Introduction to the Ho Dynasty Citadel relics
Citadel of the Ho Dynastyis one of the most unique historical relics of Vietnam, also known by many names such as Tay Do citadel, An Ton citadel or Tay Kinh citadel. The project is a clear testament to a turbulent historical period under Ho Quy Ly, and at the same time possesses attractive ancient beauty amidst the peaceful space of Thanh Hoa. The moss-covered stone walls quietly tell the story of the nation's ups and downs over the centuries, evoking a feeling of both solemnity and profoundness.
Amidst the bustling pace of life in Thanh Hoa, the Ho Dynasty Citadel still stands proudly as a timeless mark. This is one of the very few remaining stone citadels in the world, built from giant stone blocks skillfully joined with incredible precision. Not only does it demonstrate the superior technical level and planning thinking of the ancients, the work also reflects the strong development of contemporary thought and culture, especially the influence of Confucianism in social organization.
Ho Dynasty Citadel Relics
Construction began in 1397 under the Tran dynasty and directed by Ho Quy Ly, the Ho Dynasty Citadel was quickly completed in just a few months. By 1400, when Ho Quy Ly ascended the throne, this place became the capital of Dai Ngu country. Through many different names in history, the project still retains its core values and has become a symbol of the intelligence, bravery and vision of the Vietnamese people.
With outstanding architectural, historical and cultural values, the Ho Dynasty Citadel has been recognized as a National Monument since 1962. In particular, on June 27, 2011, this monument was officially honored by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage. This title not only affirms the project's stature on the map of human heritage but is also a great pride of the Vietnamese people. Today, Ho Dynasty Citadel is not only a destination for those who love to explore history but also a place for everyone to find their roots, feel the quiet beauty and profound meaning of a heritage that has surpassed more than six centuries of existence.
Highlights at the Ho Dynasty Citadel relics
Before exploring in detail each item inside the Ho Dynasty Citadel, you will easily feel the special stature of this project at first sight. Not simply an ancient citadel, this place was once the capital of Dai Ngu country, planned based on strict feng shui principles and sharp strategic thinking. Located in the middle of a land in harmony with surrounding mountains and rivers, the citadel not only has majestic beauty, but also ensures a solid defensive role and is convenient for waterway traffic.
Although many magnificent structures that once existed are no longer intact due to the flow of history, the core value of the Ho Dynasty Citadel is still preserved through the remaining traces. It is the combination of unique stone architecture, large scale and profound historical significance that has created unique highlights, making this place one of the most impressive heritage sites in Vietnam.
Citadel
The inner citadel is the central area with a massive scale and almost intact structure after more than six centuries. The entire citadel has a rectangular shape with a length of about 870.5 meters along the North-South axis and 883.5 meters along the East-West axis. The four city gates are arranged in the four main directions South - North - West - East corresponding to front, rear, left and right, creating a harmonious balance.
Citadel
The most prominent feature is the city gate system built in a rolling arch style with giant stone slabs. Stone blocks weighing tens of tons are precisely fitted together without the need for adhesives, demonstrating the high level of construction techniques of the ancients. The South Gate is the main gate with three spacious entrances, of which the middle door is the largest, creating a majestic and majestic appearance.
The surrounding wall is on average 5 to 6 meters high, in some places up to 10 meters high. Stone slabs up to several meters long and weighing from 10 to more than 20 tons are stacked firmly, creating a rare solid structure. The Hoa Nhai street connecting from the South gate extending towards the Nam Giao altar is paved with smooth stones, contributing to perfecting the solemn space of the ancient capital.
Proud city
Surrounding the Citadel is a large moat system, which acts as an effective natural defense line. The moat is more than 90 meters wide, the bottom is about 52 meters wide and over 6.5 meters deep. The trench surface is designed gradually, creating a balance between defense and landscape elements.
Proud city
To ensure durability, the ancients used gravel and macadam to line the bottom of the trench. It is this structure that helps the building retain clear traces after hundreds of years of existence. The moat is also connected to the Buoi River, forming an irrigation system that both serves defense and supports waterway traffic. Today, although some sections have been filled in, traces of the Citadel are still clearly present in many areas, contributing to recreating the scale and strategic vision of the project.
La Thanh
La Thanh is an earthen citadel surrounding the outside, acting as a second layer of defense to protect the entire capital. The building is about 6 meters high, the wall is about 9.2 meters wide and is built in a trapezoidal shape with a steep outer surface and a gentle inner surface.
La Thanh
A special feature of La Thanh is that it is completely covered with soil combined with natural materials such as gravel and small stones for reinforcement. The project is designed based on the natural terrain, winding along the mountains and rivers such as the Buoi River and Ma River, creating a defense system that is both solid and in harmony with the landscape.
Not only does it have a military function, La Thanh also acts as a natural dyke to help limit floods and protect the entire capital area. This is a clear testament to the flexible planning thinking and ability to take advantage of the terrain of the ancients.
Nam Giao altar
The Nam Giao Altar is a work with the most important spiritual and ritual significance in the relic complex. Built in 1402 during the reign of Ho Han Thuong, this place was the space to organize the court's solemn ceremonies to worship Heaven.
Nam Giao altar
The project is located in the South, inside the La Thanh area, with a large area and multi-storey structure. The center is a prominent high altar, surrounded by walls creating a tight enclosure. The entire architecture is arranged along the south axis, in accordance with traditional feng shui concepts, symbolizing vitality and prosperity.
The path leading to the altar is neatly paved, creating a solemn and respectful space. This is not only the place where rituals to pray for peace and prosperity are performed, but also clearly shows the political ideology and beliefs of the contemporary dynasty.
The most beautiful time to travel to the Ho Dynasty Citadel relics
Because it is located in the North Central region, Thanh Hoa has a rather harsh climate with long hot summers and rainy seasons where storms easily occur. Meanwhile, most sightseeing activities at the monument take place outdoors, so the weather will directly affect your experience.
The best time to visit is in spring, around May2 to April. At this time, the weather is mild, the air is fresh, the surrounding landscape is green, very suitable for walking to explore every corner of the ancient citadel and take beautiful photos. Besides, fall fromSeptember to Novemberis also a time worth considering, when the weather is cool and pleasant, the light sunlight creates a peaceful and profound beauty for the monument.
The ideal time to travel to the Ho Dynasty Citadel relics
On the contrary, you should limit traveling in the summer from May to August because the weather is hot and sunny, and high temperatures can easily cause fatigue when visiting. In addition, stormy months are not a favorable time, because the roads can be slippery and affect travel schedules. Choosing the right season will help your trip to the Ho Dynasty Citadel become much more complete and memorable.
Travel information to the Ho Dynasty Citadel relic site
The journey to Ho Dynasty Citadel is quite convenient with many vehicle options suitable for each need, from quick, economical to exploratory experience. Depending on your starting point and personal preferences, you can consider the following ways to travel to make the trip more complete.
Travel by plane
For travelers from far away, flying is the optimal solution to shorten travel time. You can fly to Tho Xuan Airport (THD), about 40 km from Ho Dynasty Citadel.
Hanoi to Thanh Hoa about 500,000 to 1,500,000 VND round trip
Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh Hoa about 1,500,000 to 3,500,000 VND
Da Nang to Thanh Hoa about 450,000 to 2,000,000 VND
After landing, you can take a taxi, technology car or rent a motorbike. Travel time from the airport to the relic is about 45 to 60 minutes, the road is quite easy and airy.
Tho Xuan Airport
Travel by train
The train is the right choice if you want to enjoy a leisurely journey and see the scenery along the Central region. You take the North-South line and stop at Thanh Hoa station, then continue moving to Ho Dynasty Citadel.
Hanoi to Thanh Hoa costs about 200,000 to 400,000 VND
Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh Hoa about 700,000 to 1,500,000 VND
Da Nang to Thanh Hoa about 400,000 to 900,000 VND
From Thanh Hoa station, you can catch a taxi or technology vehicle to reach the monument in about 1 hour.
Thanh Hoa station
Travel by bus
Passenger cars are a popular means of transport, have reasonable costs and are easy to book. From Hanoi, you can catch a bus at major bus stations such as My Dinh, Giap Bat or Nuoc Ngam with routes to Thanh Hoa or Vinh Loc.
Hanoi to Thanh Hoa about 150,000 to 250,000 VND
Ho Chi Minh City to Thanh Hoa about 600,000 to 900,000 VND
Da Nang to Thanh Hoa about 300,000 to 500,000 VND
Some other reputable inter-provincial bus companies to Ho Dynasty Citadel - Thanh Hoa: Phuong Trang, Hoang Long, Hai Van, Tien Phuong, Van Anh, Duc Phat...
Travel by motorbike or personal car
If you love being proactive and want to fully enjoy the scenery along the way, a motorbike or personal car is the ideal choice.
From Hanoi, you travel along Highway 1A, then turn onto Highway 217 to get to Vinh Loc. The distance is about 140 km, travel time is from 2 to 3 hours.
The road is quite easy to follow, with peaceful village scenery on both sides, very suitable for those who want to combine travel and exploration.
Move from Thanh Hoa center
From Thanh Hoa city center, it only takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach the monument.
Taxi: fast, convenient like Taxi Mai Linh Thanh Hoa - 0237 3 75 75 75; Green Taxi SM Thanh Hoa - 1900 2088; Taxi 36 Thanh Hoa - 0237 3 636 66; Rang Dong Taxi Thanh Hoa - 0237 2 858 585; Taxi North Central South Thanh Hoa - 0237 3 888 999.
Technology vehicles: reasonable cost
Motorbike rental: about 120,000 - 200,000 VND/day
Accommodation information at the Ho Dynasty Citadel relic site
To make your trip to explore Ho Dynasty Citadel more complete, choosing the right place to stay will help you have a comfortable rest time and convenient transportation. The area around the monument and Thanh Hoa center has many diverse types of accommodation, well meeting the needs of tourists.
Luxury accommodation (4-5 stars)
FLC Luxury Sam Son Resort
Address: Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa
Reference price: 2,400,000 VND/night
FLC Luxury Sam Son Resort
FLC Luxury Sam Son Resort is a classy 5-star resort, suitable for tourists who want to combine visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel and enjoying a luxurious vacation. With a large space facing the sea, modern design and high-end amenities such as swimming pool, golf course and spa, this place brings a complete and relaxing vacation experience in the middle of the journey to explore Thanh Hoa.
Van Chai Resort
Address: Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa
Reference price: 970,000 VND/night
Van Chai Resort
Van Chai Resort is an ideal 4-star resort for tourists who want to combine visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel and relaxing comfortably. Possessing an airy space near the sea, designed in harmony with nature and a complete utility system, this place brings a pleasant and complete relaxation experience in the journey to explore Thanh Hoa.
In addition, people can refer to other quality 4-5 star hotels near Thanh Hoa Ho Dynasty Citadel relic area such as:
Dragon Sea Hotel Sam Son - 43 Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - price from 800,000 VND/night
Thanh Eco-village - 26 Phuong Hoang, Ham Rong ward, Thanh Hoa - reference price 540,000 VND/night
Ngoc Trai NT50 Bamboo Villa - Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - price from 6,000,000 VND/night
THC Holiday Hotel Sam Son - Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - price from 800,000 VND/night
Resort (Resort, Villa)
LAMORI Resort & Spa
Address: Quyet Tam village, Tho Xuan commune, Thanh Hoa
Reference room price: 3,000,000 VND/room
LAMORI Resort & Spa
LAMORI Resort & Spa is a high-class resort located near the Ho Dynasty Citadel relics, very convenient for the journey to explore the relics. With a cool green space, modern design combined with traditional sophistication and a diverse system of amenities, this place offers a relaxing and classy vacation experience amid the peaceful scenery of Thanh Hoa.
Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection
Address: Village 2, Nam Sam Son, Thanh Hoa
Reference price: 1,900,000 VND/night
Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection
Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection is a high-class 5-star resort combining luxury hotels and villas, suitable for tourists who want to enjoy a classy vacation when visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel. With private space, sophisticated design and modern utility system, this place offers a comfortable, relaxing and inspiring vacation experience amid the journey to explore Thanh Hoa.
Other famous resorts and villas in Thanh Hoa you can refer to:
FLC grand villa Sam Son - Sam Son ward, Thanh Hoa - Price from 1,000,000 VND/night
The Victoria Resort - Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - Price from 900,000 VND/night
Paracel Resort - Hai Tien Beach, Hoang Thanh Commune, Thanh Hoa - price from 800,000 VND/room
Tigon Villa - Hai Tien beach, Hoang Hoa commune, Thanh Hoa - Reference price 500,000 VND/night
Thien Duong Xu Thanh Resort - Village 3, Hoang Tien commune, Thanh Hoa - reference price 600,000 VND/night
Experience (2-3 star hotel, Homestay, Co hotel...)
Sen Bien Hotel
Address: Sam Son ward, Thanh Hoa
Reference price: 700,000 VND/night
Sen Bien Hotel
Sen Bien Hotel is a 3-star hotel suitable for travelers looking for comfortable accommodation at a reasonable cost when visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel. With a convenient location, clean rooms, full amenities and friendly service style, this place brings a comfortable and pleasant feeling to the journey to explore Thanh Hoa.
Duc Thanh Hotel
Address: Yen Truong commune, Thanh Hoa
Reference price: 300,000 VND/night
Duc Thanh Hotel is a convenient accommodation option for travelers visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel. With a location near monuments, neat and fully equipped rooms and reasonable prices, the hotel provides a comfortable resting space, suitable for a short journey of discovery in Thanh Hoa.
Check out more cheap hotels and homestays near the Ho Dynasty Citadel relic site that you can choose to stay in:
Hai Yen Sam Son Hotel - No. 3A Le Loi, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - reference price 400,000 VND/night
Hoang Thai Hotel - 3 Tay Son, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - price from 500,000 VND/night
Duc Thanh Hotel - 57 Ho Xuan Huong, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - reference price 800,000 VND/night
Phuc Anh Sam Son Hotel - Beach C, Xuan Huong Lake, Sam Son Ward, Thanh Hoa - reference price 800,000 VND/night
Local cuisine and festival culture
High-class restaurant
Tay Do Restaurant - Ho Dynasty Citadel
Address: South Gate of Ho Dynasty Citadel - Vinh Tien, Tay Do, Thanh Hoa
Tay Do Restaurant - Ho Dynasty Citadel
Tay Do Restaurant - Ho Dynasty Citadel is an ideal stop for tourists when visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel. The restaurant serves a variety of local dishes in a spacious, airy space, providing a delicious and convenient culinary experience for the journey to explore the relics.
BBQ restaurant 1996
Address: Cau Da, Tay Do commune, Thanh Hoa
BBQ restaurant 1996
BBQ Restaurant 1996 is an attractive dining location for tourists when visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel. Outstanding with delicious grilled dishes, a diverse menu and a youthful, comfortable space, this place offers an interesting culinary experience, suitable for gatherings after a journey to explore the ruins.
Other high-end restaurants:
Huong Viet Restaurant - Highway 217, Tay Do, Thanh Hoa
Sy Huong Restaurant - Tay Do, Thanh Hoa
Hoan Hoa Restaurant - Tay Do, Thanh Hoa
Doi Manh Ha chicken restaurant - Tay Do, Thanh Hoa
…
Local cuisine
When visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel, besides the journey to discover the more than 600-year-old heritage, don't forget to enjoy dishes rich in Thanh's flavors. The cuisine here is rustic but sophisticated, combining local ingredients and traditional cooking methods, creating an unforgettable appeal.
Nem chua Thanh Hoa
Harrow gear
Thanh Hoa shrimp paste
Fish salad
Four Pillars hemp cake
Bitter leaf soup
Snails dipped in ginger sauce
Rice noodle with perch
Thanh eel porridge
Millet cake
…
Fish salad
Experience Culture and festivals
Not only stopping at the architectural and historical value, the journey to the Ho Dynasty Citadel also opens up the opportunity to explore the unique cultural life of Thanh Hoa through rich traditional festivals. Each festival is a story, a vivid slice that helps you better understand the beliefs, customs and spirit of the people here.
Song Temple Festival:Taking place from the 10th to the 26th of the second lunar month in Bim Son, this is one of the largest and most sacred festivals in Thanh Hoa. Outstanding with the solemn procession of the Holy Mother Goddess along with vibrant ritual activities and folk games.
Lam Kinh Festival:Held on the 22nd day of the 8th lunar month at the Lam Kinh relic site, the festival commemorates Le Loi. The solemn festival space combines many historical reenactment activities such as processions, performances and unique traditional rituals.
Sam Son Cau Ngu Festival: Taking place in the third lunar month at Sam Son beach, the festival is rich in coastal culture. This is an occasion for fishermen to pray for a favorable harvest, and at the same time attracts tourists with a bustling atmosphere and many typical folk activities.
Song Temple Festival
Amusement and experience area
After visiting the Ho Dynasty Citadel, you can continue your journey with many interesting attractions and experiences around. These locations provide an interesting balance between cultural exploration and entertainment, making the trip more fulfilling and memorable.
Sun Grand Boulevard Sam Son: The modern entertainment complex stands out with a vibrant space, bustling commercial streets and a special water music show in the evening, bringing a youthful and colorful experience.
Thanh Hoa Water Park:An ideal destination on hot days with many attractive water games such as slides, wave pools and family play areas, suitable for all ages.
Sam Son Beach: Where you can enjoy the fresh sea air, participate in fun activities on the sandy beach and enjoy fresh seafood in the vibrant space typical of Thanh Hoa waters.
Lam Kinh relic area: The perfect combination destination for those who love history, a place that preserves the imprint of the Le Dynasty with ancient space and green landscape, very suitable for sightseeing and relaxation.
Sun Grand Boulevard Sam Son
Suggested tour
Thanh Hoa tour - Fish God Stream - Ho Dynasty Citadel - Lam Kinh - Phu Luong - Mai Chau - Cuc Phuong Forest Ninh Binh - Trang An - Bai Dinh 3D2N
Schedule:
Day 1: HCMC - THANH HOA - LAKE CITIZEN - GODDAMN STREAM - PU LUONG - LANC village - MAI CHAU (HOA BINH)
Day 2; MAI CHAU - CHrysanthemum FOREST PHUONG NINH BINH - TRANG AN - BAI DINH
Day 3: NINH BINH - MUA CAVE - LAM KINH SCENES - THANH HOA - HCMC
Means of transportation: Tourist car
Reference tour price: 7,988,000 VND/person
Organizer: viettourist.com
Thanh Hoa 1 Day Tour: Lam Kinh – Fish God Stream – Ho Dynasty Citadel
Itinerary: Lam Kinh relic area - Fish God Stream - Ho Dynasty Citadel
Means of transportation: Tourist car
Reference tour price: 550,000 VND/person
Organizer: infotravel-tour.com
Ba Trieu Temple - Ho Dynasty Citadel - Lam Kinh 1 Day Tour, Travel Experience Review
Itinerary: Ba Trieu Temple - Ho Dynasty Citadel - Lam Kinh relic area
Means of transportation: Tourist car
Reference tour price: 650,000 VND/person
Organizer: tourdatviet.vn
Thanh Hoa Tour - Magic Fish Stream - Pu Luong - Lam Kinh - Ho Dynasty Citadel 3 Days 2 Nights
Schedule:
Day 1: HANOI – Cam Luong angel fish stream - Dang cave - Pu Luong nature reserve and Deer waterfall
Day 2: Lam Kinh Special National Historical Relic Area - Ho Dynasty Citadel
Day 3: Hon Trong Mai - Doc Cuoc Temple - Khai Minh Pagoda
Means of transportation: Car
Reference tour price: 1,830,000 VND/person
Organizer: mercitour.com
Shopping and Souvenirs
After your journey to explore the Ho Dynasty Citadel, don't forget to take the time to buy souvenirs that bear the mark of Thanh Hoa. These are not only typical products but also a way to preserve memories and share the flavors of this land with relatives and friends.
Nem chua Thanh Hoa
Four Pillars hemp cake
Harrow gear
Ha Yen shrimp paste
Sam Son dried seafood
Nga Son sedge mat
Handicrafts from bamboo
Traditional peanut candy and sausage candy
…
Nem chua Thanh Hoa
Support information and other information
In order for the tour to go smoothly and with peace of mind, you should prepare some necessary information before arriving at the Ho Dynasty Citadel. Saving important support addresses and contact numbers will help you be more proactive in all situations, from asking for travel information to handling problems that arise during the journey.
Thanh Hoa Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism: 74 Le Loi Avenue, City. Thanh Hoa
Thanh Hoa Tourism Promotion Center:0237.385.2222
Tay Do Commune Police:02373680008
Thanh Hoa Provincial Police:0237 3852 697
Emergency phone number:
113- Police
114– Fire rescue
115– Medical emergency
In the heart of the bustling Qing Dynasty, the Ho Dynasty Citadel still stands proudly as a living testament to the nation's heroic history. Hopefully, the shares inThanh Hoa travel guidebelong toTravelVietwill help you be more inspired to explore and fully feel the unique beauty of this special heritage.