In early October, Mu Cang Chai’s terraced rice fields are largely golden. Beautiful weather, with no rain and gentle sunshine, enhances the vibrancy of the terraces.

Photographers Lekima Hung and Josephine Huong Giang, both from Hanoi, recently visited Mu Cang Chai in late September and early October. Hung explored prominent sites such as Mong Ngua Hill, Mam Xoi Hill, and the vicinities of Kim Noi, Mo De, Che Cu Nha, and La Pan Tan.

Viewed from above, the terraced fields on Mam Xoi Hill resemble an abstract painting.

Mam Xoi Hill is a popular check-in spot, considered an iconic symbol of Mu Cang Chai. The hill is located approximately 8 km from the center of Mu Cang Chai commune. It has long been recognized by the tourism community as one of the most beautiful terraced rice fields in the Northwest region.

Mam Xoi offers many photo opportunities but can be challenging to navigate. Tourists unfamiliar with the roads or with unstable driving skills can hire local motorbike taxi drivers. Hung stated that Mam Xoi Hill still features a mix of green and golden rice, with the full harvest anticipated after 10/10.

Another prominent check-in spot is Mong Ngua Hill, located approximately 2 km from the center of Mu Cang Chai commune.

Tourists often visit Mong Ngua Hill between 16h and 18h to watch the sunset. The road to the hill during this time is frequently congested.

Another notable highlight is the terraced fields in Che Cu Nha commune, located to the north, nearly 20 km from Mu Cang Chai’s center. These high and steep fields are typically admired from a distance, as deep exploration is not feasible for visitors.

The terraced fields of Che Cu Nha commune, along with those in La Pan Tan and De Xu Phinh, were recognized as national scenic sites and ranked among the top 10 most beautiful terraced fields globally in 2007.

In recent years, many homestays and hotels in Mu Cang Chai have been designed so that "simply opening the room door reveals a canvas of green and gold," Hung observed. Mua A Giang, a local guide, confirmed that some areas have already been harvested, and the remaining fields are expected to be harvested simultaneously after this weekend.

By Tam Anh

Photos: Lekima Hung, Josephine Huong Giang