From mid-September, the rice paddies around the center of Sapa (Lao Cai) turn a vibrant gold. Many cafes and homestays offer direct views of these fields, allowing tourists to experience the characteristic autumn scenery of the Northwest mountains. Here are six locations recommended by local guides, all near the town center and easily accessible. Visitors should plan their trip within the next week before the harvest begins.
Mid-September marks the start of Sapa's rice harvest season, also the most picturesque time of year. Instead of traversing winding roads, many visitors choose to relax at cafes overlooking the rice paddies. Here they can sip hot tea, enjoy the cool air, and admire the "golden waves" stretching to the horizon.
Local guides have recommended the following six easily accessible locations near the town center, ensuring visitors don't miss Sapa's golden season. The ideal time to visit is within the next week before the harvest begins.
Sapana Cafe & Bistro
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ideal for panoramic views of the Muong Hoa Valley
Located at the entrance to Y Linh Ho village, Lao Chai commune, about 7 km from Sapa town, Sapana offers an open-plan design with large windows and an outdoor area. It provides stunning views of the Muong Hoa valley and the ripening terraced rice fields. The menu includes coffee, tea, pastries, and breakfast, with drinks starting from 30,000 VND. Due to its popularity during the harvest season, reservations are recommended for prime seating. The cafe also offers trekking and stand-up paddleboarding tours for adventurous guests.
The road to the cafe is accessible by motorbike, but be aware of some steep sections and heavy traffic during peak hours (8-10 a.m. and 3-5 p.m.).
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The outdoor space at Sapana. Photo: Le Hong Ngoc |
The outdoor space at Sapana. Photo: Le Hong Ngoc
Pavi Garden
Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
A tranquil space amidst a garden and rice fields
Situated in Giang Ta Chai village, Ta Van commune, Pavi Garden offers a peaceful setting within an 800 m2 garden surrounded by mountains and terraced rice paddies. Located about 10 km from Sapa, the road to the cafe includes some steep sections and curves, requiring confident motorbike riders. The cafe serves a variety of drinks priced between 50,000 and 60,000 VND, with their salted coffee being a popular choice. Guests can relax on the terrace, stroll through the rice fields, or participate in wood painting activities.
L.a Coffee
Opening hours: 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
A new check-in spot with direct views of the rice terraces
A new addition to Lao Chai village, L.a Coffee features a wooden house with large windows and a wooden deck placed amidst the rice fields. Located approximately 8 km from Sapa, the road to the village is quite wide and less steep than the road to Y Linh Ho. Drinks range from 45,000 to 60,000 VND. This is an ideal choice for those seeking a fresh perspective for photos amidst the golden rice.
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Visitors check in at the cafe in early September. Photo: L.a Coffee |
Visitors check in at the cafe in early September. Photo: L.a Coffee
Viettrekking Coffee & Restaurant
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Enjoy views of the rice paddies and the Muong Hoa train
Located at the end of Hoang Lien Street, Viettrekking is one of the most popular viewpoints in Sapa. From here, visitors can admire the Muong Hoa valley, the Hoang Lien Son mountain range, and the Muong Hoa train as it climbs through the terraced rice fields. Only about 800 m from the Stone Church, the cafe is easily accessible on foot or by motorbike via Thach Son - Fansipan - Cau May - Hoang Lien Street. It offers a cozy atmosphere and drinks ranging from 40,000 to 70,000 VND.
Sailing Sa Pa
Opening hours: 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
A prime location for cloud hunting and early morning rice paddy views
Located in the Bai Da Co area of Ban Pho village, about 9-10 km from Sapa towards Ta Van, Sailing Sa Pa is easily accessible by motorbike. It offers panoramic views of the rice terraces and the majestic Hoang Lien Son mountain range. The ideal time to visit is before 9 a.m. for a chance to witness the sea of clouds hovering over the golden rice paddies. In addition to drinks priced between 20,000 and 80,000 VND, the cafe also serves dishes like grilled chicken for around 250,000 VND.
La Dao Spa & Coffee House
Opening hours: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Combine rice paddy views with a relaxing spa experience
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Red Dao herbal bath overlooking the rice fields. Photo: La Dao Spa & Coffee House |
Red Dao herbal bath overlooking the rice fields. Photo: La Dao Spa & Coffee House
This combined cafe, spa, and restaurant is located in Ta Van Day village, about 10 km from Sapa. Visitors can easily reach it by motorbike along Muong Hoa Street. The road is wide, relatively flat, and has few curves. With a design featuring wood, bamboo, and rattan, La Dao offers tranquil views of the Muong Hoa valley. Uniquely, guests can soak in a Red Dao herbal bath while enjoying the terraced rice fields. Spa services range from 120,000 to 700,000 VND. Bungalows overlooking the mountains and rice paddies are also available for around 1.5 million VND per night.
For a fulfilling trip, consider these tips:
Timing is key: Sapa's ripe rice season typically lasts only two to three weeks, from mid-September to early October. Follow travel groups or contact local accommodations for the most accurate harvest schedule to avoid arriving after the harvest.
Dress appropriately: Sapa's autumn weather is unpredictable, with sunny days, cool mornings and evenings, and occasional rain. Pack layers, a light jacket, rain gear, and sturdy shoes for navigating slopes.
Travel safely: The roads to villages like Ta Van and Lao Chai are often steep and winding. If you're not a confident driver, consider hiring a local motorbike taxi or driver for a safer and more scenic experience.
Respect local culture: Rice terraces are valuable resources for the local communities. Avoid walking on or damaging the rice for photos. Maintain cleanliness, dispose of trash properly, and politely ask permission before taking portraits of locals.
Mai Phuong
