Dong Van ancient quarter

Amidst the border highlands, the Dong Van ancient quarter emerges as a “living museum” preserving centuries-old cultural imprints of local ethnic communities at the heart of the UNESCO Global Geopark - the Dong Van Karst Plateau.

The quarter is distinguished by earthen-walled houses with yin-yang tiled roofs weathered by time, adding to its quiet, contemplative atmosphere. The highlight of the area is the Dong Van market - a hub of cultural exchange where ethnic groups gather every weekend to trade goods. Lively conversations, vibrant traditional costumes, and local specialties such as thang den, buckwheat cakes, and mint honey create a dynamic scene that reflects a simple yet deeply rooted way of life.

Beyond its architectural charm, the Dong Van ancient quarter captivates visitors with its unique natural setting. Surrounding the area are layers of rugged “cat-ear” limestone mountains forming a natural arc that embraces the entire town. The interplay of the gray rocky landscape and the golden highland sunlight creates a beauty that is both harsh and poetic - a hallmark of the Karst Plateau.

Rooted in history, culture, and daily life, the Dong Van ancient quarter has become an unmissable destination on any journey to Vietnam’s northernmost region. Its age-old values are carefully preserved by the local community, harmonizing with sustainable tourism development and giving this land a distinctive allure.

Hai Dang