Trong Mai (Ga Choi) Islet: A Guide to The "Fighting Cocks" Islet
Trong Mai Islet, located in the southwest of Halong Bay, is situated close to Dinh Huong Islet, approximately 3 miles (5 kilometers) from Bai Chay Tourist Wharf. This iconic islet features the silhouette of two chickens—a rooster and a hen—believed to be kissing.
The islet rises to about 30 feet (10 meters) above sea level, and to those with a romantic perspective, these two chickens have stood together for millennia, symbolizing the endurance of true love.
"Trong Mai/Kissing Rocks/Fighting Cocks/Rooster and Hen" are various names attributed to this islet, which serves as a symbol of Halong Bay!
A traditional Vietnamese folk tale recounts the origin of Vietnam, telling of Ngoc Hoang, the highest God in Heaven, who dispatched a fierce dragon mother and her offspring to aid early Vietnamese in repelling invaders. After the victory, Ngoc Hoang was astonished that the dragon family did not return to heaven and sent two chickens to retrieve them. Enchanted by the stunning vistas of Halong Bay, the chickens fell in love and abandoned their divine mission! Consequently, they chose to remain in Halong Bay, where over time, they were transformed into stone.
A different perspective of Trong Mai Islet.
The image of the kissing chickens is an iconic symbol of Halong Bay and is frequently depicted in various artistic representations of the region. Trong Mai has inspired countless photographs, poems, and paintings that capture the essence of Halong Bay. In 2000, it was chosen for the logo of Vietnam Tourism!
