Quang Ninh
Geography
Quảng Ninh Province is located in the northeastern region of Vietnam, covering a total area of approximately 12,000 square kilometers, with 6,207 square kilometers of land and the remaining area comprising sea surface. The province shares borders with China to the north, the Gulf of Tonkin to the east and south, and Lạng Sơn, Bắc Giang, and Hải Dương provinces to the west. The terrain is predominantly mountainous and hilly, accounting for about 80% of the land area, interspersed with coastal plains and islands. Notably, Quảng Ninh is home to Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning limestone karsts and isles.
Climate
The province experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by four distinct seasons:
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Spring: From February to April, featuring mild temperatures and light drizzles.
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Summer: From May to August, marked by hot and humid conditions with heavy rainfall and occasional typhoons.
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Autumn: From September to November, offering cool and dry weather.
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Winter: From December to January, characterized by cold and dry conditions.
The average annual temperature is approximately 23°C, with annual rainfall ranging between 1,700 to 2,400 millimeters. This climate supports a diverse range of flora and fauna, contributing to the province's rich biodiversity.
Transportation
Quảng Ninh boasts a well-developed transportation infrastructure that facilitates connectivity and economic growth:
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Roadways: The province is traversed by major highways, including National Highways No. 10, 18, and 4B. National Highway No. 10 links Quảng Ninh to Hanoi, Haiphong, and other northern provinces, while National Highway 4B connects the province with Lạng Sơn and Cao Bằng.
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Railways: The Hanoi–Hạ Long (Cai Lan port) railway line has been improved, with rail links of 64 km length connecting to industries in the province.
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Airways: The province is served by Vân Đồn International Airport, enhancing both domestic and international connectivity.
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Seaports: Quảng Ninh is home to several seaports, including Cái Lân, the only deep-sea port in northern Vietnam, facilitating maritime trade and tourism.
People
As of 2024, Quảng Ninh has a population of approximately 1,577,700 residents. The province is ethnically diverse, with the Kinh (Vietnamese) majority comprising about 87.69% of the population. Significant minority groups include the Dao (5.57%), Tày (3.08%), Sán Dìu (1.56%), and others (2.1%). This multicultural composition enriches the province's cultural heritage and social fabric.
Culture
Quảng Ninh's cultural landscape is a tapestry woven from its diverse ethnic communities and historical significance. The province celebrates various traditional festivals, such as the Carnaval Hạ Long, which showcases vibrant parades, music, and dance, reflecting the local way of life. Religious and spiritual sites abound, including the Yên Tử Mountain, considered the cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike. The province is also known for its rich culinary traditions, offering a variety of seafood dishes and local specialties.
Tourism
Tourism is a cornerstone of Quảng Ninh's economy, with Hạ Long Bay being the most iconic attraction, drawing millions of visitors annually to explore its emerald waters and limestone islands. Beyond Hạ Long Bay, the province offers a plethora of destinations:
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Bái Tử Long Bay: Adjacent to Hạ Long Bay, known for its pristine beauty and less crowded environment.
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Cô Tô Island: Boasting unspoiled beaches and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
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Móng Cái City: A bustling border city offering shopping and cultural exchanges with neighboring China.
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Bình Liêu District: Known for its terraced rice fields, rich cultural heritage, and potential for cultural tourism development.
The province is committed to sustainable tourism development, focusing on preserving its natural wonders and cultural heritage while enhancing infrastructure and services to improve visitor experiences.
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