A 150-million-year-old cave in northern Vietnam has become the setting for an extraordinary fusion of theatrical storytelling and fine dining, offering visitors an unforgettable journey through culture, cuisine, and natural beauty.

On 30 May, Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation launched its inaugural cave dining and entertainment experience inside the awe-inspiring Dragon Pearl Cave, located approximately 30 minutes from Ha Long City in the Cam Pha district. Measuring 4,000 square metres and situated 45 metres above sea level, the ancient cave is one of the largest in the Bai Tu Long area and is nestled within the Ban Co mountain range.

Often referred to by locals as a “theatre inside a mountain”, the cave features two chambers adorned with dramatic stalagmites and stalactites, creating a naturally majestic backdrop for an immersive 2.5-hour spectacle.

Cultural Experience

Guests begin the evening with a 45-minute performance of The Quest for the Dragon Pearl, a visually stunning production directed by Le Thanh Phong. Using music, dance, acrobatics, puppetry, and lighting effects, the show brings Vietnamese folklore to life, telling the tale of the mythical Dragon Pearl and its journey through themes of power, unity, and peace.

Following the performance, guests are treated to an exquisite candlelit dinner inspired by the legend and local ingredients of Quang Ninh Province. Curated by Head Chef Nguyen Gia Thien, the menu features dishes such as pomelo and giant river prawn salad, grilled Van Don oysters, and lobster with Tiến Vua imperial sauce, culminating in a golden dragon pearl dessert and Yen Tu golden flower tea.

Nguyen Hong Nhat, general director of APC Corporation and the force behind the Ambassador Cruise line, heralded the launch as a milestone for regional tourism.

“This is not only a culinary and cultural experience but a symbol of how Quang Ninh is evolving beyond Ha Long Bay,” he said. “We are positioning the province as a premier destination for heritage and sustainable tourism.”