Tucked away among majestic limestone mountains, Dong Van Old Quarter offers a unique experience with its centuries-old houses, flavorful local cuisine, and an unforgettable peaceful atmosphere. In this article, ZingHome Ha Giang will guide you through everything you need to know about Dong Van Old Quarter – from how to get there and the best time to visit, to must-do activities you shouldn’t miss.
1. Overview of Dong Van Old Quarter
Dong Van Old Quarter is famous as a peaceful town with old clay houses, traditional roofs, and colorful markets
Dong Van Old Quarter is one of the most attractive destinations in Ha Giang, standing out with its ancient architecture, distinctive culture, and unique cuisine. It was formed in the early 20th century, located in Dong Van town, Dong Van district, Ha Giang province. Dong Van Old Quarter is home to many ethnic minorities such as Mong, Hoa, Tay, Dao, etc.
Here, you will have the opportunity to experience many different cultures. The houses in Dong Van Old Quarter are hundreds of years old and built with the same architectural style. Most are two-storey houses with yin-yang tile roofs. The overall Dong Van old quarter is a harmonious combination of Vietnamese culture and Chinese architecture.
2. The best time to visit Dong Van
Dong Van old quarter attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors, especially during big festivals, so you can come here at any time of the year. However, Ha Giang is most beautiful from October to December when the buckwheat flowers bloom, or during the Khau Vai love market festival in April or May. Therefore, you can consider Ha Giang at an appropriate time and combine a visit to Dong Van’s old quarter!
3. How to get to Ha Giang
The Easy Rider tour is perfect for travelers who want the thrill of motorbiking but don’t want to ride
Coming to Dong Van may be a challenge for many people, but it is definitely a valuable journey. The road here is not only beautiful but also gives you memorable experiences.
Get to Ha Giang
- By plane: Currently, Ha Giang has no airport. Visitors can fly to Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi) and then travel by car or bus to Ha Giang.
- By bus: There are many bus routes from Hanoi to Ha Giang, with a travel time of about 6-7 hours. Some reputable bus companies such as Bang Phan, Cau Me, Quang Nghi, and Hai Phu provide quality and reputable service
Popular Transportation Options
- Motorbike (Self-drive): For the adventurous soul! Renting a motorbike in Ha Giang and doing the Ha Giang Loop is one of the best ways to reach Dong Van. You’ll have the freedom to stop at scenic viewpoints and explore hidden gems.
- Private car with Driver: More comfortable and safer for those not confident on bikes. Great if you’re traveling in a group or with family.
- Easy Rider Tour: If you are not confident to drive a motorbike but still want to experience the feeling of sitting on a motorbike, Easy Rider is a great choice. You will sit behind the motorbike of a professional local driver, who not only takes you but also takes the role of tour guide, telling you interesting stories about this land. This is a great way for you to explore Ha Giang safely and completely.
Regardless of which vehicles you choose, always prioritize safety. Dong Van road is quite rugged, with many steep mountain passes and hairpin turns, so ride carefully and always obey the traffic rules!
4. Key highlights of Dong Van Old Quarter
Most houses here are over 100 years old, built from earth, wood, and rock, with traditional yin-yang tiled roofs
You might wonder, “What can I really do in a tiny ancient town?” The answer: plenty! Dong Van Old Quarter may be small, but it’s packed with charm, culture, and unforgettable moments. Here are the top things you shouldn’t miss:
Ancient architecture
Dong Van Old Quarter preserves about 40 clustered houses nestled beneath rocky cliffs. Visitors will admire nostalgic architecture with two-story houses full of ancient charm. Above is the yin and yang tile roof – a typical type of architecture in the rules of the ethnic people in the northern mountainous region of our country. Some houses also hung red lanterns in front of the door to make the space more fanciful.
When walking on small streets, you will feel the quiet, peaceful space of an ancient time. With ancient beauty, Dong Van Old Quarter is an attractive and creative destination for travelers who want to experience the unique culture of the high mountains. In addition, Dong Van Old Quarter preserves many traditional cultural heritage, such as art embroidery, ceramic products, wooden brooms, and clock fabrics, all reflecting the indigenous style, sticking to the lives of the people here.
Explore Market Dong Van
The town transforms into a colorful mosaic of cultures at the Dong Van Market
When arriving in Dong Van Old Quarter, visitors can not miss the famous traditional local market. The U-shaped market architecture facilitates trading and exchange of specialties of the Dong Van countryside. Not only is the Dong Van market a commercial exchange, but it is also a meeting place for boys and girls in the town. The girls flutter and smile in delicate and colorful brocade costumes, which will create a cheerful and bustling atmosphere. Here, you can enjoy local specialties and buy souvenirs.
Enjoy local cuisine
Dong Van cuisine is the perfect combination of upland cuisine essence with unique dishes that you can hardly find anywhere else. Here are must-try dishes.
- Ga Den (Black chicken): This H’mong specialty is known for its firm, nutritious meat that is often processed into steamed, grilled, or Chinese stews.
- Thang Co: This dish is made from horse organs combined with unique spices of the highlands.
- Banh Cuon Dong Van (Dong Van steamed rice rolls): The steamed rice rolls here are served with hot bone broth, creating a rich flavor.
- Au Tau porridge: Porridge cooked from Au Tau is a medicinal herb that has a bitter taste, helps nourish health, and warms the body.
Capture Stunning Photos
Let’s be honest — you came for the views too, right? Dong Van Old Quarter offers a perfect blend of old-world charm and natural beauty. Think of stone houses glowing in golden sunlight, colorful market scenes, and misty mountains in the background.
Every corner is photogenic, and whether you’re a pro or just snapping on your phone, you’ll walk away with shots that look straight out of a travel magazine.
5. Recommendation for accommodation and destinations
The surrounding destinations
- Lung Cu Flag Tower: This is the northernmost point of the country, a place not to be missed when coming to Ha Giang. Standing on the top of the flag tower, you can zoom in to see the immense scenery of the border area.
- H’Mong King’s Mansion: This is a unique architectural work, bearing the imprint of the powerful royal family once on the rocky plateau.
- Ma Pi Leng Pass: One of the four great peaks of Vietnam, Ma Pi Leng is famous for the winding roads around the cliff, creating a majestic and spectacular scenery.
Recommendation for accommodation
- Dong Van H’Mong Homestay: One of the homestays with national identity, with cozy space and friendly service.
- Hoa Cuong Hotel: 3-star hotel with full amenities, located in the heart of Dong Van old town.
- Epic Dong Van Hotel: This hotel is a more luxurious option with a modern space, but still retains the tradition of the highlands.
Pro tip: Book early during holidays and weekends — Dong Van is getting more popular every year!
6. Tips to note when visiting Dong Van
Tips for Visiting Dong Van Old Quarter
To visit Dong Van Old Quarter in the best way, you can refer to the travel tips below:
- The weather in Dong Van is quite cold in the winter, so people should bring warm clothes.
- The way to Dong Van has many passes and folding bends, so you need to ride carefully.
- When participating in the market, the price should be asked before buying.
- Respect the culture and customs of the local people.
- Preparation: Bring warm clothes, sports shoes, personal medicine, and some cash.
- Visitors should book 3-4 days in advance to avoid this situation, especially in the peak season.
- Bring cash. Most places don’t accept cards, and ATMs can be unreliable.
- Try the local specialties. Don’t be afraid to taste something new — even if you don’t know the name!
Dong Van Old Quarter is not only a tourist destination but also a place to preserve valuable cultural values and the history of the Ha Giang Karst plateau. Come and experience the peace of the ancient and special attractions of this neighborhood.
Ready to explore Ha Giang like a local? Let ZingHome Ha Giang be your home base for unforgettable adventures. From motorbike rentals to guided tours and cozy stays, we’ve got you covered. See you on the loop!
