Central Vietnam is well-known for its heritage road with many significant sites recognized by UNESCO, especially the Imperial city of Hue and Hoi An ancient town. Journeying with us from Hue to Hoi An by car will bring you along the route with top natural and cultural attractions. One of the must-visits is the Marble Mountains which is an impressive group of five mountains and limestone hills in Da nang.

Located about 8 kilometers southeast of the city center, Marble Mountains includes five separate mounts named as five basic elements of Eastern: Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth. Each mount has its own beauty, and especially Mount Water - Thuy Son is known as the highest and most famous to tourists. To reach the summit of the mountain, you can hike for an adventurous experience or go by elevator for convenience. When getting to the peak, it is time for you to enjoy the spectacular panoramic view of the city as well as the other mountains.

Mount Water is also home to Buddhist temples and limestone caves. Among many sacred shires and pagodas, Tam Thai Pagoda is the one you should not miss. After walking up for more than 156 steps, you will reach the three-gate entrance which leads to the 400-year-old pagoda. Built in the 17th century and destroyed during the Tay Son Rebellion, the pagoda’s structures have renovated many times throughout history. Wander around the pagoda to enjoy the calm atmosphere and admire its ancient architecture from royal tombs and temples of Hue Imperial Citadel.

Also placed in Mount Water, Linh Ung Pagoda is considered a worth-visit site when exploring the Marble Mountains. The highlight of the pagoda is Xa Loi Tower built in 1997. The tower is 30 meters in heights, with 7 floors and 6 sides, which represents the religious values of Buddhism. The pagoda and its grounds feature various shrines and more than 200 Buddha statues.

Make sure to visit one of the largest and most stunning caves of the complex – Huyen Khong Cave. The cave is famous for its majestic beauty as the sunlight moves through the large holes and shines on the Buddha statue’s face inside the cave. The three-meter high Buddha statue was sculpted into the cliff above the cave floor, in 1960. Huyen Khong Cave has been a witness to tumultuous history, and was used as a secret revolutionary base and medical shelter during wars.

Set at the foot of the Marble Mountains, Non Nuoc fine art village is a traditional handicraft village of stone carving. The village has more than 200 years of history, and now becomes a famous site with hundreds of manufactures and artisan workshops. Stroll around the village to see local craftsmen with their skillful hands creating sophisticated marble products such as statues of Buddha, sphinx, and animals, jewelry, household utensils, etc.

Making a stop at Danang coastal on the way from Hue to Hoi An by car, and exploring the hidden beauty of Marble Mountain will be a great experience you should not miss in Central Vietnam.