With its unique and distinctive values, the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son - Kiet Bac Complex of Monuments and Scenic Spots, whose core is Truc Lam Buddhism, along with its system of temples, hermitages, pilgrimage routes, stone steles, woodblocks, and relics preserved and distributed over a vast area, has been highly appreciated and recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site according to criteria (iii) and (vi). This is evidence of the unique combination of state, religion, and people in forming the Vietnamese national identity; along with the sacred landscape formed through frequent and close interaction with nature and an ethical system based on love of peace , self-cultivation, tolerance, compassion, and harmony between man and nature.
With 12 clusters and sites, the Yen Tu - Vinh Nghiem - Con Son - Kiet Bac Complex of Historical and Scenic Sites fully embodies the Truc Lam Buddhist tradition, from its founding in the sacred Yen Tu mountain region, evidenced by ancient temples, hermitages, towers, and archaeological sites, to the Vinh Nghiem Pagoda and the Con Son - Kiet Bac historical site, and the systematization of philosophies expressed through inscriptions, related artifacts, and ritual practices. These sites provide a complete representation of the history, spirit, and geography of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, demonstrating the formation, development, and enduring relationship of tangible and intangible cultural values and documentary heritage within historical and cultural spaces.
The complex has a core area of 525.75 hectares and a buffer zone of 4,380.19 hectares. The core zone comprises 12 main heritage components, fully reflecting the formation, spread, and revival stages of the Truc Lam Zen sect.
With the Yên Tử - Vĩnh Nghiêm - Côn Sơn - Kiếp Bạc Complex of Historical Sites and Scenic Landscapes becoming a World Cultural Heritage site, Quang Ninh now possesses two unique World Heritage sites: one underwater and one in the mountains. Previously, with an area of 1,553 km², encompassing nearly 2,000 large and small islands creating a magnificent, magical, and breathtaking landscape, a harmonious blend of rock and water, along with a unique cave system and unparalleled geological and geomorphological features, Ha Long Bay was recognized three times by UNESCO as a World Natural Heritage site. On December 17, 1994, UNESCO recognized Ha Long Bay as a World Natural Heritage site for its exceptional global aesthetic value. On December 2, 2000, UNESCO recognized Ha Long Bay as a World Natural Heritage site for the second time for its geological and geomorphological value. On September 16, 2023, UNESCO recognized the Ha Long Bay (Quang Ninh) - Cat Ba Archipelago ( Hai Phong ) complex as a World Natural Heritage Site.
Over the years, the unique and special values of Ha Long Bay and Yen Tu have become a magnet attracting tourists to Quang Ninh. Ha Long Bay, a World Natural Heritage site, welcomes millions of visitors annually, especially as a favorite and preferred destination for international tourists. Yen Tu, a historical and scenic site, attracts over one million domestic and international visitors each year for sightseeing, relaxation, and pilgrimage. With its long-standing cultural values, embodying the essence of the Truc Lam Zen sect, Yen Tu possesses a special appeal. For example, the event of the Buddha Shakyamuni's relics being brought and enshrined at Truc Lam Yen Tu Palace in June 2025 attracted over one million people, tourists, and Buddhists from all over the country and internationally to offer incense, worship, pray for peace, and contemplate Buddhist teachings.
Now, with Quang Ninh possessing two World Heritage sites with unique values, it has a huge advantage for the development of tourism and services. Quang Ninh's tourism industry is facing the opportunity to connect these two World Heritage sites to enhance experiences, create new, attractive, and unique tourism products, thereby increasing the appeal of Quang Ninh tourism, especially to international tourists.
Source: https://baoquangninh.vn/ket-noi-hai-mien-di-san-the-gioi-3366707.html
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