Hoa Lu Ancient Street: A Lively Folk Culture Space After Dark
Partly recreating the ambiance of the ancient capital, Hoa Lu Ancient Street is a distinctive nighttime entertainment spot in Ninh Binh. Located near the Trang An – Bai Dinh complex, this street attracts tourists not only with its shimmering lanterns and traditional architecture, but also with its festive atmosphere filled with Northern Vietnamese folk culture.
From early evening, the area comes alive with a night market showcasing local handicrafts and cuisine. Visitors can find bamboo and rattan products, ceramics, handmade souvenirs, and regional specialties such as crispy rice, five-colored floating rice cakes, and grilled mountain goat.
At the outdoor stage, traditional folk performances like water puppetry, Xam singing, Ca Tru, and Cheo opera are held nightly, drawing both domestic and international audiences. Folk games such as tug of war, bamboo dancing, and blindfolded goat catching also contribute to the joyful and engaging atmosphere.
A highlight not to be missed is the ancient costume rental service. Many visitors—especially the younger crowd—delight in transforming into royal court characters for photos, capturing memorable moments amid the nostalgic glow of lanterns and wooden rooftops.
According to event organizers, during festivals like the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital Festival or Mid-Autumn Festival, the number of visitors to the street can reach thousands per night, underscoring its cultural and tourism appeal in the province’s night time economy.
Bai Dinh Pagoda Night Tour: A Soul-Healing Journey
In contrast to the bustling atmosphere of Hoa Lu, the night tour of Bai Dinh Pagoda offers a completely different experience: serene, meditative, and mystical. As the lights subtly illuminate the pagoda rooftops, Buddha statues, and the corridor of Arhat statues, the entire Bai Dinh complex takes on a surreal, otherworldly beauty.
The tour typically begins around 6:30 PM, with electric shuttle cars taking visitors through the main areas of the complex. Under soft lighting, walking through the Arhat corridor or quietly admiring Buddha statues under the night sky evokes a deep sense of peace. Many people choose this time to pray, reflect, or simply meditate in the sacred atmosphere.
A special feature of the experience is the tea ceremony—a gentle, mindful ritual. Herbal teas such as lotus, chrysanthemum, and mountain honey tea are served with light vegetarian cakes in a tranquil setting, encouraging guests to reconnect with themselves after the spiritual journey.
In addition, many night tours include herbal foot soaking using warm water infused with natural herbs such as ginger, cinnamon, mugwort, and essential oils. This therapy helps relieve fatigue, improve circulation, and is especially beneficial for elderly guests or those who have walked extensively during the day.
More Than Just Daylight - Ninh Binh Shines at Night
These nighttime experiences in Ninh Binh reveal the region's great potential for after-dark tourism, where traditional culture and spirituality blend seamlessly in a heritage-rich setting. Whether you're seeking the vibrant charm of folk life or the peaceful retreat of a sacred space, Ninh Binh at night delivers unforgettable memories that resonate long after the journey ends.
