Thanh Hoa

Thanh Hoa Province occupies a unique geographic position, connecting some regions of Vietnam. As the northernmost province of the North Central Coast, it is influenced by both the Eastern and Northwestern regions. This is reflected in its natural environment, culture, and people.

The location of Thanh Hoa Province in Vietnam

Thanh Hoa has immense tourism potential. In recent years, the province has increasingly become a popular tourist destination. Visitors can also participate in festivals, dances, and cultural activities of various ethnicities. Discover Thanh Hoa with Asia King Travel through the article below.

Location

Thanh Hoa Province is located North Central Coast region. To the Northwest, the province borders with Hoa Binh and Son La provinces. It lies between Nghe An to the north and Ninh Binh to the south. The coastline stretches 100 kilometers through the province. Inland, the mountains and forests of the Truong Son Range form a natural border with Laos to the west.

The province has a diverse landscape of mountains and seas. Photo: Vietnamnet

History

Archaeological evidence shows that Vietnamese people have inhabited this area for the past 6,000 years. It belonged to Cuu Chan District under Van Lang Kingdom. In 1029, King Ly Thai Tong renamed the region Thanh Hoa

In 1400, King Ho Quy Ly founded the Ho Dynasty and moved the capital from Thang Long to Thanh Hoa, renaming it Tay Do. But before the dynasty could consolidate its power, the Ming army invaded. Yet, it was another human of Thanh Hoa who would rise and reclaim national sovereignty. Hailing from Lam Son, Le Loi together with talented individuals initiated a rebellion against the Ming Army.

Painting of Le Loi leading the army to defeat the Ming army. Photo: Hoc365

In the early years, outnumbered and facing countless difficulties, the uprising army was nearly defeated. By changing their tactics, the army achieved consecutive victories. After 10 years of fighting, the Lam Son army successfully drove out the Ming invaders in 1428. Le Loi was then enthroned as King Le Thai To, marking the beginning of the glorious Le Dynasty.

Thanh Hoa people hold Lam Kinh Festival to celebrate the victory of Lam Son army. Photo: Thanh Hoa Newspapers

The Le dynasty set the capital back in Thang Long, and the province returned to its old name. Thanh Hoa's boundaries did not change throughout history, only its administrative divisions. Currently, it has 2 cities, 2 towns, and 23 districts with a population of over 4 million.

How to get there

By air

Getting to Thanh Hoa by plane is a side option since the nearest airport is Vinh International Airport in Nghe An Province, 60 kilometers away. This airport has flights connecting to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, as well as some international routes to places like Bangkok, Taipei, and Seoul.

By road

Hitting the road is the best way. The province is well-connected by major highways like the North-South Expressway and National Route 1A, making it a breeze to drive in from nearby cities or even road trip from far away. If you're coming from Hanoi, it's just a 3-4 hour cruise down the highway.  

An intersection on National Highway 1A through the provincial city. Photo: VnExpress

Travelers without their own wheels, no worries! Coaches run frequently between Thanh Hoa and Hanoi. Prices are cheap too - you can grab a comfy seat for just a few bucks. Renting a car and doing a self-drive adventure is an awesome option. The roads are decent and having your ride lets you go total explore mode.

By train

Taking the train is a scenic and relaxing way to travel. The main railway line runs across Vietnam including Thanh Hoa. Trains run frequently throughout the day. The train stations in the province are basic but functional, with a few small food stalls and shops nearby. If you're traveling from Southern Vietnam, consider buying a train ticket.

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Best time to visit Thanh Hoa

Thanh Hoa has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it has two distinct seasons - a hot and humid season from May to October, and a drier and cooler season from November to April. The best times to visit are typically during April - August when Sam Son Beach and Pu Luong call you for a cooling break.

Pu Luong enjoys a cool climate throughout the year. Photo: Farwego Travel

September and October are also great with cooler temperatures. This is an ideal time for festivals and events like the Lam Kinh Festival in September which commemorates Le Kings.

What to eat

Fermented Pork Sausage (Nem Chua)

Nem chua is Thanh Hoa’s icon dish. If you're a foodie looking to tantalize your taste buds with something truly unique, you've got to try it. This will make you surprise with its intense flavors and funky aromas.

You won't find the taste of nem chua anywhere else. Photo: Nem Thanh

The making process starts with minced raw pork and sliced pork skin mixed with garlic, chili, and other spices. Then they are wrapped in banana leaves or guava leaves. Through natural fermentation by enzymes in the leaves, the meat will ferment and be ready to eat in about 3-5 days. 

Nem chua can be eaten directly or fried for a delicious treat. It has a slightly chewy texture and a tangy flavor, often served with chili sauce. Paired with beer, they become the perfect combo at any street food stall.

Seafood

Not just Sam Son, the province has many beaches and all of them have delicious seafood. This seafood paradise will treat you to a variety of dishes. Squid is the most popular choice and visitors often buy dried squid as gifts. The province has a type of green crab that is meaty, sweet, and very nutritious. Other seafood delicacies are fish, clams, mantis shrimp, etc.

Nem chua, dried squid, and beer - that's all the men want for a drink. Photo: VnExpress

Che Lam Phu Quang

Phu Quang is the old name of Vinh Loc District, famous for che lam specialty. Che lam is a sweet snack made from sticky rice flour, cut into long strips about the size of a finger. Molasses and honey provide sweetness, while ginger and peanuts add a warm touch.

If you are a sweet tooth, you will love che lam at the first bite. Photo: Timtour

Unlike other places, Phu Quang has a unique process that makes che lam has a sweet and delicate flavor. Hot tea perfectly complements the flavor of both, making them a perfect combination for cold days. Made from natural ingredients, the snack is good for your health when consumed in moderation.

Conclusion

Thanh Hoa Province has countless attractions from the mountains to the sea. You can experience the culture of the Northwest, the festive atmosphere of the Northeast, or the stunning beaches of the Central region, all in one place. Contact Asia King Travel now to find endless entertainment in Vietnam.

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