Top mesmerizing rice field terraces in northern Vietnam

Last updated - February 20, 2024
Top mesmerizing rice field terraces in northern Vietnam

Vietnam boasts stunning natural beauty, from limestone islands in emerald seas to lush mountains and vast rice fields. These fields, beyond their beauty, hold cultural significance for rural communities and contribute to the national economy. Let together with Ama Journey to explore the top five locations for breathtaking rice field terraces in Vietnam.

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Hoang Su Phi rice field terraces

Hoang Su Phi, situated approximately 300 kilometers from Hanoi, boasts an extraordinary landscape that captivates the beholder. The region's diverse terrain showcases nature's artistic prowess with its luxuriant forests, deep valleys, and towering mountains.

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The stunning rice field terraces in Hoang Su Phi - Ha Giang

The challenging mountainous topography of Hoang Su Phi has made traditional crop cultivation a formidable task for the locals, prompting the creation of terraced hillsides. These terraces, etched into the hills, are home to twelve distinct ethnic minority groups, coexisting harmoniously amidst the serene landscape.

Exploring this region, where crops yield just once a year, involves ascending into the hills, offering opportunities to capture the essence of local life against the backdrop of the sky's profound blue.
As autumn descends upon the landscape, the rice fields come to life, displaying an enchanting panorama of endless green and golden hues.

Mu Cang Chai rice field terraces

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September is the best time to visit Mu Cang Chai rice field terrace

Mu Cang Chai, situated in Yen Bai Province, approximately 300 kilometers from Hanoi, offers a rural retreat, making a three-day visit highly recommended.
This small town holds a proud secret—the breathtaking rice terraces, undoubtedly among the most spectacular in Vietnam. Crafted by the H'mong ethnic minority, who have cultivated this land for over twenty generations, Mu Cang Chai's terraces sprawl across nearly 2,000 hectares. During the harvest season, photographers flock from all corners, eager to capture the awe-inspiring beauty of this landscape.

>>> See tour package: Mu Cang Chai

Y Ti rice field terraces

Nestled in the Bat Xat District of Lao Cai Province, Y Ti is a highland village approximately a 7-hour drive from Hanoi.
Home to the Hmong, Dzao, Giay, and Ha Nhi hill tribes, known for their vibrant and exquisite clothing, Y Ty is a haven for photographers. Against the backdrop of mountains, blue sky, and rice fields, the colors of their attire create a picturesque scene. However, Y Ty offers more than just beautiful photos.

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Y Ti rice field terrace in Bat Xat - Lao Cai - Northern Vietnam

The Hmong people, residing here for generations, have crafted terraces for rice farming, showcasing special construction and irrigation techniques. These methods contribute to the area's uniqueness and genuine beauty. Harvesting season unfolds from late September to early October.

Pro Tip: If time allows, don't miss Y Ty's Saturday morning market, providing an opportunity to interact with Local Hà Nhi people and some other minority ethnic group in this beautiful area.

Sapa rice field terraces

The Northern area is stunning, with rice terraces skillfully crafted into hilly or mountainous slopes by ethnic minority communities for farming. Some terraces are centuries old, seamlessly blending with nature to create captivating patterns across hills and valleys.

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Immerse into the beauty of Sapa rice field terrace

Sapa's terrains offer fantastic opportunities for trekking and photography. Beyond the famous rice terraces, the hilly landscape provides insights into ethnic cultures and customs.
The rice terrace fields stand out as a top attraction in the Muong Hoa Valley, nestled between the town and Fansipan Mountain, dating back to the 15th century. Everywhere you look, you'll be surrounded by incredible, awe-inspiring beauty.

>>> See Sapa tour package

Pu Luong rice field terraces

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Pu Luong rice field terrace in the haverst season

Pu Luong Nature Reserve in Thanh Hoa province, about four hours from Hanoi, is an ideal nature retreat, hidden away from the hustle and bustle of the outside world.
The valleys feature peaceful tiered rice fields, while the mountains are cloaked in tropical forests. Within the reserve, you'll find small hamlets where ethnic Thai and Muong communities reside. Opt for a homestay near the rice terraces to enjoy leisurely strolls through the tranquil landscapes of Pu Luong.

>>> See Pu Luong tour package

Best season to visit these amazing rice field terraces in northern Vietnam

May and October are the harvest season in northern Vietnam when the landscape captivates with the stunning beauty of countless yellow paddy fields.

Most rice field terraces turn golden in October, while May is the irrigation season. Some, like the ones in Ninh Binh, are harvested in May. So, the best times to see the rice terraces are during these periods.

You can visit the rice fields throughout the year, except for specific months. If you explore the terraces in a different season, you'll be treated to breathtaking scenes of endless green covering the majestic mountains. These views are equally impressive.

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