Ha Long, Vietnam
Traditions and customs in Ha Long
5 customs and traditions in Ha Long — what they are, and how to take part without causing offence.
Last updated 2026-08-09
1. Overnight junk cruise
Photo: Wolfgang Staudt · CC BY 2.0 · source
The standard way to see the bay, on boats styled after traditional junks.
- Cost: USD 90–250 per person for one night
- Tip: Price tracks boat quality closely here; the cheapest tier is genuinely unpleasant.
2. Floating villages
Photo: Andrew and Annemarie · CC BY SA 2.0 · source
Fishing communities lived on the water for generations; most were relocated ashore in 2014, and the remaining sites are visited by rowboat.
3. Kayaking the karsts
Photo: Arian Zwegers · CC BY 2.0 · source
Paddling into the caves and lagoons that larger boats cannot enter.
Watch outOften described as included and then charged separately once offshore.
4. Pearl farming
Photo: Andrew and Annemarie · CC BY SA 2.0 · source
Working pearl farms in the bay demonstrate seeding and harvesting.
Watch outFarm stops built into cruise itineraries with heavy sales pressure and inflated prices.
5. Squid fishing at night
Photo: Queensland State Archives · Public Domain Mark · source
Boats hang lamps over the side after dark; guests can try it from the deck.
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