Ha Tinh Province Tourism: Visitor Numbers Rise, But Empty Rooms Raise Concerns
Hanoi, Vietnam – Despite a challenging weather forecast, Ha Tinh Province welcomed over 37,000 tourists during the 2026 Lunar New Year holiday, signaling continued growth for the region. However, a critical issue lurks beneath the surface: a mere 40% occupancy rate in local accommodations, prompting calls for a strategic overhaul of tourism offerings and marketing efforts. This is breaking news for the Vietnamese tourism sector, and a key test for sustainable growth in the region.
A Surge in Sightseeing, A Dip in Stays
Popular destinations like Hai Thuong Cultural Eco-sightseeing District, Dong Loc Crossing Historical Site, and Da Bac Eco-Tourism Area experienced significant visitor increases. The momentum builds on a strong 2025, where Ha Tinh Province attracted over 5.6 million tourists and recorded approximately 1 million overnight stays. Tourists like Hanoi resident Nguyen Thi Trang praised the improvements to attractions, noting “more investment, modern facilities, green, clean and beautiful scenery, and a variety of attractive products.” Images circulating online show visitors offering incense and flowers at Dong Loc Crossing, a poignant symbol of the province’s historical significance.
The Occupancy Puzzle: What’s Holding Tourists Back?
The discrepancy between high visitor numbers and low occupancy rates is a central concern. Nguyen Thien Trinh, president of Thanh Sen Tourism Joint Stock Company, points to two key factors: a lack of compelling events specifically tailored to the holiday period and the late announcement of the four-day Lunar New Year break, hindering travel planning. This isn’t simply a short-term problem; it highlights a need for proactive planning and a more dynamic approach to tourism product development.
New Experiences & Infrastructure Investments
Ha Tinh is responding. The Hai Thuong Cultural and Ecological Tourism Zone is launching the “Tour Following the Footsteps of Hai Thuong,” incorporating explorations of the Le Hu Trac National Special Zone, traditional medicine experiences, calligraphy lessons, and other cultural activities. Elsewhere, renovations are underway at Huong Thi Chi Temple, including a new triple arch gate and upgrades to facilities. Thuy Tha Restaurant, near Nha Duong Dam, is also undergoing expansion to accommodate larger groups. These improvements, coupled with staff training initiatives in Ky Xuan commune, demonstrate a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience.
Beyond Beautification: The Need for Cultural Vibrancy & Digital Reach
However, experts emphasize that infrastructure improvements alone aren’t enough. Nguyen Trung Duc, Vice President of Ha Tinh Tourism Association, stresses the importance of “excellent cultural events” to attract both domestic and international travelers. He also champions the power of digital transformation, urging greater investment in online promotion to increase Ha Tinh’s visibility on the global stage. This is a crucial point in the age of instant travel planning and social media influence.
The cultural and spiritual tourism season at the start of the year represents a pivotal moment for Ha Tinh Province. Successfully navigating these challenges – fostering a more diverse range of experiences, improving event planning, and embracing digital marketing – will be critical to unlocking the region’s full tourism potential and ensuring sustainable growth in 2026 and beyond. The future of Ha Tinh tourism isn’t just about attracting visitors; it’s about creating a compelling reason for them to stay longer, spend more, and return again and again. Stay tuned to archyde.com for continued coverage of this developing story and insights into the evolving landscape of Vietnamese tourism.
