Every autumn, the provinces of **Hoang Su Phi** (Ha Giang) and **Mu Cang Chai** (Yen Bai) in **Vietnam** explode into an overwhelming golden hue of ripe rice. This magnificent sight, a true representation of the **most beautiful scenery in Vietnam**, inspires travel enthusiasts to embark on a "golden harvest hunt." A group of young travelers from Ho Chi Minh City recently completed a 4-day, 3-night journey, immersing themselves in this unforgettable experience along the majestic Northwest route. The tiered rice paddies here are a testament to the hard work and stunning natural beauty that makes **Vietnam travel** so unique and captivating.

Every autumn, Hoang Su Phi and Mu Cang Chai are draped in the vibrant golden color of the terraced fields. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

The group of young travelers departing from Ho Chi Minh City spent 4 days experiencing these two famous coordinates. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

Conquering Hoang Su Phi: Endless Terraced Rice Fields

The **adventure** began from Tan Quang (Ha Giang). After picking up motorbikes, our journey led us along the DT177 road, cutting through Thong Nguyen to reach Nam Hong and Nam Khoa – two legendary check-in spots of Hoang Su Phi. The winding mountain pass road clings to the mountainside, below which are vast stretches of golden terraced fields, and above, white clouds drift lazily. A picture of the Northwest that is both poetic and magnificent.

The journey follows DT177 through Thong Nguyen to Nam Hong and Nam Khoa. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

The most **rewarding experience** was climbing 800 steps to reach the summit of **Chieu Lau Thi**. The moment the floating sea of clouds embraced the mountaintop erased all fatigue. For the first night, we chose to stay in **Ban Phung** – dubbed the "paradise of terraced fields" in Hoang Su Phi. The next morning, simply opening the window offered an immediate view of the white cloud sea and the shimmering golden rice fields. A truly **awe-inspiring** moment!

Climbing 800 steps to Chieu Lau Thi Peak, the spectacular sea of clouds appeared before our eyes. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

Continuing the journey, the road from Ban Phung leading to Suoi Thau meadow was truly an **unforgettable experience**. Here, amidst the ocean of clouds, stretches of unharvested golden rice fields intermingle with patches of land already harvested, creating a unique transitioning color palette that testifies to the diligence of the local people.

The road from Ban Phung to Suoi Thau meadow is an unforgettable experience. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

The well-deserved reward after the bumpy red dirt road was the lush green meadow, dotted with the romantic colors of buckwheat flowers, mustard greens, and cockscomb flowers. In the afternoon, our group followed Deo Gio (Wind Pass) back to Tan Quang, perfectly concluding two days of **exploring** Hoang Su Phi, ready for the next leg of the journey to Mu Cang Chai.

The lush green meadow is dotted with buckwheat flowers. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

Mu Cang Chai: Witnessing the Golden Rice Paradise

Upon arriving in Mu Cang Chai, while **Mong Ngua Hill** is the famous "photo-op" spot, it was **Kim Noi** that left the most profound impression on everyone. The endless terraced fields here, less crowded, offer a majestic landscape that made the whole group stand silently, gazing at the pristine beauty of the Northwest mountains. This region truly showcases some of the **best scenery in Vietnam** for any traveler.

In Mu Cang Chai, Kim Noi leaves a deep impression with its vast terraced fields. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

That same afternoon, the legendary route of Lao Chai – La Pan Tan – Khau Pha Pass continued to treat us to glistening golden rice views. The day of **exploration** concluded in It Thai village, where we enjoyed the cozy, simple atmosphere of a local homestay.

The Lao Chai – La Pan Tan – Khau Pha route continued to unveil golden vistas. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

On the final day, we **leisurely strolled** through Tu Le, buying fragrant sticky rice cakes (com) as gifts. Afterwards, we visited **De Xu Phinh** – a peaceful and secluded valley, a complete contrast to the hustle and bustle of Mong Ngua. On the way back, the sight of vibrant paragliders soaring against the blue sky became the final highlight, leaving the entire group feeling nostalgic and reluctant to leave the majestic Northwest of Vietnam.

The sight of vibrant paragliders against the blue sky was a memorable highlight, making the group reluctant to leave the Northwest. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen

Essential Tips and Total Costs Overview

The total cost for this self-guided **experience** amounted to approximately 4.6 million VND/person (including airfare, bus tickets, motorbike rental, and accommodation costs). To ensure a safe and fulfilling trip, you should always **allow extra time**, closely monitor the weather, thoroughly check your means of transportation, and don't hesitate to ask local residents for advice on the safest and most beautiful routes!

Travelers should allow extra time, monitor the weather, and thoroughly check their motorbikes before setting off. Photo: Tham Ngoc Nguyen