How Can You Enjoy Halong Poem Mountain in One Day? The Bay’s Most Poetic Viewpoint

Nestled in the heart of Halong City, Poem Mountain (Bai Tho Mountain) is more than just a hiking spot, It’s a symbol of history, culture and natural poetry. Rising majestically behind the bustling streets and shimmering bay, this limestone peak offers one of the most spectacular panoramic views of Halong Bay. For travelers who only have one day in Halong, this iconic mountain provides a perfect mix of culture, adventure and photography, all within walking distance of the city center.

Let’s explore how you can make the most out of your one-day Poem Mountain adventure from sunrise hikes to discovering local heritage, all while soaking up the poetic charm that gave this mountain its name.

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What Is Poem Mountain and Why Is It Famous?

The Origin of the Name “Poem Mountain”

Halong bay day cruise - Bai tho mountain — Bai Tho mountain

Poem Mountain or Bai Tho Mountain, literally means “The Mountain of Poems.” It earned this name centuries ago when King Le Thanh Tong of the 15th century was so inspired by the view that he carved a poem on the cliff face in praise of Halong’s beauty. Later, other scholars and poets followed, leaving behind inscriptions that transformed this limestone peak into a living monument of art and literature. Today, even though parts of the poem have faded with time, the legacy remains, a blend of Vietnamese poetry, history and nature.

The Cultural Symbol of Halong

Poem Mountain isn’t just a tourist attraction; it’s an emblem of Halong City. You’ll see it printed on postcards, murals and even local businesses’ logos. Locals often say that “Halong would be incomplete without Bai Tho Mountain.” Its presence connects the modern-day city to its ancient poetic soul.

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How to Reach Poem Mountain in One Day

Location and Coordinates

Coordinates: 20.9518° N, 107.0855° E. Google map
Address: Bai Tho Street, Hồng Gai Ward, Hạ Long City, Quảng Ninh Province, Vietnam.

The mountain is located right in the heart of Halong City, just about:

5 minutes from Halong Plaza Hotel.
10 minutes from Sun World Halong Park.
15 minutes from Bai Chay Bridge.

You don’t need to travel far, you can literally walk or take a short motorbike or taxi ride from most city hotels.

Getting There from Halong Plaza Hotel

If you’re staying at Halong Plaza Hotel, the easiest way to visit Poem Mountain is:

By walking (around 20 minutes): Follow Bai Tho Street until you reach the Hon Gai residential area.
By taxi or motorbike (about 5 minutes): Ask the driver to take you to Bai Tho Mountain – Bai Tho road.

Tip: Bring your camera and water bottle, the climb is short but steep!

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Hiking the Poem Mountain – A Step-by-Step One-Day Itinerary

6:00 AM – Start Your Morning Hike

The best time to climb Poem Mountain is early morning, just before sunrise. The weather is cool and the golden sunlight over Halong Bay creates a magical, misty view.

Entrance tip: Although Poem Mountain was officially restricted for a few years for safety reasons, many travelers still visit through local contacts. If you plan to go, check with your hotel concierge or local guide to ensure the trail is open.

7:00 AM – Reach the Peak and Enjoy the View

Reach the Peak and Enjoy the View of Bai Tho mountain

The trail takes about 20–30 minutes to reach the top. From the summit, you’ll see:

The entire Halong Bay dotted with limestone karsts.
The Bai Chay Bridge arching over the water.
The bustling Hon Gai fishing port.
Tiny boats gliding under a golden morning sky.

It’s one of the best photography spots in all of Halong, perfect for drone shots or wide-angle panoramas.

8:30 AM – Breakfast and Coffee with a View

Customers of Pho Nhu Y on Tran Quoc Thao street

After descending, treat yourself to a local breakfast nearby. Try:

Beef noodle at Pho Nhu Y on Tran Quoc Thao Street: Google map
Vietnamese coffee at Gabo Coffee, where you can still see the mountain while sipping your brew. Google map

Midday Activities – Exploring Around Poem Mountain

If you still have time after your hike, here are a few nearby attractions you can explore before lunch:

Visit Long Tien Pagoda

Located right at the foot of Poem Mountain, this Buddhist temple is the largest in Halong. Built in 1941, it features traditional curved roofs, dragon carvings and tranquil courtyards. It’s a peaceful spot to rest, pray and take photos of the mountain from below.

Wander Around Hon Gai Market

Just a few minutes’ walk from Long Tien Pagoda, Hon Gai Market is where locals buy fresh seafood and daily goods. You’ll find:

Dried seafood souvenirs (squid, shrimp, cuttlefish)
Local snacks like banh gat gu (a specialty rice roll from Quang Ninh)
Friendly shopkeepers who love chatting with visitors.

Afternoon Relaxation – Take a Bay Cruise or Visit Museums

Option 1 – Halong Bay Mini Cruise

From the base of Poem Mountain, you can easily join a half-day cruise from Hon Gai Pier. Some popular choices:

They offer 3–4 hour tours around limestone islands, caves and floating villages, perfect if you want to combine culture and scenery in one day.

Option 2 – Visit Quang Ninh Museum

Halong bay day cruise - Halong museum — Halong museum

If you prefer something cultural, visit the Quang Ninh Museum (about 10 minutes by taxi). The building’s modern black glass design symbolizes coal – the region’s heritage resource. Inside, you’ll find exhibitions about:

Halong Bay’s formation.
Quang Ninh’s ancient trade routes.
Vietnamese and Buddhist culture..

Evening – Watch Sunset and Dine with a View

Sunset from Bai Chay Bridge or Halong Plaza Rooftop

As the sun sets, Poem Mountain glows in warm golden light. You can:

Cross to the Bai Chay Bridge viewpoint for wide shots of the city skyline and mountain backdrop.
Or head to Halong Plaza Hotel’s rooftop bar for a cocktail with panoramic bay views.

Dinner Near the Mountain

Recommended restaurants nearby:

Hong Hanh – seafood restaurant loved by locals.
Phuong Nam Restaurant – fresh seafood with bay views.

Travel Tips for Visiting Poem Mountain

When to Visit

Best months: October – April (cool and dry season).
Avoid: Heavy rain (July–August) as the trail can be slippery.
Sunrise: Around 5:30–6:00 AM.
Sunset: Around 5:15–6:30 PM depending on the season.

What to Bring

Comfortable shoes.
Water bottle.
Camera or drone.
Sunscreen and hat.
Light jacket (early morning can be cool).

Responsible Travel Reminder

Poem Mountain is part of Halong’s protected landscape so remember:

Do not litter on the trail.
Respect local homes and temples nearby.
Avoid climbing during restricted times or without local guidance.

Where to Stay Near Poem Mountain

Halong Plaza Hotel – Ideal Base for a Poetic Adventure

Halong Plaza hotel room with Bai Chay bridge view

Just 5 minutes away, Halong Plaza Hotel is one of the best places to stay if you’re planning to visit Poem Mountain. Highlights include:

Bay-view rooms and balconies.
Swimming pool and gym.
Rooftop restaurant with mountain views.

It’s perfect for Indian families, couples or solo travelers looking for a balance of comfort and convenience.

FAQs About Poem Mountain

Q1. Can tourists still climb Poem Mountain in 2025?
Some areas remain under control, but access may be allowed with local permission. Always check with your hotel concierge or a licensed local guide before visiting.

Q2. How long does it take to hike Poem Mountain?
Around 30–45 minutes to the top, depending on your pace.

Q3. Is the climb suitable for children or seniors?
It’s a short hike but involves steep stairs and rocky sections, so it’s best suited for moderate fitness levels.

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Where Nature and Poetry intertwine

A one-day Poem Mountain trip perfectly captures the essence of Halong, a place where nature and poetry intertwine. Whether you’re chasing panoramic views, exploring spiritual temples or simply sipping coffee by the bay, the mountain offers an unforgettable experience. So next time you visit Halong, take a few hours to climb the mountain that inspired kings, poets and travelers alike. You’ll come down not just with beautiful photos but with a little bit of poetry in your heart.

Book your stay at Halong Plaza Hotel and wake up just minutes away from the poetic heart of Halong!