The spring outing is one of the annual activities organized by the National Economics University Trade Union, designed to create opportunities for fellowship and bonding among union members while providing moments of relaxation and exploration of the nation's sacred landmarks rich in historical significance.
This year, the National Economics University Trade Union's spring outing for the Year of the Snake took place at three destinations: Thay Pagoda, the K9 Da Chong Historical Site, and Va Temple.
At precisely 6:30 AM on February 15, 2025, our convoy departed with union members from various faculties and institutes of the National Economics University, heading to our first destination: Thay Pagoda, located at the foot of Sai Son Mountain in Quoc Oai District, Hanoi.
Thay Pagoda – formally known as Thien Phuc Tu – nestles against Phat Tich Mountain, also called Thay Mountain. Built during the Ly Dynasty, it is closely associated with the life story of Zen Master Tu Dao Hanh. This complex of monuments and scenic spots features numerous attractions including Tam Xa Pavilion, Thuy Khue Communal House, Cac Co Cave, and Lu Gia Bamboo Garden. However, the most outstanding architectural value of the Thay Pagoda complex lies in the three halls of the Main Pagoda, which bear distinctive features of 17th-century architecture. Beyond its spiritual significance, the pagoda is renowned for its poetic scenery, particularly Long Tri Lake and the two bridges: Nhat Tien (Sun Fairy) and Nguyet Tien (Moon Fairy).
Next, our delegation participated in the work report ceremony at K9 – Da Chong. Here, university leadership organized a ceremony to report achievements to Uncle Ho, presenting the accomplishments the institution has achieved in recent times.
The K9 Da Chong Historical Site, also known as the K9 site, is a unique historical destination hidden within dense forest. This is the very place where President Ho Chi Minh's remains were preserved from 1969 to 1975. Situated amid the pristine nature of the Ba Vi mountain range, the K9 Da Chong site served as an important base for the Central Committee and President Ho Chi Minh during the fierce years of resistance against American invaders.
Following this, our delegation departed from the K9 Da Chong Historical Site to Va Temple. Va Temple is located in Van Gia hamlet, Trung Hung ward, Son Tay town, Hanoi. The temple sits on a hill surrounded by ancient ironwood forests and rice fields, offering fresh and invigorating air. This site is among the most sacred temples in the Doai region. It serves as the shrine for the Tan Vien Mountain God in Vietnamese folk belief – one of the four immortal saints of the Vietnamese people (alongside Chu Dong Tu, Saint Giong, and Mother Lieu Hanh). Va Temple hosts numerous major festivals that attract crowds of visitors who come to worship and pray for peace and good fortune.
Today, we experienced a meaningful journey through sacred landmarks, enjoying interesting experiences, peaceful moments, and memorable times with colleagues. We extend our gratitude to the National Economics University Trade Union for organizing this meaningful early-year spring outing.
Some images from the Spring Outing with the National Economics University Trade Union - Year of the Snake 2025:
Text and Photos: Institute for Sustainable Development
EN 
VI