Mu Cang Chai is a small town located in the northwest of Vietnam. It is a destination that remains off the beaten track and yet, while doing your research on Vietnam, you have surely already seen photos of the rice terraces of Mu Cang Chai. Indeed, most tourists visit all of Vietnam and dream of seeing the most beautiful rice terraces but they never pass by Mu Cang Chai.

Comment aller à Mu Cang Chai ?

As with many destinations, most people will leave Hanoi before going to the northern mountains. Mu Cang Chai is about 300km from Hanoi but it is much more difficult to get to Mu Cang Chai than to Sapa. Indeed, if you want to go to Sapa, you can take the train or, many bus lines and limousine buses serve this very touristic destination. To go to Mu Cang Chai, it is another story because there are only a few local buses that serve Yen Bai and then you will have to take another bus to reach Mu Cang Chai. These buses are very slow and uncomfortable which turns the journey into a real adventure.

We recommend going to Mu Cang Chai by private vehicle with driver. Indeed, it is almost impossible to rent a car by yourself in Vietnam and it is even more difficult to drive in Vietnam without having an accident. It is therefore essential to rent a car with an experienced driver for more comfort and safety. Allow about 8 hours of driving from Hanoi to reach Mu Cang Chai.

Since the road is very long, it is recommended to stop for one night in Nghia Lo which is a small town off the beaten track. Here, you can walk in the middle of the rice fields and visit some villages where many ethnic minorities live.

Also, after visiting Sapa, it is also possible to reach Mu Cang Chai. Indeed, the distance between Sapa and Mu Cang Chai is only 160 km and it will only take you 4 hours in the mountains to reach your final destination.

What to see in Mu Cang Chai?

Mu Cang Chai is a small town with about 60,000 inhabitants. The main road follows the river through the mountain. In this valley, there are already many rice terraces, each as beautiful as the next. It should be noted that there is only one rice harvest per year and the rice is planted in late May – early June for a harvest in September – October.

Many ethnic minorities populate the mountains around Mu Cang Chai and you can meet them on the roadsides in traditional costume or at the local market. It is a real spectacle of colors. Their kindness will mark your mind in this remote region where people still meet few foreigners.

The sticky rice plateau of Mu Cang Chai

About 12km from the city center, you will find the Mam Xoi which means sticky rice plateau. It is clearly the most famous photo spot in Vietnam. It can only be accessed by motorbike because the road is quite narrow. You also need a manual motorbike because it is very steep. Once at the top, you can admire this magnificent rice plateau and stroll through the rice terraces.

To get to Mam Xoi, do not hesitate to ask for the services of a motorbike taxi. Homestays and hotels can book this service for you. These experienced drivers will take you to the top of the mountain safely. Then, they will take you back to your hotel.

The horseshoe of Mu Cang Chai

Here is an emblematic panoramic viewpoint of Mu Cang Chai: the horseshoe. A few kilometers from the city center, we find this famous horseshoe. The rice terraces arranged in an arc give this particular shape. It is a very photogenic place.

The road is quite difficult to reach this viewpoint. It is not possible to access it by car, you have to take a motorbike taxi once again. The road climbs a lot and is sometimes in bad condition.

Where to sleep in Mu Cang Chai?

Homestays

You will find many homestays throughout the Mu Cang Chai region. Most are run by ethnic minorities. The change of scenery will therefore be there. The comfort is quite basic among the inhabitants but that is part of the adventure.

On the banks of the river, there is a comfortable homestay run by a Frenchman. Indeed, Bertrand and his Vietnamese wife run this very nice little homestay with a magnificent view of the rice terraces. Here is the link to make a reservation:
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063713316260

The resorts

It is a few kilometers from the city center of Mu Cang Chai that we find a very nice resort: Le Champ Tu Le. This hotel with a magnificent view of the river and the rice terraces offers many options. You can book rooms in private bungalows of different sizes and different standards. There are also two swimming pools, one of which is heated by a hot spring.

Following the passage of Super Typhoon Yagi, many of you are wondering how to continue your trip or whether it is necessary to cancel your trip in the coming weeks or months. In this article, which will be updated regularly, we will explain how to travel to Vietnam after the passage of Typhoon Yagi.

What is Typhoon Yagi?

Typhoon Yagi 2024 was a powerful typhoon that hit Vietnam on September 7 this year. This weather phenomenon brought strong winds and heavy rains, causing extensive damage to the country.

The typhoon caused the deaths of dozens of people, with an estimated death toll of around 70. It also caused major destruction, including extensive damage to infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and buildings. Many homes were damaged or completely destroyed.

The cities most affected were Hanoi, the capital, where flooding was particularly severe; and Ha Long, a coastal city that suffered significant damage.

In response to this disaster, the Vietnamese government responded with emergency measures, such as evacuating dangerous areas and distributing relief supplies. Aid organizations and neighboring countries also provided assistance to support relief and reconstruction efforts.

Typhoon Floods

Following Typhoon Yagi, northern Vietnam was severely affected by severe flooding. The heavy rains that followed caused flooding in many areas.

The provinces most affected by the flooding include Quang Ninh, Ha Nam, and Ninh Binh. The capital, Hanoi, was also severely impacted, with streets and neighborhoods completely submerged by water.

The floods caused extensive damage to infrastructure, such as roads and bridges, and flooded many homes, leaving many families in dire conditions. Agricultural fields were also affected, causing significant losses to farmers.

Traveling in Vietnam after Typhoon Yagi

Updated on 13/09/2024

Hanoi

Due to the strong winds on the night of September 7, many trees fell on the roads. The roads have now been completely cleared and some of the fallen trees have been replanted. There is therefore no risk of seeing the capital completely disfigured by the typhoon.

The Red River began to recede on September 12. Some neighborhoods near the river were impacted by the rising waters. However, tourist areas such as Hoan Kiem (old quarter) were not affected.

Halong Bay

Halong Bay was closed during the typhoon. Unfortunately, some boats sank despite precautions. Today, Halong Bay is reopened to international tourism. Clean-ups are underway.

Sapa

The northern mountains have been hit by heavy rains after Typhoon Yagi. Heavy flooding and landslides have caused many casualties. Traffic remains complicated in this area and the mountain is waterlogged. We recommend that you avoid traveling to this area the next few days. The roads will be cleaned up and repaired until next week.

Ha Giang

Due to heavy rains, some roads have been partially damaged on the Ha Giang loop. Work is underway to clear and repair the roads. In this area, the risk of landslides is high and we recommend that you avoid this area until few days. At the end of September, there will be no reason to avoid to travel to Ha Giang.

Should I cancel my trip to Vietnam after Typhoon Yagi?

Under no circumstances should you cancel your trip following Typhoon Yagi. This weather event caused some impressive images but everything is getting back to normal. Trees have been replanted and clean-ups are underway after the Red River receded.

The roads to Sapa and Ha Giang has been cleaned up and repaired, you can now travel to the northern mountain. Sites such as Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, Pu Luong and Halong Bay can be visited without any problem. The capital Hanoi mainly suffered tree falls. Also, no consequences were observed on the rest of Vietnam in Danang, Hoi An, Saigon or Phu Quoc.

Discover the enchanting allure of Ninh Binh with our meticulously crafted Ninh Binh 2 days itinerary! Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Vietnam‘s hidden gem, where limestone peaks tower over lush green paddies and serene rivers. From the ancient capital of Hoa Lu to the mystical Trang An Grottoes, our journey promises unforgettable adventures and captivating experiences.

Glide through the stunning Tam Coc caves, explore the awe-inspiring Bai Dinh Pagoda, and lose yourself in the tranquility of Cuc Phuong National Park. Join us as we unveil the magic of Ninh Binh, guiding you through the must-see sights and hidden treasures that will make your trip truly unforgettable. Dive into our article and let the adventure begin!

Where is located Ninh Binh ?

Ninh Binh, located in northern Vietnam, is a picturesque province about 90 kilometers south of Hanoi. Often referred to as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” it boasts stunning landscapes of limestone karsts rising from emerald green rice paddies and winding rivers. Visitors can explore the ancient capital of Hoa Lu, take a boat ride through the mesmerizing Trang An Grottoes, and marvel at the beauty of Tam Coc’s caves and pagodas. The area is also home to the majestic Bai Dinh Pagoda, Vietnam‘s largest Buddhist complex, and the serene Cuc Phuong National Park, where nature enthusiasts can hike through dense forests and spot diverse wildlife. Ninh Binh offers a captivating mix of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural experiences that make it a must-visit destination.

Ninh Binh 2 Days itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Ancient Capitals and Scenic Wonders

Morning:

Arrive in Ninh Binh early in the morning to maximize your adventure time. Check into your cozy hotel and get ready for an exciting day ahead.

Kick off your journey with a visit to Hoa Lu, the ancient capital of Vietnam. Wander through the historic temples dedicated to Emperor Dinh Tien Hoang and Emperor Le Dai Hanh, set against lush, green mountains. Feel the history come alive as you explore the remnants of this once-thriving capital.

For lunch, savor a hearty lunch at a local restaurant. Don’t miss trying the regional specialty, goat meat, prepared in various delectable ways. Let the flavors tantalize your taste buds as you prepare for the afternoon’s adventures.

In the afternoon, head to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Hop on a traditional sampan boat and glide through a labyrinth of rivers, caves, and lush valleys. The serene scenery and mystical caves will leave you spellbound. Keep your camera ready for stunning photo opportunities.

Visit Bai Dinh Pagoda, the largest Buddhist complex in Vietnam. Wander through the massive complex, marvel at the giant Buddha statues, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere. Don’t forget to ring the giant bronze bell for good luck.

Day 2: Nature and Cultural Immersion

After a hearty breakfast, make your way to Tam Coc, often referred to as “Ha Long Bay on land.” Embark on a serene boat ride along the Ngo Dong River, passing through three stunning limestone caves. The picturesque landscape of rice paddies and karsts will leave you in awe.

Visit Bich Dong Pagoda, a series of ancient pagodas nestled into a mountainside. Climb the stone steps to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The blend of natural beauty and ancient architecture is truly captivating.

Lunch at local restaurant.

Spend your afternoon exploring Cuc Phuong National Park, Vietnam’s oldest national park. Hike through dense forests, visit the Endangered Primate Rescue Center, and marvel at the thousand-year-old tree. The park’s rich biodiversity will delight nature enthusiasts.

Cap off your day with a visit to Mua Cave. Climb the 500 steps to the summit for a breathtaking panoramic view of Tam Coc and the surrounding area. The view is especially stunning during sunset, offering a perfect end to your adventure.

This detailed Ninh Binh 2 days itinerary ensures you experience the natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural depth of Ninh Binh, making your trip truly memorable.

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, a city of around 8 million inhabitants. Some people love it because it is a city full of history with many picturesque little streets, other people hate it for its chaotic traffic and its level of noise and air pollution. Anyway, most people visit this city during the day however, we challenged ourselves to visit Hanoi by night.

Why visit Hanoi by night?

Visiting Hanoi by night can be a wise idea in summer when the thermometer reaches scorching temperatures. It then becomes very difficult to wander through the small streets of the old quarter in the middle of the afternoon. Likewise, these alleys are often empty because the Vietnamese prefer to take a nap when the heat is not bearable.

Thus, from 5 p.m., local life resumes in the old quarter of Hanoi. We can then observe all kinds of scenes of life such as parents who go to pick up their children from school on scooters or even small restaurants which are full of people for a snack or a light dinner.

Later in the evening, the streets of Hanoi by night are quieter and people are more relaxed. It is then much more pleasant to visit the city. Also, you can take advantage of the lighting of the different monuments to take very beautiful photos.

What to see in Hanoi by night?

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

It is at 9 p.m. each evening that the flag lowering ceremony takes place. To see this ceremony, you must arrive at the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum square a little earlier to have time to pass through the security gates. You can enter the main square for free.

Shortly before 9 p.m., soldiers asked the crowd to stand on the grass. Then the music starts and a group of soldiers in white costumes arrive to lower the flag. This ceremony lasts only about fifteen minutes and allows you to appreciate the importance of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Vietnamese culture.

The train street

In the evening, the train street is very beautiful with all its lights, its lanterns and its little cafes along the railway tracks. It’s the ideal place for a snack or a coffee even if the quality of the food and drinks is quite average. Don’t expect to be dazzled by the restaurants on train street.

A few trains may pass throughout the evening if you’re lucky. But there is only one train that you will be sure of and certain of its departure, and that is the 10 p.m. train to Sapa. Every evening, this train will pass through Train Street a few minutes after leaving Hanoi Central Station.

Hoan Kiem Lake Tour

Only during the weekend, the Hoan Kiem Lake tour is closed to car traffic. You can then stroll freely on the main street and attend different music shows, clowns, magicians… You can also visit the Hanoi night market.

Long Bien market

From 8 p.m., many trucks park below the Long Bien bridge to collect their precious goods. Indeed, under this bridge, a huge wholesale market comes to life every night from 8 p.m. to 5 a.m.

We can then observe piles of watermelons, mangoes and other vegetables. Many workers carry goods on their carts and push them at arm’s length. It’s a veritable anthill equivalent to the Rungis market (but more rustic).

We didn’t see any tourists at this market and it’s true that they are sometimes poorly received by the locals here. The Vietnamese are there to sell and buy. They have to move quickly and get the trucks on the roads.

To get there, cross the ring road at the Long Bien bus station. It is there, on the banks of the red river, that the hangars are located.

Tay Ho Flower Market

Here is a fairly atypical and unique market which also comes to life at night. The Hanoi flower market is also a wholesale market but can be visited without any problem. Many couples walk there to buy flowers.

It is possible to discover a large quantity of varieties of flowers there. In June, it is the season of lotus flowers which are found in abundance. With the arrival of Tet (lunar new year), the market experiences its highest peak of activity.

To go to the Tay Ho flower market, you have to reach the Tay Ho (West Lake) district by the ring road and you will find the market at 236 Au Co, Tay Ho, Hanoi.

Here is one of the particularities of the city of Hanoi in Vietnam: The train street. A street where the train passes every day and brushes past homes. The train street has gradually become very famous in Vietnam and many tourists now come to see the passing train while drinking Vietnamese coffee.

Where to find the train street?

Generally speaking, the train street crosses the capital from Hanoi Central Station to the Long Bien Bridge (former Paul Doumer Bridge). The train crosses many roads and there are no residents living along the entire street.

Indeed, the inhabitants who have decorated their houses with lanterns and offering coffees are located in a very particular segment of the rue du train. It is after a passage and at a bend near Tran Phu street that you can access this extremely photogenic spot which can feed your Instagram account.

To access TRAIN STREET: 74A, đường tàu, Trần Phú, Cửa Đông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi

When does the train come?

The train crosses this street twice a day, at specific times, and local residents are well aware of its passage. It is important to note that trains pass at a relatively slow speed, allowing residents to organize themselves and take safety precautions.

When the train approaches, residents often move their belongings and move out of the way of the train. This has created a unique scene where visitors can closely observe the daily lives of local residents and how they interact with the regular passage of the train.

However, it is important to respect residents’ privacy and be sensitive when visiting this location. Caution is also required due to the proximity of the train. You can take advantage of this unique experience to discover an authentic side of urban life in Hanoi.

How to get on the train street in 2024?

There are several entrances to enter this famous railway bend. The first entry point is at the level crossing. There, you will see a guard who will block your way with a large sign warning of the dangerousness of the street. However, it is possible to bypass this guard provided you are accompanied by a resident of the street who will take you to their café so that you can have something there.

The second entry point is not far from there up the train street towards Long Bien station. As you walk along the street, you will see a first staircase with a guard. This is where you can go up accompanied by a resident to have a coffee. It is at this entry point that you can go to the cafes which have the best view of the street.

The third entry point is a little further on. Once again, a staircase will allow you to access the street. However, we do not recommend this entry as the cafes do not have the best view. Indeed, on this side of the street, there are houses on only one side of the street and the other side is open to the road which makes the experience less impressive.

Also, it is in the evening that the street is most beautiful with many lanterns and lights. You will definitely appreciate the atmosphere of the street while waiting for the 10 p.m. train to pass which heads towards the northern mountains: Lao Cai and then to Sapa.

Finally, it is possible that, if there are a lot of people on the street taking photos or videos as the train passes, the police will intervene to evacuate the street. You will then also have to leave the café in which you will be seated. This is a way to make the most of the train street which has become a “tourist trap” attraction.

Why do people live on the train street?

Historically, the railway was built by the French at the beginning of the 20th century. A large number of Vietnamese workers participated in the construction site. It was then that, to thank them for their dedication, the government offered them a small piece of land next to the railway line. The new owners of this land then took the opportunity to build small, modest houses there. People who live on this street will tell you that they are not bothered by the noise of the train. In all cases, the development of tourism in this street thanks to social networks has allowed them to develop a rather lucrative business.

Are you planning to spend 2 days and 1 night in Sapa ? If you are looking for the most suitable Sapa 2 days itinerary ? Then, you are on the right page to find the answer to all your questions.

First of all, Sapa is located in the North part of Vietnam at around 300km from Hanoï. It takes around 6 hours to reach Sapa by bus (most of the people take the sleeping bus) from Hanoï. It is also possible to reach Sapa by train but it takes 8 hours to reach Lao Cai train station and then one more hour to reach Sapa town.

Sapa is very nice place to visit during the summer because it is located in the mountainous area, you should check when is the most suitable time to go there. Indeed, in the winter, there is no ricecrops in the ricefields and it can be very cold. You can check out the best time to visit Sapa by following this link : Best time to visit Sapa

Sapa is a montainous area which is famous for its terrace ricefields and to see the highest mountain of Vietnam : The Fansipan mountain. This is why Sapa is a good place for trekking and enjoy the fresh air of Northern Vietnam.

Are 2 days in Sapa enough?

Two days are not enough to see everything but it is enough to enjoy some places which are interesting for you.

Two days in Sapa can provide you with a good taste of the area, but whether it’s “enough” depends on what you want to accomplish during your visit. Sapa, in northern Vietnam, offers stunning landscapes, trekking opportunities, cultural experiences with ethnic minority groups, and more.

Sapa 2 days itinerary for trekking lovers

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Spend your first day exploring Sapa Town itself. Visit local markets, such as the Sapa Market and Love Market, where you can interact with ethnic minority groups and buy local crafts. Take a leisurely walk around the town, exploring its French colonial architecture and enjoying local cuisine. If you have time and energy, you could also visit nearby attractions like Ham Rong Mountain for panoramic views.

Day 2: Trekking Adventure

Use your second day, of this Sapa 2 days itinerary, to venture into the surrounding countryside. There are numerous trekking routes of varying lengths and difficulties that take you through picturesque rice terraces, bamboo forests, and traditional villages. Popular trekking destinations include Cat Cat Village, Y Linh Ho Village, and Lao Chai Village. You can opt for a guided trek or explore independently, depending on your preferences and experience.

While two days will allow you to experience some of the highlights of Sapa, if you have more time, you could extend your stay to explore further afield or to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, Sapa’s weather can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to check the forecast and plan accordingly, especially if you’re hoping to trek or engage in outdoor activities.

The other most popular attraction in Sapa is the Fansipan peak. Fansipan, often referred to as the “Roof of Indochina,” is the highest peak in Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia, standing at 3,147.3 meters (10,326 feet) above sea level. There are several ways to reach the summit, each catering to different preferences and fitness levels:

From Tram Ton Pass

Typically 2 days and 1 night, though some experienced trekkers can complete it in one day. This is the most popular and accessible route, starting from Tram Ton Pass (also known as Heaven’s Gate), about 15 kilometers from Sa Pa town. This trek offers a mix of dense forest, bamboo groves, and breathtaking views. You’ll stay overnight in camps along the way.

From Sin Chai Village

The trekking duration is around 2 to 3 days and the way is harder. This route starts from Sin Chai Village and is less traveled compared to the Tram Ton Pass route, offering a more secluded experience. More challenging with steeper paths and less infrastructure.

Cable Car

I takes about 15-20 minutes to reach the Fansipan Station, plus a further 600-step climb to the summit. The cable car station is in Muong Hoa Valley, about 3 kilometers from Sa Pa town. This is the easiest and most comfortable way to reach the peak, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. The cable car offers stunning panoramic views of the Hoang Lien Son range.

Sapa is also a good place to chill in a resort like : Topas Ecolodge. With its stunning view, comfortable bungalow and infinity swimming pool, you will surely enjoy your stay in Sapa. Note that the ecolodge is a bit far from the city and you should visit Sapa town before or after your stay at the Ecolodge.

In summary, a stay of 2-3 days is a common recommendation for most visitors to Sapa, but you can adjust based on your preferences and the activities you want to pursue. It’s always a good idea to check current travel conditions and weather forecasts before planning your trip.

We hope you enjoyed your stay in Sapa !

To book a tour for Sapa, please contact us by WhatsApp : +84.947.891.345

You are looking to visit Hanoi and you would like to see the famous Hanoi Water Puppet Show, you are on the right page to learn more about this unmissing vietnamese show. Here, we will give you tips about where to see the water puppet show, what is the schedule and entrance ticket price.

Where to see the Hanoi Water Puppet Show ?

The Hanoi Water Puppet Show is a unique and traditional Vietnamese art form that you can experience in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. The most popular venue to watch the water puppet show in Hanoi is the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, located at 57B Dinh Tien Hoang Street, near Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s advisable to book tickets in advance as the shows can get quite busy, especially during peak tourist seasons. Enjoy the colorful and mesmerizing performance!

What is the schedule of Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre ?

The schedule for the Hanoi Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre may vary depending on the season and demand. Typically, there are multiple shows throughout the day, with performances usually starting in the late morning and continuing into the evening. It’s best to check the official website of the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on showtimes and ticket availability.

Each show typically lasts around 50 minutes. Hanoi water puppet shows start at 3:30 pm – 5 pm – 6:30 pm – 8 pm – 9:15 pm daily and Sunday at 9:30 am.

What is the price of the Hanoi Water Puppet Show ?

The price of the Hanoi Water Puppet Show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre can vary depending on factors such as seating location, time of day, and whether you purchase tickets directly at the theater or through a tour agency. As of my last update, ticket prices typically ranged from around 100,000 VND to 200,000 VND for adults (approximately $6 to $8 USD), with discounted prices available for children.

• Standard tickets: 150,000 VND (~6.14 USD)
• VIP tickets: 200,000 VND (~8.72 USD)

Premium seating may be available at a higher cost. Additionally, tour packages that include the water puppet show may offer different pricing structures, so you may want to explore those options as well.

What to expect during the show ?

A show at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a unique and captivating experience. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Traditional Puppetry: The show features traditional Vietnamese water puppetry, which dates back to the 11th century. Puppeteers stand behind a screen and manipulate wooden puppets that appear to be moving on water.
2. Live Music: Accompanying the puppetry is live traditional music performed on traditional instruments such as drums, flutes, and string instruments like the đàn bầu (monochord).
3. Vietnamese Folklore and Legends: The performances often depict scenes from Vietnamese folklore, legends, and rural life. You may see stories of mythical creatures, daily village activities, or historical events.
4. Colorful Visuals: The puppets are beautifully crafted and adorned with colorful costumes. The scenes are visually stunning, with elaborate sets and lighting effects.
5. Humor and Drama: The shows often incorporate elements of humor, drama, and even satire, appealing to audiences of all ages.
6. Cultural Insight: Attending a water puppet show provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.

Overall, a visit to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater promises a delightful and culturally enriching experience for tourists and locals alike.