Tours
Blog Location Da Nang

Marble Mountain Da Nang, Vietnam: A Complete Visitor Guide

Writen By: Haya Tariq

The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) are one of Da Nang’s most famous sights — a mix of mystical caves, ancient pagodas, panoramic viewpoints, stone carvings, and legends. If you're planning a trip to Da Nang or Hoi An, this is an unforgettable stop. This easy guide will help you understand what to expect, how to visit, hidden tips, the best routes, prices, and whether it's worth it.


📍 What Exactly Are the Marble Mountains?

Located just 7 km from Da Nang and 30 minutes from Hoi An, the Marble Mountains are a group of five limestone hills, each named after an element:

Thuy Son:

  • Meaning: Water
  • ✅ Main mountain open to tourists
  • This is the one most travelers explore — filled with caves, viewpoints, pagodas, shrines, stairways, and statues
  • Largest and most famous peak at Marble Mountain, known for its stunning cave temples and the best panoramic views compared to the other mountains
Image taken from https://www.vietnamescapetours.com/uploads/galleries/thuyson-0gqS.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://lilystravelagency.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Thuy-Son.jfif_.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://themaritimeexplorer.ca/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Thuy-Son-Steps.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/THUY%20SON%201.https.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/thuy%20son%20ngu%20hanh%20son.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/THUY%20SON.jpg External Link Icon


Moc Son:

  • Meaning: Wood
  • ❌ Closed to public
  • Only peak without temples, known instead for its striking white marble rock formations that stand out against the landscape
Image taken from https://img.freepik.com/premium-photo/da-nang-vietnam-august-21-2018-zhongshan-temple-with-moc-son-mountain_633872-5583.jpg?w=996 External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/moc%20son%20marble%20mountain%201.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/moc%20son%20ne.jpg External Link Icon


Hoa Son:

  • Meaning: Fire
  • ❌ Closed
  • Features twin peaks—Yin and Yang—connected by a narrow bridge, offering both spiritual symbolism and adventurous walking paths.
Image taken from https://www.explorevietnam.com.vn/da-nang/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/kim-son-and-hoa-of-marble-mountain.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://danangprivatecar.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Hoa-Son-.jpeg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://vncarrentals.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/About-Marble-Mountains--819x1024.jpeg External Link Icon

Kim Son:

  • Meaning: Metal
  • ❌ Closed
  • Has an impressive cave pagoda built deep inside a natural cavern, giving it a mysterious and sacred atmosphere different from the other mountains
Image taken from https://guidebook.travel/gimg/containers/heros/expanded_card/screen-shot-2018-07-12-at-2.39.03-am.png/798f5e6e0f019eded9fbea0d4704e448.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://danangfantasticity.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/di-tich-cap-quoc-gia-dac-biet-danh-thang-ngu-hanh-son.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://vietnamtour.com/images/Vietnam_Attractions/Da_Nang/Marble_Mountains_Danang_2.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://thumbs.dreamstime.com/b/da-nang-vietnam-march-buddhist-pagoda-top-thuy-son-mountain-most-important-marble-mountains-172058992.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://localvietnam.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/marble-mountains-1-1.jpg External Link Icon

Tho Son:

  • Meaning: Earth
  • ❌ Closed
  • It’s the lowest and longest mountain, featuring hidden tunnels and wartime shelters rather than temples or viewpoints like the others
Image taken from https://www.explorevietnam.com.vn/da-nang/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Marble-Mountain-1.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://goodmorning-hoian.com/wp-content/uploads/montagnes-de-marbre-danang-768x432.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://www.dalattrip.com/fly/wp-content/uploads/2015/07/Marble-Mountain-Ngu-Hanh-Son.jpg External Link Icon

🕒 Best Time to Visit:

7 AM – 9 AM: Cool weather + fewer crowds. Best time.

4 PM - Sunset: Golden light for photos + cooler.

Midday: 🔥 Very hot + busiest. Avoid.


🎟️ Entrance Fees (Simple Breakdown):

Marble Mountains Entry: 40,000 VND ~ $1.52 USD

Elevator (Optional): 15,000 per ride ~ $0.57 USD

Am Phu Cave Entry (Separate): 20,000 VND ~ $0.76 USD

Parking (if scooter): 5,000–10,000 VND ~ $0.19 - $0.38

👉 Pro Tip: If you want the easiest route, take the elevator up and walk down. We highly recommend booking a complete Marble Mountain tour. Use the "Book Now" button below!

Blog Post Image

$39

Central Vietnam Exploration: Pagodas, Mountains & Hoi An's Charm

Linh Ung Pagoda - Marble Mountains - Hoi An tour unveils Central Vietnam's gems. Explore spiritual sites like Linh Ung Pagoda, Marble Mountains' caves, and Hoi An's ancient town. Enjoy panoramic views, cultural immersion, and local cuisine. A memorable blend of nature, history, and culinary delights awaits, suitable for all skill levels.

Book Now

👟 What to Wear & Bring:

✔ Comfortable walking shoes (steps can be steep or slippery)

✔ Water

✔ Modest clothing for pagodas

✔ Sunscreen + hat

✔ Small cash (vendors take cash only)

❌ Avoid dresses or flip-flops — you’ll regret it.


🧭 Recommended Route (To Avoid Confusion):

Most visitors wander randomly — and miss the best caves. Here’s the easiest step-by-step route:

1️⃣ Take the Elevator Up (Optional but helpful): As soon as you exit, you’ll see your first viewing point overlooking Da Nang and Non Nuoc Beach.


2️⃣ Visit Linh Ung Pagoda & Xa Loi Tower: These are some of the most peaceful spots on the mountain — with bonsai gardens, statues, and stunning architecture.


3️⃣ Head to the Caves: There are many caves, but these three are must-sees:

  • Huyen Khong Cave: Giant cavern with beams of light — the most Instagrammable spot.
  • Van Thong Cave: Climbable opening to a peak viewpoint (steep but worth it).
  • Tang Chon Cave: Statues & carvings, quiet and atmospheric.

4️⃣ Climb to a Viewpoint: The highest viewpoint offers 360° views of beaches, city skyline, and mountains. The climb takes 5–10 minutes, but some stairs are narrow. Worth it.


5️⃣ Walk Down the Stairs on the Other Side: This route is more scenic and less crowded than the one most tourists take.


🧿 Optional Add-On: Am Phu Cave: If you enjoy caves, dark tunnels, or unique Buddhist symbolism, visit Am Phu Cave at the end.

  • Known as the “Hell Cave,” it represents spiritual judgment and has eerie pathways, steaming rocks, and dramatic carvings.
  • 🕒 Takes about 20–30 minutes.

Skip if:

  • you're claustrophobic
  • you dislike humidity
  • you have mobility limits

❤️ Is It Worth Visiting?

Yes — especially if you’re already staying in Da Nang or Hoi An.

Best For:

  • Families
  • Couples
  • Adventure lovers
  • Culture/history travelers

Not ideal for:

  • People with mobility challenges
  • Anyone expecting a flat walk

Expect to spend 2–3 hours total.

Image taken from https://www.marmomac.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/Marble-Mountains_copertina.jpg External Link Icon
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_93c26cf835de2bc13344d9362_6c.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_8d204818a9191e165e7d394f7_dc.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_de871f8cb81c200105dd4220b_25.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_958bb67433105cde4f57ed548_3a.jpg

🚕 How to Get There:

Da Nang:Grab taxi (10–15 mins)

Hoi An: Shuttle or Grab (~30 mins)

Most tours combine Marble Mountains with:

  • Monkey Mountain
  • Lady Buddha statue
  • Hoi An Ancient Town

The Most Helpful Tips to Make Your Visit Stress-Free:

👉 Ignore aggressive vendors — politely say “Không, cảm ơn” (No thank you)

👉 Bring exact cash — ticket lines move faster

👉 Take breaks — there are shaded rest areas

👉 Download Google Maps offline (works well on the mountain)

👉 Start early to avoid heat and tour bus crowds

Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_c8073584987f8c3964fe4fdea_06.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_39e915e49037a569ba2b7fbe6_10.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_e2b8746ea2bce94fd7f7ffb03_81.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_43715a8ab65fbd0df3358931b_67.jpg
Image taken from https://images.dyvarcity.com/experience-images/dyvarcity_5ef1383ad892dd32056245699_09.jpg
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/IMG_1201.JPG External Link Icon
Image taken from https://ik.imagekit.io/yabauws7v/New%20Folder/IMG_1203.JPG External Link Icon

The End for this Guide: But the Beginning for Your Adventure!

The Marble Mountains are a stunning mix of nature, history, religion, and adventure. Whether you're taking photos inside dramatic caves, watching sunlight stream between temple rooftops, or enjoying views over the ocean — this site gives you a true taste of Vietnam's spirit. If you're in Da Nang or Hoi An, this is 100% a must-visit.

📌 Quick Fact Box:

⏳ Time Needed: 2–3 hours

💰 Cost: 40K–75K VND

🥾 Difficulty: Moderate

📸 Best Photo Spot: Huyen Khong Cave

🧘 Best moment: Sunrise or Sunset


❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Marble Mountains, Vietnam:

Is Marble Mountain Worth Visiting?

Yes — Marble Mountain is definitely worth visiting. It’s one of the most iconic attractions in central Vietnam and offers a unique mix of stunning caves, Buddhist temples, ancient carvings, panoramic viewpoints, and peaceful gardens. Visitors love the spiritual atmosphere, dramatic nature, and the unforgettable photo spots like Huyen Khong Cave. If you're staying in Da Nang or Hoi An, this is considered a must-see destination.


How Long Does it Take to Hike Marble Mountain?

Most visitors spend 2–3 hours exploring Marble Mountain. This gives enough time to walk through temples, caves, viewpoints, and take photos without rushing. If you visit additional areas like Am Phu Cave (Hell Cave), plan for closer to 3–4 hours.


Is Marble Mountain Hard to Climb?

The climb is moderate, but it does involve many stairs — some are steep, uneven, or slippery. The difficulty depends on your fitness level. If you want to make it easier, there is an elevator option to take you partway up the main mountain. Good shoes and breaks along the way make the experience comfortable for most visitors.


Is Marble Mountain Closer to Hoi An or Da Nang?

Marble Mountain is closer to Da Nang.

  • From Da Nang City Center: about 7–10 minutes (≈7 km)
  • From Hoi An: about 25–30 minutes (≈18–20 km)

Because of its location, many travelers visit Marble Mountain on the way between the two cities.


What is Marble Mountain Vietnam?

Marble Mountain (Vietnamese: Ngu Hanh Son) is a group of five limestone and marble hills representing the five elements: Water, Fire, Earth, Metal, and Wood. The mountains are known for their impressive caves, ancient pagodas, carvings, scenic viewpoints, and cultural significance in Buddhism. The most popular and accessible mountain for visitors is Thuy Son (Water Mountain).


Where is Marble Mountain Vietnam?

Marble Mountain is located in central Vietnam, between Da Nang City and Hoi An Ancient Town, just inland from Non Nuoc Beach. It sits along the coastal road Vo Nguyen Giap / Truong Sa, making it easy to reach by taxi, Grab, scooter, or guided tour.


Why Travelers Love Marble Mountain, And You Will Too:

Marble Mountain is an unforgettable experience full of nature, history, and culture. Whether you're visiting for the caves, temples, Instagram-worthy views, or peaceful atmosphere, this destination offers something for every type of traveler — and belongs on every Da Nang or Hoi An itinerary.

Ultimate Guide: Best Things to Do in Da Nang + Tours & Trips

Explore Da Nang with Dyvarcity – your hub for the best attractions, tours, and events. From the stunning Marble Mountain and iconic Lady Buddha to cultural trips from Da Nang to Hoi An, we’ve gathered the city’s top 100+ experiences in one place. Whether you’re searching for a Da Nang tour package, family activities, excursions, or foodie experiences, our guide helps you discover the best of Da Nang. Plan your trip with confidence and make every moment unforgettable!

View Da Nang Activities