Dong Van Ancient Street – Discover the Ancient Beauty and Charm of Ha Giang

Dong Van Old Town, a small yet historically rich area nestled in the heart of the Ha Giang rocky plateau, is a must-visit destination when traveling to Ha Giang. Explore the beauty of this ancient town, from its distinctive architecture to its unique cultural activities, in the detailed article below.

1. Introduction to Dong Van Old Town

Dong Van Old Town is situated at an altitude of 1,000 to 1,600 meters above sea level, amidst the serene landscape of Ha Giang’s rocky plateau. This quaint town is home to only about 40 families, creating a nostalgic picture with houses that are centuries old. The buildings here are constructed in the traditional style of the northern mountain ethnic groups, with yin-yang roof tiles and large wooden columns.

Dong Van Old Town has been around since the early 20th century. Through many historical ups and downs, it has retained the unique cultural traits of minority ethnic groups such as the Tay, Mong, Hoa, and Dao. During festival seasons, the old town comes alive with traditional cultural activities, attracting many visitors for sightseeing and experiences.

2. The Beauty of Ancient Architecture

Dong Van Old Town is renowned for its two-story houses, yin-yang roof tiles, and ancient architecture. The houses here are primarily made of wood and stone, preserving their rustic and old-world charm. Some houses even hang red lanterns, creating an enchanting and romantic atmosphere. A notable spot in this ancient town is the "Old Town Café," where visitors can enjoy coffee while overlooking the entire old town from above.

The houses in Dong Van Old Town showcase distinctive architectural features of the Hoa people, with intricate carvings and harmonious layouts. Each house typically has a small garden where the family engages in daily activities and social gatherings. The architecture not only reflects the craftsmanship and elegance of the locals but also demonstrates a harmonious blend of human and nature.

3. Dong Van Market

Dong Van Market is an essential part of the old town, located directly opposite the old houses. The market is not only a place for trading goods but also a cultural space where locals interact, make friends, and enjoy local cuisine. Signature dishes such as "thang co," "corn wine," "au tau porridge," and "water-dipped cake" are must-tries for visitors.

Dong Van Market operates every Sunday, attracting many people from surrounding villages for trading and exchanging goods. It’s also an opportunity for locals to meet, socialize, and participate in cultural activities. Visitors to Dong Van Market will have the chance to buy handcrafted items, ethnic textiles, and local specialties.

4. Cultural Activities and Festivals

Dong Van Old Town is lively with various cultural activities. Notably, the "Old Town Night" is held on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of each lunar month, featuring displays of ethnic textiles, traditional performances, and food sales. Red lanterns hanging throughout the town create a dazzling ambiance, drawing many visitors to join in.

The largest annual festival in Dong Van Old Town is the Mong people’s "Gau Tao Festival," which takes place at the beginning of spring. This festival is not only an opportunity for the locals to pray for a bountiful harvest but also a chance to socialize, make friends, and enjoy diverse cultural and artistic activities. Traditional games, dance, singing, and sports competitions are among the attractions for many visitors.

5. Homestays and Accommodation

Visitors to Dong Van Old Town can choose to stay at homestays such as "Ancient House Homestay," "Dust Homestay," "Dao Lodge," and "Ma Le Homestay." These homestays provide comfortable lodging while offering an immersive experience in the local cultural atmosphere.

The homestays in Dong Van Old Town are built in traditional architectural styles, providing guests with a sense of familiarity and warmth. Hosts are often very welcoming, and eager to share insights about local culture, customs, and daily life. Guests can participate in activities such as weaving, cooking, and farming to gain a deeper understanding of local life.

6. Travel Tips for Dong Van Old Town

To have a fulfilling trip to Dong Van Old Town, visitors should plan their visit from September to December when buckwheat flowers are in full bloom, creating a picturesque scene. Don’t forget to try local delicacies and engage in cultural activities to gain insight into the local lifestyle and people.

When traveling to Dong Van, visitors should prepare warm clothing as the weather can be quite chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings. The roads to Dong Van are winding and steep, so driving requires caution and attention to safety. If you're not confident in your driving skills, consider hiring a driver or joining a tour organized by travel agencies.

7. How to Get to Dong Van Old Town

Visitors can travel to Ha Giang by bus from Hanoi and then rent a motorbike or car to continue to Dong Van. Although the road to Dong Van has many winding sections, it offers spectacular experiences with the majestic natural scenery of the rocky plateau.

For those who want to save time, renting a tourist car or motorbike in Ha Giang allows for flexible exploration of the surrounding areas. However, be sure to check the vehicle before departure to ensure safety. Visitors should bring a map or use a navigation app to avoid getting lost.

8. Conclusion

Dong Van Old Town is not just a tourist destination but a place that preserves the precious cultural and historical values of the Ha Giang rocky plateau. Visit and experience the peaceful, ancient, and uniquely captivating atmosphere of this old town. Dong Van Old Town offers visitors a meaningful travel experience, helping them to understand the culture and history of the highland people. Take the time to visit and explore the interesting aspects of this place. 

Contact DAIICHI TRAVEL now to experience the wonders of this place.