Located in southern Vietnam, Phú Quốc has become one of the country’s most attractive travel destinations. The island is famous for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters and diverse natural ecosystem, making it an ideal place for relaxation and leisure travel.

Visitors to Phu Quoc can enjoy a wide range of activities such as snorkeling, island hopping and exploring local fishing villages. One of the most popular experiences is taking the sea-crossing cable car to Hòn Thơm, which offers breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding islands.

In addition to its natural beauty, the island is home to many luxury resorts, international hotels and modern entertainment complexes, providing visitors with a wide range of travel experiences.

According to tourism experts, beach tourism is expected to continue growing in Vietnam over the next few years. With improved infrastructure and convenient flight connections, Phu Quoc is likely to remain a top destination for both domestic and international travelers in summer 2026.

In recent years, Northern Vietnam’s mountain destinations have become increasingly popular among travelers. With their cool climate, dramatic natural scenery and unique ethnic cultures, these areas offer unforgettable experiences for visitors looking to explore beyond typical beach destinations.

One of the most impressive places to visit is Hà Giang, known for its breathtaking mountain roads and dramatic landscapes. Travelers often explore Đèo Mã Pí Lèng, considered one of the most beautiful mountain passes in Vietnam, while discovering the peaceful villages of the Dong Van Karst Plateau.

Another famous destination is Sa Pa, which is well known for its stunning terraced rice fields, cool weather and rich cultural traditions of ethnic minority communities.

Meanwhile, Mộc Châu is also attracting more tourists thanks to its picturesque tea hills, waterfalls and colorful flower gardens.

According to tourism experts, travel trends are shifting toward nature-based destinations that offer authentic cultural experiences and peaceful environments. As a result, northern mountain regions are expected to attract even more visitors in the coming years.

1. Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Da Nang. The bridge is uniquely designed in the shape of a dragon stretching toward the sea, symbolizing the city’s strong growth. Every Saturday and Sunday night, the dragon performs a spectacular fire and water show combined with colorful lighting effects.

2. Love Bridge

Located along the romantic Han River, Love Bridge is a popular check-in spot for tourists, especially couples. The bridge is decorated with red heart-shaped lanterns, creating a romantic atmosphere. Visitors often attach love locks as a symbol of everlasting love.

3. Han Market

Han Market is one of the most famous traditional markets in Da Nang. Visitors can explore local culture and shop for popular specialties such as tamarind dried squid, Vietnamese beef sausage, sesame dry cake, dried seafood, and many local souvenirs.

4. Cham Sculpture Museum

The Cham Sculpture Museum houses the largest collection of Cham cultural artifacts in Vietnam. It displays hundreds of sandstone sculptures and historical artifacts that reflect the history and culture of the ancient Champa Kingdom.

5. Asia Park

Asia Park is a modern entertainment complex in Da Nang featuring many exciting attractions. The highlight is the Sun Wheel, one of the tallest Ferris wheels in Vietnam, offering a panoramic view of the entire city.

6. Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills is a famous mountain resort located about 25 km from the center of Da Nang. It is often called a “mini Europe” thanks to its cool climate, European-style architecture, and various entertainment areas.

7. Golden Bridge

Golden Bridge is one of the most unique architectural landmarks in Da Nang and has gained worldwide fame. The bridge is supported by two giant stone hands rising from the mountains, creating a breathtaking and unforgettable view.

8. Son Tra Peninsula

Son Tra Peninsula is known as the “green lung” of Da Nang. The area features diverse ecosystems and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore Linh Ung Pagoda, see the tallest Lady Buddha statue in Vietnam, and enjoy a panoramic view of the city.

9. Marble Mountains

Marble Mountains is a cluster of five limestone mountains located near Non Nuoc Beach. It is famous for its mysterious caves, ancient pagodas, and traditional stone carving village.

10. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach has been voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With its white sand, clear blue water, and relaxing atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying beach activities.

In early spring, Sa Pa becomes a highlight of Northern Vietnam tourism as the weather turns stable and dry, with temperatures ranging from 15–22°C (59–72°F). The harsh winter cold has faded, and the rainy season has yet to begin, giving Sa Pa a fresh, clear, and pleasant atmosphere—perfect for outdoor sightseeing and cultural experiences.

Majestic Nature Above the Clouds

One of the most captivating features of Sa Pa during this season is the appearance of breathtaking “cloud seas” in the early morning and late afternoon. From the town center or high vantage points such as O Quy Ho Pass, visitors can admire rolling white clouds blanketing the valleys, creating a spectacular natural panorama.

A journey to conquer Fansipan – known as the “Roof of Indochina” – remains a must-try experience. The modern cable car system significantly shortens travel time, making the summit accessible to travelers of all ages. At the top, visitors are welcomed by a serene spiritual complex set amidst the clouds, offering a peaceful and memorable experience.

Blossoms and Vibrant Ethnic Villages

During this time, villages such as Cat Cat, Ta Van, and Ta Phin are adorned with blooming peach and plum blossoms. Traditional wooden houses nestled along mountain slopes and terraced rice fields winding through valleys create a landscape that is both poetic and dramatic.

Beyond sightseeing, Sa Pa offers meaningful cultural encounters with ethnic communities such as the H’Mong, Red Dao, and Giay people. Weekend highland markets showcase colorful traditional costumes, unique handicrafts, and authentic local cuisine. These immersive cultural activities have become key highlights in many organized tour programs.

Highland Cuisine – A Memorable Highlight

Sa Pa’s cool climate makes local specialties even more appealing. Grilled dishes, fresh salmon and sturgeon hotpot, and traditional “thang co” are among the culinary experiences that leave lasting impressions. Gathering around a steaming hotpot in the crisp mountain air is often described as one of the most enjoyable moments of the trip.

In addition, Sa Pa’s hospitality infrastructure continues to develop, with a wide range of hotels, resorts, and homestays catering to both luxury travelers and those seeking closer contact with nature. This diversity enables travel companies to design flexible tour packages tailored to different customer segments.

A Favorable Season for Corporate and Family Travel

As it is not yet the summer peak season, service prices remain stable and destinations are less crowded. This makes it an ideal time for corporate retreats, team-building programs, and family getaways.

With its impressive landscapes, pleasant climate, and increasingly professional tourism services, Sa Pa reaffirms its position as one of Northern Vietnam’s leading destinations. For travel businesses, this period presents an excellent opportunity to introduce promotional packages and deliver high-quality travel experiences to both domestic and international visitors this spring.

Located among Ninh Binh’s characteristic limestone mountains, Thung Ui features an unspoiled landscape of wide valleys, clear lakes, and a largely intact natural ecosystem. The area provides a peaceful atmosphere, away from crowds and urban noise, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking relaxation and serenity during the first days of the new year.

According to local authorities, the opening of Thung Ui during the Tet holiday aims to diversify Ninh Binh’s tourism offerings while easing pressure on popular attractions such as Trang An and Tam Coc – Bich Dong during peak season. At Thung Ui, visitors will be able to explore the scenery, take photographs, and enjoy the fresh air in a calm natural setting.

The introduction of Thung Ui as a tourist site is also expected to contribute to local economic development by creating new livelihood opportunities for residents, while raising awareness of environmental conservation and sustainable tourism.

During the initial opening period, visitor activities at Thung Ui will be carefully managed to control visitor numbers, ensure safety, and preserve the area’s pristine natural beauty. Tourists are advised to check updated information before their visit and to comply with local regulations.

With its serene landscape, fresh atmosphere, and new appeal, Thung Ui is expected to become an attractive destination in Ninh Binh during the Lunar New Year, offering visitors a gentle and refreshing alternative for their spring travel.

Tac Tinh Waterfall, also known as Tac Tinh Falls or affectionately called Tinh Waterfall by local residents, is located in Binh Lu Commune, Tam Duong District, Lai Chau Province. It is one of Lai Chau’s most captivating natural attractions, drawing travelers who love exploring pristine landscapes.

Upon setting foot at Tac Tinh Waterfall, many visitors are immediately enchanted by the misty, dreamlike beauty of this Northwestern waterfall, where cascading water blends with drifting spray to create an almost mythical atmosphere. For generations, local people have passed down a beautiful yet sorrowful love legend associated with this untouched waterfall. If you ever have the chance to visit Lai Chau and stop by Tac Tinh, you will not only admire its breathtaking scenery but also hear a love story that deeply moves the heart.

One of the most well-known legends tells the tale of No Lan, a young Dao woman, and her poetic yet tragic love story—an epic romance of the Dao people living on the Phong Tho – Tam Duong plateau. This story is forever intertwined with Tac Tinh Waterfall. Amid the majestic ink-wash landscape of mountains and forests, the roaring waterfall pours white foam day and night, as if endlessly retelling the ancient love story of the Dao couple.

Long ago, the story goes, there lived in a Dao village a beautiful young woman named No Lan, famous for her enchanting singing voice. She fell deeply in love with Ly Phan, a poor orphan living at the end of the village, who was gifted at playing the flute. Day after day, they were inseparable.

Whether working in the fields sowing seeds or wandering through the forest collecting bamboo shoots, No Lan’s honey-sweet singing would blend harmoniously with Ly Phan’s gentle, melodious flute. Together, they composed a love song that resonated through the trees and touched every heart.

The villagers all wished for the couple to soon become husband and wife. However, No Lan’s father disapproved. He looked down on Ly Phan’s poverty and orphaned status and had already accepted over a hundred silver coins from the village chief, promising his daughter’s hand in marriage. To tear the lovers apart, the chief took advantage of a military recruitment and, one dark night, plotted to have Ly Phan kidnapped and sent away as a soldier.

Without Ly Phan’s flute, the village grew quiet and forlorn. The streams murmured softly, peach blossoms faded too quickly, birds no longer sang cheerfully, and No Lan’s crystal-clear voice was no longer heard. Her heart ached deeply. Day after day, she climbed to the mountain peak at the edge of the village, standing there waiting for her beloved. Seasons passed, forests changed colors countless times, yet no news of Ly Phan ever came.

One morning, the villagers awoke to find No Lan missing. From the very mountain peak where she had waited for her lover, a waterfall suddenly appeared—cool, white, and flowing gracefully down the mountainside. The villagers believed that No Lan had merged with the mountain, and that the waterfall was her long, silky hair and her endless tears of longing, flowing day and night as a testament to her unwavering love.

Stationed at a distant borderland, Ly Phan eventually heard that No Lan had transformed into a waterfall to protect their faithful love. Seizing a dark, moonless night, he escaped from the camp. Crossing countless mountains, streams, ravines, and seasons under the moonlight, he finally returned to his village one afternoon, seeing from afar the mountain at the village’s edge.

In the fading sunset, the white waterfall flowed softly like No Lan’s hair cascading down the mountain, urging Ly Phan’s footsteps upward. Overwhelmed with longing, his chest felt crushed by the weight of grief, his heart pierced by countless invisible arrows. With distant, sorrowful eyes, he raised his flute and played the love song No Lan had cherished.

The flute’s mournful melody blended with the gentle flow of the waterfall, creating an eternal love song of loyalty and devotion. The next day, the villagers could no longer find Ly Phan—only his flute could be heard, echoing endlessly within the waterfall, forever praising the faithful love of No Lan and Ly Phan, etched into the mountains and enduring through time.

From afar, Tac Tinh Waterfall resembles a soft silk ribbon draped gracefully across the vast Northwestern mountains. Seen at eye level, it appears as a magnificent landscape painting. A small path leads down to a wide pool at the foot of the falls, where crystal-clear water crashes into white foam. Streams of water weave and chase one another across stones of various shapes and sizes.

With its untouched, pure natural scenery and a name deeply rooted in a legendary tale of passionate and faithful love, this majestic waterfall in the mountains of Northwest Vietnam is not only a stunning scenic site but also a living symbol of a love story that moves even heaven and earth. If you ever visit Lai Chau, do not miss the chance to experience Tac Tinh Waterfall for yourself.

Romantic natural beauty

Da Lat leaves a strong impression with its vast pine forests, clear blue lakes, and winding slopes that are unique to the city. Xuan Huong Lake, located in the heart of Da Lat, is an ideal place for walking, sightseeing, and enjoying the cool, refreshing air. In addition, destinations such as the Valley of Love, Cau Dat Tea Hill, Tuyen Lam Lake, and Langbiang Mountain are always among travelers’ favorite attractions.

A city of architecture and culture

Not only famous for its natural landscapes, Da Lat is also home to many unique architectural works bearing European influences, such as the Con Ga Cathedral, Da Lat Railway Station, and Bao Dai’s Palace. These landmarks contribute to the city’s distinctive nostalgic and romantic charm.

Da Lat cuisine – Simple yet irresistible

Da Lat’s cuisine wins over visitors with its simplicity and authenticity. Local dishes such as Vietnamese grilled rice paper, chicken hotpot with é leaves, banh can, and hot soy milk are not only delicious but also closely associated with the experience of strolling around the city at night in the chilly weather – a signature highlight of Da Lat tourism.

An ideal destination for every journey

Whether it is a relaxing getaway, an exploratory trip, or simply a place to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, Da Lat can meet all expectations. The city is suitable for couples, families, groups of young travelers, as well as visitors who love tranquility and nature.

With its gentle beauty, pleasant climate, and diverse experiences, Da Lat always remains a destination that travelers want to return to again and again. Every trip to Da Lat is a chance to feel a sense of peace in the heart of the highlands.

A New Development Milestone

In 2026, Hanoi aims to develop the Huong Pagoda Special National Relic Complex into a National Tourism Area, while gradually completing the dossier to seek UNESCO recognition as a World Cultural and Natural Heritage Site by 2030. This strategic orientation highlights a strong commitment to sustainable development, balancing heritage preservation with tourism growth.

A Modern, Digitalized Festival

One of the most notable features of the 2026 festival is the continued promotion of digital transformation in festival management. Visitors can purchase and use entrance tickets and boat services via QR codes, while AI-powered surveillance cameras are deployed to ensure security and order. A centralized operations center and 24/7 hotline are also in place to promptly receive and handle visitors’ feedback.

Enhanced Safety and Order

Security and traffic safety measures are strengthened throughout the festival, particularly along Yen Stream and Tuyet Son Stream. Boat operations are strictly managed to ensure absolute safety, and violations such as encroachment on heritage spaces are firmly addressed, contributing to a civilized and orderly festival environment.

A Vast Cultural and Spiritual Space

The Huong Pagoda Festival covers the entire Huong Son complex, featuring three main pilgrimage routes and 20 temples, pagodas, and sacred caves. Beyond visiting Thien Tru Pagoda and Huong Tich Cave, pilgrims and tourists can fully experience the area’s rich cultural, spiritual, and natural values.

Preserving Traditional Values

The ceremonial rituals are conducted in a solemn and respectful manner, in accordance with Buddhist traditions and folk beliefs, praying for peace, prosperity, and well-being. Festival activities are carefully selected, emphasizing cultural and folk-art values while limiting excessive commercialization to preserve the sanctity of the heritage site.

With its thoughtful innovations and long-term vision, the Huong Pagoda Festival 2026 is not only a sacred spring pilgrimage but also a strong statement of sustainable development, positioning Huong Pagoda as a leading cultural, spiritual, and eco-tourism destination of Hanoi and Vietnam.

I. Introduction to Bac Ha Green Rice (Cốm Bắc Hà)

1. Where is Bac Ha?

Located at nearly 1,000 meters above sea level, Bac Ha is a mountainous district of Lao Cai Province, known as the “White Plateau” thanks to the pure white plum blossoms that blanket the hills every spring. Beyond its breathtaking natural scenery, Bac Ha is also a cultural hub for ethnic minorities and a dream destination for travelers who seek authentic highland experiences.

Bac Ha lies about 65 km from Lao Cai City and 100 km from Sa Pa, featuring a cool climate all year round, peaceful atmosphere, green valleys, and poetic terraced rice fields that stretch along the mountain slopes.

2. Origin of Bac Ha Green Rice

Bac Ha green rice originates from the lush terraced fields of Bac Ha, where the mild climate and fertile soil are ideal for growing sticky rice. The local glutinous rice varieties give Bac Ha green rice its distinctive aroma and soft texture.

When the rice grains begin to ripen — plump and full of milk — locals harvest them for making green rice. Timing is essential: if harvested too early, the rice becomes mushy; if too late, it loses its elasticity and fragrance.

3. The Distinct Flavor of Bac Ha Green Rice

Bac Ha green rice carries the delicate aroma of young rice, a tender texture, and a mild, natural sweetness. It can be eaten fresh or used to prepare various dishes such as sticky rice with green rice (xôi cốm), green rice cakes (bánh cốm), sweet soup (chè cốm), or stir-fried green rice (cốm xào). The rice is often enjoyed with ripe bananas or grated coconut, enhancing its richness and signature nutty flavor.

II. How Bac Ha Green Rice is Made

The process of making Bac Ha green rice requires skill, patience, and precision. After harvesting, the rice is threshed and roasted over a cast-iron pan on medium heat. The roasting must be done carefully so that the grains are evenly cooked but not burnt. Once fragrant, the grains are cooled slightly and then pounded using a traditional stone mortar.

The pounding process is crucial — it must be done manually and rhythmically to loosen the husk without breaking the grain. The rice is then sifted several times to remove the husks, leaving soft, round, naturally green kernels that release the pure aroma of young rice.

III. Dishes Made from Bac Ha Green Rice

1. Green Rice Sticky Rice (Xôi Cốm)

The soft fragrance of Bac Ha sticky rice blended with pandan leaves creates a captivating aroma. The green hue of the rice contrasts beautifully with the yellow of mung beans and lotus seeds. Each bite offers a sweet, nutty flavor that reflects the essence of Bac Ha’s “White Plateau.”

2. Bac Ha Green Rice Sweet Soup (Chè Cốm)

This dessert combines the freshness of green rice with shredded coconut and a hint of pandan aroma. Its mild sweetness and chewy texture make it a refreshing treat, especially on cool autumn days in the Northwest.

3. Green Rice Yogurt (Sữa Chua Cốm Xanh)

A modern twist on a traditional ingredient — chewy green rice meets creamy yogurt, creating a dish that’s both healthy and delicious. The light sourness of yogurt perfectly complements the gentle sweetness of the rice.

4. Green Rice Square Cake (Bánh Chưng Cốm)

Similar to the traditional sticky rice cake, this version uses green rice instead of glutinous rice, giving it a deeper green color and a distinct aroma of young rice. The filling of pork and mung beans remains, but the taste becomes uniquely fragrant and tender.

5. Green Rice with Coconut (Cốm Dẹp Trộn Dừa)

This is a simple yet delightful snack combining Bac Ha green rice with shredded coconut. The soft, nutty, and lightly sweet flavor captures the essence of the northern highlands — humble yet unforgettable.

IV. Where to Buy Bac Ha Green Rice

1. Bac Ha Weekly Market

Held in the town center every Saturday and Sunday morning, this is the largest fair in Bac Ha, full of highland culture and local specialties — including Bac Ha green rice, which often sells out during the harvest season.

2. Bac Ha Cultural Market

This market also hosts the annual “Fragrance of the Highland Green Rice” Festival, usually held on September 23–24. Visitors can not only buy fresh green rice but also watch the traditional process of making it and join in culinary competitions featuring green rice dishes.

3. Specialty Shops in Lao Cai City

Bac Ha green rice is also available in specialty stores and tourism areas in Lao Cai City. Travelers can purchase directly or order in advance. For authenticity, it’s best to ask locals for recommendations to avoid imitation or low-quality products.

V. Tips for Choosing and Preserving Bac Ha Green Rice

To select high-quality Bac Ha green rice, look for light green grains, even size, and a gentle aroma of young rice. Avoid yellowish or overly dry grains — these may come from overripe rice or old batches.

Fresh green rice tastes best on the same day. To store it longer, wrap it in lotus or banana leaves to retain its fragrance, then place it in the refrigerator’s cool compartment. Avoid sealing it in plastic bags, which cause moisture and spoilage. For longer preservation, divide into portions, wrap in leaves, store in the freezer, and thaw naturally before eating.

Reunification Express – Vietnam

Stretching 1,726 kilometers across Vietnam, the Reunification Express is one of the oldest and most vital railway lines in Southeast Asia. During the more than 30-hour journey, travelers can admire the country’s full beauty from north to south — endless rice fields, the blue seas of Central Vietnam, and the majestic Hai Van Pass.

California Zephyr – USA

Dubbed the most beautiful train route in North America, the California Zephyr offers a natural symphony of landscapes. From the bustling city of Chicago to the modern Silicon Valley, the train crosses the Rocky Mountains, the dry Nevada Desert, the Colorado River, and the pine forests of Sierra Nevada. Each carriage is equipped with panoramic windows, a dining car, and standard sleeping cabins.

Lake Titicaca Train – Peru

This journey feels like a moving canvas of South America’s heritage. Departing from the ancient capital Cusco, the train takes you to Lake Titicaca, the cradle of Inca civilization. Along the way are snow-capped Andes peaks, vast grasslands with alpacas, and traditional wooden villages. Inside, the train resembles a boutique hotel with Peruvian cuisine, a classic bar, and a rooftop observation deck for photography.

Beijing – Lhasa Express (China)

The train to mystical Tibet is also among the world’s most beautiful railway routes. Traversing the “Roof of the World,” it takes passengers to the sacred land of Lhasa. Reaching altitudes over 5,000 meters, it’s the highest railway in the world. Glaciers, plateaus, salt deserts, and ancient monasteries appear after every turn. The train is equipped with oxygen systems, sleeper cabins, and a diverse dining car.

TranzAlpine – New Zealand

Though lasting only about five hours, the TranzAlpine journey is worth every minute. Departing from Christchurch, it crosses the majestic Southern Alps, the turquoise Waimakariri Valley, endless meadows, and mysterious rainforests. The train features quiet, modern carriages and even an open-air viewing platform for photography lovers.

Bergensbanen – Norway

This Norwegian railway showcases the raw, icy beauty of Northern Europe. The seven-hour journey connects Oslo and Bergen, crossing snowy plateaus, glacial lakes, and endless pine forests. In winter, you can watch Norway blanketed in snow from the comfort of a warm cabin; in summer, witness the midnight sun glowing at 11 p.m. — a journey straight out of an Andersen fairy tale.

Tazara Railway – Tanzania & Zambia

This two-day adventure from Dar es Salaam to Kapiri Mposhi is a poetic African odyssey. The train glides past golden savannas, Selous National Park with elephants, zebras, and giraffes, and rustic red-soil villages filled with the sound of folk music and the aroma of African coffee. A slow, soulful journey through the heart of the continent.

Sunset Limited – USA

The Sunset Limited evokes the golden age of American railroads, once traveled by cowboys and merchants for centuries. From New Orleans to Los Angeles, the route cuts across the United States east to west, revealing diverse landscapes — Louisiana swamps, the Texas desert, and the Arizona plateau. A dream route for those who love the classic Old West.

Caledonian Sleeper – United Kingdom

The Caledonian Sleeper is like a luxurious moving hotel. Board in London at sunset, and wake up amid the majestic mountains of Scotland, surrounded by misty moors, Loch lakes, and ancient castles. Private sleeping cabins, a whisky bar, and soft classical music make this journey unforgettable.

Mombasa – Nairobi – Kenya

One of Africa’s most modern and beautiful train routes, this line connects the coastal city of Mombasa with the capital Nairobi. The journey crosses red-earth plains, wild savannas, and Tsavo National Park, where travelers can spot elephants, antelopes, and buffalo strolling across the grasslands.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MOCST) on August 18 announced the recognition of three elements as National Intangible Cultural Heritage: the Thanh Trì steamed rice rolls craft (Vĩnh Hưng Ward), the knowledge of preparing and enjoying Chả Cá Lã Vọng (Hanoi), and the knowledge of preparing traditional Bát Tràng feasts (Bát Tràng Commune).

According to the Ministry, all three intangible cultural heritages were nominated by local communities with full demonstration of their representative values, embodying community and local identity, reflecting cultural diversity and human creativity, and having been passed down through generations. These heritages have the ability to recover and endure over time, with strong community consensus, voluntary nomination, and commitment to preservation.

1. Thanh Trì Steamed Rice Rolls (Bánh cuốn Thanh Trì)

Thanh Trì Village has long been associated with the craft of making bánh cuốn — a familiar dish in the daily life of Hanoians. The rolls are made from plain rice soaked overnight, ground into batter, then steamed into thin sheets and topped with fried shallots. They are eaten cold, without filling, dipped in a mixed fish sauce and served with cinnamon pork rolls or meatballs. This simple yet refined preparation gives the dish a distinctive flavor that sets it apart from other regional varieties.

Currently, Vĩnh Hưng Ward has over 50 households engaged in making bánh cuốn, with many maintaining the tradition through multiple generations. In addition to selling directly at home, they also supply large quantities to wholesale buyers daily.

2. Lã Vọng Grilled Fish (Chả Cá Lã Vọng)

Considered a culinary icon of Hanoi, Chả Cá Lã Vọng is made from fresh catfish (cá lăng), dill, scallions, and shrimp paste. When served, the golden-grilled fish pieces are enjoyed with rice noodles, herbs, and crispy rice crackers, creating an unforgettable taste. The dish was featured in the book “1,000 Places to See Before You Die”, ranked among the Top 5 in 10 Global Culinary Experiences, and in 2016, CNN named it as one of the world’s best dishes.

3. Bát Tràng Traditional Feast (Cỗ Bát Tràng)

If ceramics are the pride of Bát Tràng Village, then the traditional feast preserves its culinary heritage. In well-to-do families of the past, the Tết feast was known as “cỗ bát trân” — featuring six bowls and eight plates. The term “trân” means “delicacy,” symbolizing abundance and prosperity. Housewives took meticulous care in preparing every dish — from bamboo shoot soup with dried squid to stir-fried kohlrabi with squid and pigeon spring rolls — creating a distinctive flavor that defines Bát Tràng’s culinary identity.

1. Sapa (Lào Cai)

The terraced fields of Sapa have been recognized as some of the most magnificent in the world. September marks the peak tourist season here as it’s the beginning of the harvest. Layer upon layer of golden rice terraces cascade down the mountainsides, glowing under the autumn sun. This year, Sapa’s rice ripens a bit earlier, making this period—and the upcoming holidays—the perfect time to visit and capture breathtaking photos of the dreamy golden fields surrounded by majestic mountains.

2. Y Tý (Lào Cai)

Besides being an ideal place for cloud hunting, Y Tý’s terraced fields are another charm that steals visitors’ hearts. Located nearly 2,000 meters above sea level, Y Tý is often veiled in mist throughout the year. But around mid-September, the whole region awakens in a burst of golden hues as the rice ripens. The air becomes filled with the fragrance of new rice and the earthy scent of freshly cut straw, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else.

3. Mù Cang Chải (Yên Bái)

Golden waves of rice shimmer in the breeze, layer upon layer cascading down the mountains. Amid the endless fields, small thatched houses peek through the golden glow, while colorful ethnic costumes and the lively harvest activities of the H’Mông people fill the scene with vitality.

From mid-September to the end of October, Mù Cang Chải transforms into a breathtaking sea of gold. Recognized as one of Vietnam’s most spectacular natural landscapes, it is a top destination for travelers and photographers seeking to capture the grandeur of the golden season. From above, the terraced valleys resemble vast golden oceans stretching to the horizon.

4. Tú Lệ (Yên Bái)

Not far from Mù Cang Chải lies the peaceful Tú Lệ Valley—a place that instantly captivates anyone who visits. Towering mountains embrace the vast rice fields below, creating a landscape that is both majestic and romantic. Like Mù Cang Chải, the golden season here usually peaks in late September, making it the best time to admire the serene beauty of the ripened fields.

5. Hoàng Su Phì (Hà Giang)

Among the most beloved golden season destinations for young travelers, Hoàng Su Phì stands out with terraced fields that seem to float amidst the clouds. The golden season here arrives later than in other places, with early October being the perfect time to visit. The Phùng Village area is particularly famous for its stunning rice terraces that glow brightly under the autumn sunlight.

6. Bắc Sơn (Lạng Sơn)

At Vietnam’s northeastern border, surrounded by rolling mountains, Bắc Sơn’s golden season usually comes earlier than Hoàng Su Phì and other regions. What makes the rice fields here unique is the patchwork of colors—golden ripe fields interwoven with patches of green and earthy tones. This distinctive beauty comes from the locals’ staggered planting schedules. You can enjoy the golden season twice a year—late July and late October. After the July harvest, locals plant another crop right away, so late October is an ideal time to head to Lạng Sơn to witness its mesmerizing golden fields.