Halong Countryside
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Port
Halong Bay, Vietnam
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$100
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 5 hours
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Meals Included
Meals included
This trip to the serene and idyllic landscape of the Halong countryside features lush rice paddies, charming villages, and plenty of serenity and tranquility to go around. It is a peaceful escape far from bustling city life with an introduction to Zen.
A 90-minute scenic drive leads to the Giac Tam Buddhist Zen Monastery. Along the way, enjoy the views of the scenic countryside of Halong, passing villages surrounded by bamboo fences and limestone walls. On site, learn of the history of Vietnamese's Buddhist Zen, set up by the Tran Kings who routed Kublai Khan's troops in the 13th century. The monastery was the first Buddhist Zen Monastery in the north. It is situated on the site of the Cai Bau Pagoda, on the banks of Bai Tu Long Bay. Visit the monastery and hear a Zen lesson given by one of the monks, who demonstrates proper Zen meditation.
Walk into the village made up of small roads, houses and temples. At a local home, you'll chat with the resident farmer, interact with the children, and learn about their lives and ways of worship. Enjoy a cup of tea and visit the farmer's gardens with numerous fruit trees from the north of Vietnam.
Then, reboard the coach for the drive back to the pier.
Please note:
Depending on the season, the trees may or may not have fruits or flowers. In the event that monks are not available to give the Zen lesson, your guide will lead the lesson and meditation. Terrain includes 170 steps at the Main Hall of the Monastery. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water.