Nam Định, Vietnam
Region: Nam Định province
Geographic Coordinates: 20.420000, 106.168000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 352108
Language: Vietnamese
Nam Định is a province located in the Red River Delta region of northern Vietnam. It is bordered by the provinces of Ninh Bình to the south, Thái Bình to the east, And Hà Nam to the west. The province has a population of over 2 million people and covers an area of 1, 650 square kilometers. Nam Định has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was known as Tống Bình. The province played an important role in Vietnam’s fight for independence against foreign invaders.
It was also home to many famous scholars and poets during the feudal period, Including Nguyễn Du – author of “Truyện Kiều”, One of Vietnam’s most famous literary works. One of Nam Định’s most popular attractions is Phủ Giày Temple, Which honors Lady Thuong Ngan – a concubine who sacrificed her life for her king during the Lý Dynasty (1010-1225). The temple features stunning architecture with intricate carvings and beautiful gardens that offer visitors a peaceful respite from city life. Another must-visit destination in Nam Định is Xuan Thuy National Park which spans over 12, 000 hectares along the coast.
This wetland sanctuary provides habitat for over 100 species of birds including rare migratory birds such as spoonbills and storks. Visitors can explore this natural wonderland on foot or by boat while learning about conservation efforts aimed at protecting this unique ecosystem. For those interested in history, Nam Định Museum offers exhibits showcasing local artifacts from various periods throughout Vietnamese history. Visitors can learn about traditional crafts such as pottery-making or watch performances featuring traditional music instruments like đàn bầu (monochord) or đàn nguyệt (moon-shaped lute). Nam Định cuisine is another highlight worth exploring.
Popular dishes include bún đậu mắm tôm (vermicelli with tofu and shrimp paste), Bánh cuốn (steamed rice rolls), And nem cua bể (deep-fried crab spring rolls). The province is also known for its sweet treats such as chè sen (lotus seed sweet soup) or chè trôi nước (glutinous rice balls in ginger syrup). Nam Định is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history, Culture, And natural beauty. From ancient temples to wetland sanctuaries, This province has something for everyone. Its unique cuisine is also not to be missed.
Whether you are interested in history, Nature or simply want to sample some delicious food – Nam Định should definitely be on your travel itinerary when visiting Vietnam.
- Phổ Minh Temple
- Trần Temple
- Nam Định Cathedral
- Keo Pagoda
- Xuan Thuy National Park
- Vi Khe Bonsai Village
- Con Den – Con Ngan Ecotourism Area
- Ngoi Bridge
- Co Le Pagoda
- Vu Ban Fruit Garden
- Agriculture: Nam Định is known for its rice production, with the majority of the population engaged in farming.
- Textile industry: The province has a growing textile industry that produces garments, fabrics, and other textiles.
- Construction: The construction industry is also growing due to the increasing demand for infrastructure development and housing.
- Tourism: Nam Định has several historical sites and cultural attractions that attract tourists from all over the world.
- Manufacturing: The province has a small but growing manufacturing sector that produces goods such as electronics, machinery parts, and food products.
- Service sector: There are various service-based businesses in Nam Định like banking services, healthcare facilities, educational institutions which contribute to the local economy.
- Fishing industry: Nam Định’s coastal location makes it an ideal spot for fishing activities – both commercial as well as recreational fishing is popular here.
- The Trần Dynasty ruled Nam Định from 1225 to 1400.
- Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, a famous poet, philosopher and scholar, was born in Nam Định in 1491 and is considered one of Vietnam’s greatest literary figures.
- Nam Định played a key role in the Tây Sơn Rebellion against the Lê Dynasty in the late 18th century.
- Nam Định was under French colonial rule from the late 19th century until independence in 1954 as part of French Indochina.
- Phạm Hùng, a prominent Vietnamese revolutionary and politician who served as Prime Minister from 1987 to 1991, was born in Nam Định in 1912.
- During the First Indochina War (1946-54), a major battle between Vietnamese forces and French troops took place at Cầu Giấy bridge on October 25,1953, located at Nam Định.
- Hoàng Văn Thụy served as military commander during both wars against France and America before becoming Minister of Defense from1976 until his deathin1986; he was native toNam Định province.
- In recent years, Nam Định has become an important center for textile manufacturing and other industries as Vietnam’s economy continues to grow rapidly.
- Nam Định Museum showcases the history and culture of Nam Định province, featuring traditional crafts, ancient artifacts, and local folklore exhibits.
- Phổ Minh Temple is a stunning temple complex with intricate carvings and colorful pagodas that date back to the 13th century.
- Trần Temple is a historic temple dedicated to the Tran dynasty that ruled Vietnam from the 13th to 15th centuries.
- Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám (Temple of Literature) was built in the 11th century as Vietnam’s first university and is dedicated to Confucius while honoring scholars who excelled in their studies.
- Nguyễn Du Memorial House celebrates the life and work of Nguyễn Du, one of Vietnam’s most famous poets who lived during the late 18th century.
- Bà Chúa Kho Temple is located on a hill overlooking Nam Định city and dedicated to a legendary female deity believed to protect sailors and fishermen.
- Hai Thinh Communal House is an excellently preserved communal house dating back over 400 years with intricate wood carvings depicting scenes from Vietnamese mythology.
- Cao Xa Village Gate is one of Nam Định’s most iconic landmarks built in the early 19th century with elaborate dragon sculptures guarding its entrance.
- Mỹ Lộc Pagoda offers serene Buddhist worship surrounded by lush gardens offering stunning views of nearby rice paddies.
- Xuan Thuy National Park along Vietnam’s Red River Delta coast provides habitats for diverse bird species, mangrove forests, tidal flats, among others wildlife species’ homes.
- The club has won several domestic titles, including the Vietnamese Cup in 1997 and 2019.
- Additionally, Nam Định FC has produced several notable players who have represented the Vietnamese national team such as Lê Công Vinh and Nguyễn Hữu Thắng.
- Tran Temple Festival is the most significant festival in Nam Định, held on the 14th day of the first lunar month to honor General Tran Hung Dao, a national hero who defeated Mongol invaders in the 13th century.
- Co Le Pagoda Festival is another major festival in Nam Định, held on the 15th day of the second lunar month to commemorate Princess Lieu Hanh, a legendary figure who brought prosperity and happiness to local people.
- Phu Giay Temple Festival takes place on the 10th day of the third lunar month at Phu Giay Temple, where worshippers come to pray for good luck and fortune.
- Hai Thanh Communal House Festival is celebrated annually on the 12th day of the fifth lunar month, which honors Hai Thanh Communal House – an important cultural landmark that dates back to ancient times.
- Doi Tam Drum-making Village Festival showcases traditional drum-making techniques from Doi Tam Village and has been famous for its drums for centuries. It usually takes place in August or September.
- Keo Pagoda Festival features various cultural activities such as folk games, dragon dancing and traditional music performances and is celebrated on January 4-6 (lunar calendar).
- Vu Ban Flower Market Fair attracts thousands of visitors during Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year) who come to buy flowers and ornamental plants for decoration purposes during Tet holiday season annually.
- Bánh cuốn Nam Định – a type of steamed rice roll filled with minced pork, mushrooms, and onions. It is served with fish sauce and herbs.
- Nem Nam Định – a type of spring roll filled with pork, shrimp, vermicelli noodles, and vegetables. It is served with dipping sauce.
- Chả cá Lã Vọng – a dish made from grilled fish marinated in turmeric and galangal. It is served with dill, peanuts, rice noodles, and shrimp paste.
- Bún bò Huế Nam Giao – a spicy beef noodle soup that originated from the city of Hue but has become popular in Nam Định as well.
- Nhà hàng Cá Lóc Hương Giang – a restaurant that specializes in dishes made from snakehead fish (cá lóc) such as grilled fish or hot pot.
- Quán Ăn Ngon Tô Hiệu – a restaurant that serves traditional Vietnamese dishes such as phở (beef noodle soup), bún chả (grilled pork noodle), and nem rán (fried spring rolls).
- Nhà Hàng Phú Thành – a seafood restaurant that offers fresh seafood dishes such as crab stir-fry or grilled oysters.
- Bún thang Ngô Sĩ Liên – a small street vendor that sells bún thang which is a chicken noodle soup topped with egg strips and shredded dried shrimp.
- Nhà hàng Trung Tâm Ẩm Thực Miền Trung- This restaurant offers authentic Central Vietnamese cuisine like bun bo hue or mi quang at reasonable prices.
- Quán cơm hến 14A Ngo Quyen – This small eatery is famous for its com hen, a dish made with rice, clam meat, pork rinds, and various herbs.
- Tran Hung Dao Park: This park is situated in the heart of the city and boasts a lake, playgrounds, and walking paths.
- Nam Dinh Stadium: This stadium hosts local soccer matches and other sporting events.
- Vuon Hoa Thanh Pho Nam Dinh: This public garden is brimming with flowers, trees, and other plants.
- Bai Tam Quat Lam Beach: Located near Nam Dinh, this beach offers swimming, sunbathing, and other water activities.
- Nguyen Du Park: This park has a lake with paddle boats for rent as well as walking paths and playgrounds.
- Nui Co Tien Pagoda: Positioned on a hill overlooking the city of Nam Dinh, this pagoda provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
- Hai Thai Market: A bustling market that sells fresh produce, seafood, clothing souvenirs among others.
- Chua Thien Truong Pagoda: Another pagoda located in Nam Dinh known for its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere.
- Tam Coc-Bich Dong National Park: A short drive from Nam Dinh lies this national park with impressive limestone caves to explore by boat or foot.
- Xuong Giang Lake Ecotourism Area : Located just outside of the city center lies this scenic lake where visitors can fish or take a boat ride to see local wildlife such as birds and turtles.
