This UNESCO World Heritage area, also known as Halong Bay on land, stretches along the Ngo Dong River and is flanked by views of majestic karst cliffs, limestone caves, grottoes, and vibrant green rice fields. Tam Cốc literally translates to “three caves,” referring to the Ca, Hai and Ba caves carved by centuries of flowing water. Locals often refer to the surrounding fields as the Green Sea, a poetic nod to the way the wind ripples through the endless rice paddies like waves

Situated at the foothills of Mount Emei, the Baoguo Temple serves as a gateway to one of China's Four Sacred Buddhist Mountains and stands as testament to the rich history and spiritual heritage of the region. Originally founded around 100AD, the current temple complex underwent extensive restoration during the Ming Dynasty in the 16th century, under the watchful eye of Emperor Kanxi.