Rice is not just a staple food in Vietnam; it is an integral part of the country’s cultural fabric and landscape. The iconic rice fields of Vietnam, with their stunning terraces and lush greenery, are among the most beautiful and scenic in the world. These fields, which transform into a breathtaking sea of golden yellow during the harvest season, are a must-see for any traveler exploring Vietnam.
If you are planning a trip to Vietnam, be sure to add a visit to one of the country’s many rice fields to your itinerary. Here are a few of the best rice fields in Vietnam to visit during your trip to the North. Some Of The Best Rice Fields in Vietnam
Sapa
Sapa is undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations for rice terraces in Vietnam. Located in the northern mountains, this charming town is known for its dramatic landscapes, cool climate, and rich cultural diversity. During harvest season, the terraces are a vibrant yellow, and the views from the town are simply breathtaking.While Sapa town is pretty touristy, the real charm lies in the villages far from the city center and up in the mountains, where you can experience the authentic charm of rural life. While on the go, you can stay at local homestay, join a guided a trekking tour, and embark on a 2-day or 3-day hike through remote vilages among the rice fields. These lesser-known trekking paths ensure an authentic experience away from the crowds. Sapa is easily accessible from Hanoi by bus, train, or private car, making it a convenient destination for travelers. The best time to visit is either around October, November when it is around the rice harvesting season.
Mu Cang Chai
For those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience, Mu Cang Chai is your perfect destination. Mu Cang Chai is another mountain town in northern Vietnam that is famous for its rice terraces. The terraces here are even more remote than those in Sapa, making them a great option for travelers who are looking for a more authetic experience. The journey to Mu Cang Chai involves travelling through the Khau Pha Pass, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountain. To get there, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai; private transportation is also an option for those who prefer privacy. While the journey might be long, the stunning landscapes and the chance to explore one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and untouched regions make it well worth the effort. Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is a district in the northern province of Ha Giang. Though belongs to Ha Giang, Hoang Su Phi offers a different experience with a more remote and authentic touch. The road in Hoang Su Phi is currently under construction, so it is more suitable for those who are up to a more challenging journey. You can travel by bus to Ha Giang and then proceed to Hoang Su Phi by taxi or renting a motorbike. Opting for a private car tour is an alternate option if you prefer a smooth and hassle-free journey. Y Ty
Y Ty is a commune in the northern province of Lao Cai. It is home to some of the most remote and beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam. To get to this area, however, you must first travel from Hanoi to Sapa. Then travel from Sapa town to Y Ty by taxi or motorbike. Mai Chau
For those seeking a more accessible yet tranquil experience near Hanoi, Mai Chau stands as an excellent alternative. Mai Chau is a valley in the northern province of Hoa Binh, not far from Hanoi. Mai Chau is well-known for its traditional stilt houses and lush rice fields. You can book a bus or private Mai Chau tour from Hanoi. Within Mai Chau, however, bicycles are an excellent mode of transportation. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam that’s home to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from that, Ninh Binh also boasts charming rice fields that often go unnoticed by travelers. This area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including boat trips through Trang An, hiking, and cycling, providing a unique perspective on Vietnam’s rural beauty.
Planning Your Trip To The Best Rice Fields in Vietnam
The beauty of Vietnam’s rice fields varies throughout the year, you can plan your visit based on the region and your preferences. The best time to visit Vietnam’s rice fields during harvest season is from September to October. This is when the rice is ripe and the fields are at their most golden. However, other times of the year offer unique perspectives, including the planting season. If you’re planning a trekking tour, be sure to book early, as the best places tend to fill up quickly during harvest season. For the most breathtaking views of Vietnam’s rice terraces, consider visiting at sunrise or sunset. These timing are when you can see the rice field at its magical moments. Things to Do
Here are a few things you can do when visiting some of the best rice fields in Vietnam during harvest season:- Go trekking: Trekking is a great way to experience the rice fields up close. There are many different trekking tours available, ranging from easy day walks to challenging multi-day treks.
- Take a boat ride: Boat rides are another great way to see the rice fields. In some places, such as Ninh Binh and Mai Chau, you can even take a boat ride through the rice fields themselves.
- Go Cycling: Cycling through the rice fields are some of the best ways to experience the local life.
- Visit a local village: Visiting a local village is a great way to learn about Vietnamese culture and see how the locals live. Many villages offer homestays, so you can stay overnight and experience the village life firsthand.
- Take photos: The rice fields during harvest season are simply stunning, so be sure to bring your camera to capture the moment.
Conclusion
If you’re interested in visiting the rice fields in Vietnam during harvest season, be sure to book a tour with YESD Travel. We offer a variety of tours to suit all budgets and interests.
Sapa is undoubtedly one of the most famous destinations for rice terraces in Vietnam. Located in the northern mountains, this charming town is known for its dramatic landscapes, cool climate, and rich cultural diversity. During harvest season, the terraces are a vibrant yellow, and the views from the town are simply breathtaking.While Sapa town is pretty touristy, the real charm lies in the villages far from the city center and up in the mountains, where you can experience the authentic charm of rural life. While on the go, you can stay at local homestay, join a guided a trekking tour, and embark on a 2-day or 3-day hike through remote vilages among the rice fields. These lesser-known trekking paths ensure an authentic experience away from the crowds. Sapa is easily accessible from Hanoi by bus, train, or private car, making it a convenient destination for travelers. The best time to visit is either around October, November when it is around the rice harvesting season. 
For those seeking a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience, Mu Cang Chai is your perfect destination. Mu Cang Chai is another mountain town in northern Vietnam that is famous for its rice terraces. The terraces here are even more remote than those in Sapa, making them a great option for travelers who are looking for a more authetic experience. The journey to Mu Cang Chai involves travelling through the Khau Pha Pass, providing panoramic views of the surrounding mountain. To get there, you can take a bus from Hanoi to Mu Cang Chai; private transportation is also an option for those who prefer privacy. While the journey might be long, the stunning landscapes and the chance to explore one of Vietnam’s most beautiful and untouched regions make it well worth the effort. 
Hoang Su Phi is a district in the northern province of Ha Giang. Though belongs to Ha Giang, Hoang Su Phi offers a different experience with a more remote and authentic touch. The road in Hoang Su Phi is currently under construction, so it is more suitable for those who are up to a more challenging journey. You can travel by bus to Ha Giang and then proceed to Hoang Su Phi by taxi or renting a motorbike. Opting for a private car tour is an alternate option if you prefer a smooth and hassle-free journey. 
Y Ty is a commune in the northern province of Lao Cai. It is home to some of the most remote and beautiful rice terraces in Vietnam. To get to this area, however, you must first travel from Hanoi to Sapa. Then travel from Sapa town to Y Ty by taxi or motorbike. 
For those seeking a more accessible yet tranquil experience near Hanoi, Mai Chau stands as an excellent alternative. Mai Chau is a valley in the northern province of Hoa Binh, not far from Hanoi. Mai Chau is well-known for its traditional stilt houses and lush rice fields. You can book a bus or private Mai Chau tour from Hanoi. Within Mai Chau, however, bicycles are an excellent mode of transportation. 
Ninh Binh is a province in northern Vietnam that’s home to Trang An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from that, Ninh Binh also boasts charming rice fields that often go unnoticed by travelers. This area offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including boat trips through Trang An, hiking, and cycling, providing a unique perspective on Vietnam’s rural beauty.