, emerald-green terraced fields reflect off lush mountain ranges. With neither too hot nor too cold weather, strolling along rural paths is both comfortable and relaxing.

Aside from the famous Ha Long Bay and Luon Cave, northern Vietnam also hides many secret caves tucked between mountains and clouds. Among them, the Trang An Scenic Complex near Ninh Binh Province is Vietnam’s only site recognized as a dual World Heritage for both natural and cultural significance—and a hidden travel gem known mostly to locals. Composed of spectacular karst limestone landscapes, the area features caves scattered across the water, valleys that suddenly dip beneath the surface or are enclosed by nearly vertical cliffs—dramatic yet fascinating. Drifting through one cave after another in a small boat, admiring the rowers’ skillful paddling techniques, you’ll find the valleys serene and undisturbed, with only the gentle sound of oars slicing the water. The peaceful, idyllic atmosphere feels like a real-life Peach Blossom Spring, where time seems frozen—making it a favorite off-the-beaten-path destination for backpackers.

Cruising through the caves of the Trang An Scenic Complex and enjoying the serene valleys. (Photo provided by Vietjet Air)

A visit to the Trang An Scenic Complex can be paired with a trip to Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, Vietnam’s first capital. The phrase “Northern Gate Lock” inscribed on the outer city gate wall may have some connection to the inscription by Liu Mingchuan at the Fugui Battery in Tamsui, Taiwan—sparking plenty of curiosity. Covering 700 hectares, Bai Dinh Pagoda is the largest Buddhist temple complex in Southeast Asia. Within its grounds, the “Four National Treasures” are must-sees: a majestic 33-meter-tall, 100-ton bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha; an imposing 36-ton bronze bell; a thousand-year-old ancient well 30 meters in diameter and 6 meters deep with a never-ending water supply; and 500 uniquely expressive stone statues of arhat disciples that are particularly eye-catching.

Hoa Lu Ancient Capital near the Trang An Scenic Complex. (Photo provided by Vietjet Air)

If you have more time, it’s recommended to head to Sapa to build up your stamina. This French-style hill station located on the northern plateau of Vietnam, near the China border, is home to ethnic minorities such as the Black H’mong and Red Dao. Due to its high altitude, Sapa boasts cool weather, rich forests, and terraced rice fields. Many visitors come here mainly for trekking. Depending on your fitness level, you can choose short, medium, or long trekking routes to explore local villages.

The Red Dao are an ethnic minority group in Sapa. (Photo provided by Vietjet Air)

Near Sapa, the Dragon’s Jaw is a formation created when igneous rock was eroded into reefs by sea waves and later uplifted by tectonic activity. From the Dragon’s Jaw viewpoint, you can overlook the entire Sapa cityscape. On weekends, Sapa is also known for its “Love Market.” Originally just a traditional market near the church, at night it transforms into a romantic dating spot for young men and women. If a young man fancies a girl, he might gently take her hand. The Love Market has become Sapa’s most beautiful night scene.

The “Love Market” near the church is Sapa’s most beautiful night view. (Photo provided by Vietjet Air)

From January 24 to 26, Vietjet Air is offering 500,000 promotional airfares starting from zero every day between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM (including Taipei/Taichung/Tainan/Kaohsiung → Ho Chi Minh City, Taipei/Kaohsiung → Hanoi). You can try your luck at grabbing a ticket on Vietjet’s official website (www.vietjetair.com) and travel to Vietnam when spring blossoms. The tickets are valid for use from March 1 to December 31, 2018, excluding public holidays.

Additionally, passengers flying with Vietjet from December 28, 2017, to February 28, 2018, have the chance to participate in a lucky draw for prizes worth up to 1 billion VND (approximately NT$1.31 million). On selected flights, travelers may win free round-trip domestic tickets, lucky cash prizes of up to 10 million VND (approximately NT$13,100), or special cash rewards totaling up to 100 million VND (approximately NT$1.31 million). Moreover, from January 30 to February 28, 2018, passengers can also download and play the “Vietjet Sky Fun” app for free on the App Store and Google Play Store, with opportunities to win domestic or international round-trip tickets.

Vietjet offers 500,000 promotional airfares starting from zero from January 24 to 26, 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM, via its official website. (Photo provided by Vietjet Air)