Golden season on Bac Yen highlands

At the end of autumn, when the weather starts to cool, the highlands of Bac Yen seem to be adorned with gold on the mountainsides and in the valleys, thanks to the ripe rice fields signaling wealth and peace for the local Mong ethnic people. This is also a perfect time for adventure seekers and photographers to visit and contemplate the local beauty.

 

Rice is ripening on terraced fields across the highland communes of Bac Yen.

From the centre of Bac Yen district, navigating the winding sections along provincial road 112 up to the highland communes of Ta Xua, Hang Dong, Lang Cheu, Xim Vang, and Hang Chu, we will feel the aroma of fresh rice wafts in the breeze. From above, the enchanting landscape of Bac Yen captivates like never before.

On the high hills, the terraced rice fields slowly reveal their golden hues through a thin mist, resembling vast, soft layers that wrap around the hamlets and small houses nestled on the slopes. The colourful dresses of Mong women are hung on the fences. The fresh morning air, blended with the scent of ripe rice and the stunning scenery of the highland villages, helps anyone forget the fatigue from the long journey.

Terraced fields in Xim Vang hamlet, Xim Vang commune.

Recently, the beautiful terraced rice fields in Xim Vang commune have gained fame on travel forums and among photographers. For nearly a month, various “check-in” spots here have been bustling with visitors. Not an arrangement, the combination of the rice fields and the villages creates a striking portrait of the highlands. A small hut a few square meters in size nearby has become the best viewpoint in the area. Tourists marvel at the scenery and quickly capture moments standing before the breathtaking view.

Visitors capture beautiful moments at the ripe rice fields.
The golden rice fields create a picturesque scenery.

The beauty of the terraced rice fields at the end of autumn draws us from one village to another, all the way to Hang Chu commune, then back to Lang Cheu, Ta Xua, and Hang Dong. For visitors, ripe rice fields offer a beauty they wish to cherish. For the Mong people on the highlands, the harvest season is the busiest and happiest time of the year.

Farmers in the highland communes of Bac Yen harvest rice.

During the harvest season, even before dawn, locals gather in the fields. Taking advantage of the favourable weather, villagers help each other with the harvest to ensure timely collection of rice. Throughout the rice fields, the sound of threshing machines blends with laughter and conversations about hearty meals, new clothes for children going to school, and the joyful calls of children echoing through the skies.

Many families invest in machinery to support production.

The golden season on the highlands of Bac Yen comes only once a year, bringing hope for a wealthy and happy life to the local people, who are hardworking, kind-hearted, and hospitable. All of these harmonise in the rhythm of daily life during the harvest season - busy yet unhurried, leaving beautiful and pure emotions in the hearts of everyone.

The poetic scenery of terraced rice fields in Lang Cheu commune.

Visiting the highlands of Bac Yen offers wonderful experiences with loved ones amid the golden rice fields nestled between majestic mountains, enjoying the white waterfalls, and savoring the fragrant son tra (hawthorn berry) fruits.

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