This hidden gem offers visitors the chance to sip coffee while surrounded by the breathtaking natural beauty of Sa Pa, especially during the harvest season when the fields turn golden.

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Photo: Duong Quoc Hieu

In the serene village of Pho, Muong Hoa commune, just 8 kilometers from the heart of Sa Pa town, a quaint coffee shop has become a social media sensation.

Perched amidst the iconic terraced rice fields, this charming spot is a retreat where visitors can immerse themselves in the natural splendor of Sa Pa, especially during the enchanting harvest season.

The coffee shop is surrounded by traditional wooden huts used for drying corn and rice. During the early mornings, a sea of white clouds often envelops the area, creating an ethereal atmosphere that has captivated many visitors.

As the month of August draws to a close, the lush green rice fields begin to take on a golden hue, providing a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts. The upcoming 2/9 holiday marks the peak of the rice harvest, with the fields expected to be at their most vibrant.

The coffee shop, owned by Duong Quoc Hieu, is set on a 2,000-square-meter area of terraced fields. Hieu, who rented the land and a local H’Mong house, has added a few small huts made of bamboo, wood, and rattan to cater to the growing number of tourists eager to experience Sa Pa’s unique charm.

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Photo: Duong Quoc Hieu

"I chose not to use concrete or steel, opting instead for eco-friendly materials like bamboo and wood that blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. Visitors are drawn here by the distinctive beauty of Sa Pa - the stilt houses, wooden huts, and expansive rice fields," Hieu explains.

To make the experience even more enjoyable, Hieu replaced the original dirt path with a wooden walkway, allowing visitors to comfortably walk or sit while savoring their coffee. The atmosphere is one of tranquility, with fresh, cool air providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life.

The coffee shop operates from 7am until the last customer leaves, and it’s especially busy on weekends, with hundreds of visitors flocking to the site. The menu offers a variety of familiar beverages, including smoothies and fruit juices, priced between 40,000 and 60,000 VND. The location is easily accessible by car.

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the local culture, traditional H’Mong costumes are available for rent at 50,000 VND per outfit. Visitors who wish to enjoy lunch with the locals are encouraged to make reservations in advance.

The rustic corn-drying huts and surrounding rice fields are popular spots for photography, offering a glimpse into the daily life and natural beauty of the region. Nearby attractions include the ancient rock field, Muong Hoa stream, and the Ta Van cloud bridge.

Sa Pa is renowned for its golden rice fields, which can also be admired in areas such as Y Linh Ho, Muong Hoa Valley, Cat Cat Village, and Lao Chai. As the National Day (2/9) holiday approaches, high-end resorts and major hotels in central Sa Pa have reported over 90% occupancy.

Even homestays located further from the town center, but offering close-to-nature experiences with views of the terraced fields, have been fully booked well in advance.

This season, Sa Pa is hosting the "Sa Pa Autumn Festival 2024," a series of events designed to attract tourists. Highlights include the Muong Hoa Fairy Tale Circus, H’Mong Cultural Day, and the Golden Harvest Festival at Ban May, each offering visitors a unique way to experience the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of this picturesque region.

Linh Trang