Why the 'Infinity Sea' Sunrise Draws Thousands Despite 3 a.m. Muddy Treks

Before sunrise on the weekend of 15‑16 August, thousands of visitors were already waiting on the mud‑filled tidal flat in Hung Yen Province, hoping to catch the first light.

The site, known as the “infinity sea”, is a vast tidal flat that, when a thin layer of water covers it, mirrors the sky and creates the illusion of an endless horizon.

To reach the water’s edge, tourists must arrive at about 3 a.m. and board tracked vehicles with large iron wheels; each vehicle holds roughly 50 people and charges VND 100,000 (about US $4) for a round‑trip.

Local official Nguyen Ba Long said the place became popular after sunrise photos went viral online in 2022, visitor numbers jumped in 2025, and by 2026 weekend crowds often number in the thousands.

The sudden demand has produced wait times of more than an hour, bottlenecks on the four‑kilometre mud track, and safety worries such as getting stuck in the mud or accidentally entering nearby mangrove forests.

In response, local authorities have built parking areas, installed directional signs, provided tap water and set up food and lodging services, although the transport vehicles remain privately run.

The phenomenon shows how a striking natural illusion can quickly turn a remote spot into a viral tourism hotspot, bringing both economic benefits and logistical challenges.

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Why the 'Infinity Sea' Sunrise Draws Thousands Despite 3 a.m. Muddy Treks

Why the 'Infinity Sea' Sunrise Draws Thousands Despite 3 a.m. Muddy Treks

Pratique d'écoute