With the official merger of Bac Giang and Bac Ninh provinces on July 1, 2025, the newly formed Bac Ninh province has entered a transformative chapter—one that positions tourism as a key economic pillar. More than just a change in administrative boundaries, this unification represents a strategic opportunity to unlock the combined cultural, historical, and natural assets of both former provinces.
Shared Roots and Cultural Legacy
Historically and culturally, Bac Ninh and Bac Giang have always been intertwined. Both are rooted in the Kinh Bac region, sharing the traditions, dialects, and lifestyles that flourished along the Cau River. The area is widely regarded as a cradle of Vietnamese civilization, with deep connections to ancient legends such as that of Kinh Duong Vuong, the mythical forefather of the Vietnamese people.
Bac Ninh also holds a special place in Vietnamese history as the birthplace of the Ly Dynasty, which played a crucial role in establishing the Dai Viet civilization and defending the ancient capital of Thang Long (now Hanoi).
UNESCO Recognitions and Intangible Heritage
The province boasts an impressive seven UNESCO-recognized cultural heritages, the most in Vietnam. Among these, the iconic Quan Ho folk singing is not only a living tradition but also a cultural symbol of Bac Ninh and Vietnamese identity. The province’s international recognition was further elevated in July 2025, when the Yen Tu – Vinh Nghiem – Con Son, Kiep Bac Complex—which spans Bac Ninh, Hai Phong, and Quang Ninh—was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Beyond the prestigious designations, Bac Ninh is home to:
- Over 1,441 classified historical and cultural relics
- 1,400 traditional festivals
- 24 national treasures
- 33 pieces of national intangible cultural heritage
- Numerous craft villages, folk arts, and ethnic communities reflecting a vibrant cultural mosaic.
Diverse Tourism Resources and Natural Appeal
The newly expanded province offers a rich tapestry of geological and ecological features—from serene valleys and forested hills to tranquil lakes and fertile plains. These landscapes are now being transformed into eco-tourism sites, spiritual retreats, and agricultural tourism destinations, with key attractions like:
- Suoi Mo Tourist Area
- Tay Yen Tu Spiritual-Ecological Complex
- Ban Ven Xanh and Bau Tien Ecotourism Sites
- Ongoing development of urban resorts and nature-focused tourism hubs
The integration of Quan Ho cultural spaces, Truc Lam Zen Buddhist heritage, and the highlands of former Bac Giang creates a well-rounded tourism ecosystem. It not only lengthens visitor stays but also offers layered cultural, spiritual, and natural experiences.
Infrastructure and Investment as Growth Catalysts
Strategically located at the northeastern gateway to Hanoi, Bac Ninh is leveraging its position through a growing network of multi-modal transportation systems. A major milestone is the planned opening of Gia Binh International Airport in 2026, which is expected to significantly boost both tourism and commerce.
At the same time, the province is drawing large-scale investments into eco-urban zones, luxury resorts, and hospitality infrastructure, aiming to elevate service quality and create world-class visitor experiences.
Toward a Tourism-Led Economic Strategy
By combining its vast cultural heritage, natural beauty, and favorable geographic position, Bac Ninh is charting a course to make tourism a core driver of economic growth. With coordinated efforts across sectors and a clear vision, the province is poised for a breakthrough, aiming to become one of Vietnam’s leading cultural and ecological tourism destinations in the years ahead.
Source: Bac Ninh News & Radio – Television Station – en.baobacninhtv.vn – Aug 17, 2025
