Nguyen Manh Quyen, the Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, officially approved a decision on September 24, declaring the Huong Son complex in My Duc, Hanoi, as a recognized city-level tourist destination.

Covering an expansive area of more than 4,000 hectares, the Huong Son complex is a significant cultural and religious site, consisting of 21 pagodas, temples, and caves honoring Buddha and local agricultural deities.

The complex is renowned for its scenic landscapes, including mountains, the three-tiered Huong Son forest, and the tranquil Yen stream. Initially constructed in the 15th century and later undergoing several renovations, the Huong Son complex has maintained its historical and natural beauty, playing an important role in preserving Vietnam’s rich and diverse Buddhist cultural heritage.

The Huong Son landscape complex management board reports that the annual Huong Pagoda festival draws around one million visitors. These visitors flock to the site to pay homage to Buddha and immerse themselves in the breathtaking scenery of mountains, caves, and pagodas, where the teachings of the Bodhisattva’s enlightenment have been preserved over centuries.

Beyond the Huong Son complex, the Hanoi People’s Committee has also recognized the Hong Van tourist area in Thuong Tin, Hanoi, as a city-level tourist destination. This decision highlights the growing appeal of lesser-known sites within the region.

Hong Van, located along the Red River in Thuong Tin district, is a suburban commune with rich cultural and natural resources. For years, the commune has been working diligently to establish itself as an attractive destination for visitors seeking a blend of history, nature, and cultural experiences.

The efforts to develop Hong Van as a tourist hotspot are aimed at boosting local economic growth. By positioning itself as a key destination, the commune hopes to bring long-term economic benefits to the region and contribute to Hanoi’s expanding tourism landscape.

Tran Quoc Bao, chairman of the Hong Van People’s Committee, proudly shared that Hong Van rural tourism has seen impressive growth, attracting an average of 35,000 visitors each year. This influx of tourists has generated substantial economic benefits, with tourism revenue estimated to exceed VND10 billion (approximately $406,000). Such figures highlight the increasing popularity of the region as a travel destination and the promising future of its tourism sector.

Looking ahead, the commune has set ambitious goals for 2025. The aim is to transform Hong Van into a prominent stop on both domestic and international travel itineraries, establishing tourism, along with commercial and service sectors, as the cornerstone of the local economy. By focusing on developing these sectors, the commune hopes to strengthen its position within Hanoi’s broader tourism strategy and enhance the region’s economic prosperity.

Under Vietnam’s 2017 Law on Tourism, for an area to be recognized as a city-level tourist destination, it must meet several strict criteria. One of the key requirements is the presence of tourism resources that offer significant advantages, such as outstanding natural landscapes or cultural heritage. These resources form the foundation of a successful tourist destination, offering something unique to attract and captivate visitors.

In addition to its natural and cultural appeal, the area must also provide modern infrastructure, services, and facilities that cater to the diverse needs of tourists, such as accommodation, dining, and entertainment. Furthermore, connectivity to the national transportation and telecommunications networks is essential to ensure easy access for visitors. These elements collectively enhance the overall experience, making the destination more attractive and convenient for travelers.

Lastly, maintaining security, social order, and environmental sustainability is crucial for long-term success. Hong Van must meet these rigorous standards to achieve its goal of becoming a recognized city-level tourist area by 2025. With the right combination of cultural richness, infrastructure development, and environmental stewardship, the commune is well on its way to becoming a vital part of Vietnam’s tourism landscape.

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