In a recent development in northern Vietnam, a hidden natural wonder has been transformed into an extraordinary cultural destination. Opened as a one-of-a-kind theatrical and dining experience by the Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation, the place is inside the Dragon Pearl Cave, a 150-million-year-old limestone cavern in Quang Ninh Province.
Locals have long admired Dragon Pearl Cave for its natural characteristics. It is situated in the Bai Tu Long area of Cam Pha, about 30 minutes by vehicle from the busy port city of Halong in Vietnam. It is part of a five-cave system that overlooks the picturesque Bai Tu Long Bay and is situated within the Ban Co mountain range, encompassing an area of over 4,000 sq m and rising 45 m above sea level. The cave is known as "a theatre inside a mountain" because of its two chambers, which are brimming with striking stalactites and stalagmites. This moniker is now fully achieved.
Renowned director Le Thanh Phong's immersive 45-minute performance, "The Quest for the Dragon Pearl," made its debut on May 30 in a tunnel that reverberated with song, light and movement. The show tells a story from Vietnamese culture using live music, acrobatics, puppets, and ornate costumes, all set against the backdrop of the cave's natural formations. At its core is the legendary Dragon Pearl, a representation of cosmic harmony and balance that is examined through a visual voyage of bravery, harmony and custom.
The location of the spectacle adds to its allure; the moody lighting projected onto the marble columns creates the illusion of a living, breathing area that transforms with each stage movement.
After the show, attendees are treated to a classy candlelit dinner that highlights Vietnam's diverse culinary culture. In order to capture the flavours of the neighbouring Quang Ninh Province, head chef Nguyen Gia Thien has created a sophisticated tasting menu that is based on regional ingredients and traditional methods.
Co To squid cakes, grilled Van Don oysters dripping with scallop sauce, and pomelo and gigantic river prawn salad are among the appetisers. Sea bass wrapped in wild dzong leaves, lobster in an imperial Tiến Vua sauce, crispy Tien Yen chicken, and the rustic Gat Gu buns with braised Khau Nhuc pork are some of the main courses that highlight the richness of the region. Stir-fried asparagus with cordyceps mushrooms is one of the sides. The herbal Yen Tu golden flower tea and the elegantly served Golden Dragon Pearl dessert round out the experience, providing a calming conclusion to an evening full of sensory experiences,
Nguyen Hong Nhat, general director of APC Corporation, which also operates the upscale Ambassador Cruise line, spoke at the unveiling and called it a major step forward for experiential travel in the area. A strong argument for travelling to Quang Ninh outside of Halong Bay is provided by The Quest for the Dragon Pearl. By merging nature, history, and hospitality, this cave has emerged as a cultural icon that enhances our local identity and encourages sustainable tourism.
By highlighting the region's depth beyond cruises and beachside vistas, the program hopes to promote longer visits. APC wants to establish Quang Ninh as a top destination for immersive cultural experiences by showcasing local cuisine and indigenous culture in such a stunning setting.
In order to maintain the site's natural purity and intimacy, the Dragon Pearl Cave experience will be available year-round with a cap on the number of seats each evening. APC's program is a component of a larger initiative to use sustainable tourism, which brings together innovation and preservation so as to rethink Vietnam's natural heritage.
All in all, Vietnam has added a brilliant new gem to its crown with the successful opening of this cave show. It radiates from within the mountains and reverberates with tastes and stories that speak to the spirit of the country.
