The big event in Hoang Su Phi this month September 2019

For the fifth consecutive year, the Hoang Su Phi Tourism Festival is proudly organized by the People’s Committee of Hoang Su Phi District in Ha Giang Province. This annual event plays an important role in promoting the image of Hoang Su Phi as one of the most promising and authentic tourism destinations in the mountainous northern region of Vietnam.

Located in the remote highlands of Ha Giang, Hoang Su Phi has long remained untouched by mass tourism. Through this festival, local authorities aim to introduce the district’s outstanding natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and traditional ways of life to both domestic and international visitors.

Hoang Su Phi – A Hidden Gem Of Northern Vietnam

Since 2012, systematic tourism promotion campaigns have been implemented to showcase the exceptional values of Hoang Su Phi. The district is especially famous for its magnificent terraced rice fields, considered among the largest and highest in Vietnam. Covering a total area of approximately 760 hectares, these terraces were officially recognized as a National Natural Heritage Site in 2012.

Carved by hand over centuries by ethnic minority communities, the terraced rice fields are not only an agricultural masterpiece but also a symbol of harmony between humans and nature. Each season brings a different charm, but the most spectacular moment arrives from late September to early October, when the rice turns golden and the entire landscape glows under the autumn sun.

Beyond its landscapes, Hoang Su Phi is home to 13 ethnic minority groups, including the Red Dao, Nung, La Chi, Hmong, and Tay. Each community contributes to a vibrant cultural mosaic expressed through traditional festivals, religious rituals, folk music, unique costumes, and distinctive local cuisine. These cultural elements form the soul of Hoang Su Phi and make every visit deeply meaningful.

“Through the Heritage Region of Terraced Rice Fields”

The slogan “Through the Heritage Region of Terraced Rice Fields” has been officially adopted as the communication theme of the Hoang Su Phi Tourism Festival. It reflects the spirit of exploration and immersion, inviting travelers to journey through a living heritage shaped by generations of highland communities.

Understanding that a short visit is not enough to fully experience the depth of Hoang Su Phi’s culture and landscapes, the district authorities have decided to extend the festival duration to an entire month, instead of limiting it to a single week as in previous years. This allows visitors greater flexibility and more time to explore, interact with local people, and participate in various cultural activities.

The Largest Cultural Event In Hoang Su Phi District

Throughout the month of September, festival activities will be organized in Ho Thau and Nam Ty villages, as well as in the towns of Peo and Thong Nguyen. An authentic cultural space will be created, offering visitors a vivid introduction to the local way of life through traditional architecture, handicrafts, costumes, agricultural tools, and regional specialties.

Special emphasis will be placed on the cultural practices of the Red Dao and La Chi ethnic groups, whose traditions remain well preserved. Visitors will have the opportunity to observe and participate in daily activities, traditional crafts, and ceremonial practices that reflect the deep spiritual connection between people, land, and ancestors.

Quy Hieng Festival – A Sacred Red Dao Ceremony

In addition to the terraced rice fields, the Quy Hieng Festival is another cultural highlight of Hoang Su Phi and has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. This sacred religious ceremony belongs to the Red Dao community in Ho Thau hamlet and is considered one of the most distinctive cultural signatures of the group.

The ceremony is held to express respect for village elders, honor ancestors, and pray for abundant harvests, prosperity, and peace for the entire community. Traditionally celebrated every December, the Quỹ Hiéng Festival is deeply spiritual and rarely witnessed by outsiders. However, during the Hoang Su Phi Tourism Festival in September, visitors will have the unique privilege of experiencing this ceremony in advance.

Traditional Games, Performances, And Local Cuisine

Following the ceremonial rituals, the festival atmosphere becomes lively and joyful with a wide range of entertainment activities. Visitors are warmly invited to join traditional folk games, participate in community dances, and enjoy performances of ethnic music and singing.

Men demonstrate their strength and endurance through pestle wrestling competitions, while women take part in contests such as embroidery competitions and traditional singing performances. These activities not only entertain but also preserve and pass on cultural values to younger generations.

No festival would be complete without food. Visitors can taste carefully prepared local dishes made from fresh mountain ingredients, offering a true flavor of Hoang Su Phi’s highland cuisine.

Adventure, Relaxation, And Memorable Experiences

For adventure lovers, the festival also offers exciting outdoor activities such as paragliding. Flying above the terraced rice fields provides a breathtaking panoramic view of the lush valleys and rolling mountains—an unforgettable way to appreciate the beauty of Hoang Su Phi from above.

After a day full of exploration, visitors can unwind with a traditional herbal bath, a well-known Red Dao practice believed to relieve fatigue and restore energy. A quiet tea-tasting session in the cool mountain air offers the perfect ending to a fulfilling day.

Festival Opening And Travel Tips

The Hoang Su Phi Tourism Festival will officially begin on September 1st. Visitors are strongly advised to book accommodation in advance, as this period attracts a large number of travelers. Preparing suitable clothing for mountain weather and bringing a good camera are essential to capture the unforgettable moments of this journey.

For more detailed information about the festival and upcoming activities, please refer to the video below