The Marble Mountains, or Ngũ Hành Sơn, are a group of five hills in Da Nang named for metal, water, wood, fire and earth. Most visits focus on Thủy Sơn, the largest hill, where caves, pagodas and viewpoints make a compact outing south of the city.
- Main hill: Thủy Sơn, or Water Mountain
- Time to allow: At least two hours
- What to expect: Uphill walking, caves, pagodas and viewpoints
What are the Marble Mountains?
The Marble Mountains are five hills, but Thủy Sơn is the main focus for visitors because it brings together caves, pagodas and viewpoints. Its name means Water Mountain, and the five-hill group takes its name from the five elements: metal, water, wood, fire and earth.
Plan for a visit on foot rather than a quick roadside stop. Vietnam Tourism recommends allowing at least two hours, and the route includes substantial uphill walking. Comfortable walking or hiking shoes will make the climb easier to manage.
Which caves and pagodas should you look for?
Huyền Không Cave, Hoa Nghiêm Cave and Tang Chơn Cave are among the named caves to look for on Thủy Sơn, alongside Linh Ứng Pagoda, Tam Thai Pagoda and Xá Lợi Tower.
Linh Ứng Pagoda has a history reaching back to 1825, when Emperor Gia Long ordered it built. Xá Lợi Tower stands 28 metres tall and houses 200 Buddha statues. Keep the visit respectful: dress modestly, and remove your shoes and hat before entering a pagoda.
How do you get to the Marble Mountains from central Da Nang?
The Marble Mountains lie about 8 km southeast of central Da Nang. From Danang Han, confirm the current route and journey time before setting out, as the travel time depends on your chosen route and transport.
Once there, focus your time on Thủy Sơn, where the caves, religious sites and viewpoints are grouped. If you are planning a broader coastal outing, the Da Nang beaches guide can help you consider how the area fits with a beach visit.
What should you know about steps, lifts and access?
Expect substantial uphill walking and stone steps on the visitor routes at Thủy Sơn. The lift is an alternative for part of the climb, but it does not remove the walking involved in exploring the hill’s caves and pagodas.
Wear comfortable walking or hiking shoes, bring water and a sun hat, and avoid the hottest hours of the day. A lift fee is separate from the entrance fee, so check the current arrangements before you go.
Tickets, opening times and visit planning
Allow at least two hours for the Marble Mountains, and check current opening times and admission charges before planning your visit. Published schedules and fees differ: Vietnam Tourism gives daily opening hours of 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., while the Da Nang tourism portal has published different Thủy Sơn hours and admission information.
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 7:00–17:30
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Admission to Thủy Sơn, the lift and other attractions may be charged separately. Bring water and a sun hat, and plan your walking for cooler hours.
If you are pairing the outing with another Da Nang landmark, Linh Ung Pagoda and Son Tra Peninsula are a separate excursion from the Marble Mountains; from Danang Han River Hotel, Linh Ứng Pagoda is about 138 minutes on foot or about 30 minutes by car.
Before you go: Opening hours and fees can change, so check the official site before you go; consult Vietnam Tourism and the Da Nang tourism portal.
FAQs
How long should you spend at the Marble Mountains?
Allow at least two hours for a visit, including time to walk uphill and explore the caves and pagodas.
Which Marble Mountains hill do most visitors explore?
Thủy Sơn, or Water Mountain, is the largest of the five and contains caves, pagodas and viewpoints.
What should you wear to the Marble Mountains?
Choose comfortable walking or hiking shoes for the uphill routes. Dress modestly, and remove your shoes and hat before entering pagodas.
Are the Marble Mountains entrance and lift fees the same?
No. Published visitor information treats the lift fee separately from entrance admission, and charges may also vary by attraction.