North Vietnam is a stunningly beautiful region that offers a diverse range of landscapes, from lush green rice paddies to towering limestone mountains. However, one of the best times to visit this region is during the golden harvest season, which typically takes place in late September to early November. During this time, the rice fields turn into a golden sea of ripened grains, making it the perfect backdrop for a photography tour.
The photography tour of North Vietnam during the golden harvest season is a unique experience that takes you on a journey through some of the most picturesque areas of the region. The tour starts in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, and from there, you will travel to the countryside, where you will be able to witness the rice fields in all their golden glory.
THE RICE FIELD TERRACE
One of the highlights of the photography tour is a visit to the Mu Cang Chai district, which is located in the northwestern part of Vietnam. This area is known for its terraced rice fields, which were created by the Hmong people over 700 years ago. The terraces are not only a remarkable feat of engineering, but they also provide a stunning backdrop for photography, especially during the golden harvest season.
Rice Terrace Field at Mu Cang Chai
One of the most picturesque spots in the region during this season is the Long Coc tea plantation, located in the heart of the Thai Nguyen province. Long Coc tea plantation is a hidden gem in North Vietnam that is well worth a visit during the golden harvest season. The Long Coc tea plantation covers over 500 hectares of hills and valleys, providing a scenic and peaceful environment that is perfect for photography. The plantation is situated at an altitude of around 800 meters above sea level, which gives it a cool and refreshing climate that is ideal for growing tea. The lush green tea bushes that cover the hills create a stunning contrast against the golden rice fields, making it a popular spot for photographers.
During the golden harvest season, the Long Coc tea plantation takes on a special charm. The tea bushes are in full bloom, and the air is filled with the sweet fragrance of the tea flowers. At this time of year, the tea leaves are also at their peak, providing a fresh and vibrant green color that is perfect for photography. The Long Coc tea plantation also offers an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of tea in Vietnam. Tea has been grown in the country for centuries, and it is an important part of Vietnamese culture. The plantation provides an opportunity to learn about the process of growing and harvesting tea, from the initial planting of the tea bushes to the final processing of the tea leaves.
Sunrise At Long Coc Tea Hill
Sapa, on the other hand, is a popular tourist destination that is known for its breathtaking scenery and vibrant cultural heritage. The town is located in the Hoang Lien Son mountain range and is surrounded by terraced rice fields, waterfalls, and picturesque villages. Sapa provides a visually stunning backdrop for photography, particularly during the golden hour when the light is soft and warm.
The corn houses of North Vietnam are an iconic feature of the region’s rural landscape. These traditional structures are used to store corn and other crops, and they are often constructed using a combination of wood and bamboo. The corn houses provide an interesting subject for photography, particularly during the golden harvest season when the fields are filled with ripe corn.
Traditional Vietnamese Corn House
One of the best ways to experience the culture and history of the region during this season is to visit the Thu Sy village, where you can witness the traditional bamboo fishing baskets being made.
Thu Sy village is located in the Thai Binh province, and it is famous for its bamboo fishing baskets, which are used by fishermen in the nearby Red River Delta. The baskets are made by hand using traditional techniques that have been passed down through generations. During the golden harvest season, the village provides a picturesque backdrop for photography, with the bamboo baskets stacked against the golden rice fields.
Bamboo fishing baskets in Thu Sy village
Soy Sauce Making
Another interesting spot to visit during the photography tour of North Vietnam is a traditional soy sauce factory. Soy sauce has been an important ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine for centuries, and the process of making it has remained largely unchanged over the years. Visiting a traditional soy sauce factory is an opportunity to witness this process firsthand and capture unique images of the fermentation and aging of the soy sauce.
Lastly, a visit to a drying incense sticks factory provides an opportunity to learn about the spiritual and cultural significance of incense in Vietnam. Incense is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, used in both Buddhist and Taoist rituals. The drying incense sticks factory provides a glimpse into the process of making incense, from the preparation of the materials to the final drying of the sticks. The incense sticks drying in the sun provide a unique and visually interesting subject for photography.
Drying incense sticks
Throughout the photography tour, you will have the opportunity to work with local guides who are intimately familiar with the area. They will take you to the best spots for photography and provide you with insights into the culture and history of the region. You will also have the opportunity to meet with local farmers and learn about the process of growing rice, from planting to harvesting.
In conclusion, a photography tour of North Vietnam during the golden harvest season is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is not to be missed. From the golden terraced rice fields of Mu Cang Chai to the blooming lush green tea terrace garden of Long Coc to the rugged mountains of Sapa, the region offers a wealth of opportunities for stunning photography. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an amateur photographer, this tour is sure to provide you with memories and photographs that will last a lifetime.
If you want to see and know more about the Golden Harvest Season in North Vietnam, Join me this summer and freeze the enchanting beauty of Vietnam in your camera. Click here for more details!
PC: Le Hong Ha
