Ha Long City in Quang Ninh Province is among the top tourist destinations in Vietnam. Notably, Quang Ninh Museum, the spectacular architectural work that faces the magnificent Ha Long Bay, is one of the landmarks of this land. It is a must-see museum in Quang Ninh that travelers should not miss out on.
1. An overview of Quang Ninh Museum
- Location: Tran Quoc Nghien Street, Hong Gai, Ha Long
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM every day
- Ticket fee: 40,000 VND/adult, 20,000 VND/student, and 10,000 VND/child
Quang Ninh Museum is situated on Tran Quoc Nghien Street, the most beautiful coastal road that embraces the majestic Ha Long Bay. The museum is only 7 kilometers away from the city center, taking about 10 minutes to reach by taxi. It is about 30 and 59 kilometers away from Tuan Chau Island and Van Don Airport, respectively.
Designed by the Spanish architect Salvador Perez Arroyo, construction of Quang Ninh Museum began in 2012 and was finished in October 2013. Its design was inspired by the color of coal, the principal mineral resource of Quang Ninh Province.
Quang Ninh Museum consists of three interconnected blocks: a museum, a library, and a convention center. The structure is made of 14,000 square meters of temperature-resistant glass, making it look like a big mirror reflecting Ha Long Bay.
2. Explore outstanding features of Quang Ninh Museum
2.1. The one-of-a-kind architecture
This museum is constructed in the style of minimalist architecture, which consists of parallel blocks. Taking inspiration from coal, this museum is entirely clad in black glass panels that create a modern ambiance.
From outside, Quang Ninh Museum looks like a huge sheet of glass that reflects the beautiful Ha Long Bay. The exterior features an exhibition space that showcases one-of-a-kind art sculptures.
Notably, the 28-ton monolithic block here is the largest in Vietnam, and its unique appearance can captivate tourists at first glance. Taking photos at this museum is one of the top things to do in Ha Long City.
2.2. The three floors with precious exhibits
The three distinct floors of Quang Ninh Museum provide visitors with a historical overview of the land and people of Quang Ninh. In contrast to the mysterious black exterior, the interior of the museum is a world of brilliant light that accentuates the artifacts here. Each floor has its own theme, and the exhibits will tell you fascinating stories about this province.
2.2.1. The first floor
The first floor of Quang Ninh Museum in Ha Long is dedicated to the history of nature here. This area features four large, cloth-covered, tubular columns of exhibits that showcase the image of the magnificent Ha Long Bay - the symbol of Quang Ninh’s tourism. With lighting effects, the ambiance on the first floor is significantly more appealing to visitors.
2.2.2. The second floor
On the second floor of the museum, a variety of historical and cultural artifacts of Quang Ninh Province are displayed. Designed to resemble a giant boat, this floor houses archeological artifacts from prehistoric to modern times, which have witnessed many ups and downs of Quang Ninh's history.
In addition, the success of Quang Ninh’s army and people during the resistance wars in the 20th century is documented on this second floor.
A cultural and spiritual space linked to Yen Tu Pagoda is also located here. This area features a miniature replica of Dong Pagoda as well as numerous artifacts. Exhibits from the Tran Dynasty in the 13th century are set up next to a big screen with impressive pictures of Yen Tu Pagoda.
2.2.3. The third floor
The third floor of Quang Ninh Museum describes in depth the coal mining industry of this province. Models of coal mines, trucks, and miners provide visitors with an authentic look at this arduous but rewarding industry.
3. Where to visit near Quang Ninh Museum?
The city of Ha Long is home to many fascinating attractions. If you are looking for great places to visit near Ha Long Bay and Quang Ninh Museum, the following locations are recommended:
3.1. Bai Chay Bridge
Bai Chay Bridge is one of the best places to observe the city from above. It connects two significant economic hubs of the city: Bai Chay and Hon Gai. The modest bend of this cable-stayed bridge makes for truly stunning modern architecture, along with its twin towers. The bridge is exceptionally gorgeous at night as it is lit up with colorful lights.
3.2. Ti Top Beach
Ti Top Beach is nestled at the foot of Ti Top Island, a renowned attraction in Ha Long Bay. This crescent-shaped beach allures tourists with its tranquil setting, white sand, and clear sea that is perfect for swimming and snorkeling. On the island, you will find a bar and restaurant serving beer and locally caught seafood.
3.3. Long Tien Pagoda
The largest pagoda in Ha Long is located just 2.5 kilometers away from Quang Ninh Museum. It was built in the traditional architectural style of the Nguyen Dynasty. Long Tien Pagoda features a triple-arch entrance topped by a Buddha statue and a bell tower. The pagoda draws a large number of visitors on the 1st and 15th day of each lunar month, as well as during the Tet Holiday.
4. The best place to stay on your trip to Quang Ninh Museum
Besides Quang Ninh Museum and the aforementioned places, Ha Long is home to a lot of other tourist attractions, such as Bai Tu Long Bay, Tuan Chau Island, Bai Chay Beach, Bai Tho Mountain, Yen Tu Pagoda, just to name a few.
To enjoy your Ha Long trip to the fullest, choosing a good place to stay is essential. There are several lodging options available for all budgets and preferences here, and Vinpearl Resort & Spa Ha Long is the most notable name. This resort makes an impression with its three private beaches, lush grounds, and a 1,200-square-meter outdoor swimming pool. In particular, the spacious balconies of its rooms are perfect for watching the sunrise over the magnificent bay and the gorgeous Ha Long City beyond.
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Thanks to its distinctive architecture and the large number of exhibits it displays, Quang Ninh Museum is a perfect place for museum-goers and aesthetes to visit in Ha Long City. Hopefully, this article can provide you with some insights into this appealing attraction, so that you can be well-prepared for your upcoming tour!
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