Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces

Viewing Point in Ha Giang

Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces

Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Hoang Su Phi rice terraces in Ha Giang with Origin Travel. These terraced fields, a common form of farming across Southeast Asia, are a remarkable agricultural achievement of Vietnam’s northern ethnic communities, including the Hmong, Dao, Nung, La Chi, and Ha Nhi.

Location of Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces

The Hoang Su Phi rice terraces are situated in the western region of Ha Giang Province, approximately 110 km southwest of Ha Giang City and 310 km northwest of Hanoi.

What Makes Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces Unique

In 2012, the terraces in five communes of Hoang Su Phi District were recognized as National Monuments by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. Covering around 3,000 hectares, the terraced fields span six communes, with the most famous villages being Nam Ty, Ban Luoc, and Ban Phung.

For over a century, 12 ethnic groups have inhabited the area, adapting their farming methods to the rugged terrain and creating these spectacular terraces. The terraces are carefully arranged along the hillsides, allowing water to flow evenly from top to bottom, a critical technique in a region with limited water resources.

The artistry of the terraces reflects both the ingenuity and cultural heritage of the local people, making them not only a functional agricultural system but also a breathtaking attraction for tourists.

Best Times to Visit Hoang Su Phi

Each season offers a unique charm, but here are the best times to experience the beauty of Hoang Su Phi:

  • Spring (January–March): Witness vibrant cultural festivals of the ethnic minorities, colorful peach and pear blossoms, and lush tea hills.
  • Summer (April–June): Visit during the flood season when water glistens on the terraces, creating a mesmerizing scene.
  • September: The golden rice season offers the most stunning views, with ripe rice fields painting the hillsides in vibrant yellow.
  • Winter (January–December): Experience the serene beauty of Ha Giang’s cold highlands.

For the best overall experience, plan your trip between September and April.

Getting to Hoang Su Phi

From Hanoi to Ha Giang City

Travelers can take an overnight sleeper bus from Hanoi’s My Dinh Bus Station to Ha Giang City. This saves daytime hours for exploration.

From Ha Giang City to Hoang Su Phi

From Ha Giang City, you can rent a motorbike or hire a taxi for the 80 km journey to Hoang Su Phi. Popular routes include:

  • Via National Highway 2 to Tan Quang, then DT177 road to Hoang Su Phi.
  • Through Thanh Thuy border gate and Tay Con Linh mountain.

Adventurous travelers often opt to ride motorbikes from Hanoi, enjoying majestic mountain views along the way.

5 Best rice terraces in Hoang Su Phi

Ban Phung Terraced Fields

Ban Phung Village, located near the border with China, is accessible via a winding mountain pass of nearly 30 km from the center of Vinh Quang. Situated on a steep slope, Ban Phung, along with Ban Luoc, boasts some of the highest terraced rice fields in Vietnam.

Ho Thau Terraced Fields

Ho Thau, a commune located approximately 16 kilometers from Nam Dich, is home to the Red Dao ethnic community. The residents here preserve small forested areas surrounding each field to safeguard the land from potential landslides.

Thong Nguyen Terraced Fields

Thong Nguyen is a picturesque village where three rivers converge near a plateau, creating a stunning natural setting. It is renowned as one of the most beautiful spots to admire terraced rice fields in the Hoang Su Phi region. The village lies along the route between Bac Quang and Hoang Su Phi.

Ban Luoc and San Sa Ho Terraced Fields

Ban Luoc, home to the Dao ethnic minority, is characterized by its mountainous terrain and gentle slopes. The hill tribes in this area have skillfully crafted expansive terraced rice fields, creating a breathtaking and impressive landscape.

Nam Ty Terraced Fields

Located on the road from Bac Quang to Hoang Su Phi, Nam Ty’s terraces are a recognized national heritage site.

For a panoramic view, adventurous visitors can trek to Tay Con Linh Mountain.

Culinary Delights in Hoang Su Phi

Lam Rice (Bamboo Tube Rice)

Sticky rice cooked in bamboo tubes over a fire, resulting in fragrant, flavorful rice.

Thang Co

A traditional dish made from buffalo, horse, or cow organs, seasoned with aromatic spices. Best enjoyed with a glass of local corn wine.

Field Carp

Naturally raised in terraced fields, the carp is known for its firm, sweet meat. Visitors can participate in catching and preparing their own meals.

Goat Meat

Goats raised on Tay Con Linh Mountain provide tender, flavorful meat, often grilled to perfection.

Smoked Buffalo Meat

Buffalo meat is marinated and smoked over charcoal, creating a savory delicacy perfect with wine.

Why Visit Hoang Su Phi?

The Hoang Su Phi rice terraces are not only a testament to the ingenuity of Vietnam’s northern ethnic groups but also a breathtaking masterpiece of nature and culture. Recognized as one of Ha Giang’s top 10 attractions, these terraces invite visitors to explore their rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant local life.

The Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ha Giang!

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Visiting Hoang Su Phi Rice Terraces

Address: Thông Nguyên, Hoàng Su Phì District, Hà Giang, Vietnam

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