Journey Through Hoang Su Phi: A Colorful and Culturally Rich Autumn Experience

Explore Hoang Su Phi's autumn charm with golden rice terraces and vibrant local festivals. A perfect journey for those seeking stunning views and cultural depth. Hãy nghe Trần Thuỳ Thanh Xuân (Đồng Nai) một travel blogger nổi tiếng bật mí .

1. A Brief Overview of Hoang Su Phi

1.1. Hoang Su Phi's Territory

Hoang Su Phi is one of the most famous tourist districts in Hà Giang, located in the western part of the province. Historically, this land belonged to Binh Nguyen Chau (district) of Tuyen Quang region. In 1906, Hoang Su Phi district was established, consisting of Tu Nhan and Xin Man totalities, under the Ha Giang military sub-district (now Ha Giang province).

After the North officially gained independence in 1945, Hoang Su Phi's territorial boundaries underwent many changes. In 1965, the district was split into two administrative units: Xin Man district and Hoang Su Phi district. Currently, Hoang Su Phi consists of 24 communes and 1 town, including 4 border communes. The total length of Hoang Su Phi's border is more than 40km. Today, this land holds not only political and social significance but also attracts a large number of tourists, especially during the ripe rice season. In particular, reviews about the autumn season in Hoàng Su Phi are highly sought after by visitors.

                                                                                    (Source: Collector)

1.2. The beauty of Hoang Su Phi

The terrain of Hoang Su Phi starts from the upper reaches of the Chay River, featuring a series of rugged mountains and steep slopes, interspersed with many streams that divide the landscape. This area is home to 12 ethnic groups, with the largest populations being the Nung, Dao, Tay, H’mong, and La Chi.

Hoang Su Phi is located along the route connecting the northeastern and northwestern provinces. The area boasts breathtaking natural scenery, with a unique blend of cultural elements from the various ethnic groups. The village lifestyle and rich local community culture offer great potential for developing eco-cultural tourism, allowing visitors to experience a vibrant and diverse life in Ha Giang.

                                                                                    (Source: Collector)

To reach Hoang Su Phi, visitors must pass through the Heaven Gate at Km17 on the Bac Quang route. Before them will unfold a vast and expansive space with a series of interconnected mountain ranges of the Tay Con Linh range, shrouded in mist, pristine green forests, meandering rivers and streams, fragrant shan tuyet tea plantations, and interconnected terraced fields.

The cultural features of Hoang Su Phi also include the traditional festivals of the local ethnic communities, such as the Quya Hieng Festival (New Year Festival), the Rice Soul Calling Festival, the Dao people's Boi Dance Festival, the Nung people's Forest Spirit Worship Festival, the La Chi people's Khu cu te Festival, and the H’mong people's Gau tao Festival. These festivals typically take place in spring, before or after the Lunar New Year, making it the most attractive tourist season of the year. After spring, autumn is also a peak tourist season in Hoang Su Phi and Ha Giang, attracting many visitors with captivating autumn reviews of Hoang Su Phi.

2. The most detailed review of autumn in Hoang Su Phi

2.1. Best time to visit Hoang Su Phi

The best time to capture photos of the terraced fields during the ripe rice season in Hoang Su Phi is from mid-September to early October. During this period, the rice is ready for harvest, with the ears of rice drooping heavily and turning a golden yellow, layer upon layer of ripe rice extending across the landscape.

2.2. The beauty of autumn in Hoang Su Phi

Visiting the highland district of Hoang Su Phi, tourists can enjoy a peaceful and simple life in the villages of the ethnic minorities. Here, the terraced fields stretch across the hillsides, showcasing the beauty of a simple, rustic life and labor. With its mountainous terrain, the terraced fields are a "specialty" of Vietnam's agriculture. Thanks to this unique cultivation method, many barren hills have been transformed into fertile land suitable for growing wet rice, providing a livelihood for many people. In addition to the unique landscape, the lush hills covered with ripe rice are the most distinctive feature of Hoang Su Phi.

In addition to the terraced fields, Hoang Su Phi is also famous for its ancient Shan tuyet tea plantations in Phin Ho, producing unique tea with distinctive flavors from the local ethnic groups. In autumn, Hoang Su Phi resembles a mountain maiden with a rustic yet romantic beauty, mysterious yet wild, and soft yet regal.

                                                                                    (Source: Collector)

2.3. Best Spots to View Terraced Fields

Ban Phung Terraced Fields - Hoang Su Phi: Ban Phung is located near the Chinese border, about 30 km from Vinh Quang town. To reach this area, visitors must follow a small road with terraced fields precariously perched on the mountainside, offering an incredibly unique view.

Ho Thau Terraced Fields: This area is about 16 km from Nam Dich commune and features terraced fields belonging to the Dao Do people. The fields here are characterized by their vast, expansive size, stretching as far as the eye can see, with gentle slopes.

Ban Luoc Terraced Fields: Due to the soil mountain terrain and moderate slopes, Ban Luoc has many terraced fields shaped like waves or arcs, which are very eye-catching. These fields mainly belong to the Dao and Nung ethnic groups.

Thong Nguyen Terraced Fields: When it comes to the most beautiful terraced fields in Hoang Su Phi, Thong Nguyen is a must-visit. Especially at kilometer 24, connecting Bac Quang and Hoang Su Phi, visitors will feel as if they've stepped into a fairyland with its poetic and stunning scenery.

Nam Ty Terraced Fields: This terraced field area is also located at kilometer 24, but it belongs to the Dao Do people. This area has been recognized as a National Heritage Site, representing the value of the terraced fields of Hoang Su Phi.

                                                                                    (Source: Collector)

2.4. Tips for Conquering Autumn in Hoang Su Phi

First, if you choose to travel to Hoang Su Phi by motorbike, make sure to bring all necessary documents and ensure that your bike is in good working condition, including headlights, reflectors, brakes, and regular maintenance.

Second, as the weather in Hoang Su Phi can be quite cold, bring warm clothes, sweaters, and sports shoes.

Third, since Hoang Su Phi is a relatively underdeveloped district, bringing snacks, candies, and other food items for your trip is a good idea.

Finally, an important point is that if you encounter local children, it is better not to give money directly. Instead, consider bringing candies, soft drinks, and snacks to distribute.

In summary, a journey through Hoang Su Phi during autumn offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the breathtaking beauty of terraced fields and immerse yourself in rich local traditions. It's an experience that combines natural splendor with cultural richness, making it a must-visit destination.

Trần Thuỳ Thanh Xuân (Đồng Nai)