Marble Mountains and Non Nuoc village - Danang

Marble Mountains are actually a series of five marble and limestone formations, which the locals liken to the shape of a dragon at rest. Marble Mountains are of spiritual significance to Vietnamese and can be very busy on weekends and during Buddhist festivals and holidays.

Each peak is named for an element: Hoa Son (fire), Moc Son (wood), Kim Son (metal) and Tho Son (earth). The highest mountain, Tho Son is climbable via a series of metal ladders beginning inside the cave and extending to the surface at the top.

The mountains are interlaced with caves, some of which are important Buddhist sanctuaries. Linh Ung Pagoda, a shrine within a cave, is a highlight.

The quarries in Non Nuoc village, at the bottom of the Marble Mountains, are as interesting as the caves are. Fantastic animals and fanciful statues of folk tales and Buddhist figures are carved from the marble.

Some sculpture outlets will also fashion your own ideas or designs. Everything is possible: from flower pots and vases to garden fountains and even bathtubs. The mainstay of the sculpture business at Marble Mountain has always been traditional carvings.