Dong Van Ancient Town – Where Old-World Charm Lives On

Hà Giang isn't just a destination renowned for its breathtaking vistas of vibrant pink buckwheat flowers blanketing the rocky plateau each autumn. Beyond that, Hà Giang holds a special attraction that draws interesting comparisons to the charm and atmosphere found in Hanoi and Hoi An.
When we talk about ancient towns, it's not just Hoi An Ancient Town or Hanoi's 36 Old Streets; there's also Dong Van Ancient Town. Located in Ha Giang, Dong Van Ancient Town feels like a place where the flow of time has blurred the lines between past and present reality. From its centuries-old houses and bustling highland markets to its vibrant festival nights, Dong Van Ancient Town captivates visitors on a Ha Giang Tour, leaving a lasting impression that stays with them for a lifetime.

Dong Van Ancient Town, part of Dong Van district, sits at an elevation of 1,000m to 1,600m above sea level. Surrounded by endless mountains and forests, Dong Van Ancient Town is nestled in an impressive, tranquil, and ancient setting. It's no exaggeration to say that the beauty of this town is a distinctive highlight amidst the rugged stone plateau. Missing the chance to explore the nostalgic charm of Dong Van Ancient Town during your Ha Giang trip would truly be a pity.

From the early 20th century, a few Tay, Hoa, and Hmong families migrated to this town, settling down and building their lives. Later, the town became even more vibrant as Nung, Dao, and Kinh people also gradually moved here to establish themselves.
How to Get to Dong Van Ancient Town, Ha Giang?
To reach Dong Van Ancient Town from Hanoi, travelers first need to get to Ha Giang city. You can take a sleeper bus or opt for a Ha Giang tour from Hanoi if you're new to the area and unfamiliar with the routes. The journey is quite long but not overly difficult, so you can rest assured!

From Ha Giang city to Dong Van Ancient Town is approximately 100km. The route features many winding turns, steep inclines, and potentially dangerous mountain passes. Therefore, if you're not a confident driver, it's best to travel by car for safety.
When is the Best Time to Visit Dong Van Ancient Town, Ha Giang?
Dong Van Ancient Town is bustling with both domestic and international Ha Giang tourists throughout all four seasons. However, this tranquil ancient town becomes more vibrant than ever during festival seasons, especially during the Ha Giang Buckwheat Flower season, which typically runs from October to early December.

During this time, in addition to exploring the nostalgic beauty of Dong Van Ancient Town, visitors also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the vibrant colors and fragrance of the buckwheat flower fields. And don't miss the chance to taste the unique flavors of buckwheat cake and buckwheat wine, both specialties of Ha Giang!
What to See and Do in Dong Van Ancient Town, Ha Giang?
Admire the Ancient Beauty of Dong Van Ancient Town
Dong Van Ancient Town is home to just 40 households living closely together, forming a hidden community beneath towering rock cliffs. The overall picture of this Ha Giang ancient town features the golden hues of sunlight, the green of the mountains and forests, and the nostalgic shades of houses weathered by time.

Upon arriving in this town, visitors will admire a remarkably nostalgic architectural style, featuring rows of ancient two-story houses. Above them are yin-yang tiled roofs – a typical architectural feature found in the homes of ethnic minorities in Vietnam's northern mountainous regions. Some houses are also adorned with red lanterns hanging by their doors, adding to the enchanting atmosphere.

Dong Van Ancient Town seems to change its mood throughout the day. If you stay here on a 3-day, 2-night Ha Giang tour, in the early morning, the ancient town glows with the golden warmth of the sun, and the atmosphere is incredibly tranquil and peaceful. Step outside and breathe in the fresh, pure air gifted by nature. By late afternoon, the entire town takes on a wonderfully gentle and romantic beauty. Under the twilight glow, lanterns begin to light up, making the whole town shimmer with a magical allure.
Discover Dong Van Ancient Town Cafe
If you visit Dong Van Ancient Town in Ha Giang, don't miss the chance to “date” at the Ancient Town Cafe (Cà phê Phố Cổ). As one of the few old houses that still retains its ancient beauty amidst the deteriorating structures of Dong Van Ancient Town, “Cà phê Phố cổ” stands out as an inviting beacon, perfectly fulfilling its role as a preserved establishment.

This was originally the home of a powerful Tay landlord named Luong, who held significant influence in the Dong Van region in the past. This nearly century-old house has witnessed many ups and downs alongside the ancient town and, fortunately, remains almost entirely intact.

The Ancient Town Cafe (Cà phê Phố Cổ) is quite spacious, featuring a wide, open facade and an inner courtyard. Most visitors are drawn to its deeply nostalgic beauty, which easily evokes memories of bygone eras. Anyone who visits this cafe just once is sure to be enchanted and remember it fondly.

The Ancient Town Cafe (Cà phê Phố Cổ) is just a few minutes' walk from the rows of ancient houses. The first floor features natural bamboo tables and chairs. The second floor offers visitors a quiet space to enjoy panoramic views of the ancient town's beauty. The only light source in the cafe comes from red lanterns, making the atmosphere even more shimmering and magical.
Immerse Yourself in the Bustling Life of Dong Van Ancient Market
Beyond exploring the moss-covered, ancient houses, visitors on a Ha Giang trip to Dong Van Ancient Town can also experience the traditional highland culture through its vibrant market days (Chợ phiên). The market stalls at Dong Van Ancient Market are arranged in a U-shape.

Dong Van Ancient Town is a hub for highland residents to buy, sell, and exchange goods. It's also a place where young men and women come to socialize and find partners. Ethnic girls in colorful brocade costumes greet visitors with smiles as bright as the morning sun. Strolling around the market, visitors will find many unique souvenirs to bring back for their loved ones.

Dong Van Ancient Market is a sophisticated blend of Vietnamese and Chinese architectural styles. The market was built between 1925 and 1928. Today, Dong Van Ancient Market has become a truly unique tapestry, weaving together the natural beauty of the Northeast mountains and forests with the unhurried pace of life of the highland people.
Savor Ha Giang Cuisine in the Ancient Town
If you have the chance to visit Dong Van Ancient Town, don't forget to stop by the roadside eateries and savor the distinctive culinary specialties of Ha Giang. Some famous dishes you shouldn't miss include Dried Buffalo Meat (Thịt trâu gác bếp), Bac Me Bamboo-tube Rice (cơm lam Bắc Mê), Five-colored Sticky Rice (xôi ngũ sắc), Au Tau Porridge (cháo ấu tẩu), Thang Co hotpot, and Steamed Rice Rolls with Egg (bánh cuốn trứng), among others. These dishes are generally quite palatable for people from the lowlands.

Dong Van Ancient Town isn't overly large, but it's spacious enough to accommodate many people; and even more so to embrace the expansive souls of those living on the stone plateau, the people who “live in stone, die buried in stone,” or the distant travelers who have fallen in love with this land.

Make sure to visit Ha Giang and explore this special Dong Van Ancient Town soon!
Tuyen Quang 5101 view
Update day : 17/03/2023
Source : Elite Tour Affiliate links
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