Hon Xep Island
Hon Xep is an exceptionally unique island located in Ha Long Bay, about 30 kilometers southeast of Tuan Chau International Port.
The island has a pyramid-like structure, rising nearly 21 meters high, and is composed of large, square-shaped stone blocks stacked neatly on top of one another — resembling an Egyptian pyramid rising from the sea. Nature seems to have carved and arranged the stones with remarkable precision. The rock layers are clearly defined, stacked in rows and tiers that spark curiosity and wonder in all who see them. Perhaps this is why the island is named “Hon Xep” (literally meaning “Stacked Islet”). The island consists of two main parts: The base, shaped like a rectangular block, is about 7 meters tall and the top, which connects directly to the base, forms a triangular peak rising an additional 14 meters.
Hon Xep stands tall, majestic, and steadfast—yet it is also adorned with beautiful flowering plants that add a touch of grace and charm to the island’s rugged appearance. Scattered across the earthy brown stone surface are the vibrant yellow blooms of the Paphiopedilum (Lady’s Slipper Orchid) and other rare, colorful flowers. Thanks to this delicate embellishment, the island feels far from barren or lifeless—instead, it exudes vitality, allure, and elegance. Surrounding Hon Xep are numerous islands of various shapes and sizes, all formed by horizontal layers of stratified rock stacked atop one another. Together, they create a grand and harmonious landscape that locals affectionately call the "Hon Xep Island Park." Visitors coming here are often left amazed. From the deck of a boat, one can gaze around and see tiered islands rising one after another, creating a vision that is both ancient and romantic, solemn yet magnificent—as though one has stepped into a world of ancient stone pyramids masterfully sculpted by nature itself. Hon Xep is part of Route 4 in the Ha Long Bay sightseeing tour. To discover more of the bay’s extraordinary island formations, don’t miss the chance to visit Hon Xep Island Park and enjoy its stunning scenery!
Translated by Thuy Ha