Experiencing the "Golden Season" in Mien Doi, Hoa Binh

In the heart of Hoa Binh, nestled amidst hills and terraced fields, lies Mien Doi - a hidden gem renowned for its golden rice terraces and welcoming community. Hãy nghe Nguyễn Thế Dương một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .

When the roads of the Northwest transform into the golden fields of the year, travel enthusiasts eagerly embark on a journey to the mountains, leaving the bustling city behind. This is the time for "rice hunting" adventures. Destinations like Mu Cang Chai, La Pan Tan, and Hoang Su Phi are considered the most enticing spots of the autumn season.

Image source: Collected

But if you can't make it to those famous spots, don't worry. Just 60 kilometers from the city center, there is an equally captivating "rice hunting" destination in Hoa Binh. The terraced fields in Mien Doi, a highland commune in Lac Son district, are often compared to Sapa of Hoa Binh. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your backpack and go! Unlike the other rice hunting spots, early November is the perfect time to visit Mien Doi's terraced fields, as the rice is fully ripe, and the locals are beginning their harvest season.

From Hoa Binh City, it took us nearly two hours of driving to reach Mien Doi, with winding roads still shrouded in mist. The chilly weather and misty scenery might make even the most adventurous travelers a bit hesitant. The entire area of Mien Doi seemed to be still in a deep sleep. However, when the first rays of sunlight peeked over the mountains, Mien Doi awoke, adorned in a dazzling golden hue. The golden glow of the sunrise and the shimmering terraced fields were breathtaking. In an instant, the usually noisy city dwellers found themselves quietly mesmerized by the terraced fields, gradually glowing under the early morning sun.

True to its name, Mien Doi features a relatively high terrain dominated by hills and mountains, which has led the local people to cultivate terraced fields for generations. Every hamlet in the commune boasts its own terraced fields, creating a picturesque landscape that reflects the agricultural heritage of the region.

Image source: Collected

Visit Rom, one of the highest hamlets in the commune, to admire the most stunning terraced fields. From above, the terraced fields resemble layers of golden waves cascading down the hillsides. Sometimes they appear to twist and turn like a soft, golden ribbon, breathtakingly beautiful. Mien Doi's weather is also quite favorable. Despite the slightly intense late autumn sun, there are constant gentle breezes that create shimmering waves in the rice fields. Along every path, you can easily spot small, clear streams trickling and glistening as they weave through the landscape.

The allure of Mien Doi lies not only in its stunning natural scenery but also in the warmth and hospitality of its people. On our "rice hunting" journey, we had the pleasure of meeting simple, genuine, and friendly locals. Despite the busy harvest season, the sound of laughter and chatter filled the air, echoing across the terraced fields.

Image source: Collected

According to the locals, despite the cold climate and water sources causing rice to grow more slowly than in other regions, and despite the hard labor required, the terraced fields here have always rewarded their efforts. While rice cultivation may no longer be the primary source of income for each family, you won't find any abandoned fields. Alongside the terraced fields, the commune also boasts Le Hill, known as the roof of Mien Doi. With its fresh, cool air and expansive grasslands, Le Hill is an ideal spot for developing tourism.

Exploring Mien Doi's terraced fields in Hoa Binh is a journey into both natural beauty and local hospitality. From the breathtaking landscapes of Rom hamlet to the serene atmosphere of Le Hill, every corner offers a glimpse into the rich agricultural traditions and stunning vistas that define this highland commune. Whether you're a nature lover or a cultural enthusiast, Mien Doi promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates both the land and its people.

Nguyễn Thế Dương