Rice Terraced Fields, Ha Giang: A Must-See in Vietnam

Hoang Su Phi terraced fields possess an undeniable charm, creating a mesmerizing scene—journey to Ha Giang with Vietnam Treasure to witness the brilliant golden rice harvest season. Although present in many countries, especially in Southeast Asia, terraced fields in Vietnam are deeply associated with the traditional agricultural activities of many ethnic groups in the northern mountainous region, such as the H’Mong, Dao, Nung, La Chi and Ha Nhi.

Where are the rice fields of Hoang Su Phi?

Hoang Su Phi rice terraced fields reside in the western part of Ha Giang province, about 110 km southwest of Ha Giang city center and roughly 310 km Northwest of Hanoi capital. 

What is unique about Hoang Su Phi terraced fields?

In 2012, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism officially recognized the terraced fields in 5 communes of Hoang Su Phi district as a National Monument. These terraced fields from many different regions have been recognized. The entire Hoang Su Phi terraced field heritage covers nearly 3,000 hectares, stretching naturally on the picturesque hillsides of 6 communes, especially the three most beautiful and famous villages: Nam Ty village, Luoc village and Phung village.

Hoang Su Phi rice terraced fields

The main reason why farmers in Hoang Su Phi design their fields in this unique way is simply because there is not much water in the highlands, the terrain is rugged, and irrigation is already quite difficult to arrange effectively. This ingenious farming technique helps fresh water flow evenly from above to below and distribute evenly across all fields in an incredibly scientific way without wasting precious resources or hard work.

This place is an interesting destination for tourists looking for an adventurous trip to the beautiful country of Vietnam. This interesting destination attracts adventurous tourists. It can be affirmed that the terraced fields located in Ban Luoc, Ban Phung, San Sa Ho, Nam Ty, Ho Thau, and Thong Nguyen not only have breathtaking natural beauty, but they also carry within them the great pride of Hoang Su Phi itself. These terraced fields possess impressive natural beauty and cultural value.

Hoang Su Phi terraced fields look like a beautiful picture in the vast and immense space of both sky and land, the natural border plateau. A beautiful picture showing the plateau, sky and land. That is the main reason why Hoang Su Phi terraced fields are considered by nature to be one of the top 10 tourist attractions in Ha Giang. 

What’s the best time of year to see the Hoang Su Phi terraced fields?

Tourism to Hoang Su Phi terraced fields in each season has its own beauty. Below are some useful times to visit that you can refer to before leaving:

Spring (January to March): Coming to Hoang Su Phi at this time, you can fully participate in many unique and magnificent cultural festivals organized by ethnic minorities. All of these cultural festivals are unique to ethnic minorities living in the Northwest region. Besides the colorful festivals with vibrant sounds, just coming to Hoang Su Phi in the spring, you can also freely admire many beautiful peach and pear gardens, as well as admire the lush green tea hills. Admire the colorful spring scenery.

Summer (April to June): This is known as the time of year when the terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi land are in the water-pouring season. So, don’t forget to take beautiful photos of the special moment when the brilliant sunlight shines spectacularly on the extremely sparkling and beautiful terraced fields.

September every year: This special time represents the most beautiful time in Hoang Su Phi. Visiting Hoang Su Phi, especially at this special time, you will be delighted to see the charming golden terraced fields, which create a poetic and charming scene to remember forever. This is also the ideal time to hunt clouds.

Hoang Su Phi rice terraced fields

From December to January: A very special and unique time designed for those who really want to fully experience the harsh cold weather that is certainly common in Ha Giang. 

See the magnificent terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi.

Perhaps it is the natural thing that brings the truly beautiful Hoang Su Phi closer to countless eager and adventurous tourists, which is the special beauty associated with the unique terraced fields.

Phung Village (Ban Phung) terraced fields

Phung Village (Ban Phung) is actually a local commune conveniently located near the important border with the country of China. Together with the majestic Ban Luoc, this place is considered a special place and currently owns the highest terraced fields in Vietnam.

Ho Thau terraced fields

Ho Thau is a commune in Hoang Su Phi, located nearly 16 km from the Nam Tich intersection. The ideal terraced fields located throughout Ho Thau are mainly inhabited by the famous Red Dao community.

Thong Nguyen Terraced Fields

Where the Phin Ho, Nam Ong and Nam Khoa rivers converge, this area is called “Quan Son – Tu Thuy”. The confluence of this rich nature creates the backdrop for the beautiful terraced fields of Thong Nguyen Village, which are considered the most attractive in the area.

Terraced Fields Ban Luoc – San Sa Ho

Ban Luoc and specifically San Sa Ho commune are naturally mountainous terrains with beautiful geography and topography and moderate slopes, so there are currently some naturally ripened terraced fields in certain locations. There are many terraced fields in these communes. Belong to both the Dao and Nung Local.

Nam Ty Terraced Fields

Location near Kilometer 24. The picturesque rice fields of Nam Ty also bear the geographical characteristics of the indigenous Red Dao people, and coincidentally, one of the fields originates from a geographical historical relic that is fully geographically recognized as the Hoang Su Phi Golden Rice National Historical Relic.

Specialties when traveling to Hoang Su Phi terraced fields

Hoang Su Phi converges the characteristics of Ha Giang, the specialties, and unique regional delicacies that no one can ignore:

Lam Rice (Bamboo tube rice)

The way to prepare Bamboo tube rice is very simple: The main ingredient is well-soaked sticky rice. Use young bamboo stems, chop each piece of bamboo stem and cook with cassava leaves or banana leaves.

Grind the sticky rice, sprinkle a little salt, mix well, put the rice in a bamboo tube, close to the water surface, and boil until cooked and fragrant.

Thang co

It would be a big mistake if you travel to Hoang Su Phi – Ha Giang without enjoying the specialty Thang co. Thang co is a specialty you must try. This is a delicious dish made from the organs of buffalo, horse, and cow. Thang co is best when it is still hot.

When eating Thang co, you will feel the aroma of cardamom, guava seeds, chili and the fatty taste of meat. In particular, don’t forget to enjoy a glass of corn wine with a bowl of thang co. You can enjoy this thang co dish at Dong Van, Meo Vac, Lung Cu markets, etc.

Field Carp

Carp in Hoang Su Phi are raised naturally on terraced fields and then harvested with the ripe rice crop. Hoang Su Phi carp live on terraced fields. After only 1 week of planting rice, the carp here have a sweet taste, firm and large meat. When coming to Hoang Su Phi, visitors can experience the feeling of wading through the fields to catch fish, then process and enjoy the dish in their own way.

Smoked buffalo meat

Smoked buffalo meat is a specialty of most of the northern highland provinces, from the Northwest to the Northeast of Vietnam, and people often prepare this dish. Buffalo meat is cut into pieces, marinated with spices and smoked with charcoal smoke from trees growing on rocky mountains. Buffalo meat is smoked with special spices. This dish is paired with local wine.

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If you are considering visiting Hoang Su Phi, where golden terraced rice fields stretch across the hillsides, with your loved ones, contact Vietnam Treasure—a trusted Vietnam tour operator.

Hoang Su Phi rice terraced fields

We are ready to help you discover the wonders of Ha Giang. As a team of experienced and dedicated tour operators and local guides, we are committed to creating memorable and rewarding adventures for all our guests.

Vietnam Treasure sets itself apart through its dedication to personalized service and authentic experiences. Each tour carefully combines iconic landmarks with lesser-known treasures, ensuring that guests gain a deep understanding of Vietnam’s rich cultural history and breathtaking natural beauty.