Five limestone-marble peaks named after the five elements – Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth – hide mysterious caves and ancient pagodas on the road from Da Nang to Hoi An.
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The Marble Mountains (Ngu Hanh Son) are five peaks named after the five elements: Kim Son, Moc Son, Thuy Son, Hoa Son and Tho Son, about 8 km south of central Da Nang. Thuy Son (Water Mountain) is the largest and most visited, with caves, pagodas and lookouts. It is a special national landmark.
Sights on Thuy Son
- Huyen Khong Cave: a huge cavern with openings in the ceiling where sunbeams fall on Buddha statues – truly magical.
- Tam Thai and Linh Ung pagodas: old pagodas from the Nguyen era.
- Vong Giang Dai and Vong Hai Dai: views over the Co Co River and Non Nuoc beach.
- Am Phu Cave: a cave depicting heaven and hell (separate ticket).
Tips
- There is an elevator up Thuy Son (extra fee), good for older visitors; on foot it's about 150 stone steps.
- Wear grippy shoes and bring water; caves are slippery after rain.
- Allow about 1.5–2 hours.
- At the foot of the mountain is the Non Nuoc stone carving village.
The Marble Mountains lie on the way to Hoi An, so they're usually combined: half-day Marble Mountains – Hoi An, Son Tra – Marble Mountains – Hoi An or Marble Mountains – coconut forest – Hoi An.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an elevator at the Marble Mountains?
Yes, an elevator takes visitors up Thuy Son (extra fee). On foot you climb about 150 stone steps.
How long does a visit to the Marble Mountains take?
About 1.5–2 hours for Thuy Son and the main caves; more if you add Am Phu Cave or Non Nuoc village.
How far are the Marble Mountains from Hoi An?
About 20–25 km, or 30 minutes by car, so they are usually combined with a trip to Hoi An.
