In the Red River delta, Nam Dinh province has a vivid cultural tradition, with many festivals such as Pho Minh, Co Le and Phu Giay. It was the homeland of the kings of the Tran dynasty and of the poet Tu Xuong. Today the province hosts the largest textile factory in northern Vietnam.
Nam Dinh city is the capital of the province and is situated by the sea. In August, Co Trach Festival is held to commemorate a 13th century victory against the Mongols. A statue is dedicated to General Tra Hung Dao, who led the resistance against the invasion. Nearby is the Pho Minh temple, or Chua Thap temple, with its 21-meter high tower. A famous dish to be enjoyed in the city is the ‘royal banana’ (chuoi ngu).
With many lakes and pools Nam Dinh province is ideal for eco-tours, especially with its complex four-river network (Dao, Day, Red and Ninh Co rivers). Mainly agricultural, the province is also endowed with many craft centers. Famous sites include Tran (which holds ceremonies in October) and Phu Day temples, Keo and Hanh Thien pagodas, and Tinh Long beach. For a day out, go to the bird grounds of Con Ngan and Con Lu, or enjoy some time in Xuan Thuy National Park.
The province is easily reached by national roads from Hanoi and is on the north-south railway line.