Yên Tử is a mountain range in Quảng Ninh Province in northern Vietnam, around three hours east of Hanoi. It is one of the country's most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites and the birthplace of the Trúc Lâm Zen tradition, founded by Emperor Trần Nhân Tông in the 13th century after he gave up the throne to live as a monk. Today, visitors can follow a route through forests to a series of temples, pagodas and shrines that climb the mountainside, with the option of taking a cable car for part of the journey or walking the full route to the summit. The bronze Đồng Pagoda at the top sits over 1,000 metres above sea level, rewarding the climb with wide views across the surrounding hills on a clear day.
Yên Tử appeals to different types of travellers depending on how they choose to experience it. Those who enjoy walking can tackle the mountain trails, while visitors looking for a gentler pace can combine short walks with the cable car and spend more time exploring the temples and peaceful woodland. The complex includes historic sites such as Hoa Yên Pagoda, ancient stone paths and centuries-old trees, offering insight into Vietnam's religious traditions as well as its natural landscapes. Away from the main pilgrimage route, the surrounding area is home to quiet villages, tea plantations and forested hills, making Yên Tử a rewarding stop for travellers interested in both culture and nature rather than simply passing through on the way to Halong Bay.