Quynh Son: A Global Model for Sustainable Vietnam Tourism
Tucked away in the picturesque Bac Son Valley, a historical resistance base and the cradle of ancient Vietnamese culture, Quynh Son Village captivates visitors with its enchanting natural landscapes seamlessly blended with the distinctive Tày ethnic culture. This region showcases the spectacular mountainous scenery that defines much of Northern Vietnam's tourism appeal. (Photo: Chu Duc Giang)
The entire village features over 400 traditional Tày stilt houses, clustered closely at the foot of the mountains and facing the magnificent golden rice fields. These houses are built from precious woods like Ghiến, Lim, and Dinh, topped with classic yin-yang tiled roofs, ensuring both longevity and an antique charm. According to local belief, a South-facing home brings peace and prosperity, reflecting the cultural depth of Vietnam's people and traditions. (Photo: Chu Duc Giang)
Visiting Quynh Son is more than just sightseeing; it’s an immersion into a rich Tày cultural space. The sounds of the đàn tính lute and hát then folk singing fill the air during campfire nights. The flavors of traditional corn wine, Khâu Nhục (braised pork), roasted pig, and Tày bánh chưng (sticky rice cake) are local delicacies that truly enchant every traveler seeking authentic Vietnam tourism experiences. (Photo: luhanhvietnam)
Annually on the 12th–13th day of the first lunar month, the traditional Lồng Tồng Festival is held, praying for a bountiful harvest. This vibrant event embodies the unique traditional life and spirit of the mountainous people of Vietnam. (Photo: Chu Duc Giang)
Tourists can leisurely walk or cycle around the village, traversing the tranquil rice fields and admiring the majestic, continuous mountain ranges—a signature landscape of Vietnam. For the adventurous, climbing Na Lay Mountain, nearly 700m high, offers opportunities for cloud hunting and witnessing spectacular sunrises over the valley. Exploring the mysterious Keeng Tao cave or the Mo Mam stream that flows through the mountains are also exciting options. (Photo: Báo Văn Hoá)
Beyond its scenic beauty, Quynh Son stands as a remarkable model for community tourism deeply connected with environmental protection. The local government and residents work together to limit plastic waste, plant greenery, use natural building materials, and preserve traditional architecture. Local households are also trained in hospitality skills, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and cultural sensitivity for visitors to Vietnam. (Photo: Báo Văn Hoá)
As a result, Quynh Son is not just a place to visit, but a destination to experience the harmonious connection between people, culture, and nature. The development of homestay models, authentic local cuisine, and traditional handicrafts has created stable livelihoods, allowing residents to thrive through tourism—a testament to the positive impact of responsible Vietnam tourism. (Photo: Báo Văn Hoá)
With its commitment to sustainable rural tourism, closely linking cultural and natural preservation with the enhancement of local community life, Quynh Son Community Tourism Village, Bac Son commune, Lang Son province, was recently recognized by UN Tourism as the "Best Tourism Village in the World 2025." (Photo: Chu Duc Giang)
From a small village nestled on a mountainside, Quynh Son has now become a global symbol of sustainable Vietnam tourism—a tranquil haven where travelers come to find peace and leave with the conviction that tourism can truly change lives for the better. (Photo: Chu Duc Giang)