Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields

Terraces under a heavy sky · Vietnam Hidden Light · Pexels License

A wonder of terraced fields golden with ripe rice, a special national relic crafted by the Hmong people over generations.

Draped across the high mountainsides of Yen Bai, the terraced fields of Mu Cang Chai are an epic of labour shaped by the Hmong people over hundreds of years. In the water-pouring season of May–June, each field glitters with the sky's reflection like a giant mirror. In the ripe rice season of September–October, the whole region of La Pan Tan, Che Cu Nha and De Xu Phinh blazes with golden tiers of breathtaking beauty. Visitors trek among the fields, admiring the famous rounded 'sticky-rice mound' hill and immersing themselves in highland village life. Mu Cang Chai in the ripe rice season is a rendezvous for photographers and nature-loving travellers.

Visitor information

When is the best time to visit Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields?

September to October

How much does it cost to visit Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields?

Free

How long do you need at Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields?

1–2 days

What are the opening hours of Mu Cang Chai Terraced Fields?

All day

Did you know

The Mu Cang Chai terraced fields are a Special National Relic.
They have been cultivated by the Hmong people over many generations.
The 'sticky-rice mound' hill at La Pan Tan is a famous photo spot.
They are most beautiful in the water-pouring and ripe rice seasons.

Travel tips

Go in September–October to see the rice ripen golden across the valley.
Cross the Khau Pha Pass — one of the four great passes — on the way there.