Cẩm Phả, Vietnam
Region: Quảng Ninh province
Geographic Coordinates: 21.016700, 107.317000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 35.0°C (59°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal climate and weather patterns in Cẩm Phả, Vietnam are influenced by the monsoon season, resulting in a wet and humid summer from May to September, and a dry and cooler winter from November to March.
Population: 156000
Language: Vietnamese
Cẩm Phả is a bustling city located in the Quang Ninh province of Vietnam. It is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Tonkin, Making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The city has a rich history dating back to the 13th century and played a significant role during the French colonial period. One of Cẩm Phả’s highlights is its beautiful beaches. Bai Tu Long Bay, Located just off the coast, Boasts crystal clear waters and pristine sandy beaches perfect for swimming, Sunbathing or relaxing in a hammock.
Visitors can also take part in various water activities such as kayaking, Snorkelling and diving. The city offers several cultural attractions showcasing its rich history. One such attraction is Cửa Ông Temple built during the Ly Dynasty (1010-1225) to honour Tran Quoc Tang – one of Vietnam’s most respected generals. The temple features intricate carvings and statues that reflect traditional Vietnamese artistry. Another must-visit site in Cẩm Phả is Vua Ba Temple – an ancient temple dedicated to a local goddess believed to have protected fishermen from storms at sea.
The temple features ornate decorations including colourful murals depicting scenes from Vietnamese folklore. For those interested in exploring nature, There are several parks and reserves around Cẩm Phả worth visiting including Yen Tu National Forest Park – home to rare species such as red pandas and black gibbons; or Tien Ong Cave – an impressive limestone cave system with stalactites and stalagmites formed over millions of years.
Foodies will be delighted by Cẩm Phả’s culinary scene offering fresh seafood caught daily from nearby waters along with other local delicacies such as banh cuon (steamed rice rolls filled with pork) or bun cha ca (fish cake noodle soup). Cẩm Phả is also home to a vibrant night market where visitors can shop for souvenirs, Handicrafts and sample local street food. The market is especially lively on weekends when locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the festive atmosphere. Cẩm Phả offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, Cultural attractions and delicious cuisine.
It is an ideal destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Vietnam’s coastal region.
- Cửa Ông Temple: A beautiful temple dedicated to Tran Quoc Tang, a Vietnamese general.
- Yen Tu Mountain: A popular pilgrimage site for Buddhists with stunning views from the top.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: An off-the-beaten-path alternative to Halong Bay with less crowded beaches and pristine waters.
- Quang Ninh Museum and Library: A modern museum showcasing the history of Quang Ninh province with interactive exhibits.
- Vuon Dao Market: A bustling local market where you can find fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables at affordable prices.
- Tra Co Beach: The longest beach in Vietnam stretching over 17 km with white sand and clear water perfect for swimming or sunbathing.
- Hoành Bồ District Square Monument: A symbol of national unity located in Hoành Bồ district commemorating the victory against French colonialism in 1947.
- Truc Lam Giac Tam Zen Monastery: One of the largest Zen monasteries in Vietnam surrounded by lush greenery and tranquil scenery perfect for meditation or relaxation.
- Cam Pha Coal Mine Heritage Site: An industrial heritage site that provides an insight into coal mining operations during wartime North Vietnam.
- Van Don Island District: A cluster of islands offering scenic beauty, white sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, limestone cliffs, etc.
- Coal mining
- Fishing
- Agriculture
- Manufacturing
- Tourism
- Retail
- Transportation
Coal mining is a significant source of employment and revenue for the city.
The location of Cẩm Phả on the coast makes it an ideal spot for fishing with many fishermen operating in the area.
The fertile land surrounding Cẩm Phả supports agriculture with rice being a major crop.
There are several small manufacturing businesses in Cẩm Phả that produce items such as textiles and ceramics.
Additionally, the city’s proximity to popular tourist destinations such as Ha Long Bay has led to an increase in tourism-related businesses such as hotels and restaurants.
Retail outlets selling everything from clothing to electronics can also be found throughout the city.
Finally, as a hub for transportation between Ha Long Bay and other nearby cities there are many transportation-related businesses operating in Cẩm Phả including taxis and buses.
- The Battle of Cẩm Phả in 1954 during the First Indochina War, where Vietnamese forces defeated French colonial troops.
- Trần Đại Nghĩa, a revolutionary leader who fought against French colonial rule and was born in Cẩm Phả.
- The coal mining industry in Cẩm Phả dates back to the early 20th century and has played a significant role in the town’s development.
- The establishment of the Cẩm Phả Thermal Power Plant in 2010 is one of the largest power plants in Vietnam and has helped boost economic growth in the region.
- Nguyễn Văn Linh, a former General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam who was born near Cẩm Phả played a key role in implementing economic reforms known as Đổi Mới (Renovation) during late 1980s and early 1990s.
- Cẩm Phả Coal Mine Museum: This museum showcases the history of coal mining in Vietnam, with exhibits on tools, equipment, and the daily lives of miners.
- Cửa Ông Temple: A beautiful temple located on a hill overlooking the sea, this is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
- Trung Đô Cultural Village: This cultural village offers visitors a glimpse into traditional Vietnamese life, with demonstrations of crafts such as weaving and pottery making.
- Ha Long Bay: One of Vietnam’s most famous natural wonders, Ha Long Bay is known for its stunning limestone cliffs and crystal clear waters.
- Bai Tu Long Bay: Located adjacent to Ha Long Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay offers similar scenery but with fewer crowds.
- Quang Ninh Museum & Library: This modern museum features interactive exhibits on the history and culture of Quang Ninh province.
- Yen Tu Mountain: A sacred mountain that has been an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists for centuries, Yen Tu Mountain offers stunning views and numerous temples to explore.
- Co To Island: A beautiful island located off the coast of Cẩm Phả, Co To Island is known for its pristine beaches and crystal clear waters perfect for swimming or snorkeling.
- Vung Duc Temple: A historic temple dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao who led Vietnam’s resistance against Mongol invasions in the 13th century.
- Hon Gai Market: An indoor market selling everything from fresh seafood to souvenirs, Hon Gai Market is a great place to experience local life in Cẩm Phả.
- Cẩm Phả Coal Festival: This festival takes place every November to honor the coal industry that has greatly contributed to the city’s economy for centuries.
- Quang Ninh Seafood Festival: This annual event held in April showcases the seafood specialties of Cẩm Phả and other coastal areas of Quang Ninh province.
- Yen Tu Spring Festival: Commemorating King Tran Nhan Tong, who founded Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, this festival is held on Yen Tu Mountain between January and March each year.
- Ha Long Carnival: Although not located in Cẩm Phả, this carnival is an annual event held nearby in Ha Long Bay featuring colorful parades, music performances and street food vendors.
- Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated throughout Vietnam every September or October with lantern displays, lion dances, mooncakes and other traditional activities for children.
- Tet Nguyen Dan (Vietnamese New Year): The most important holiday celebrated nationwide with family reunions, feasting on traditional foods like banh chung (sticky rice cake), dragon dances and fireworks displays during late January or early February depending on lunar calendar dates.
- Bánh cuốn Hồng Phượng – a restaurant famous for its delicious steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and mushrooms.
- Cơm tấm Thanh Hoa – a restaurant that serves traditional Vietnamese broken rice dishes with grilled pork, fried egg, and pickled vegetables.
- Chè Hạ Long – a dessert shop that offers various sweet treats made from beans, fruits, and coconut milk.
- Nem cua bể – a specialty dish of Cẩm Phả made from crab meat wrapped in rice paper and deep-fried until crispy.
- Bún chả cá Lã Vọng – a noodle soup dish with fish cakes and vermicelli noodles served in a flavorful broth.
- Quán ăn Mỹ Dung – a local eatery known for its seafood dishes such as grilled oysters, clams, shrimp skewers, and steamed crabs.
- Café Đá Xưa – an old-fashioned café that serves traditional Vietnamese coffee brewed using metal filters over hot coals.
- Cẩm Phả Botanical Garden is a lovely park that boasts many plant species, a serene lake, and beautiful walking paths.
- Cẩm Phả Stadium is the perfect venue for local sports events with its excellent facilities for soccer, volleyball, and other athletic activities.
- Vân Đồn Beach near Cẩm Phả is an ideal spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports enthusiasts.
- Cửa Ông Temple in the town of Cửa Ông offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage with its historical significance.
- Quang Hanh Hot Spring Park features natural hot springs that are believed to have therapeutic properties making it an ideal spot to unwind and relax.
- Hạ Long Bay located near Cẩm Phả is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty that can be explored through boat tours.
- Tuan Chau Island is home to several resorts offering visitors beaches, water sports activities, restaurants as well as entertainment options making it an excellent destination for relaxation or adventure-seeking tourists alike.
- Tiên Yên Eco-Tourism Park offers hiking trails through lush forests accompanied by scenic views of the surrounding mountainside countryside making it perfect for nature lovers seeking some adventure while on vacation!
