Hang Tiên Ông, Hạ Long

Hang Tiên Ông lies at the center of Cái Tai Islet, part of the Hang Trai island range south of Vịnh Hạ Long. It is about 20 km south of Hạ Long and approximately 5-7 km east of Cát Bà Island, Hải Phòng.

Hang Tiên Ông sits 5m above sea level and has an entrance up to 50m wide. The cave is about 156m long (not especially long compared with other large caves in the bay) and is divided into 2 sections by a large stalactite formation in the center. Inside the cave are 3 stalagmites resembling 3 benevolent-looking immortals with long hair and beards, which is why local residents named it Tiên Ông.

Hang Tiên Ông was home to ancient Vietnamese people thousands of years ago. Stone, bone, and pottery artifacts have been found inside. Most of the stone objects are made from limestone and include axes, spears, and pointed tools, while pebbles and stalactites were also used to fashion implements. Although few in number, these finds show how the prehistoric residents of Tiên Ông Cave responded resourcefully to nature and adapted to their environment. The site can be regarded as an important foundation for the development of later maritime cultures, including the Cái Bèo and Hạ Long cultures.

• See also: Top attractions in Hạ Long