Sa Vi Cape
Where is Sa Vi Cape located?
Nestled at the northeasternmost tip of Vietnam, Sa Vi Cape is a renowned historical and tourist landmark that attracts thousands of visitors annually for the ultimate check-in experience. Beyond being the starting point of Vietnam’s stunning 3,000-kilometer coastline, it stands as a site etched with the heroic history of the Vietnamese people. Also known as “Mui Got” (Cape Tip), Sa Vi is situated in Tra Co Ward, Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province, and is officially marked by border milestone 1378. To the north of the cape lies the mouth of the Bac Luan River, where river meets sea, creating a majestic and captivating landscape. At Sa Vi, a grand relief depicting three pine trees reaching toward the sky serves as a tribute, inscribed with these famous lines by the poet To Huu:
From the casuarina forests of Tra Co
to the mangrove forests of Ca Mau
Constructed in 2006, this impressive 12-meter-tall, 9-meter-wide natural stone relief is one of the signature architectural features of the cape. This masterpiece does more than honor the legacy of poet To Huu; it symbolizes the enduring unity and cohesion of the Vietnamese nation from North to South.
Located in close proximity to Sa Vi Cape is the Sa Vi Border Information Complex. Construction began in 2009, and the project was completed in October 2013 at the very site where the first stroke was drawn to map out the iconic S-shaped silhouette of Vietnam. The complex comprises three main sections: the plaza, the main monument structure, and the service center. The central square features two rows of stone pillars crafted from natural rock sourced from the Hoa Lu region of Ninh Binh. The architecture is defined by eight casuarina tree motifs soaring 27 meters into the blue sky, rendered in concrete and zinc-plated for durability. Inspired by the casuarina tree—a symbol of life and the resilience of the Vietnamese people—this landmark was honored with the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award in 2020.
Read more: Mong Cai Tourism – A journey to discover the headland of the Fatherland
Sa Vi Border Information Complex
Upon arriving at Sa Vi Cape, visitors must explore the Sa Vi Border Information Complex, which began construction in 2009 and was completed in October 2013. This architectural landmark is comprised of three distinct sections: the square, the main structural complex, and the service facilities.
1. The Square
The square features two rows of stone pillars crafted from natural rock sourced from the Hoa Lu region of Ninh Binh, oriented directly toward the main complex. These pillars are inscribed with evocative poetry, border slogans, and historical and cultural insights regarding this region. The area also hosts several commemorative markers highlighting local heritage, including steles dedicated to the country’s northernmost frontier, Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh, To Huu, Nguyen Trai, Ly Thuong Kiet, Nguyen Du, Ho Chi Minh, and Nguyen Ai Quoc. These steles preserve historical verses and quotes from renowned figures concerning Sa Vi Cape and the Tra Co coastal region. They serve as captivating landmarks, drawing visitors to capture photographs and delve into the rich history of this land.
2. The Main Complex
The main complex serves as the centerpiece of the Sa Vi Border Information Complex. It is an architectural masterpiece featuring eight soaring, concrete-reinforced “casuarina pine” silhouettes, finished in a sleek, silver-grey galvanized coating. Each 27-meter-tall structure represents one of Vietnam’s 27 coastal provinces. Arranged in a “V” shape, these structures form a grand, welcoming gateway for travelers visiting Sa Vi Cape. This main complex is not only a visually stunning architectural feat but also a profound symbol of unity and solidarity between the regions of the nation. At this site, visitors are granted a unique opportunity to witness the splendor of the Fatherland at its land border and experience a deep sense of national pride and sanctity.
The Main Complex
3. The Service Area
The service area provides essential amenities for travelers visiting the Sa Vi Border Information Complex, including restaurants, cafes, guest houses, and parking facilities. The restaurant serves signature delicacies of the Tra Co coast, such as fresh seafood and traditional rice paper rolls. The cafe offers a serene setting to enjoy beverages while taking in breathtaking coastal views. For those looking to stay, the guest houses provide comfortable, reasonably priced accommodations. The parking area ensures a safe and convenient place for vehicles. This service section is not only an integral part of the Sa Vi Border Information Complex but also a vital component of the Tra Co – Binh Ngoc tourist zone, significantly enhancing the quality of service and the overall experience for those exploring Sa Vi Cape.
