Hoang Su Phi Terraced Rice Fields, Agricultural terraces in Hoàng Su Phì, Vietnam
The Hoang Su Phi Terraced Rice Fields are agricultural terraces in the mountains that descend in stepped rows across multiple communes. The terraces follow the natural contours of the landscape from higher elevations down to valley areas, covering approximately 3,000 hectares.
Local ethnic communities developed these terraces over generations using traditional techniques to transform steep mountain slopes into farmland. This gradual shaping of the landscape demonstrates how people and mountains have worked together across centuries.
Twelve ethnic groups, including H'mong, Dao, and Tay peoples, farm these terraces and maintain distinct traditions visible in their daily practices and village life. Walking through the settlements, you can observe how different communities approach their work and organize their time around the agricultural calendar.
The best time to visit is September and October when the rice ripens and turns the terraces into golden steps against the mountain backdrop. During these months, walking conditions are pleasant and the light creates excellent views for photography.
The irrigation system flows naturally from upper to lower terraces without requiring pumps or modern technology. This simple method reveals how mountain farmers engineered water efficiency while respecting the natural flow of the landscape.
Location: Hoàng Su Phì
GPS coordinates: 22.69941,104.65564
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:07
Vietnam extends more than 1,000 miles (1,600 kilometers) from mountain regions in the north to the Mekong Delta in the south, offering travelers a wide range of natural and historical sites beyond urban centers. The country includes Buddhist temples like Bai Dinh and Thien Mu Pagoda, cave systems such as Son Doong and Hang En, and rice terraces at Y Ty and Hoang Su Phi. Geographic features span from limestone formations in Ninh Binh to coastal areas at Phu Quoc and Ly Son islands, and waterfalls at Ban Gioc along the Chinese border. Historical sites document different periods of Vietnamese history. The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi preserves royal palace remains, while Po Nagar Cham Towers in Nha Trang date to the 7th century. My Son Sanctuary in Quang Nam holds temple ruins from the Champa civilization, and Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City served as an underground network during the Vietnam War. The Mekong Delta in the south consists of waterways, floating markets and traditional villages, while Mui Ne sand dunes and Lang Co Beach present different coastal landscapes.
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