1. Position, landscape, and significance of the Thần Phù sea gate

1.1. Where is the Thần Phù sea gate?

The Thần Phù sea gate, also known as Thần Đầu, was once a crucial sea gate on the sea route connecting the North and South of ancient Vietnamese people. Over time, sediment deposition has made this place a landlocked area, about 10 km from the current coast, located at the border between Yen Lam commune, Ninh Binh province, and Nga Son commune, Thanh Hoa province.

The area of Chính Đại village, Nga Sơn commune, is considered the "center" of the former Thần Phù sea gate. This is an ancient land holding many legends and traces of ancient Vietnamese people. Today, the scenery of Thần Phù amazes visitors, as this peaceful land with fertile fields was once a place where sea waves surged violently.

1.2. Natural characteristics of the Thần Phù sea gate

Currently, the Than Phu sea gate has been silted up by sediment and has become a fertile brackish water area. (Source: Collected)

Since ancient times, Than Phu was known as a large sea gate with strong and dangerous swirling currents. Many legends tell that not a few boats encountered disaster when passing through this water area, making Than Phu a place associated with mystery and the fear of seafarers.

Over hundreds of years, sediment from the rivers has accumulated, causing the Than Phu sea gate to gradually disappear. The area that was once a region of surging waves has now become a fertile plain, where people diligently cultivate crops.

The ancient traces of the Than Phu sea gate remain only in the low mounds of earth, in the names of villages and hamlets, and in folk memory as a silent witness to the constant changes between nature and humanity.

2. History and strategic value of the Than Phu sea gate

2.1. Military strategic role from the 10th century

In 979, when King Dinh Tien Hoang passed away, the situation in Dai Co Viet fell into turmoil. Seizing this opportunity, Nhat Khanh led the Chiem Thanh army by sea to invade and plunder our country. However, when his fleet passed through the Than Phu sea gate, they were suddenly hit by a fierce storm. All the warships were sunk by the large waves, Nhat Khanh perished at sea, and the Chiem Thanh king had to hastily gather his remaining troops and retreat. (Source: Ninh Binh Newspaper)

With its special strategic position, this sea gate has repeatedly provided shelter, contributing to the defense of our country's borders against invasions from the South, becoming a symbol of the strength and resilience of the Vietnamese people.

2.2. Folk legends and spiritual influence

For generations, the Than Phu sea gate has been associated with folk verses:

“Drifting through the Than Phu gate,

The well-practiced will float, the poorly practiced will sink.”

These simple lyrics not only reflect the perilous nature of the sea but also evoke faith in its sacredness.

During his campaign against Chiem Thanh, King Ly Thai Tong (1000 – 1054), while passing through the Than Phu sea area, encountered strong waves and winds, making it impossible for the ship to proceed. Fortunately, a Taoist priest named Ap Lang used magic to calm the fierce waves, allowing the king's army to sail smoothly. To this day, the local people preserve two ancient temples located next to each other on the old grounds, believed to be where this Taoist priest is worshipped. (Source: Ninh Binh Newspaper)

Temple of the sacred ascetic Ap Lang. (Source: Collected)

3. Unique experiences at Than Phu estuary 2025

3.1. Admiring the natural scenery

Today, visitors to the Than Phu estuary can leisurely stroll, breathing in the fresh air of the coastal countryside. The scenery here is a blend of rolling mountains, the gentle, winding Than Phu river, and lush mangrove forests.

This land is also where people make a living from fishing and aquaculture, creating a peaceful picture characteristic of the Northern coastal region – where humans and nature have harmonized over the years.

3.2. Ap Lang Chan Nhan Temple

The Ap Lang Chan Nhan Temple appears simple yet sacred. Visitors can stroll to admire the sunset over the fields, listen to the temple bells echoing in the quiet space, and deeply feel the simple spiritual life of the people in the Than Phu region.

This place is not only a spiritual destination but also an opportunity for visitors to learn more about the legend of the ascetic who "calmed the fierce waves," helping the ancient king cross the sea safely.

3.3. Local cuisine at Than Phu estuary

As a fertile delta region, Than Phu is famous for its delicious and fragrant sticky rice, possessing a unique flavor of alluvial soil. Local people also preserve the traditional Yên Lâm rice wine-making craft, a clear, rich wine, along with the renowned Yên Mạc fermented pork rolls, loved by many tourists.

An afternoon visit to Than Phu, sitting by a rustic meal with a cup of rich wine and the aroma of new rice, visitors will fully appreciate the sweetness of a land associated with many sea legends.

Nem chua An Mac is a famous specialty of the Nga Son region. (Source: Collected)

3.4. Old Han Son Pagoda

Ancient Han Son Pagoda is visited by many tourists. (Source: Collected)

Han Son Pagoda (also known as Khong Lo Pagoda) is an ancient pagoda over 200 years old, nestled at the foot of Coc Do Mountain in Chinh Dai village, Nga Son commune, Thanh Hoa province. According to historical records, this place once had two mountain ranges casting shadows over the Hoat River, making it difficult for sunlight to penetrate the water's surface, hence the pagoda was named Han San Tu, meaning "cold mountain".

The pagoda bears the distinct architectural imprint of Northern Vietnam with its ancient, moss-covered curved roof, a testament to time. Visitors come here not only to worship but also to enjoy moments of peace, listening to the temple bells echo in the serene atmosphere of the Than Phu region.

4. Guide to traveling to Than Phu Sea Gate 2025

Tourists can choose various means of transport to visit Than Phu Sea Gate, such as motorbikes, personal cars, or taxis. However, for large groups or those who want more convenient travel, driving a car or hiring a private car is the most suitable option.

To get to Than Phu estuary, visitors need to go along National Highway 1A. (Source: Collected)

From the center of Ninh Binh city, visitors go along National Highway 1A, to Hoa Lu intersection, then turn onto National Highway 10 towards Nga Son district (Thanh Hoa). The road is quite easy to travel, with picturesque landscapes of plains mixed with coastal areas on both sides, bringing a relaxing feeling throughout the journey.

Currently, as there are not many direct bus routes to this area, visitors should travel by private car or hire a taxi, tourist car to be proactive with time and combine visits to nearby tourist attractions such as Han San Pagoda, Ap Lang Chan Nhan Temple, or Nga Son sedge craft village.

5. Experience exploring Than Phu estuary

Panoramic view of the sacred land of Than Phu. (Source: Collected)

Before departing, visitors should choose comfortable clothing, convenient for moving and outdoor sightseeing. In summer, bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, a light jacket, and sports shoes. If traveling in spring or autumn, the weather is cool, visitors can choose polite and elegant attire to combine with visiting spiritual tourist attractions in the region.

The Than Phu estuary is most beautiful from around March to September annually – when the sky is clear, the wind is light, suitable for picnics and exploring natural landscapes. When traveling, you should look up route information in advance, especially if driving yourself, to avoid going on dike sections or small paths during the rainy season.

As this is an area with many ancient temples, pagodas, and religious structures, visitors should dress respectfully, speak softly, and avoid making noise. When entering worship areas, you should remove your hat and refrain from taking photos arbitrarily in sacred places.

6. Suggested 2-day, 1-night itinerary for Thanh Hoa tourism

Thanh Hoa, a land of "spiritual significance and heroic people," is not only famous for Sam Son beach but also for the sacred Than Phu estuary, ancient villages, pagodas, and unique cultural works. If you have the opportunity to visit, you can refer to the following 2-day, 1-night itinerary to make your trip more complete and enjoyable.

6.1. Day 1: Exploring Sam Son Beach

In the morning, visitors check into their hotel in the Sam Son tourist area, rest, and prepare for the day's journey. When the weather is nice, you can swim, stroll along the long, smooth sandy beach, watch the gentle waves, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

At noon, don't forget to enjoy characteristic seafood dishes such as steamed tiger prawns, grilled squid, jellyfish salad… at beachfront restaurants.

In the afternoon, visitors can visit Hon Trong Mai (Couple's Rock). This is a symbol of love and fidelity, consisting of three large rocks naturally stacked on top of each other, located at the foot of Truong Le mountain. You can take photos and learn more about this legend.

In the evening, you can stroll along Sam Son Beach Square, admire the sparkling musical fountain system, and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the coastal city.

6.2. Day 2: Exploring Thanh Hoa City Center

In the morning, after checking out, visitors move to the center of Thanh Hoa city to continue their journey of exploring the heritage land of Thanh. There are many famous tourist destinations in Thanh Hoa; here are some reasonable suggestions for your 2-day, 1-night itinerary:

Dong Son ancient village preserves many cultural traditions in Thanh Hoa. (Source: Collected)

Stopping at Hau Ly Royal Temple, where the kings of the Ly dynasty are worshipped, you will feel the sacred atmosphere and national pride emanating from the moss-covered tiled roofs. Additionally, visiting Dong Son ancient village, the birthplace of the brilliant Dong Son culture, visitors feel like they are returning to the ancient historical period of their ancestors through each house, street, and the simple rhythm of local life.

Before leaving Thanh Hoa, don't forget to choose famous specialties such as Yen Mac fermented pork rolls, Yen Lam glutinous rice wine, Nga Son sedge products, or Sam Son dried seafood as gifts for your loved ones. Each item carries its own flavor and imprint of the gentle and hospitable Thanh region.

Am Tiem Legend Tourist Area will soon launch and welcome all visitors from near and far. (Source: Collected)

Thanh Hoa Tourism promises to continue to break through strongly in the coming time thanks to synchronized investment in infrastructure and large-scale tourist areas. One of the most anticipated projects is “An Tiêm Legend”, a work that bears the strong imprint of culture and spirituality, expected to launch soon to welcome visitors from near and far.

Although the ancient sea has turned into rice fields, the traces of history still echo in every wave, in the old songs that people still recall with pride. Coming to Than Phù Sea Gate today, visitors will not only find a peaceful land with picturesque scenery but also feel the deep cultural and spiritual characteristics of Thanh land.