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Legend of Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay attracts visitors not only with the majestic beauty of its limestone mountains, fairy-like caves, and crystal-clear beaches, but also with the historical legends and myths passed down through generations.

These legends are not just captivating stories—they are testaments to the patriotism and determination of the Vietnamese people in defending their homeland. They add to the mystique and allure of Ha Long Bay, a unique and proud natural heritage of the nation. The region is also home to many H'Mong people.

Origin of the Name "Ha Long Bay"
“Ha Long” means “Descending Dragon.” Before the 19th century, the name Ha Long Bay was not found in ancient Vietnamese texts. The area was mostly known by other names such as Giao Chau, Luc Thuy, An Bang, An Quang, Hai Dong, Hoa Phong, and Nghieu Phong. It wasn’t until the late 19th century that the name “Ha Long Bay” appeared on French nautical maps of the Gulf of Tonkin and in some French and Vietnamese-language articles. One article in the French-language newspaper “Hai Phong News” reported: “A dragon appeared in Ha Long Bay.”

The Legend of the Descending Dragon
In Vietnamese, “Ha Long” means “Dragon descending.” The name is linked to a legend passed down through generations. The story tells that in the early days of the nation, Vietnamese people were attacked by foreign invaders coming by sea. Seeing this, the Jade Emperor sent the Mother Dragon and her children down to help. As the enemy ships approached the coast, the dragons descended from the heavens. They immediately breathed fire, burning the invaders’ ships, and some of the pearls they spat out formed a massive stone wall—towering and unyielding—that caused the enemy vessels to crash and shatter.

This tale, believed to originate from the time of the Hung Kings, reflects the deep patriotism and resilient spirit of the Vietnamese, as well as divine support in times of hardship. It gives the name Ha Long Bay a distinctive and symbolic meaning, making it a cultural and historical icon of Vietnam.

UNESCO Recognition
Ha Long Bay has been honored twice by UNESCO:

In 1994, it was recognized as a World Natural Heritage Site for its exceptional scenic beauty.
In 2000, it was again recognized for its outstanding global geological and geomorphological value.

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