Lang Son is a mountainous border province in Vietnam’s Northeast region, holding a particularly strategic geographical position for socio-economic development and international exchange. Located about 150 km northeast of Hanoi, the province shares a 231.74 km border with the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. It also lies along the vital Nanning – Lang Son – Hanoi – Hai Phong economic corridor, serving as a key gateway for trade between Vietnam, China, and neighboring countries.

Visitors to Lang Son can explore a wide variety of tourism experiences, from striking limestone mountains and valleys to unique historical and cultural landmarks. The province is home to many ethnic groups including the Nung, Tay, Kinh, Dao, Hoa, and San Chay, creating a rich cultural tapestry with hundreds of traditional festivals celebrated annually.

A major highlight is the Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark, a vast area of high scientific value that reflects hundreds of millions of years of geological history. It offers an ideal setting for sightseeing, research, and discovery, making Lang Son not only a hub of commerce but also a destination of cultural and natural significance.

Lang Son does not have any golf courses yet…stay tuned for future projects in this spectacular province!

Recognized in April 2025 as Vietnam’s fourth UNESCO Global Geopark, Lang Son spans 4,842.58 km² across 45 communes and wards in Lang Son province.

The geopark preserves 182 geological heritage sites and 200 cultural heritage sites, representing over 500 million years of Earth’s history. Once an ancient sea, the region still holds fossil traces of trilobites and coral. Beyond its geological wonders, the park is a biological treasure with lush forests and diverse karst and non-karst ecosystems.

Equally remarkable is its human history, stretching back 500,000 years. The Bac Son mountain range, formed from ancient seabed sediments, contains evidence of Vietnam’s earliest inhabitants through stone tools, pottery, and burial sites. Ancient cultures such as Bac Son (12,000 – 5,000 years ago) and Mai Pha (around 4,000 years ago) mark the transition from cave dwellings to early civilization, making this one of Vietnam’s longest continuous stories of human development. Today, ethnic communities still uphold traditions, beliefs, and festivals – including the Mother Goddess religion – blending nature, culture, and spirituality.

Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark has a special ecosystem on limestone mountains, typically in Huu Lien Nature Reserve, which has recorded 794 species of higher vascular plants belonging to 162 families, with 31 species recorded in Vietnam Red Book; 57 species of mammals, 23 species of reptiles, 14 species of amphibians. Among them, there are 29 species recorded in Vietnam Red Book.

The region’s unique geology not only creates spectacular landscapes but also profoundly influences local agriculture, with mineral-rich soil nurturing many specialty crops such as custard apple and star anise.

The geopark is also home to vibrant ethnic groups including the Kinh, Nung, Tay, and Dao, each preserving their own languages, crafts, and customs. Together, they create a living cultural mosaic that complements the natural and geological heritage of Lang Son.

The Nhi Thanh Cave, Tam Giao Pagoda, Tam Thanh Cave, Tam Thanh Pagoda, To Thi Mountain, and the Mac Dynasty Citadel together form a renowned complex of historical and scenic sites in “Xứ Lạng.” This area has been recognized as a Vietnam’s National Historical Site since 1962.

Tam Thanh is a cluster of three caves – Nhat Thanh, Nhi Thanh, and Tam Thanh – nestled within Tam Thanh Pagoda. Tam Thanh Cave lies halfway up a mountain shaped like a herd of elephants resting on green grass. Its entrance, about 8 meters high, is reached by 30 stone steps carved into the mountainside. On the right wall of the cave, visitors can find a poem inscribed by Ngo Thi Si (1726 – 1780), the renowned historian, writer, poet, and politician of Vietnam in the 18th century, who once served as the governor of Lang Son.

Tam Thanh Pagoda, built during the Le Dynasty, has long been celebrated in Vietnamese folk songs: “Đồng Đăng có phố Kỳ Lừa/ Có nàng Tô Thị, có chùa Tam Thanh…” Over centuries, the pagoda has preserved its natural charm and remains one of the “Eight Scenic Spots” of Lang Son Province.

Within the Tam Thanh – Nhi Thanh scenic complex stands To Thi Mountain, a site deeply rooted in Vietnamese legend. A natural rock formation here resembles a mother holding her child, waiting faithfully for her husband’s return. This image has become a powerful symbol of the loyalty and devotion of Vietnamese women.

For history enthusiasts, the remnants of the Mac Dynasty Citadel are a must-see. Once a strategic military base in the 16th – 17th centuries used to resist the Le – Trinh forces, the citadel today retains about 300 meters of fortified walls. Located in Tam Thanh Ward, Lang Son City, it stands as a significant relic of Vietnam’s feudal military architecture from the late 16th to mid-17th century.

Mau Son Mountain lies about 30 km east of Lang Son city (old administrative unit before 2025), close to the Vietnam – China border. It has long been home to the Dao, Nung, and Tay ethnic groups, creating a vibrant and distinctive cultural landscape. As early as 1935, the French developed the area by building guesthouses on the mountaintop. Today, the Mau Son tourist area continues to be invested in, with many entertainment, resort, and ecotourism facilities.

One of Mau Son’s most remarkable features is its cool climate year-round, with an average temperature of just 15.5°C. In winter, temperatures can drop below freezing, bringing frost and even snowfall – a rare spectacle in Vietnam. Rising between 1,200m and 1,541m above sea level, the peaks are often veiled in clouds, creating a mystical and enchanting atmosphere.

The Mau Son tourist area offers a wealth of unique attractions: diverse terrain and geomorphology, breathtaking natural scenery, fresh air, rich vegetation, and the distinctive spiritual and cultural traditions of local ethnic communities. Together, these elements make Mau Son an ideal destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation amidst nature.

Quynh Son offers visitors an authentic glimpse into the cultural traditions of the Tay people. In 2025, it was proudly recognized by the United Nations Tourism Organization (UN Tourism) as one of the “Best Tourist Villages.”

The village is home to around 400 ancient stilt houses, many of which are centuries old. Guests can stroll or cycle through lush rice fields, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and admire the majestic scenery. Rising over 600 meters, Na Lay Mountain is a highlight for sunrise watching, cloud hunting, and panoramic views of the entire village. Reaching the summit requires conquering 1,200 stone steps and rugged trails, making the journey both challenging and rewarding.

Every November, the Golden Harvest Festival brings the village to life with traditional activities such as rice harvesting contests, rice pounding, and black sticky rice cake making. Evenings are filled with campfires, Then singing, and the melodic sounds of the Tinh lute – cultural treasures of the Tay people. Visitors can also explore Quynh Son communal house, try paddleboarding on the river, or experience paragliding for breathtaking views of the valley.

Nestled in Huu Lung district, Huu Lien spans more than 6,000 hectares and is home to about 3,000 residents from five ethnic groups: Nung, Dao, Mong, Tay, and Kinh. Its most remarkable feature is the Huu Lien Special Use Forest, covering 8,293 hectares across Van Quan, Chi Lang, and Huu Lung districts. This forest boasts a rich ecosystem and dramatic limestone ranges that create a striking natural landscape.

Dong Lam grassland is a must-visit, with its pristine beauty and herds of horses and cattle grazing freely, offering a rare sense of tranquility. Nong Dung Lake invites visitors to kayak on its crystal-clear waters, while the nearby stream in the Dao village is perfect for families with children. Deep within the forest lies the enchanting Khe Dau waterfall, often called the “Valley of Absolute Serenity,” a favorite spot for nature lovers.

In Huu Lien, guests can stay in traditional wooden stilt houses with yin-yang tiled roofs, savor local specialties, enjoy corn wine brewed by the Dao people, bathe in herbal waters for relaxation and healing, or join locals in weaving and broom-making – timeless crafts passed down through generations.

Bac Le Temple (Temple of the Goddess of the Upper Mountains) is located in Bac Le village, Tan Thanh commune, about 80 km South of Lang Son center.

The ancient Bac Le Temple is nestled among the foliage of centuries-old trees. From the temple gate, one can see a vast expanse of hills and mountains in front. The Temple was built around the 16th-17th centuries. Over the years, the temple has been renovated and restored many times, but it still retains its architectural beauty and valuable ancient artifacts, such as 19 large and small statues made from jackfruit wood, or exquisitely carved horizontal plaques and couplets.

The most unique feature of Bac Le Temple is the worship of the Goddess of the Upper Mountains – one of the three Holy Mothers in the Vietnamese Mother Goddess worship tradition: Mother of Heaven (Mẫu Thượng Thiên) who governs the heavens, Mother of the Upper Mountains (Mẫu Thượng Ngàn) who governs the forests and mountains, and Mother of Water (Mẫu Thoải) who governs the rivers and waters. Besides the main deity worshipped, the Goddess of the Mountains, the temple also venerates Chau Be. According to folklore, Chau Be is a figure who once lived in the area and can act on behalf of the Holy Mother to fulfill and answer the prayers of the people.

Bac Le Temple is one of the two famous and sacred temples dedicated to the Mother Goddess in Northern Vietnam, attracting numerous visitors from all over to visit and worship. The temple’s festival is held annually on the 20th day of the 9th lunar month with rituals and activities deeply rooted in spirituality, reflecting the beliefs and cultural identity of the Vietnamese people.

Lang Son is a border province renowned not only for its trade gateways but also for its many sacred temples and pagodas. In addition to the famous Bac Le Temple, the province is home to other notable places of worship such as Thanh Pagoda, Mau Dong Dang Temple, Ta Phu Temple, and Tam Giao Pagoda, all of which contribute to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the region.

Dang Mo Waterfall (also known as Mui Bo Waterfall or Tien Nu Waterfall) is a famous scenic spot located on National Highway 279, in Binh Gia commune, Lang Son province. The waterfall is notable for its clear blue water flowing over three tiers of rocks amidst a pristine forest, creating a majestic and romantic landscape. With its pristine beauty, fresh climate, and ideal setting for sightseeing, picnicking, and swimming in the streams, Dang Mo Waterfall is an attractive destination for tourists, especially in the summer.

Lang Son possesses a network of important border crossings with China, including 2 international border gates, 1 main border gate, and 9 sub-border gates. Of these, customs clearance of goods takes place regularly at approximately 5-6 key border gates: Huu Nghi, Tan Thanh, Chi Ma, Coc Nam, Na Hinh, and the Dong Dang international railway station. This is a vital trade route connecting China with Vietnam and ASEAN countries.

Huu Nghi International Border Gate is one of the busiest and most important border gates in Vietnam. Located amidst the majestic mountains of the North, Huu Nghi plays the role of a border gateway between Vietnam and China.

The border gate is located in Dong Dang Commune (Lang Son province), opposite Bang Tuong in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (China). It serves not only as a vital trading hub but also as a symbol of friendship, economic partnership, and cultural exchange between the two nations.

Extensive investment has transformed the area with modern infrastructure and services, while also creating a dedicated space to highlight its history, development, and pivotal role in fostering cooperation between Vietnam and China. Today, this border gate is more than a point of commerce – it has become a cultural landmark that draws countless visitors eager to explore the unique character of Lang Son’s frontier region.

As a border province neighboring China, Lang Son is renowned for its bustling commercial markets, which cater to visitors seeking shopping, sightseeing, and immersive experiences. This vibrant market culture is one of the defining characteristics that gives Lang Son tourism its distinctive charm and enduring appeal.

Dong Kinh Market stands as one of Lang Son’s leading commercial and shopping hubs, offering an extensive range of products from clothing, electronics, and everyday consumer goods to local specialties and souvenirs. Beyond its role as a marketplace, it has become a favorite stop for visitors eager to taste and purchase renowned Lang Son delicacies such as roast duck, sausages, and other signature culinary delights.

Dong Dang Market, located near the border gate, is a bustling commercial hub that plays a vital role in facilitating trade and commerce. It offers a diverse array of goods, ranging from clothing, household items, and consumer products to specialty items that meet the shopping needs of both locals and visitors.

The vibrant market system of Lang Son not only fulfills everyday shopping demands but also embodies the distinctive character of this border province. For travelers, it provides a unique cultural experience, making a visit to Lang Son both memorable and enriching.

Lang Son is home to a rich tradition of folk music and dance. Among the Tay and Nung communities, performances include Then, Sli, Luon, Quan Lang, Vi, Phong Slu, and Co Lau singing. The Dao people are known for Pao Dung singing, while the Cao Lan preserve Sinh Ca singing. The Mong contribute with Hu Nhau and narrative singing, each reflecting the unique identity of their ethnic heritage.

The Practice of Then is a distinctive form of folk performance deeply woven into the cultural, religious, and spiritual life of the Tay and Nung ethnic groups in Lang Son. Carrying profound humanistic values, Then not only mirrors the spiritual world of the community but also conveys aspirations for peace, happiness, and abundant harvests.

Within the UNESCO Global Geopark Lang Son, this tradition continues to be preserved, transmitted, and celebrated. In 2019, UNESCO recognized the Practice of Then by the Tay, Nung, and Thai people as a Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, affirming the unique cultural identity of Vietnam’s ethnic groups on the international stage.

The lion-cat dance is another vibrant folk art closely tied to the cultural and spiritual life of the Tay and Nung communities. Performed during festivals, Lunar New Year celebrations, and other major cultural events, it embodies both artistry and symbolism.

With its dynamic yet graceful movements, accompanied by the rhythmic sounds of drums and gongs, the dance reflects martial spirit while symbolizing wishes for prosperity, peace, happiness, and plentiful harvests. As a cherished tradition, it enriches the cultural identity of Lang Son and continues to captivate audiences with its energy and meaning.

Lang Son cuisine is renowned for its richness and diversity, featuring many famous dishes such as roast pork, roast duck, sour pho, and khau nhuc, each carrying the distinctive flavor of “Xu Lang.” Alongside these specialties, the province is also well known in the Northeast for its agricultural products, including Van Quan star anise, Bac Son tangerines, and Chi Lang custard apples. Together, these dishes and local products not only delight visitors but also serve as meaningful gifts, making every trip to Lang Son an experience of both taste and tradition.

Roasted pork with mac mat leaves is a renowned specialty of Lang Son, considered both a traditional dish and a culinary symbol of the region. Locals often say that anyone who loves roasted pork must visit Lang Son to taste its authentic flavor.

The uniqueness of this dish lies in the use of mac mat leaves – a fragrant herb native to the area and commonly used in Tay and Nung cuisine. “Mac mat” means sweet fruit in the local language; its fruit resembles a kumquat but is smaller, smoother, and sweeter. Both the leaves and fruit impart a distinctive aroma and flavor that elevate the dish.

A perfect roasted pork requires skillful preparation. During roasting, honey mixed with warm water is brushed evenly over the meat, creating a glossy golden skin. The finished dish reveals layers of tender pink meat and thin ivory fat, all infused with the rich fragrance of mac mat leaves and honey. The result is a visually stunning and irresistibly aromatic delicacy that embodies the culinary artistry of Lang Son.

When visiting Lang Son, one cannot miss the famous dish Roasted Duck with Mac Mat Leaves, honored among the Top 100 Vietnamese Specialties (2020–2021). Its distinctive flavor is unmatched anywhere else. Diners often describe it vividly: “The duck meat is golden yellow, tender yet chewy, and especially delicious when dipped in the rich sauce from the belly of the roasted duck.”

The dish is prepared using That Khe duck, prized for its thick, firm meat, small bones, and moderate size. After cleaning, the duck is carefully processed – its skin inflated with papaya leaves and washed with alcohol to ensure crispness. Each household has its own secret marinade, but fresh mac mat leaves and dried mac mat fruit are indispensable. These ingredients impart a unique aroma and sweetness, defining the soul of the dish.

A perfect roasted duck must have lightly crispy, dark brown skin, tender yet juicy meat, and a fragrance that awakens the senses. During roasting, honey mixed with warm water is brushed evenly over the duck, creating a glossy finish and enhancing the flavor.

To enjoy it fully, locals prepare a special dipping sauce – golden brown, thick, and rich – or use the savory juices from the duck’s belly. Hot slices of duck dipped in this sauce release a harmony of natural sweetness, spices, and aroma that captivates every palate, even the most discerning visitors to Xu Lang.

Khau Nhục, also known as Nam Khau, is a dish with origins in China that was introduced to Vietnam by the Tay and Nung ethnic groups. Over time, it has become a renowned specialty of Lang Son, often prepared for festive family occasions such as Tet and weddings.

This is a highly elaborate dish that requires a precise combination of spices – missing even one means it is no longer authentic Khau Nhục. Pork belly is washed, cut into large pieces of about half a kilogram, briefly boiled, then pierced with bamboo toothpicks before being roasted. During roasting, honey is brushed onto the skin to achieve a golden crisp. If roasting tools are unavailable, the skin can be fried in hot oil until golden and crunchy. The meat is then sliced into thick pieces, each with skin, fat, and lean layers. Taro, cut into chunks and fried until golden, is added to the dish.

The spice mixture includes onion, garlic, ginger, basil, sugar, pepper, oyster sauce, five-spice powder, and a splash of white wine. Essential to the recipe is pickled taro leaves, a traditional ingredient of the Tay and Nung people. The meat and spices are marinated together, then carefully arranged in a bowl: taro leaves at the bottom, taro in the middle, and pork pieces on top with the skin facing upward. The dish is then steamed for 4 – 5 hours until the meat becomes tender and infused with flavor.

When served, the bowl is inverted onto a plate, revealing the fragrant aroma and golden color of the dish. The combination of soft, flavorful pork, taro, and spices makes Khau Nhục not only a culinary highlight of Lang Son but also a symbol of the meticulous artistry in traditional ethnic cuisine.

Pho is widely recognized as Vietnam’s most iconic dish, but sour pho offers a surprising and exotic variation that is unique to Lang Son. This specialty captivates not only with its unusual name but also with its distinctive flavor and presentation.

To prepare Lang Son sour pho, cooks combine a wide range of ingredients to balance the flavors of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet. The highlight of the dish lies in its sauce, made from a special blend of vinegar and sugar – a recipe found only in Lang Son – mixed with fried onions, garlic, fish sauce, and ginger.

Traditionally, sour pho is served on a large plate. At the base are chewy white pho noodles, topped with char siu pork, cucumber slices, roasted peanuts, fried sweet potatoes, and crispy dried onions. The colorful arrangement is as visually appealing as it is flavorful, enticing diners at first sight.

Sour pho is typically enjoyed cold, making it especially refreshing on hot summer days. In winter, however, locals warm the noodles and sauce for a comforting variation. Depending on taste, diners may add fresh chili, a squeeze of lemon, or a sprinkle of pepper to enhance the flavor. Each bite delivers a harmonious blend – the chewiness of noodles, the sweetness of the sauce, the nuttiness of peanuts, the crispiness of sweet potatoes, and a gentle kick of spice – creating a dish that is both balanced and unforgettable.

Black Banh Chung is a distinctive culinary tradition of the Tay ethnic group in Bac Son. Crafted from familiar ingredients such as glutinous rice, mung beans, pork, and dong leaves, its defining element is glutinous rice straw ash, which gives the cake its signature black color and unique flavor.

After the harvest, dried glutinous rice straw is burned into ash, finely ground, and mixed with fragrant glutinous rice. This process turns the grains a glossy black, and once cooked, the rice becomes soft, aromatic, and unforgettable in taste. Each cake is carefully hand-wrapped and boiled for hours to achieve a tender, chewy texture.

When served, the cake is traditionally sliced into rounds using the very string that tied it. More than just an everyday dish, black rice cake is a staple at festivals, Tet (Lunar New Year), weddings, and family gatherings, embodying the rich culinary heritage and cultural identity of the Tay people in Bac Son.

The Chi Lang region, with its rugged rocky terrain and favorable climate, is home to the renowned Chi Lang custard apple – one of Lang Son’s signature specialty fruits, honored among Vietnam’s Top 50 specialty fruits.

Chi Lang custard apples are prized for their distinctive qualities: large, evenly shaped fruits with light green skin, pinkish-white eyes, thick creamy flesh, few seeds, and a sweet, refreshing flavor accompanied by a unique aroma. Their exceptional taste has made them a favorite among consumers across the country.

Cultivated on rocky mountain slopes and valleys, these custard apple orchards reflect the hard work and ingenuity of local farmers. During harvest season, visitors can witness the striking sight of farmers gathering fruit from steep slopes and using pulley systems to transport baskets down to the valley floor.

More than just a high-value agricultural product, the Chi Lang custard apple is a source of pride for the local community. It not only enhances the reputation of Lang Son’s produce but also serves as a cultural symbol, promoting the province’s identity and tourism appeal.

Mau Son wine is a celebrated product deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of the Dao ethnic community living in the Mau Son mountain range of Lang Son province. Using age-old distillation techniques passed down through generations, this wine has earned the affectionate nickname “the immortal wine of Lang Son.”

Its distinctive flavor comes from both its pristine ingredients and the Dao people’s secret methods. The water used in brewing is drawn from pure mountain springs, while the yeast is crafted from more than 30 precious herbs, prepared according to ancient practices. The result is a crystal-clear wine with a delicate aroma, smooth taste, and a lingering aftertaste that sets it apart.

For centuries, Mau Son wine has been more than just a drink – it has been an integral part of local traditions. Whether at festivals, weddings, or when welcoming honored guests, the wine embodies the cultural spirit of the Mau Son highlands.

When poured, it shines with clarity, offering a light fragrance and a rich yet gentle flavor that avoids harshness or burning sensations. This unique profile has made Mau Son wine increasingly popular among visitors, many of whom enjoy it as a cultural experience and purchase it as a meaningful gift.

Today, Mau Son wine is not only a source of pride for the Dao people but also a distinctive product that promotes Lang Son’s cultural identity, cuisine, and tourism to both domestic and international audiences.

Lang Son is Vietnam’s largest star anise growing region, with nearly 40,000 hectares under cultivation and an annual yield exceeding 16,000 tons. For generations, star anise has been a hallmark product, inseparably linked to the province’s agricultural identity and brand.

Among its districts, Van Quan stands out as a key production area, renowned for vast star anise forests and exceptional product quality. With favorable soil and climate conditions, Van Quan provides abundant raw materials for producing both dried star anise and star anise essential oil.

During harvest season, the sight of lush green star anise hills stretching across mountain slopes creates a signature landscape of Lang Son’s highlands. The warm, delicate fragrance of star anise fills the air, leaving a lasting impression on visitors.

After harvesting, the fruits are carefully selected to ensure quality. Premium dried star anise is distinguished by its natural golden hue, intact petals, and especially the prized eight-petaled form, valued for its high essential oil content. These serve as the foundation for distilling star anise essential oil – a product of significant economic worth, widely used in food, medicine, and cosmetics.

Today, dried star anise and star anise essential oil are not only iconic agricultural products but also cultural ambassadors, helping to promote Lang Son’s image, traditions, and tourism to both domestic and international audiences.