Where the Footsteps of the Heroic Peasant Emperor Remain

10/09/2026
Amid the limestone mountains of northern Thanh Hoa, Cua Buong Cave in Bim Son Ward possesses a beauty that is both fascinating and contemplative. Its rocky mountains, caves and Ngoc Stream blend harmoniously to create a picturesque landscape. Yet what sets this scenic site apart is not only its extraordinary formations of stalactites and stalagmites, but also the historical traces it preserves of the lightning-fast march led by Emperor Quang Trung – Nguyen Hue and the Tay Son army during the spring of 1789.

[Thanh Hóa xưa và nay] Nơi lưu dấu bước chân người anh hùng áo vải

Inside Quang Trung Cave, part of the Cua Buong Cave scenic complex in Bim Son Ward.

The Cua Buong Cave complex comprises five caves: Trinh Cave, Dao Nguyen Cave, Co Tien Cave, Nguoi Xua Cave and Quang Trung Cave. In 1993, the scenic complex was recognized as a national-level historical, cultural and scenic relic.

However, the value of this site lies not only in the rock formations shaped by nature over time, but also in the layers of history associated with the Tay Son army’s northward campaign.

According to local historical records, in late 1788, the Bim Son–Tam Diep area served as a gathering place where Emperor Quang Trung, together with his generals and strategists, discussed plans to defeat the Qing army. With its spacious and secluded interior, Trinh Cave is believed to have been where the emperor held meetings and received reports on provisions, weapons and troops in preparation for the rapid march to Thang Long. Folk tradition holds that the name “Trinh Cave” derives from the generals’ meetings with the emperor to “report” on military affairs.

[Thanh Hóa xưa và nay] Nơi lưu dấu bước chân người anh hùng áo vải

Trinh Cave was once chosen by Emperor Quang Trung as a place to gather his generals and discuss military affairs.

Following the mountain path, visitors reach Dao Nguyen Cave, which opens into a fascinating world of stalactites and stalagmites, with formations resembling elephants paying homage, crouching tigers, eagles spreading their wings and Buddha. In the middle of the cave stands a large rock slab, surrounded by formations resembling lamps, incense burners and candle pillars. For generations, local people have maintained an altar dedicated to the mountain deities Cao Son and Cao Cac, placing their faith in the protection of these sacred figures.

At a higher elevation lies Quang Trung Cave. Its rugged approach and limited natural light have helped preserve its pristine character. According to legend, this was where Emperor Quang Trung held a ceremony to worship Heaven and Earth, praying for divine protection and support for his army as it marched northward.

Every year, on the 19th day of the first lunar month, an incense-offering ceremony is held at Cua Buong Cave to commemorate the contributions of Emperor Quang Trung and the Tay Son army. It is also an occasion for local residents and visitors to return to a site rich in historical and cultural significance.

[Thanh Hóa xưa và nay] Nơi lưu dấu bước chân người anh hùng áo vải

Quang Trung Cave.

Today, Cua Buong Cave, together with landmarks such as Ky Son Mountain, Ong Dung Hill, Chan Voi Dam and Ngoc Stream, forms a landscape of historical memory associated with the great spring victory of the Year of the Rooster. Local authorities have also focused on promoting and protecting the relic, while incorporating heritage education into schools so that younger generations can directly learn about, care for and preserve these historic sites in their homeland.

Amid the pace of modern life, Cua Buong Cave remains quietly nestled among the mountains of Bim Son. The rock walls may have changed color over the years, and the paths leading into the caves may have been widened, but the story of the spring of 1789 remains.

Preserving Cua Buong Cave, therefore, means more than safeguarding a scenic landscape. It also means preserving a part of the nation’s collective memory – a place where the heroic spirit of the Tay Son movement once passed through and left its mark on the northern gateway of Thanh Hoa.

Source: vhds.baothanhhoa.vn

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