Hung Yen Longan Gardens are a celebrated attraction in Hung Yen Province, northern Vietnam. Famous across the country for producing some of the best and sweetest longans, the gardens span across several districts, especially Khoai Chau and Tien Lu. Longan, or “nhãn lồng” in Vietnamese, is more than a fruit here—it is a symbol of local pride, history, and economic livelihood. Visitors come not only to taste this juicy tropical delight but also to enjoy the peaceful countryside, interact with farmers, and immerse themselves in a rural Vietnamese experience.
The gardens provide a serene atmosphere where nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike can explore the orchards, learn about cultivation methods, and even pick fruit during harvest season. Hung Yen Longan Gardens are a perfect destination for a day trip from Hanoi or as part of a cultural tour in the Red River Delta.
How to Reach Hung Yen Longan Gardens, Hung Yen
Hung Yen Longan Gardens are spread throughout different communes of Hung Yen Province. The most notable gardens are in Khoai Chau, An Thi, Tien Lu, and Kim Dong districts. Here's how to reach them:
- From Hanoi: The gardens are approximately 60–70 km from Hanoi. You can travel by car or motorbike via National Highway 5 or Highway 39. The journey takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- By Bus: Buses from My Dinh or Giap Bat bus stations in Hanoi go to Hung Yen City or directly to Khoai Chau. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a motorbike to reach the gardens.
- By Tour: Several travel agencies in Hanoi organize day trips to the longan gardens during harvest season (August to September).
Local signs and friendly villagers make the gardens easy to find once you're in the area.
Weather at Hung Yen Longan Gardens, Hung Yen
Hung Yen enjoys a humid subtropical climate, typical of northern Vietnam. The best time to visit the longan gardens is during the harvest season:
- Harvest Season: August to early September. This is when longans are ripe, and the gardens are most active and colorful.
- Spring (March–May): Warm and pleasant weather, good for a countryside stroll though longans are not yet in season.
- Summer (June–August): Hot and humid. However, the fruit begins to ripen in late July.
- Autumn (September–November): Cooler and more comfortable. Late longan varieties may still be available in early September.
- Winter (December–February): Cool and dry. No fruit, but a peaceful time to experience the rural setting.
Timing and Entry Details
Hung Yen Longan Gardens are open to the public, especially during harvest season. Most of the gardens are family-run farms.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Most gardens offer free entry, but some charge a small fee (10,000–30,000 VND) especially if you want to pick your own fruit.
- Best Visiting Time: Morning or late afternoon during August and early September
It is recommended to call or coordinate with local tourism offices or farms in advance during the peak season.
Why Hung Yen Longan Gardens are Famous
Hung Yen Longan is considered one of the best longan varieties in Vietnam. The fruit is famous for its thick pulp, tiny seed, honey-like sweetness, and long shelf life. It is often offered at temples and used as gifts due to its premium quality. The gardens are famous because:
- Hung Yen longan was once presented to royal families during Vietnam’s feudal dynasties.
- The region has over 200 years of experience growing longan, with traditional farming techniques passed through generations.
- The longan trees in some gardens are over 100 years old and still bear fruit annually.
This sweet fruit has also helped boost local tourism and agricultural exports, further enhancing its reputation.
History and Cultivation
Hung Yen has cultivated longan since the 19th century, and it has become the province’s most valuable agricultural product. The name “nhãn lồng” comes from the traditional method of wrapping the fruit in nets to protect it from birds and insects.
Longan trees thrive in the fertile soil of the Red River Delta, with Hung Yen's specific climate providing the ideal conditions for sweetness and quality. The gardens are often planted in rows with drainage canals and are maintained using mostly organic methods. The longan harvest is a major event for local families, attracting buyers, tourists, and traders.
Things to Do at Hung Yen Longan Gardens
- Pick Longans: Enjoy the hands-on experience of picking fresh fruit directly from the trees with guidance from local farmers.
- Fruit Tasting: Taste longans straight from the orchard, including fresh varieties and dried or preserved versions.
- Photography: The gardens, full of green leaves and golden clusters of fruit, are perfect for nature photography.
- Learn About Farming: Engage in discussions with farmers about traditional planting, grafting, and harvesting methods.
- Buy Fresh Longan: Take home kilograms of fruit directly from the source at reasonable prices.
Interesting Facts about Hung Yen Longan Gardens
- Hung Yen longans are so prestigious that they are used in offerings to deities and ancestors during festivals.
- The region exports longans to countries like China, South Korea, and Japan.
- Khoai Chau District alone grows over 2,000 hectares of longan trees.
- Some trees in An Thi and Tien Lu are over 120 years old and still fruit annually.
- Hung Yen Longan Festival is held each August to promote tourism, trade, and cultural heritage.
Tips for Visiting Hung Yen Longan Gardens
- Visit During Peak Season: Late July to early September offers the full experience of fruit-picking and tasting.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothes and walking shoes suitable for garden paths and dirt trails.
- Bring a Hat and Water: The orchards can be sunny and warm, especially in the summer months.
- Respect Farm Rules: Only pick fruit in designated areas and follow instructions from the farmers.
- Buy Locally: Support local growers by purchasing fruit or handmade products on-site.
- Bring Cash: Many farms do not accept cards, and you may want to buy extra fruit or snacks from roadside vendors.
