Choose from 1,872 Fun Things to Do in Asia
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War Memorial of Korea
Even beyond the Korean War, South Korea's history is wrought with conflict. The War Memorial of Korea documents this history with a focus on the country's relationships with North Korea, China and Japan. A full-fledged museum, the memorial is housed in the former headquarters of the Korean Infantry.
Within the eight main exhibits is an extensive collection of equipment from the Korean War, including tanks, guns and military planes, as well as a series of sculptures and paintings depicting patriotic war efforts. Those who only have time for one exhibit should be sure to visit the Korean War exhibit. Technically, the Korean War is still ongoing, and tensions often run hot between the North and the South, rendering the information here particularly relevant. Travelers who plan to visit the DMZ will benefit from a trip to the War Memorial of Korea first, as it is a great place to full flesh out an understanding of this complex conflict.
Within the eight main exhibits is an extensive collection of equipment from the Korean War, including tanks, guns and military planes, as well as a series of sculptures and paintings depicting patriotic war efforts. Those who only have time for one exhibit should be sure to visit the Korean War exhibit. Technically, the Korean War is still ongoing, and tensions often run hot between the North and the South, rendering the information here particularly relevant. Travelers who plan to visit the DMZ will benefit from a trip to the War Memorial of Korea first, as it is a great place to full flesh out an understanding of this complex conflict.
Address: 29 Itaewon-ro, Yongsan-gu, Seoul, South Korea
From $ 18
War Remnants Museum
A must-visit when in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City’s War Remnants Museum is a poignant reminder of the horrors of war. The grounds house American planes, tanks, helicopters, and weaponry captured during the Vietnam War. Pictorial displays cover everything from the My Lai Massacre to the traumas of Agent Orange and the work of war correspondents.
The Basics
Set in District 3, in the heart of downtown Ho Chi Minh City, not far from Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum provides the perfect introduction to the Vietnam War. You don’t need a tour to visit: English signage is clear, tickets are easy to find, and the often shocking visuals speak for themselves.
History-focused south Vietnam tours often bundle the War Remnants Museum with the Cu Chi Tunnels for a rewarding day out. If pressed for time, the War Remnants Museum is also a regular stop on Ho Chi Minh City day tours, along with sites, such as the Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, although history buffs will want more time at the museum than most city tours allow.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Many Vietnam War images on display are very graphic: Parents and sensitive travelers may wish to avoid.
- The museum’s perspective is, unsurprisingly, anti-American.
- There is an on-site souvenir shop.
How to Get There
The War Remnants Museum is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City, and bus routes 14, 28, and 06 run to the museum. Self-driving Ho Chi Minh City is not for the faint-hearted. Apps, such as Grab, can remove the haggling element from motorbike and car taxi transport. If you’re aiming to check off a number of downtown Ho Chi Minh City sights in one day, a HCMC tour makes sense.
When to Get There
The War Remnants Museum opens early in the day, seven days a week, but closes for lunch between 12pm and 1:30pm. This Vietnam War museum is as popular with Vietnamese as it is with tourists, so it’s worth planning your visit to avoid weekends and major Vietnamese holidays, such as Tet, or arriving as early in the morning as you can.
Tracing the History of the Vietnam War
Between about 1955 and 1975, the Vietnam War changed the shape of Vietnam—and altered America’s position in the world for good. Travelers interested in exploring Vietnam War history further can explore tunnel and cave sites, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels or the cave complex on Cat Ba Island, and tour prisons, such as Hanoi’s Hoa Lo, or even hike the Ho Chi Minh Trail.
Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Admission: Varies
From $ 9
Wan Chai District
Located between Victoria Peak and Victoria Harbor, Wan Chai earned its reputation as a red light district during the Vietnam War (and by featuring in the 1960 film, The World of Suzie Wong). Today the neighborhood has shed much of its seedy reputation, although the area around Lockhart and Johnson Road is still going strong with girlie bars and clubs.
The nightlife in all other parts of Wan Chai is much more down to earth, with a buzzing selection of British pubs, karaoke bars, and dozens of international restaurants. The area even caters for the more upmarket crowd with some fine dining options located along Star Street.
Wan Chai’s rich heritage means there’s plenty to do by day too, with an array of historical sites in the area, most of which feature on the Wan Chai Heritage Trail. Highlights include the century-old Hung Shing Temple and the Old Wan Chai Post Office on Queen’s Road East, which is one of the few remaining examples of colonial architecture of its type.
Practical Info
Wan Chai is well connected by public transport. If travelling by MTR, simply take the Island Line and alight at the Wan Chai stop. Visitors can also take the tram to Wan Chai, which is a scenic way to arrive in the neighborhood, as is hopping on the Star Ferry.
Address: Wan Chai District, Hong Kong, China
From $ 74
Wangfujing Street
There are two reasons to visit Wangfujing Street in Beijing: shopping and eating. The main portion of this commercial street is home to nearly 300 Chinese brand name stores selling everything from clothes and shoes to tea and herbs. In recent years, international and high end brands have also started appearing at this outdoor shopping venue, and while prices tend to be slightly more expensive than in the US, it’s still a fun place to people watch and window shop.
The neighboring Wangfujing Snack Food Street appeals to intrepid tourists and adventurous local eaters. The hundred some food stalls lining this outdoor food market (only open at night) cook and serve a bizarre range of street foods. You’ll find centipedes, star fish, scorpions and honey bees being served alongside sheep innards, candied fruits and other delicacies from around the country. While the offerings may not all sound appetizing, rest assured they are safe, as each stall must meet strict hygienic requirements.
The neighboring Wangfujing Snack Food Street appeals to intrepid tourists and adventurous local eaters. The hundred some food stalls lining this outdoor food market (only open at night) cook and serve a bizarre range of street foods. You’ll find centipedes, star fish, scorpions and honey bees being served alongside sheep innards, candied fruits and other delicacies from around the country. While the offerings may not all sound appetizing, rest assured they are safe, as each stall must meet strict hygienic requirements.
Address: Wang Fu Jing Da Jie, Dong Cheng Qu, Beijing, China
From $ 16
Wat Chaiya Mangkalaram Temple
Queen Victoria donated 5 acres of land to the local Thai community here, where in 1845 they built Wat Chayamangkalaram - a Thai buddhist temple.
The Temple is famed for the enormous gold buddha statue inside. The beautiful gold plated buddha lies 33m / 100 ft in length - his reclining position signifies absolute peace and freedom from the world at the point of enlightenment.
Most unusually, the Buddha's face, hands and feet are painted in rich pigments. Other interesting painted images and statues dot the temple and grounds.
Practical Info
The Wat Chaiyamangkalaram Temple is located 10 mins from Georgetown on the road to Batu Ferringgi, and can be easily reached by bus, taxi or motorbike. Respectful attire should be worn, and hats and shoes removed.
Address: Lorong Burmah (Off Jalan Kelawei), Penang, Penang 10250, Malaysia
Admission: free
From $ 21
Wagah Border
The partition of India and Pakistan in 1947 led to the marking of the Wagah Border between the two nations. It’s located around 30 kilometers from Amritsar and consists of a long white line that defines the border between the two countries, separated by two heavy gates on either side. The Wagah Border is the only open crossing between India and Pakistan that’s officially accessible by both countries.
The border has become famous for its Beating the Retreat ceremony, which marks the closing of the gates and lowering of both national flags a few hours before sunset each day. A huge crowd gathers on both sides to watch the show every evening, which is stylized by pomp and vigor combined with overt patriotism and a sense of ceremonial duty.
Practical Info
Wagah is a 45-minute drive from Amritsar.There are public buses to Attari station, from where the last few kilometers can be made by taking a cycle rickshaw. The Beating the Retreat ceremony begins at 4:15pm daily. There is also a short cultural program performed by local folk dancers beforehand.
Address: AttariWagah Border, Amritsar, Punjab 143001, India
Hours: 4:15pm for Beating the Retreat ceremony
From $ 28
Vietnam Cookery Center
You can get first-hand experience with authentic Vietnamese cooking at the Vietnam Cookery Center. Started in 1999, it is the country’s first professional cooking center offering lessons to both tourists and professional chefs, and it’s located in a French Colonial-era building on Dong Khoi, at the heart of the city. Morning classes start with a visit to the open-air Ben Thanh Market with the chef-instructor to learn about local produce and help select the ingredients for the day’s menu. The cooking lessons take about 3 hours, during which you can learn to create classic Vietnamese dishes like fresh spring rolls, caramel pork in a clay pot, lotus-stem salad, and much more, and then you can sit down with your classmates to share the meal you created together.
Practical Info
Vietnam Cookery Center is located on Dong Khoi in central Ho Chi Minh City, a 12-minute walk from the riverfront. Classes happen every day, twice a day. The price for a morning class with the market visit is $39 per person. For morning classes without the market visit, or afternoon classes, the cost is $34 per person.
Address: 4th Fl, # 26 Ly Tu Trong St., Dist. 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Admission: $34
From $ 55
Vietnam Museum of Revolution
Located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi, the Vietnam Museum of Revolution contains over 40,000 exhibits across 30 galleries covering the country’s history of conflict and revolution from the French colonial occupation in the 19th century onwards, and forms part of the Vietnam National Museum.
The Basics
The content of the museum is divided into three parts, 1858-1945, 1945-1975, and 1975-present, which correspond with the French colonialism period, the American War (Vietnam War) period and the post-war period. Exhibits include historical photos and documents, weapons and flags used by revolutionaries, propaganda posters, statues of Ho Chi Minh and other revolutionary figures, and even gifts from the Vietnamese people and people from other countries to Ho Chi Minh and the Communist government.
A number of sightseeing tours feature a stop at the Vietnam National Museum, along with other top attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ho Chi Minh Complex. Or experience Hanoi like a local on a motorbike tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Admission also covers entry to the Vietnam National Museum of History across the street.
- There is an extra fee to take photos or videos inside the museum.
- Bags must be stored at the entrance; lockers are available.
- It’s best to view the exhibits in order, starting with the first room.
- Those who have some historical background knowledge will appreciate the museum more.
How to Get There
The Vietnam Museum of Revolution is located in the Hoan Kiem district, close to the Opera House. It can be reached by walking from the Old Quarter, or it’s an easy taxi ride from elsewhere. It can also be reached by bus 2, 3, or 4.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day, except the first Monday of each month. There is a break for lunch, so plan your visit accordingly. Expect to spend an hour here, longer if you are very interested in the subject matter. Allot more time if you plan to visit the Vietnam National Museum of History as well.
History of the Building
The museum is housed in a yellow, colonial-style building that once housed the Indo-China Chamber of Commerce, built by the French in 1917. It later housed the Trade Department of Vietnam. The museum itself opened in 1959.
Address: 25 Tong Dan Street, Hanoi, Northern Vietnam, Vietnam
Admission: Varies
From $ 20
Villa Escudero Plantations
An ever-popular retreat from Manila, Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort is a historic hacienda and working coconut plantation. Attractions here run from a restaurant set in a waterfall, where you dine with water running over your toes, to swimming pools, a river, a museum, buffalo-cart rides, bamboo rafts, and cultural dance shows.
The Basics
It’s possible to stay overnight or for several days at Villa Escudero, with accommodation at a range of different price points. However, most choose to visit as a day trip from Manila. Ticket prices, which include lunch at the waterfalls, are substantial but more affordable than western-hemisphere equivalents and vary depending on the day of the week and the season. Villa Escudero tours typically depart from Manila and include door-to-door round-trip transfers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Villa Escudero’s countryside setting, waterfall restaurant, and swimming pools make a great day out with kids.
- Bring swimwear and sunscreen to enjoy Villa Escudero’s two pools.
- The waterfalls in the restaurant where you eat with water flowing over your feet are man-made.
- The carabao buffalo that pull the carts around the plantation enjoy a break every two rides.
How to Get There
Villa Escudero is in Tiaong, Quezon, 62 miles (100 kilometers) south of Manila, or around a 2.5-hour drive. It’s possible to reach the plantation by catching a bus bound for Lucena from Buendia terminal, asking the driver to let you off, and picking up a tricycle. Most travelers will find it easier to book a tour that includes door-to-door round-trip transfers.
When to Get There
Villa Escudero is a hugely popular destination with Manilans. Unless the weekend cultural shows are particularly important to you, avoid visiting on weekends or on public holidays, around Christmas, Easter, and New Year. Mondays, Tuesdays, and Wednesdays are least crowded, especially during the low season, which runs September through November.
Villa Escudero and the Escudero Family
Don Placido Escudero and his wife Doña Claudia Marasigan founded Villa Escudero as a sugarcane plantation during the 1880s. Their son converted to coconut farming during the early 1900s and built the country’s first hydroelectric plant. Since their grandchildren first opened the estate in 1981, a visit here has been a rite of passage for Manilans as an expression of their Filipino heritage.
Address: Philippines
From $ 20
Vietnam National Museum of History
Located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi, the Vietnam National Museum of History forms part of the Vietnam National Museum. With an extensive collection of over 200,000 objects, including numerous precious artifacts and antiquities, it traces the history of Vietnam from prehistoric times to the present.
The Basics
The museum is housed in an architecturally impressive building built in 1925, which incorporates both Vietnamese and French design elements. Exhibits are organized in chronological order. Highlights include bronze pieces from the Dong Son period, Bat Trang pottery, Vietnamese imperial jewelry, and Hindu statues from the Khmer and Champa kingdoms. There’s also a delightful garden with steles and bonsai trees.
A number of sightseeing tours feature a stop at the Vietnam National Museum, along with other top attractions like Hoan Kiem Lake and the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex. Or experience Hanoi like a local on a motorbike tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-visit for those with an interest in Vietnamese history.
- The admission also covers entry to the Vietnam Museum of the Revolution, across the street.
- There’s an extra fee to take photos or videos inside the museum.
- Guided tours are available in Vietnamese, English, and French.
- Bags must be stored at the entrance; lockers are available.
How to Get There
The museum is located in the Hoan Kiem district of Hanoi, close to the Opera House. It can be reached by walking from the Old Quarter, or an easy taxi ride from elsewhere. It can also be reached by bus, including buses 2, 3, and 4.
When to Get There
The museum is open every day, except the first Monday of each month. There is a break for lunch, so plan your visit accordingly. Expect to spend 1-2 hours here. Allot more time if you plan to visit the Vietnam Museum of the Revolution as well.
History of the Building
The Vietnam National Museum of History was formerly home to the Louis Finot Museum of the École Française d'Extrême-Orient, built in 1929 and opened in 1932. The building was designed as a work of art and features Indochine architecture, a blend of French and Vietnamese styles. In 1958, the Vietnamese government took over the building and reopened it as the Vietnam National Museum of History.
Address: 1 Trang Tien St, Hanoi, Vietnam
From $ 34
Vietnamese Women's Museum
The Vietnamese Women’s Museum, one of the best museums in Hanoi, chronicles the history, culture and contributions of Vietnamese women in society throughout the country’s history. The small museum is divided into three themed galleries, Women in Family, Women in History and Women’s Fashion, and all posted information includes French and English translations.
Highlights of the museum include photographs and stories of heroic women during wartime, a set of propaganda posters and the collection of bridal, tribal and religious clothing that serves to highlight the cultural diversity of Vietnamese women. Rotating special exhibitions cover topics like the Vietnam Women’s Union, domestic violence, sex trafficking and Mother Goddess worship, as well as collections of art by female artists.
Practical Info
The Vietnamese Women’s Museum is located within easy walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake. It is closed on Mondays.
Address: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hang Bai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
From $ 62
Warorot Market
Whether it’s dried durian paste and spicy bowls of hot curry or prayer beads and bath towels, the halls of Warorot Market definitely have a little something for everyone. The indoor hub for local ingredients and inexpensive clothing is a perfect place for travelers to sample local cuisine and stock up on handmade items and cheap souvenirs. The streets surrounding the market are also lined with stalls selling handicrafts and artwork from area hill tribes at a fraction of the cost.
Practical Info
The market is located between Chang Moi Road and Thapae Road in Chiang Mai, about two minutes north of the Chiang Mai Night Bazaar. Warorot Market opens early in the day and does not close until after dark.
Address: Mueang Chiang Mai District, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Hours: Opens early, closes after dark
From $ 26
Wat Chalong
As the most significant of Phuket’s 29 Buddhist temples, Wat Chalong attracts hundreds of visitors daily. A mountain backdrop emphasizes a golden spire, while wall paintings inside each temple depict vibrant Buddhist images. The main stupa, known as the Grand Pagoda, is said to harbor a splinter of the Buddha’s bone.
The Basics
Due to its great religious significance, Wat Chalong is an integral part of most Phuket sightseeing tours. Full-day tours often combine a visit to the temple with stops at Old Phuket Town, a cultural melting pot of Malay and Singaporean architecture, and Wang Talang, where you can shop for artisan crafts.
Excursions that combine cycling and jungle trekking with stops at the Chalong Big Buddha and Wat Chalong are a great way to tick off natural and cultural highlights even in limited time.
Things to Know Before You Go
- If you plan to enter the temple, wear clothing that covers your legs, chest, and shoulders.
- Make sure you remove your shoes before entering the temple.
- Photography is allowed inside the temple; however, mobile phones must be in silent mode.
- If you want to cool down, head to the air-conditioned exhibition hall that features life-size wax models of Buddhist figures.
- The temple is free to enter, but donations are encouraged.
How to Get There
Wat Chalong is 5 miles (8 kilometers) outside of Phuket City and is accessible by car or taxi. If you want to skip the hassle of public transport and the expense of taxis, consider visiting Wat Chalong as part of a sightseeing tour that includes round-trip transport.
When to Get There
The large crowds that Wat Chalong attracts are testament to its cultural significance. For the best chance of crowd-free photos, head to Wat Chalong either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. For the best photography opportunities, visit during sunrise or sunset.
Buddhism in Phuket
Each year, during the sixth full moon, Wat Chalong hosts processions in celebration of Wan Phra Yai, which translates as “major holy day.” Buddhist monks carry offerings of candles, incense, and lotus flowers to the Buddha, making this celebration a must-see if you’re in Phuket.
Address: Chaofa West Road, Phuket, Thailand
Admission: Free, but donations accepted
From $ 11
Wareerak Hot Spring Spa
The Wareerak Hot Spring Spa is a unique, award-winning spa located within tropical jungle in Khlong Thom district, Krabi. As well as offering a tranquil place to stay, the spa also offers full- and half-day hot spring experiences, including various treatments, lunch, and return transfers.
Located close to Krabi’s famous Namtok Ron waterfall, the spa uses natural hot spring water to promote good health and vitality. Along with the thermal pools, it offers hydrotherapy sessions, spa treatments, Thai yoga, and Thai massages. There are 14 bungalows and villas that are designed to invoke a sense of relaxation and pampering for overnight guests, and the communal areas include a botanical garden, nature trail, reflexology track, relaxation areas, and a meditation zone.
Practical Info
Various packages are available for half-day, full-day, and overnight visits to the Wareerak Hot Spring Spa. These include relaxation treatments, lunch and round-trip transfers from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
Address: 18 Moo 7, Khlong Tom Nua, Krabi 81120, Thailand
Admission: Dependent on package
From $ 51
Vinh Moc Tunnels
Unlike the famed Cu Chi tunnels—which served as supply caches and strategic combat routes for Viet Cong soldiers and today are swarming with tourists—the Vinh Moc tunnels served a different war time purpose and receive far fewer visitors. Stretching almost two from the coastal town of Vinh Moc to a beach overlooking the South China Sea, the Vinh Moc Tunnels were dug in the late 1960s to serve as a live-in bomb shelter for more than 60 families. The families lived their lives underground, some for up to six years, and one frequently-cited figure says as many as 17 children were born in these underground tunnels their occupation.
Today, visitors can enter the dark and earthen tunnel complex, via a rock-wall rimmed stairway, and, unlike at Cu Chi, walk upright through them. Nooks notched into the sides of the main tunnel served as family quarters or meeting rooms and are today populated by strategically-placed human-sized dummies that show how cramped the villagers must have been. Two deeper layers, up to 70 feet below the ground’s surface, served as storage for weapons and supplies and as a deeper subterranean hiding space from direct bombing attacks. There are more than 10 separate gated entrances to the tunnels that visitors can see along the route. A small on-site museum has photographs and memorabilia that help to paint a picture of life in the tunnels and a map depicting the extent of the Vinh Moc tunnel system.
Practical Info
The tunnels and the museum are open daily from 7 a.m. til 4:30 p.m., there is a 20,000VND admission that does not include a guide. Daytrips to the tunnels and other notable stops around the DMZ area depart from Hue some two hours south; these generally include an English speaking guide, lunch and all entrance fees.
Address: Hue, Vietnam
Hours: Daily 7 a.m. til 4:30 p.m.
Admission: 20,000VND
From $ 38
Wat Bo
One of Siem Reap’s oldest temples, Wat Bo is known for its collection of well-preserved wall paintings from the late 19th century. Though Wat Bo is a Buddhist temple, these paintings depict the Reamker, which is Cambodia’s interpretation of the Ramayana—an epic Hindu story about the love between Rama and Shita, the strongest man and the most beautiful women of all time. There is also an impressive collection of Buddha statues.
It won’t take long to explore Wat Bo as it’s not that big of a temple. However, the paintings are well preserved and, in addition to illustrating the Reamker, the paintings also give insight into daily life in this area. A sharp eye might catch foreigners painted into the scenes, get an idea of what fashion looked like in those days and perhaps spot the likeness of French soldiers. It’s a quiet respite from the liveliness of Siem Reap and a nice break from the expansive temples of nearby Angkor Wat.
Practical Info
Wat Bo is located on the east side of Siem Reap River on the corner of Street 22 and Samdech Tep Vong and gives Wat Bo Area its name. Wat Bo is open to the public from sunrise to sunset and entry is free, though donations are appreciated.
Address: Corner of Street 22 and Samdech Tep Vong, Siem Reap, Cambodia
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
From $ 83
Wangjiang Tower Park & Tomb of Wang Jian
Situated on the banks of the Jinjiang River in Chengdu, Wangjiang Tower Park is dedicated to Xue Tao, a Tang Dynasty female poet who penned some 500 poems. Her marble statue sits amid a bamboo grove. The similarly named Tomb of Wang Jian sits nearby and serves as the final resting place for the emperor of the short-lived Shu Kingdom.
The Basics
These neighboring attractions lie off the main tourist circuit in Chengdu, each offering insight into a notable figure in the city’s history. Visitors to the park can stop at a traditional teahouse for tea made from water drawn from the Xue Tao Well or wander amid the 150 species of bamboo (a favorite plant of Xue Tao).
A visit to the neighboring tomb—the only known above-ground burial site of an imperial Chinese ruler—reveals the only life-size statue of Wang Jian, along with a series of stone statues depicting soldiers and musicians. Some sightseeing tours of the city stop at the park, along with other Chengdu attractions, such as the giant panda breeding center, Wide and Narrow Street, and Factory Memorial Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The park and tomb are must-sees for history buffs, literary-minded travelers, and those looking for an escape from the crowds.
- Give yourself 90 minutes to two hours to tour both the park and nearby tomb.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.
- It’s free to enter the park, but the tomb and a few other structures charge an entrance fee.
How to Get There
To get to Wangjiang Tower Park, take Bus 19, 35, or 1107 to Wangjianglou Gongyuan station.
When to Get There
Both attractions are open daily throughout the year, though it’s a good idea to avoid visiting on Chinese national holidays when they’ll get crowded with domestic tourists. The best time to enjoy the park is in spring (March to June) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild.
Xue Tao Paper
In addition to being a celebrated and prolific poet, Xue Tao was known for inventing a type of delicate paper, today known as Xue Tao Paper, made from water drawn from the well found within the park. Colorful and delicate, the paper was considered of much better quality than the standard coarse, yellow paper used at the time.
Address: China
From $ 67
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, or VME, has two distinct areas - indoor and outdoor.
Indoors is a permanent exhibition divided into 9 sections proudly informing of Historical & Cultural Periods, the 3 Major Sub-Regions, and the 54 ethnic groups classified according to the 5 Language families. Audiotapes highlight fascinating ethnic linguistic differences.
Outdoors is a maturing exhibition showing full-scale examples of ethnic house-building techniques and design. Carefully sourced indigenous trees are sympathetically planted around each appropriate house.
Practical Info
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is located in Cau Giay district. You can take a no.14 minibus from Dinh Tien Hoang Street, heading north past Lake Hoan Kiem to Nghia Tan a few blocks from the museum.
A well-thought out display for anyone interested in history, anthropology, and the diverse ethnicity of Vietnam.
Address: Nguyen van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hours: Tues - Sun 8:30am - 5:30pm. Closed Mondays and during Vietnamese New Year (late Jan or early Feb)
Admission: Adults: VND 25,000, Children: VND 5,000
From $ 18
Vietnam Fine Arts Museum (Bao Tang My Thuat)
The Vietnam Fine Arts Museum in Hanoi is the country’s premier art museum. A well-curated and exhibited permanent collection of over 2,000 items, including paintings, sculptures, ceramics, lacquerwork, and temporary exhibits, trace the development of Vietnamese art from prehistoric times to the 21st century.
The Basics
There are two branches to the museum. The main branch is spread over two buildings, including a stunning French Colonial building renovated to include elements of traditional Vietnamese communal houses. Within an exhibition space of 32,292 square feet (3,000 square meters), the exhibits are arranged into six themes (prehistoric arts, art from the 11th to 19th centuries, art from the 20th century to present, traditional art, folk art, and ceramics), and chronologically from bottom to top. There’s also a Creative Space for Children. The second branch, located at Hoang Cau Street, focuses more on storage, conservation, and restoration.
A number of sightseeing tours feature a stop at the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum. Other stops may include the Temple of Literature, Hoan Kiem Lake, or the Ho Chi Minh Complex, depending on the option chosen. If you want to see Hanoi like a local, take a motorbike tour of the city.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The museum is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Guided tours are available in Vietnamese, English, Chinese, and French.
- Educational programs at the Creative Space for Children require a separate ticket.
- The museum shop offers original paintings by local artists.
- There is a cafe on-site, with both indoor and outdoor seating.
How to Get There
The museum is located in the Ba Dinh District, across the street from the Temple of Literature. It’s about 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) west of Hoan Kiem Lake, and will take about 15 minutes to walk from there.
When to Get There
The museum is open year-round, except for the Tet holidays. The museum rarely gets crowded, making it an ideal alternative when other attractions are busy. The Temple of Literature is across the street and many visitors visit both sites.
Highlights of the Museum
Highlights of the museum include ancient Champa stone carvings, ceramics excavated from five ancient boats, extraordinary effigies of Guan Yin (the 1,000-armed and 1,000-eyed goddess of compassion), lacquered statues of Buddhist monks from the Tay Son dynasty, and its collection of contemporary paintings.
Address: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Hanoi, Vietnam
Admission: Varies
From $ 68
Vinpearl Amusement Park
Set amid the tropical greenery of Hon Tre Island, Vinpearl Amusement Park transforms the beach resort of Nha Trang into a destination perfect for families and thrill seekers. The excitement begins before you even reach the entrance of the park, as you ride a record-breaking 2-mile (3.2-kilometer) cable car suspended above the South China Sea.
The Basics
Most Vinpearl Amusement Park tours include round-trip transport from the mainland, which eliminates the hassle of arranging multiple transfers. Admission tickets include either a 1-way or return trip on the cable car, and access to the theme park, water park, and aquarium that is home to more than 300 species of marine life.
The island resort also features a giant shopping mall, an international food court, a beach, and a giant amphitheater that can accommodate up to 5,000 spectators.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A must-visit for families and thrill seekers.
- You’re likely to do a lot of walking, so make sure you wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.
- Performances that involve street magic and fire shows occur throughout the day: Be sure to check times on arrival.
- Wi-Fi is available throughout the theme park.
- The resort is also home to a 5-star hotel, if you want to stay the night.
How to Get There
Vinpearl Amusement Park is accessible by either the Vinpearl Cable Car, one of the world’s longest cable car routes, or by the Vinpearl speedboat, which is also included in your admission ticket. Speedboats depart regularly from Nha Trang pier. Taking the cable car there and the ferry back gives you the best of both worlds and allows you to enjoy views of Nha Trang Bay from the water and the air.
When to Get There
The park is open year-round, but opening times vary depending on the season. High season falls from June to August, when Vietnamese schools close for the holidays. To beat long lines for rides, try to arrive at the park as early as possible and tick off the main roller coasters before cooling down in the midday heat at the water park.
White-Knuckle Rides for Adrenaline Junkies
If you’ve got an appetite for adventure, head straight for the Extreme Carousel, a spinning carousel that flips you upside down, and a manual roller coaster that allows you to control your speed.
Address: Hon Tre Island, Nha Trang, Vietnam
Admission: Varies
From $ 38