Where is Dong Van Ancient Town?
Dong Van Ancient Town is located in the heart of Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province – the northernmost region of Vietnam. Situated within the UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark, this ancient town lies over 1,000 meters above sea level, surrounded by majestic limestone mountains and cool, fresh air year-round.
Dong Van Ancient Town History
Dong Van Ancient Town dates back over 100 years, with its origins in the early 20th century during the French colonial period. Initially home to Chinese merchants, the town gradually welcomed ethnic communities such as the Hmong, Tay, and Nung.
The old town features a blend of Chinese-style architecture and local ethnic designs. Most houses are built with clay walls, wooden beams, stone foundations, and yin-yang tiled roofs. Many structures have been well-preserved, retaining their original charm for over a century.
How to Get to Dong Van Ancient Town?
From Hanoi:
By bus: Take a sleeper bus from My Dinh, Giap Bat, or Gia Lam Bus Stations to Ha Giang City (about 6–8 hours).
From Ha Giang City to Dong Van: Travel by motorbike or car for around 150 km along the famous “Happiness Road” (QL4C), which offers stunning views and iconic stops like Tham Ma Pass and Ma Pi Leng Pass.
Travel tip:
Motorbike travel is highly recommended for adventure seekers looking to fully experience the breathtaking landscapes and winding mountain roads.
When to Go to Dong Van?
Dong Van is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit is:
March–April: Blossoming peach and plum flowers color the mountain slopes.
September–November: Buckwheat flower season – a symbol of Ha Giang – turns the hills into dreamy pink carpets.
December–February: Cold but magical, with early morning fog and fewer tourists.
Visiting on a Sunday morning is also a great idea to experience the lively and colorful Dong Van Market, where ethnic groups from surrounding areas gather.
The Ancient Beauty of Dong Van Ancient Town
Although small in size, Dong Van Ancient Town boasts over 40 well-preserved old houses lining its narrow, stone-paved streets. The ancient walls, tiled roofs, and intricate wooden balconies create a peaceful, nostalgic atmosphere that transports you back in time.
In the early morning, a soft mist blankets the town, while the warm hues of sunset bathe the rooftops in golden light. At night, red lanterns glow softly, creating a romantic and fairy-tale-like scene.
Things to Do in Dong Van Ancient Town
Enjoy coffee in a century-old house
Visit Café Phố Cổ Dong Van, set in a traditional house over 100 years old. Sip your coffee while watching the quiet town come to life — a peaceful and authentic experience.
Explore Dong Van Sunday Market
The weekly Dong Van Market is held every Sunday morning. This is a must-see cultural event where ethnic minorities gather to trade food, livestock, textiles, and handmade crafts in colorful traditional dress.
Take stunning photos
The ancient architecture and vintage setting make Dong Van a dream destination for photographers. Yellow clay walls, wooden doors, and lantern-lit streets offer perfect backdrops for portraits and travel shots.
Try local food
Sample unique local dishes such as “thắng cố” (horse meat stew), “mèn mén” (steamed corn flour), buckwheat cakes, ấu tẩu porridge, and corn wine – all deeply rooted in highland culinary culture.
Experience ethnic culture
If you’re lucky, you may witness traditional festivals like Gầu Tào (Hmong New Year) or spring celebrations, rich in customs, music, and rituals of local ethnic communities.
Final thoughts
Dong Van Ancient Town is more than a travel destination – it’s a journey through history, culture, and the timeless beauty of Vietnam’s northern highlands. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history buff, or a cultural explorer, Dong Van promises unforgettable experiences and breathtaking views.
Don’t miss your chance to uncover the charm of Dong Van Ancient Town – where the past lives on, and every step tells a story.
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