Tuyen Quang Province, Vietnam – Blessed with a captivating landscape, rich cultural heritage, and decisive leadership, Tuyen Quang’s tourism sector has experienced remarkable growth in the first nine months of 2025, laying a crucial foundation for its emergence as a premier destination in Vietnam’s Northeast region. This impressive expansion is marked by significant policy reforms, strategic investments, and recent international recognition, affirming the province’s commitment to sustainable and culturally rich tourism development.
A New Era for Tuyen Quang Tourism Post-Merger
The burgeoning success of Tuyen Quang’s tourism did not happen by chance. Following the recent merger and reorganization, the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been at the forefront of implementing ambitious strategies. This administrative consolidation has streamlined efforts, allowing the department to more effectively advise the Provincial People’s Committee on critical decisions. Key among these was the establishment of the Organizing Committee for major provincial festivals and events, along with the detailed assignment of tasks to its members.
Further demonstrating its proactive approach, the department has been instrumental in executing Decision No. 1687/QD-TTg, issued by the Prime Minister on December 30, 2024. This pivotal decision approves the program “Building a Model of Grassroots Libraries to Serve People in Mountainous, Border, Mid-Range, and Northern Mountainous Regions for the period 2025-2030, with a Vision to 2045.” Concurrently, the department formalized administrative procedures within the culture, sports, and tourism sectors, underscoring a commitment to transparency and efficiency.
Commemorative Events Drive Engagement
A series of meticulously planned cultural, artistic, and sports activities have captivated both residents and visitors, fostering an atmosphere of excitement and renewal. These events served to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the successful August Revolution and Vietnam’s National Day (September 2, 1945 – September 2, 2025). Additionally, the department spearheaded preparations for the first Tuyen Quang Provincial Patriotic Emulation Congress (2025-2030) and managed the publicity and ceremonial aspects for the first Tuyen Quang Provincial Party Congress, tenure 2025-2030.
Beyond these significant commemorative occasions, the province successfully organized the highly anticipated Tuyen Tuyen Festival Night 2025, a vibrant spectacle that celebrates local traditions. Another highlight was the artistic program “Returning to the Source – Heading to the Future,” marking the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s first general election for the National Assembly (January 6). Tuyen Quang also proudly participated in the “Exhibition of Tuyen Quang Province’s Socio-Economic Achievements on the Occasion of the 80th National Day (September 2)” at the National Exhibition Center in Dong Anh, Hanoi. These elaborately prepared and carefully executed activities drew large crowds, generating a lively atmosphere and spreading a spirit of innovation in tourism development, ultimately enhancing the image of Tuyen Quang as a dynamic, friendly, and culturally rich destination.
Protecting Heritage: Dong Van Geopark Re-evaluation
In a concerted effort to preserve its natural treasures, Tuyen Quang has meticulously prepared for the re-evaluation of the Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark in 2026. This comprehensive undertaking involves the careful documentation of geological features, infrastructure development, and robust conservation efforts. The objective is not only to maintain its prestigious UNESCO designation but also to elevate the value of its geological and ecological tourism, seamlessly integrating community-based tourism with nature conservation. This initiative reflects a broader provincial commitment to responsible and sustainable development, ensuring that its unique natural landscapes can be enjoyed for generations to come.
Na Hang-Lam Binh: Green Gem in the Making
A significant milestone for Tuyen Quang’s tourism and conservation efforts was the Prime Minister’s issuance of Decision No. 763/QD-TTg on April 15, 2025. This decision approved the planning task for the preservation, restoration, and rehabilitation of the Na Hang-Lam Binh Special National Scenic Area, which encompasses the Na Hang-Lam Binh Nature Reserve. This legal framework is expected to be a game-changer, providing a crucial basis for the province to mobilize resources and invest in infrastructure that supports ecological tourism while prioritizing environmental protection. The long-term vision is to transform Na Hang-Lam Binh into the “green gem” of tourism in the Northern mountainous region, a beacon of natural beauty and sustainable practices.
Fostering Community-Based Tourism and Cultural Preservation
In a testament to its commitment to community development and cultural heritage, Tuyen Quang has partnered with the Swiss Federal Department of Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Helvetas Vietnam Project. This collaboration has led to the groundbreaking ceremony for the project to restore, rehabilitate, and develop the cultural tourism village of Lung Hau in Lung Tam commune. This initiative represents a vital step towards preserving the cultural space of the Hmong ethnic group, creating a unique highlight for community-based tourism. It also significantly contributes to building the brand identity of “Highland Stone Plateau Cultural Experience Tourism,” offering visitors an authentic glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of indigenous communities.
(Image: Vibrant mustard flower fields in Sung La commune, Dong Van district, Ha Giang. Credit: Khanh Hoa/VNA – Note: This image caption refers to Ha Giang, not Tuyen Quang, but it’s part of the original text. I will include it as a caption to maintain exactness).
Robust Efforts to Enhance Tourism Quality
The provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has been diligently reviewing and consolidating data on new tourist areas and attractions across Tuyen Quang province. This comprehensive data collection aims to inform future development and marketing strategies. A key initiative involves actively promoting the Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark in the “Asia’s Leading Cultural Destination” category for the World Travel Awards.
Furthermore, the department has been actively implementing measures to refine and enforce the Code of Conduct for Civilized Behavior in Tourism Activities. This focus on ethical tourism aims to elevate the overall quality of services provided to visitors. Preparations for the peak season of the Tuyen Tuyen Festival 2025 were also meticulously undertaken, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for all attendees. In collaboration with the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism, the department conducted inspections and surveys of 1-3 star hotels within the province, laying the groundwork for the development of national standards for Hotel Classification (revising TCVN 4391:2015). These efforts collectively underscore a holistic approach to improving the visitor experience and strengthening the reputation of Tuyen Quang as a quality tourism destination.
Tuyen Quang’s Tourism Experiences Significant Growth
Through unwavering dedication, strong provincial leadership, and the synchronized efforts of various levels of government, sectors, organizations, businesses, and the local populace, Tuyen Quang’s tourism sector has witnessed remarkable growth since the administrative merger. The figures paint a clear picture of this burgeoning success.
Impressive Visitor Numbers and Revenue
According to official statistics, Tuyen Quang welcomed a staggering 323,452 visitors in September 2025 alone. This figure includes 35,452 international tourists and 288,000 domestic visitors. The total estimated tourism expenditure within the province for September reached 860.2 billion VND, with international tourists contributing 146 billion VND and domestic visitors spending 714.2 billion VND.
Cumulatively, for the first nine months of 2025, the province successfully received over 2,979,745 visitors, achieving 82.8% of its annual target. This total comprised 388,474 international tourists and 2,591,274 domestic visitors. The estimated total tourism expenditure for this period soared to an impressive 8,026.2 billion VND, representing 85.2% of the annual plan. International tourists accounted for 1,600 billion VND of this sum, while domestic visitors contributed 6,426.2 billion VND. These figures highlight a robust and rapidly expanding tourism economy, demonstrating the province’s increasing appeal to both local and global travelers.
Thriving Destinations and Innovative Products
Key tourist sites across the province have consistently buzzed with activity, attracting a steady stream of visitors. These include the Na Hang-Lam Binh Nature Reserve, the Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark, My Lam Hot Spring Tourist Area, and the Tan Trao Historical Site. Among these, community-based tourism, deeply intertwined with local culture in communes such as Hoang Su Phi, Thong Nguyen, Lung Cu, Thuong Lam, Meo Vac, Xin Man, Thuan Hoa, and Cao Bo, is gaining significant traction and popularity.
The province has also seen the emergence of numerous new tourism products, each bearing a distinct local cultural imprint. These include highland agricultural experience tourism, allowing visitors to engage with traditional farming practices. Culinary tourism offers unique local flavors, featuring specialties such as Thuan Hoa green rice flakes (Cốm), Shan Tuyet tea, and Dong Van Peppermint Honey. These innovative offerings cater to a diverse range of preferences, enriching the overall visitor experience and showcasing the unique cultural and natural assets of Tuyen Quang.
(Image: Houses in Lo Lo Chai community tourism village. Credit: Minh Tam/VNA)
Shimmering on the Global Stage: International Awards and Recognition
October 2025 proved to be a landmark month for Tuyen Quang’s tourism, as the province garnered a series of prestigious regional and global awards, firmly establishing its new standing on the international tourism map.
The UNESCO-recognized Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark received the coveted title of “Asia’s Leading Cultural Destination 2025” from the World Travel Awards (WTA). Simultaneously, Panhou Retreat Thong Nguyen, Tuyen Quang, was honored with the “Asia’s Leading Green Resort 2025” award. These esteemed accolades celebrate destinations that have demonstrated outstanding achievements in preserving indigenous culture and fostering sustainable tourism development. Winning these awards is akin to receiving a “brand passport,” opening up unprecedented opportunities to promote Tuyen Quang’s image to a global audience.
Most recently, on October 17, in Huzhou City, Zhejiang Province, China, the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) unveiled its list of “Best Tourism Villages 2025.” Among the distinguished awardees, Lo Lo Chai village in Lung Cu commune, Tuyen Quang province, was proudly named one of the “Best Tourism Villages in the World 2025.”
This significant recognition is the culmination of a rigorous evaluation process based on stringent criteria encompassing nature conservation, cultural preservation, community development, and sustainable tourism practices. The honor bestowed upon Lo Lo Chai village is not merely a source of immense pride for the local highland communities; it also significantly elevates the image of Tuyen Quang as a friendly, authentic, and innovative tourism destination.
According to Mr. Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, “These two consecutive international awards are clear evidence of Tuyen Quang’s correct direction in developing green tourism, linking economic growth with the preservation of cultural and ecological values. This also serves as a crucial driving force for the province to continue investing in and exploiting the unique potentials of the region after the merger.” The outstanding results achieved in the first nine months of the year, coupled with the prestigious international awards in October, have solidified Tuyen Quang’s new position as a destination that is “both familiar and new” amidst the majestic mountains of the Northeast.
Charting the Course Forward: Future Strategies for Sustainable Growth
To build upon these impressive achievements, Tuyen Quang province is poised to implement further effective solutions designed to attract an even larger influx of tourists.
Mr. Nguyen Trung Ngoc, Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, outlined the upcoming initiatives, stating, “The department will enhance coordination in developing a detailed plan for organizing the 2025 Tuyen Quang Trade Promotion, Business Matching, and Product Consumption Support Conference. We will also plan and sign contracts for the implementation of the project to organize the Vietnam-China International Trade Fair with the Trade Promotion Agency, and a project to promote and raise community awareness about the province’s tea products among domestic consumers.” Furthermore, a strong emphasis will be placed on intensifying communication activities, introducing and promoting key products and OCOP (One Commune One Product) items through digital applications, leveraging technology to reach wider audiences.
The province is also committed to accelerating tourism communication efforts, vigorously applying digital technology to attract both domestic and international tourists. Simultaneously, it aims to strengthen management and elevate the quality of tourism products, while actively promoting linkages and developing new tourism offerings. The implementation of tasks outlined in the “Plan for Building and Developing the Dong Van Stone Plateau Global Geopark for the period 2023-2026” will continue, with meticulous preparations underway for the 11th Tam Giac Mach Flower Festival in 2026. This comprehensive forward-looking strategy underscores Tuyen Quang’s dedication to sustainable tourism development and its aspiration to become a leading destination in the region.
(Caption: Tuyen Quang: Building the “Land of Blooming Stones” tourism brand with the Tam Giac Mach flower festival. Once a traditional staple crop for highland communities, the Tam Giac Mach flower has now become a key agricultural product and a unique tourism offering, contributing to Tuyen Quang’s distinctive tourism brand.)
