On February 15, 2025 (the 18th day of the first lunar month), the National Economics University (NEU) Trade Union organized a New Year spring outing for the University’s staff and employees.

Participating in the outing were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chair of the University Council; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Huy Nhuong, Vice President; Dr. Nguyen Huu Dong, Deputy Secretary of the Party Committee, Chair of the Trade Union, and Chief of the Office of Party and Mass Organizations; members of the NEU Trade Union Executive Committee; and staff and trade union members from the University’s units.

This year, the NEU Trade Union’s spring outing included three destinations: Thay Pagoda, the K9 Da Chong Historical Site, and Va Temple.

Thay Pagoda, formally named Thien Phuc Tu, stands at the foot of Phat Tich Mountain, also known as Thay Mountain. Built during the Ly dynasty, it is associated with stories about the life of Zen Master Tu Dao Hanh. This renowned complex of historical monuments and scenic attractions includes Tam Xa Taoist Temple, Thuy Khue Communal House, Cac Co Cave, and Lu Gia Bamboo Garden, among other sites. Its most outstanding architectural features, however, are the three halls of Ca Pagoda, which bear the distinctive characteristics of 17th-century architecture. Beyond its spiritual significance, Thay Pagoda is also known for its picturesque scenery, particularly Long Tri Lake and the Nhat Tien and Nguyet Tien bridges.

The delegation poses for a commemorative photo at Thay Pagoda.

Continuing the journey, the University’s leaders held a ceremony at the K9 Da Chong Historical Site in Minh Quang Commune, Ba Vi District, to report the University’s recent achievements to President Ho Chi Minh.

The K9 Da Chong Historical Site, also known as the K9 Historical Site, is a distinctive historical destination nestled in a dense forest. This was where President Ho Chi Minh’s body was preserved from 1969 to 1975. Set amid the unspoiled natural surroundings of the Ba Vi mountain range, the K9 Da Chong Historical Site served as an important base for the Party Central Committee and President Ho Chi Minh during the years of fierce fighting against American invading forces.

The delegation poses for a commemorative photo at the K9 Da Chong Historical Site.

For the final stop on the journey, the delegation traveled to Va Temple in Van Gia Village, Trung Hung Ward, Son Tay Town, Hanoi. Va Temple stands on a hill shaped like a turtle swimming toward the rising sun and covered with ancient ironwood trees thousands of years old. To the west of the temple stretch hills shaped like inverted bowls, while to the north, the Tich River winds like a ribbon of pink silk.

Va Temple is one of the most sacred temples in the Doai region. It is dedicated to Tan Vien, the mountain deity in Vietnamese folk beliefs and one of the nation’s Four Immortals, alongside Chu Dong Tu, Saint Giong, and Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh.

The spring outing is one of the traditional activities organized by the NEU Trade Union at the beginning of each lunar new year to preserve and promote the nation’s fine customs and provide opportunities for members to strengthen their bonds through group activities.

The trip was a genuine opportunity for NEU staff to strengthen their solidarity and bonds, motivating them to work with dedication and contribute their intellect to the innovations and breakthroughs of the University’s teaching community in the new year.

Some photos from the spring outing at the start of the Year of the Snake 2025:

Article and photos: NEU Trade Union and Department of Communications

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.