These three Northern Vietnam destinations promise unforgettable experiences with stunning landscapes, cool weather, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Golden rice fields in Sa Pa

September marks the start of Sa Pa’s golden rice season in Lao Cai province, making it one of the most popular destinations in the north.

Top places to view the ripened fields include Muong Hoa Valley, known as a “giant embroidered painting” by the Hmong people, with rice terraces curving gracefully along the mountain slopes.

Villages like Ta Van and Ta Phin offer tranquil beauty, where golden fields nestle between wooden houses and curling smoke. Meanwhile, Lao Chai and Y Linh Ho impress with untouched, layered terraces stretching endlessly.

Travelers can enjoy coffee at scenic cafes right next to the golden fields. Highlights include L.a Coffee, with a direct view of Lao Chai’s terraces, and the charming Chi Pau Café in Pho village.

Camping and fruit picking in Huu Lung, Lang Son

Unlike more famous spots like Sa Pa or Moc Chau, Huu Lung in Lang Son province remains peaceful and crowd-free. It lies just over 100 km from Hanoi, roughly a two-hour drive.

Visitors can camp at Yen Thinh Valley, dubbed a “mini Mongolia,” known for its vast green meadows. With limited phone reception and no Wi-Fi, this is an ideal place to unplug and reconnect with nature.

The custard apple harvest also peaks around September 2. Tourists can pick the fruits directly from the trees or watch as baskets of na are sent down from the rocky hillsides via pulley systems. Lang Son’s na is famous for its large size, thick pulp, minimal seeds, and fragrant sweetness.

Cloud-hunting at Suoi Bon, Son La

Suoi Bon village in Van Ho commune, Son La province, lies about 170 km from Hanoi - perfect for a 2–3 day nature getaway. The village is nestled in a wide valley surrounded by mountains, terraced fields, and violet sim flower hills.

The best time to visit is early morning (6–8 AM) for sunrise or late afternoon (4–5 PM) for sunset. Camping overnight allows visitors to wake up and “hunt clouds” in the misty dawn.

Local homestays offer cultural experiences such as traditional music, dance, and playing the khene flute around the fire.

Note: Suoi Bon lacks food services, so visitors should bring their own meals, water, and camping gear. Entry is free, but guests are expected to maintain cleanliness and avoid littering or open fires.

Nearby, visitors can also check out the lush green rice fields and lines of Vietnamese national flags decorating Suoi Lin in Van Ho commune.