Hà Giang Province
Encyclopedia
Hà Giang is a province
in northeastern
Vietnam
. It is located in the far north of the country, and contains Vietnam’s northernmost point. It shares a 270 km long border with Yunnan province of southern China
. Hence it is known as the final frontier of Vietnam. The province covers an area of 7945.8 square kilometres and as of 2008 it had a population of 705,100 people.
The provincial capital is also called Ha Giang, which is connected by Highway 2 and is 320 km away from Hanoi
. The border crossing is at Than Thui, 25 km from the Ha Giang town. It is one of the poorest provinces of Vietnam as it has highly rugged but scenic mountainous topography with least potential for agriculture development.
The province borders China with a length of over 270 kilometres (167.8 mi); the border gate is known as the Thanh Thuy. In addition there are three smaller gates namely, the Pho Bang, the Xin Man and the Sam Pun.
The topography of the province of Hà Giang is fairly complex with "temperate, but highly localized montane
weather patterns create variable conditions among different regions". It has very impressive landform of limestone and granite peaks and outcrops. It has three regions. Climatically, it has two seasons, a dry and monsoon season dependent on the altitude of the region. The two northern Indochinese climatic zones on the border influence the climate in that part of the province. The lower areas in the province comprise low hills, the Lô River
Valley and the town of Hà Giang. In Cao Bo district, the dry season lasts from mid-September until the end of May, and the balance period of the year is the rainy season. However, in Du Gia district the wet season set in one month earlier. The average annual temperature in the provincial city of Ha Giang City is 22.78 °C (73 °F); the monthly averages range from a low of 15.48 °C (59.9 °F) in January to a high of 27.88 °C (82.2 °F) in July. The annual rainfall in Ha Giang City is 2430.1 millimetres (95.7 in); the monthly average varies from a low of 31.5 millimetres (1.2 in) in December to a high of 515.6 millimetres (20.3 in) in July. The average annual humidity level is 84%.
Hà Giang has many high mountains, including the two highest peaks, namely, the Tây Côn Lĩnh (2419 m) and the Kiều Liêu Ti (2402 metres (7,880.6 ft)). Hà Giang has many forests that provide valuable lumber. It has about 1000 species of herbal
plants. Ha Giang's fauna include tiger
, peafowl
, pheasant
, pangolin
, and many other animals and birds.
Ha Biang town was damaged during the 1979 war with China. However, the town has been rebuilt since then.
s, rhododendrons and melastomes. Banana
, bamboo
and secondary scrub grow on both sides of foottracks in the forests. The forest also has an abundance of cascading streams, seepage streams from lime stone formations, waterfalls, glides, and pools. The stiff lime stone vertical rock face is seen above 1100 m on the northeast face of Mt. Muong Cha, while its southwest slope exhibits a much gentler grade, and is converted into agricultural fields. Above 2000 metres (6,561.7 ft) elevation, there is montane
mixed semideciduous and evergreen cloud forest, which are laden with mists and cloud-borne moisture. This forest has an understory of Ericaceae
with shrub and epiphytic species of Rhododendron
and Vaccinium
. Species of Lauraceae
, with Ericaceae
and Oleaceae
(at higher elevations with taxa in the Fagaceae
, Myrsinaceae
and Araliaceae
are also recorded. Most of the tree trunks are covered with bryophyte
mosses in this zone.
. However, in 1915, the French ruthlessly suppressed the rebellion, deporting many of the rebellious Vietnamese and even sent 67 of them to the gallows.
Hà Giang was part of bộ Tân Hưng
in ancient times, one of 15 bộ in the nation of Văn Lang
. During the Ming Dynasty occupation of Vietnam, at the start of the 15th century, it was known as the district of Bình Nguyên, before being changed to Bình Nguyên in 1473, and it was later renamed châu Vị Xuyên
.
Before 1975, Hà Giang comprised the districts of Đồng Văn, Vị Xuyên
, Xín Mần
, Yên Minh
, Hoàng Su Phì
, Bắc Quang
, Thanh Thủy
and Quản Bạ
.
Archaeological excavations carried out near Ha Giang town
at Doi Thang (Pine Hill) have established the region's antiquity to about 3000 years back. During the Bronze Age Tay Yu tribals (of the, with culturally rich traditions ruled over the region; Archaeological findings in the form of bronze drums of that age used for ceremonial purposes is traced even to its present use by the Lolo and Pu Peo tribals of the region (Meo Vac
of the Ha Giang province).
and Meo Vac
) is also integral to the province as the Hmong people have dominated the region from the late 18th century. The Vuong family of the Huang clan established their rule at Dong Van and Meo Vac, which was endorsed by the Nguyen Kings. During the French colonial rule, French further supported the King to keep their hold on the border territory. Vuong Chi Duc was recognized as the king of the Hmong people in 1900. A palace befitting the king was built between 1902 and 1903, at Sa Phin (16 km west of Dong Van town) by inducting Chinese architects. The King’s loyalty to the French was evident in the support that the French got from him during their campaign to put down a rebellion launched by the local tribes. In recognition, the King was given the rank of a General of the French Army (a fully uniformed King's picture is seen in the interior rooms of their palace). The increasing opposition by the Vietnamese to the French rule saw the King adopting a neutral stance. Vuong Chu Sen, who succeeded his father after the latter’s death in 1944, however, pledged support to Ho Chi Minh
. The historical palace of the Vuong King was built in the traditional norms of Northeast Asian royal palaces. The palace built on the “Geomantic principles” has four double storied wings planned in 19th Century Southern Chinese town house style with “mui luyen or yin-yang tiles”. The two wings are inter-linked by three open courtyards. A moat surrounds the palace. Tombs of the royal family members, which are intricately carved in wood are located outside the palace walls. Only the walls of the buildings are made of bricks, while the other components of the buildings are made of wood.
and 10 districts (huyện): Bắc Mê District, Bắc Quang District, Đồng Văn District, Hoàng Su Phì District, Mèo Vạc District, Quản Bạ District, Quang Bình District, Vị Xuyên District, Xín Mần District and Yên Minh District, five precincts, nine towns under districts, and 181 communes.
Many people in Hà Giang belong to various ethnic minorities. Aside from the Viet (or Kinh)
who form 10% of the total population of the province, the others who dominate are 22 ethnic minorities, mainly the Hmong
, Tày
, Dao and Nung
. There are two rare ethnic groups of Pupeo and Phula with population of less than 400 each and dwindling.
is good for growing plums, peach
es, and persimmon
s, which the province exports. Tea
is also grown. Farming economy is also getting a boost with growing oranges and mandarin trees as its sustains many households with the income in the range of VND 150 to 200 million a year. Cultivated area of soybean cultivation (high yield type with yield of 750 kg per ha) has increased to 7900 hectares (19,521.3 acre).
Hà Giang is one of the poorest provinces of Vietnam. Traditionally, the vast majority of its economic activity revolved around agriculture
and forestry
. However, in recent years, there have been attempts to establish a manufacturing
industry. Infrastructure in Hà Giang has seen improvement, but remains poor - roads, schools, and health services are less developed than in many other parts of Vietnam.
Ha Giang Province also has large areas of green tea, apart from terraced rice fields. The Province has particularly assisted people in developing tea industry with financial (soft loans) and technical support in operations (sowing, tending, gathering and processing). This has resulted in increase in the yield from 9,625 tonnes in 1995 to 20,394 tonnes in 2002. Particular tea plantations of quality tea are the Shan Tuyet strain in the Lung Phin in Dong Van District and Nam La in Yen Minh District. Ha Giang tea is not only popular in domestic market but also in foreign markets.
The province is rich minerals; 149 mines with 28 categories of minerals are spread in all districts of the province. Mineral deposits explored in the province are: Antimony
, iron ore, manganese
, ferrite
, zinc
, tin
, copper
, bauxite
, gold
, gemstones
, kaolin and mineral water
. These are contributing to industrial development in the province. Plans have been put in place, with appropriate policies to attract direct foreign investments in the province; China, South Korea, Thailand and other countries have already chipped in with investments in the mining and processing industries and the anticipated growth rate of achievement is pegged at 20%. Asian Development Bank also provided loans of USD 3 million to promote tea industry in the province.
As Hà Giang is a mountainous region, the population is not large, and the majority of inhabitants are ethnic Vietnamese. The remainder are Thổ
, Hmong
, Tay
, Dao, Mán, Nung
, Giấy and Lô Lô. The majority engage in ancestor and spirit worship.
Some of the economic indicators, according to the General Statistics Office of the Government of Vietnam are:
The population of Yên Bái province as on 2008 was 705,100 with a density of 89 persons per sqkm over a total land area of 7945.8 square kilometre of the province. It is one of the least populated provinces in the Northern midlands and mountain areas of Vietnam. The male population during this period was 346,900 with females accounting for 358200. The rural population was 625,500 against an urban population of 79,600 (about 7% of the rural population).
As against the national figure of 273 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery cooperatives there are 32 cooperatives in the province, of which 22 are agricultural cooperatives and eight are fisheries cooperatives. The number of cooperatives is 32 as against 7592 cooperatives in the country.
There are only 169 farms in the province as against the national number of 120699.
The Output value of agriculture produce at constant 1994 prices in the province was 838.4 billion đồngs against the national value of 156681.9 bill. dongs.
The province produced 280,300 tonnes of cereals as against the national production of 43.58 million tonnes
The per capita production of cereals in the district was 397.5 kg as against the national figure of 501.8 kg. in 2007.
In 2007, the industrial output of the province was a meagre 526.1 bill. dongs against the national output of 1.47 million Bhilldongs. However, there is cement plant with capacity of 300,000 tons per year that was established recently.
Quản Bạ Valley
Quản Bạ
Valley, located at 45 kilometres (28 mi) from Ha Biang, at 7945.8 metres (26,068.9 ft) elevation, is called the "Heaven's Gate" and has a TV Transmitter on a summit. Uniformly shaped hills of the valley are viewed from this summit. Quan Ba Pass provides alluring views of the voluptuously named Thach Nu Doi (literal meaning: double stalagmite
) but also known as “Two Stone Breasts” in the valley below. The valley has forested hills and meadows, with temperatures ranging between 10 °C (50 °F) in winter and 24 °C (75.2 °F) in summer. It is well known for its secret grottoes and caves, colourful orchids, plum and peach trees, persimmon orchards, medicinal plants and many more. The town of Dong Van is famous for its Pho Bang Street which features multistoried buildings built with clay bricks and tiled roofs. The weekly market is where the Tay and H’Mong ethnic groups of the province visit in large numbers to trade in various types of goods and colourful hand woven cloth.
Phương Thiện Cave is 7 km to the south of the township of Ha Giang. It is the location of many sights, especially natural caves and grotto
s of Doi, Lang Lo and Phuong Thien. The surrounding area is also known for its plums, pears, oranges, apples and Tuyet Son tea above 900 metres (2,952.8 ft). Chui Cave lies 7 km to the south of Ha Giang. It is set about 100 metres (328.1 ft) into the face of the hill. Tiên Cave và Tiên Spring: The cave is 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Ha Giang town. Động có Suối Tiên rất đẹp. According to folklore, heavenly female beings came there to bathe in the lunar new year, thus its name. The local population uses it as a water source and to pray for good luck in the new year.
Dong Van
Dong Van is a market town 16 kilometres (9.9 mi) from Sa Phin and 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) from Chinese border is inhabited by Tay People and also Hmong. It is an altitude of 1025 kilometres (636.9 mi) and experiences freezing temperature of 0 °C (32 °F) in winter and 24 °C (75.2 °F) in summer months. The highland region is famous for fruits such as Hau plums, peaches and persimmons without seeds. It also has many medicinal plants (ginseng
, cinnamon
and anise
.
Mèo Vạc
Meo Vac
is a mountain pass at about 1500 metres (4,921.3 ft) elevation which forms the basin boundary of the Nho Que River on the border with China is restricted zone. The market held at Khau Vai which is about 20 kilometres (12.4 mi) from Meo Vac, is where once a year on the 27th day of the third month of the Lunar calendar is known famously as the Khau Vai “Love Market.” The ethnic clans of White Hmong, Tay and Lolo congregate here, particularly the young people assemble here in search of life partners or to exchange partners. The Lolo people who dominate the local village by the same name in particular come here in their colourful regale. This ancient custom is now reported has become a "circus" with gate crashers landing in very large numbers.
Chợ tình Khâu Vai
The Chợ tình Khâu Vai market only meets once a year, on the 27th day of the third lunar month at Khâu Vai commune in Mèo Vạc
district, based on an old folk tale. A long time ago, there was a young beautiful couple who were in love but they were in different districts, which would have meant that she would have moved to her husband’s area. Her home district opposed this, while the boy’s district wanted this, causing political tension.
When the couple were meeting, the two groups descended into warfare. To avoid bloodshed for their societies, the couple decided to break up and only secretly meet once a year on the anniversary, at Khâu Vai. Since then the area has become a dating spot for couples. In the last 10 years, economic pressures have led to a market being set up to capitalize on the anniversary celebrations.
Do Thong
Do Thong (Pine Hill) settlement, is an ancient settlement dated back to 30,000 years, belonging to the Son Vi period as established by archaeological excavations. The excavations had unearthed antiquary axe heads and primitive tools which are displayed in the local museum at Ha Biang and the History Museum in Hanoi.
Ha Biang museum
Ha Biang museum located in the centre of the Ha Biang town, not only has an array of display of findings from archaeological excavations but also houses historical artefacts, bronze drum collection and also costumes of the local ethnic clans. Museum building is in form of a big lotus opening up its petals, in red and white colour mansion.
Ha Giang market
Ha Giang market is an important market centre in Ha Biang town on the east bank of the Lo River. At this place, Tay
, Nung, Red Dao and White Hamong ethnic groups congregate every Sunday.
Lang Si
Lang Si is a village at the Lang Si pass where the White Hmong tribes assemble at the market held once every six days. The village is 116 kilometres (72.1 mi) from Ha Biang and parts of the border wall built by the French army are seen here delimiting the border of White Hmong Kingdom. It is honey producing area and has many apiaries.
Sa Phin
Sa Phin
is a small town in the remote Sa Phin valley (2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Chinese border) where Hmong Kings ruled. The unique feature of the place is of the large double storied houses which are built in Chinese style made out of yellow bricks with Chinese style roof. The twin white towered palace building is distinct among the 20 odd buildings.
Khu nhà Dòng họ Vương
The Vương family mansion is an architectural heritage landmark in Sà Phìn commune, Đồng Văn district that was listed by the government in 1993. At the start of the 20th century, Vương Chính Đức, a member of the Mong people, was appointed the Bang Tá and he had the family residence expanded into a mansion from where he worked. It is a of a style that is rare in this mountainous region of northern Vietnam. The building was designed in the style of the later period of the Qing Dynasty
of China, and is grouped into three sections, the front, middle and rear. It comprises six lengthwise and four sideways buildings, two levels, and 64 rooms and 1120 metres (3,674.5 ft) of land space. The building is surrounded by a stone wall, of width between 0.6 kilometre (0.372823641989884 mi) and 0.9 metres (3 ft) and of height from 2.5–3 km (1.6–1.9 mi). The mansion is 145 kilometres (90.1 mi) to the northwest of the town of Hà Giang and 24 kilometres (14.9 mi) to the southwest of the district of Đồng Văn.
and Dao people, usually shortly after the Lunar New Year
and lasts between three and seven days. The people celebrate with singing and feasting and drinking alcohol.
Provinces of Vietnam
Vietnam is divided into 58 provinces and five centrally governed cities existing at the same level as provinces ....
in northeastern
Dong Bac
The Northeast is the region at the north of the Red River Delta, Vietnam. Northeast called to distinguish them from the Northwest, but it's actually in the north and northeast of Hanoi, wider than Việt Bắc. The northeast is one of three sub-regions of northern Vietnam...
Vietnam
Vietnam
Vietnam – sometimes spelled Viet Nam , officially the Socialist Republic of Vietnam – is the easternmost country on the Indochina Peninsula in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by China to the north, Laos to the northwest, Cambodia to the southwest, and the South China Sea –...
. It is located in the far north of the country, and contains Vietnam’s northernmost point. It shares a 270 km long border with Yunnan province of southern China
China
Chinese civilization may refer to:* China for more general discussion of the country.* Chinese culture* Greater China, the transnational community of ethnic Chinese.* History of China* Sinosphere, the area historically affected by Chinese culture...
. Hence it is known as the final frontier of Vietnam. The province covers an area of 7945.8 square kilometres and as of 2008 it had a population of 705,100 people.
The provincial capital is also called Ha Giang, which is connected by Highway 2 and is 320 km away from Hanoi
Hanoi
Hanoi , is the capital of Vietnam and the country's second largest city. Its population in 2009 was estimated at 2.6 million for urban districts, 6.5 million for the metropolitan jurisdiction. From 1010 until 1802, it was the most important political centre of Vietnam...
. The border crossing is at Than Thui, 25 km from the Ha Giang town. It is one of the poorest provinces of Vietnam as it has highly rugged but scenic mountainous topography with least potential for agriculture development.
The province borders China with a length of over 270 kilometres (167.8 mi); the border gate is known as the Thanh Thuy. In addition there are three smaller gates namely, the Pho Bang, the Xin Man and the Sam Pun.
Etymology
The province's name derives from Sino-Vietnamese (Hán Tự: 河江).Geography
Hà Giang is bounded by Cao Bang, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, and Yen Bai provinces and has common international border with China in the north. Hà Giang has many high rocky mountains (lime stone formations) and springs; the important mountains are the Cam and Mo Neo. The major rivers of the region are the Lo River (Ha Giang town is located on its left bank) and Mien River.The topography of the province of Hà Giang is fairly complex with "temperate, but highly localized montane
Montane
In biogeography, montane is the highland area located below the subalpine zone. Montane regions generally have cooler temperatures and often have higher rainfall than the adjacent lowland regions, and are frequently home to distinct communities of plants and animals.The term "montane" means "of the...
weather patterns create variable conditions among different regions". It has very impressive landform of limestone and granite peaks and outcrops. It has three regions. Climatically, it has two seasons, a dry and monsoon season dependent on the altitude of the region. The two northern Indochinese climatic zones on the border influence the climate in that part of the province. The lower areas in the province comprise low hills, the Lô River
Lô River
The Lô River is a major river of Vietnam. It flows through Hà Giang Province, Tuyen Quang Province and Phu Tho Province for 470 kilometres and has a basin area of 39,000 km² and originates in Yunnan, China as the Panlong River....
Valley and the town of Hà Giang. In Cao Bo district, the dry season lasts from mid-September until the end of May, and the balance period of the year is the rainy season. However, in Du Gia district the wet season set in one month earlier. The average annual temperature in the provincial city of Ha Giang City is 22.78 °C (73 °F); the monthly averages range from a low of 15.48 °C (59.9 °F) in January to a high of 27.88 °C (82.2 °F) in July. The annual rainfall in Ha Giang City is 2430.1 millimetres (95.7 in); the monthly average varies from a low of 31.5 millimetres (1.2 in) in December to a high of 515.6 millimetres (20.3 in) in July. The average annual humidity level is 84%.
Hà Giang has many high mountains, including the two highest peaks, namely, the Tây Côn Lĩnh (2419 m) and the Kiều Liêu Ti (2402 metres (7,880.6 ft)). Hà Giang has many forests that provide valuable lumber. It has about 1000 species of herbal
Herbal
AThe use of a or an depends on whether or not herbal is pronounced with a silent h. herbal is "a collection of descriptions of plants put together for medicinal purposes." Expressed more elaborately — it is a book containing the names and descriptions of plants, usually with information on their...
plants. Ha Giang's fauna include tiger
Tiger
The tiger is the largest cat species, reaching a total body length of up to and weighing up to . Their most recognizable feature is a pattern of dark vertical stripes on reddish-orange fur with lighter underparts...
, peafowl
Peafowl
Peafowl are two Asiatic species of flying birds in the genus Pavo of the pheasant family, Phasianidae, best known for the male's extravagant eye-spotted tail, which it displays as part of courtship. The male is called a peacock, the female a peahen, and the offspring peachicks. The adult female...
, pheasant
Pheasant
Pheasants refer to some members of the Phasianinae subfamily of Phasianidae in the order Galliformes.Pheasants are characterised by strong sexual dimorphism, males being highly ornate with bright colours and adornments such as wattles and long tails. Males are usually larger than females and have...
, pangolin
Pangolin
A pangolin , also scaly anteater or Trenggiling, is a mammal of the order Pholidota. There is only one extant family and one genus of pangolins, comprising eight species. There are also a number of extinct taxa. Pangolins have large keratin scales covering their skin and are the only mammals with...
, and many other animals and birds.
Ha Biang town was damaged during the 1979 war with China. However, the town has been rebuilt since then.
Vegetation
Cultivated fields and Livestock are generally found in elevations below 800 m. Between 800800 metres (2,624.7 ft) and950 metres (3,116.8 ft) elevation, grasses and wood shrubs (maximum height of 3 metres (9.8 ft)) are recorded. Primary forest in patches with trees (30 metres (98.4 ft) high and 50 centimetres (19.7 in) diameter) is found above 1000 metres (3,280.8 ft) elevation with canopy of about 80% closed. This forest has dense undergrowth with large vines, tree fernFern
A fern is any one of a group of about 12,000 species of plants belonging to the botanical group known as Pteridophyta. Unlike mosses, they have xylem and phloem . They have stems, leaves, and roots like other vascular plants...
s, rhododendrons and melastomes. Banana
Banana
Banana is the common name for herbaceous plants of the genus Musa and for the fruit they produce. Bananas come in a variety of sizes and colors when ripe, including yellow, purple, and red....
, bamboo
Bamboo
Bamboo is a group of perennial evergreens in the true grass family Poaceae, subfamily Bambusoideae, tribe Bambuseae. Giant bamboos are the largest members of the grass family....
and secondary scrub grow on both sides of foottracks in the forests. The forest also has an abundance of cascading streams, seepage streams from lime stone formations, waterfalls, glides, and pools. The stiff lime stone vertical rock face is seen above 1100 m on the northeast face of Mt. Muong Cha, while its southwest slope exhibits a much gentler grade, and is converted into agricultural fields. Above 2000 metres (6,561.7 ft) elevation, there is montane
Montane
In biogeography, montane is the highland area located below the subalpine zone. Montane regions generally have cooler temperatures and often have higher rainfall than the adjacent lowland regions, and are frequently home to distinct communities of plants and animals.The term "montane" means "of the...
mixed semideciduous and evergreen cloud forest, which are laden with mists and cloud-borne moisture. This forest has an understory of Ericaceae
Ericaceae
The Ericaceae, commonly known as the heath or heather family, is a group of mostly calcifuge flowering plants. The family is large, with roughly 4000 species spread across 126 genera, making it the 14th most speciose family of flowering plants...
with shrub and epiphytic species of Rhododendron
Rhododendron
Rhododendron is a genus of over 1 000 species of woody plants in the heath family, most with showy flowers...
and Vaccinium
Vaccinium
Vaccinium is a genus of shrubs or dwarf shrubs in the plant Family Ericaceae. The fruit of many species are eaten by humans and some are of commercial importance, including the cranberry, blueberry, bilberry or whortleberry, lingonberry or cowberry, and huckleberry...
. Species of Lauraceae
Lauraceae
The Lauraceae or Laurel family comprises a group of flowering plants included in the order Laurales. The family contains about 55 genera and over 3500, perhaps as many as 4000, species world-wide, mostly from warm or tropical regions, especially Southeast Asia and South America...
, with Ericaceae
Ericaceae
The Ericaceae, commonly known as the heath or heather family, is a group of mostly calcifuge flowering plants. The family is large, with roughly 4000 species spread across 126 genera, making it the 14th most speciose family of flowering plants...
and Oleaceae
Oleaceae
Oleaceae are a family containing 24 extant genera and around 600 species of mesophytic shrubs, trees and occasionally vines. As shrubs, members of this family may be twine climbers, or scramblers.-Leaves:...
(at higher elevations with taxa in the Fagaceae
Fagaceae
The family Fagaceae, or beech family, comprises about 900 species of both evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs, which are characterized by alternate simple leaves with pinnate venation, unisexual flowers in the form of catkins, and fruit in the form of cup-like nuts. Fagaceous leaves are often...
, Myrsinaceae
Myrsinaceae
Myrsinaceae, or the Myrsine family, is a rather large family from the order Ericales. It consists of 35 genera and about 1000 species....
and Araliaceae
Araliaceae
Araliaceae is a family of flowering plants, also known as the Aralia family or Ivy family. The family includes 254 species of trees, shrubs, lianas and perennial herbaceous plants into 2 subfamilies...
are also recorded. Most of the tree trunks are covered with bryophyte
Bryophyte
Bryophyte is a traditional name used to refer to all embryophytes that do not have true vascular tissue and are therefore called 'non-vascular plants'. Some bryophytes do have specialized tissues for the transport of water; however since these do not contain lignin, they are not considered to be...
mosses in this zone.
Fauna
16 reptile species (14 genera, five families) and 36 amphibian species (20 genera, seven families) have been recorded in the province.History
The French occupied this region in 1886, establishing their military garrison on the east bank of the Lo River and which became later in 1905 one of the four major military establishments in French Indo China in North Vietnam. The Vietnamse Dao tribals rebelled against the French colonial rule first in 1901 led by Trieu Tien Kien and Trieu Tai Loc which was quelled and the former was killed in the war. However, in 1913 Trieu Tai Loc organized another rebellion with the help of Trieu Tien Tien another member of his clan, which lasted for 2 years till 1915. Their slogan was "No Corvees, no taxes for the French; drive out the French to recover our country; liberty for the Dao." This revolt was known as the "White Hat Revolt" since the Vietnamese carried a white flag engraved with "four ideograms to Quoc Bach Ky" (meaning White Flag of the Fatherland). The rebellion spread to Tuan Quang, Lao Qai and Yen BaiYen Bai
Yên Bái is a city and urban district in Vietnam. It is the capital of the Yen Bai province, in northeastern Vietnam. As of 2003 the district had a population of 78,016. The district covers an area of 58 km²....
. However, in 1915, the French ruthlessly suppressed the rebellion, deporting many of the rebellious Vietnamese and even sent 67 of them to the gallows.
Hà Giang was part of bộ Tân Hưng
Tan Hung
Tan Hung is a district of Long An Province in the Mekong River Delta region of Vietnam.-Divisions:The district is divided into communes:*Tân Hưng #Vĩnh Đại#Vĩnh Châu A#Vĩnh Châu B#Vĩnh Lợi#Vĩnh Thạnh#Thạnh Hưng#Hưng Thạnh...
in ancient times, one of 15 bộ in the nation of Văn Lang
Van Lang
Văn Lang was, according to tradition, the first nation of the ancient Vietnamese people, founded in 2879 BC and existing until 258 BC. It was ruled by the Hùng Kings of the Hồng Bàng Dynasty. There is, however, little reliable historical information available...
. During the Ming Dynasty occupation of Vietnam, at the start of the 15th century, it was known as the district of Bình Nguyên, before being changed to Bình Nguyên in 1473, and it was later renamed châu Vị Xuyên
Vi Xuyen
Vi Xuyen is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 87,164. The district covers an area of 1,452 km²...
.
Before 1975, Hà Giang comprised the districts of Đồng Văn, Vị Xuyên
Vi Xuyen
Vi Xuyen is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 87,164. The district covers an area of 1,452 km²...
, Xín Mần
Xin Man
Xin Man is a district of Ha Giang Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam.The district covers an area of 582 km². Its capital lies at Thu Ta.-Administrative divisions:...
, Yên Minh
Yen Minh
Yen Minh is a district of Ha Giang Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 67,736. The district covers an area of 782 km²...
, Hoàng Su Phì
Hoang Su Phi
Hoang Su Phi is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam. the district had a population of 53,937. The district covers an area of 629 km²...
, Bắc Quang
Bac Quang
Bac Quang is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 103,064 . The district covers an area of 1,084 km²...
, Thanh Thủy
Thanh Thủy
Thanh Thủy is a commune and village in Lệ Thủy District, Quang Binh Province, in Vietnam....
and Quản Bạ
Quan Ba
Quan Ba is a district of Ha Giang Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 39,821. The district covers an area of 550 km²...
.
Archaeological excavations carried out near Ha Giang town
Ha Giang
Hà Giang is a town in northeastern Vietnam. It is the capital of Ha Giang province. The town has an area of 168.7 km² and population of 40,000 inhabitants.-Administration:Hà Giang is divided into one city and ten districts:Bắc MêBắc Quang...
at Doi Thang (Pine Hill) have established the region's antiquity to about 3000 years back. During the Bronze Age Tay Yu tribals (of the, with culturally rich traditions ruled over the region; Archaeological findings in the form of bronze drums of that age used for ceremonial purposes is traced even to its present use by the Lolo and Pu Peo tribals of the region (Meo Vac
Meo Vac
Meo Vac is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 58,944. The district covers an area of 574 km²...
of the Ha Giang province).
Hmong Kings of Sa Phin
The history of the Hmong Kings of the northern region of the province bordering China (Dong VanDong Van
Dong Van is a district of Ha Giang Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 57,715. The district covers an area of 447 km²...
and Meo Vac
Meo Vac
Meo Vac is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 58,944. The district covers an area of 574 km²...
) is also integral to the province as the Hmong people have dominated the region from the late 18th century. The Vuong family of the Huang clan established their rule at Dong Van and Meo Vac, which was endorsed by the Nguyen Kings. During the French colonial rule, French further supported the King to keep their hold on the border territory. Vuong Chi Duc was recognized as the king of the Hmong people in 1900. A palace befitting the king was built between 1902 and 1903, at Sa Phin (16 km west of Dong Van town) by inducting Chinese architects. The King’s loyalty to the French was evident in the support that the French got from him during their campaign to put down a rebellion launched by the local tribes. In recognition, the King was given the rank of a General of the French Army (a fully uniformed King's picture is seen in the interior rooms of their palace). The increasing opposition by the Vietnamese to the French rule saw the King adopting a neutral stance. Vuong Chu Sen, who succeeded his father after the latter’s death in 1944, however, pledged support to Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh
Hồ Chí Minh , born Nguyễn Sinh Cung and also known as Nguyễn Ái Quốc, was a Vietnamese Marxist-Leninist revolutionary leader who was prime minister and president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam...
. The historical palace of the Vuong King was built in the traditional norms of Northeast Asian royal palaces. The palace built on the “Geomantic principles” has four double storied wings planned in 19th Century Southern Chinese town house style with “mui luyen or yin-yang tiles”. The two wings are inter-linked by three open courtyards. A moat surrounds the palace. Tombs of the royal family members, which are intricately carved in wood are located outside the palace walls. Only the walls of the buildings are made of bricks, while the other components of the buildings are made of wood.
Administrative divisions
Hà Giang is divided into: one town municipality (thị xã) Hà GiangHa Giang
Hà Giang is a town in northeastern Vietnam. It is the capital of Ha Giang province. The town has an area of 168.7 km² and population of 40,000 inhabitants.-Administration:Hà Giang is divided into one city and ten districts:Bắc MêBắc Quang...
and 10 districts (huyện): Bắc Mê District, Bắc Quang District, Đồng Văn District, Hoàng Su Phì District, Mèo Vạc District, Quản Bạ District, Quang Bình District, Vị Xuyên District, Xín Mần District and Yên Minh District, five precincts, nine towns under districts, and 181 communes.
| Name | Division type | Population (2003) | Area (km²) | Towns (huyện lỵ or thị trấn) (bold) and communes (xã) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bắc Mê | District (huyện) | 40,822 | 844 | Yên Phú, Đường Âm, Đường Hồng, Giáp Trung, Lạc Nông, Minh Ngọc, Minh Sơn, Phiêng Luông, Phú Nam, Thượng Tân, Yên Cường, Yên Định, Yên Phong |
| Bắc Quang | District (huyện) | 103,064 | 1,084 | Việt Quang, Vĩnh Tuy, Quang Minh, Tân Thành, Tân Quang, Tân Lập, Việt Vinh, Hùng An, Đồng Yên, Đông Thành,Vĩnh Phúc,Vĩnh Hảo,Tiên Kiều,Việt Hồng, Kim Ngẩu, Thượng Bình,Vô Điếm, Bằng Hành,Hữu Sản, Liên Hiệp,Đức Xuân,Đồng Tâm, Đồng Tiến. |
| Đồng Văn | District (huyện) | 57,715 | 447 | Đồng Văn, Phó Bảng, Hố Quáng Phìn, Lũng Cú, Lũng Phìn, Lũng Táo, Lũng Thầu, Má Lé, Phố Cáo, Phố Là, Sà Phìn Sà Phìn Sà Phìn is a commune Đồng Văn district, Hà Giang province, Vietnam. It has 2264 inhabitants, most of whom are Hmong.Sà Phìn was the sight of the residence of the Hmong kings of Ha Giang province.... , Sảng Tủng, Sính Lủng, Sủng Là, Sủng Trái, Tả Lủng, Tả Phìn Tả Phìn Tả Phìn is a commune and village of the Tủa Chùa District of Dien Bien Province, northwestern Vietnam.... , Thài Phìn Tủng, Vần Chải |
| Hoàng Su Phì | District (huyện) | 53,937 | 629 | Vinh Quang, Bản Luốc,Bản Máy, Bản Nhùng, Bản Péo,Bản Phùng, Chiến Phố, Đản Ván, Hồ Thầu, Nam Sơn,Nàng Đôn, Nậm Dịch,Nậm Khòa,Nậm Ty, Ngàm Đăng Vài,Pố Lồ, Pờ Ly Ngài,Sán Xả Hồ,Tả Sử Choóng,Tân Tiến,Thàng Tín,Thèn Chu Phìn,Thông Nguyên,Tụ Nhân,Túng Sán |
| Mèo Vạc | District (huyện) | 58,944 | 574 | Mèo Vạc, Cán Chu Phìn, Giàng Chu Phìn, Khâu Vai, Lũng Chinh, Lũng Pù,Nậm Ban,Niêm Sơn, Pả Vi,Pải Lủng,Sơn Vĩ, Sủng Máng,Sủng Trà,Tả Lủng,Tát Ngà,Thượng Phùng,Xín Cái,Niêm Tòng |
| Quản Bạ | District (huyện) | 39,821 | 550 | Tam Sơn, Thái An,Lùng Tám, Đông Hà,ã Quản Bạ, Quyết Tiến,Cán Tỷ, Thanh Vân, Bát Đại Sơn, Nghĩa Thuận, Cao Mã Pờ, Tùng Vài,Tả Ván |
| Quang Bình | District (huyện) | 53,160 | 774 | |
| Vị Xuyên | District (huyện) | 87,164 | 1,452 | Vị Xuyên, Việt Lâm, Bạch Ngọc, Ngọc Minh, Trung Thành, Ngọc Linh, Linh Hồ, Việt Lâm, Đạo Đức, Phú Linh, Quảng Ngần, Thượng Sơn, Cao Bồ, Kim Linh, Kim Thạch, Phương Tiến, Lao Chải, Xín Chải, Thanh Đức, Thanh Thủy, Minh Tân, Phong Quang, Thuận Hòa, Tùng Bá. |
| Xín Mần | District (huyện) | 50,307 | 582 | Cốc Pài, Nàn Xỉn, Xín Mần, Bản Díu, Chí Cà, Thèn Phàng, Trung Thịnh, Pà Vầy Sủ, Ngán Chiên, Cốc Rế, Tả Nhìu, Thu Tà, Nàn Ma, Bản Ngò, Chế Là, Quảng Nguyên, Nấm Dẩn, Nà Chì, Khuôn Lùng |
| Yên Minh | District (huyện) | 67,736 | 782 | Yên Minh, Thắng Mố, Phú Lũng, Sủng Tráng,Bạch Đích, Na Khê,Sủng Thài, Hữu Vinh, Lao Và Chải, Mậu Duệ, Đông Minh, Mậu Long, Ngam La, Ngọc Long, Đường Thượng, Lũng Hồ, Du Tiến,Du Già |
Demographics
According to the General Statistics Office of the Government of Vietnam, the population of Hà Giang Province as on 2008 was 705,100 with a density of 89 persons per sqkm over a total land area of 7945.8 square kilometre of the province. It is one of the least populated provinces in the Northern midlands and mountain areas of Vietnam. The male population during this period was 346900 with females accounting for 358200. The rural population was 625,500 against an urban population of 79,600 (about12% of the rural population).Many people in Hà Giang belong to various ethnic minorities. Aside from the Viet (or Kinh)
Vietnamese people
The Vietnamese people are an ethnic group originating from present-day northern Vietnam and southern China. They are the majority ethnic group of Vietnam, comprising 86% of the population as of the 1999 census, and are officially known as Kinh to distinguish them from other ethnic groups in Vietnam...
who form 10% of the total population of the province, the others who dominate are 22 ethnic minorities, mainly the Hmong
Hmong people
The Hmong , are an Asian ethnic group from the mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Hmong are also one of the sub-groups of the Miao ethnicity in southern China...
, Tày
Tay people
The Tày people speak a language of the Central Tai language group, and live in northern Vietnam. They are sometimes also called Thô, T'o, Tai Tho, Ngan, Phen, Thu Lao, or Pa Di....
, Dao and Nung
Nung people
The Nùng are an ethnic minority in Vietnam. In China, the Nùng, together with the Tày, are classified as Zhuang people.-Description:The population of the Nùng is estimated to be more than 700,000...
. There are two rare ethnic groups of Pupeo and Phula with population of less than 400 each and dwindling.
Economy
Hà Giang is a highly mountainous region, and travel around the province can be difficult. Much of the province is too mountainous for agriculture, leaving much of the land covered by forests. Hà Giang’s central plateauPlateau
In geology and earth science, a plateau , also called a high plain or tableland, is an area of highland, usually consisting of relatively flat terrain. A highly eroded plateau is called a dissected plateau...
is good for growing plums, peach
Peach
The peach tree is a deciduous tree growing to tall and 6 in. in diameter, belonging to the subfamily Prunoideae of the family Rosaceae. It bears an edible juicy fruit called a peach...
es, and persimmon
Persimmon
A persimmon is the edible fruit of a number of species of trees in the genus Diospyros in the ebony wood family . The word Diospyros means "the fire of Zeus" in ancient Greek. As a tree, it is a perennial plant...
s, which the province exports. Tea
Tea
Tea is an aromatic beverage prepared by adding cured leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant to hot water. The term also refers to the plant itself. After water, tea is the most widely consumed beverage in the world...
is also grown. Farming economy is also getting a boost with growing oranges and mandarin trees as its sustains many households with the income in the range of VND 150 to 200 million a year. Cultivated area of soybean cultivation (high yield type with yield of 750 kg per ha) has increased to 7900 hectares (19,521.3 acre).
Hà Giang is one of the poorest provinces of Vietnam. Traditionally, the vast majority of its economic activity revolved around agriculture
Agriculture
Agriculture is the cultivation of animals, plants, fungi and other life forms for food, fiber, and other products used to sustain life. Agriculture was the key implement in the rise of sedentary human civilization, whereby farming of domesticated species created food surpluses that nurtured the...
and forestry
Forestry
Forestry is the interdisciplinary profession embracing the science, art, and craft of creating, managing, using, and conserving forests and associated resources in a sustainable manner to meet desired goals, needs, and values for human benefit. Forestry is practiced in plantations and natural stands...
. However, in recent years, there have been attempts to establish a manufacturing
Manufacturing
Manufacturing is the use of machines, tools and labor to produce goods for use or sale. The term may refer to a range of human activity, from handicraft to high tech, but is most commonly applied to industrial production, in which raw materials are transformed into finished goods on a large scale...
industry. Infrastructure in Hà Giang has seen improvement, but remains poor - roads, schools, and health services are less developed than in many other parts of Vietnam.
Ha Giang Province also has large areas of green tea, apart from terraced rice fields. The Province has particularly assisted people in developing tea industry with financial (soft loans) and technical support in operations (sowing, tending, gathering and processing). This has resulted in increase in the yield from 9,625 tonnes in 1995 to 20,394 tonnes in 2002. Particular tea plantations of quality tea are the Shan Tuyet strain in the Lung Phin in Dong Van District and Nam La in Yen Minh District. Ha Giang tea is not only popular in domestic market but also in foreign markets.
The province is rich minerals; 149 mines with 28 categories of minerals are spread in all districts of the province. Mineral deposits explored in the province are: Antimony
Antimony
Antimony is a toxic chemical element with the symbol Sb and an atomic number of 51. A lustrous grey metalloid, it is found in nature mainly as the sulfide mineral stibnite...
, iron ore, manganese
Manganese
Manganese is a chemical element, designated by the symbol Mn. It has the atomic number 25. It is found as a free element in nature , and in many minerals...
, ferrite
Ferrite
Ferrite may refer to:* Ferrite , iron or iron alloys with a body centred cubic crystal structure.* Ferrite , ferrimagnetic ceramic materials used in magnetic applications....
, zinc
Zinc
Zinc , or spelter , is a metallic chemical element; it has the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is the first element in group 12 of the periodic table. Zinc is, in some respects, chemically similar to magnesium, because its ion is of similar size and its only common oxidation state is +2...
, tin
Tin
Tin is a chemical element with the symbol Sn and atomic number 50. It is a main group metal in group 14 of the periodic table. Tin shows chemical similarity to both neighboring group 14 elements, germanium and lead and has two possible oxidation states, +2 and the slightly more stable +4...
, copper
Copper
Copper is a chemical element with the symbol Cu and atomic number 29. It is a ductile metal with very high thermal and electrical conductivity. Pure copper is soft and malleable; an exposed surface has a reddish-orange tarnish...
, bauxite
Bauxite
Bauxite is an aluminium ore and is the main source of aluminium. This form of rock consists mostly of the minerals gibbsite Al3, boehmite γ-AlO, and diaspore α-AlO, in a mixture with the two iron oxides goethite and hematite, the clay mineral kaolinite, and small amounts of anatase TiO2...
, gold
Gold
Gold is a chemical element with the symbol Au and an atomic number of 79. Gold is a dense, soft, shiny, malleable and ductile metal. Pure gold has a bright yellow color and luster traditionally considered attractive, which it maintains without oxidizing in air or water. Chemically, gold is a...
, gemstones
Gemstones
Gemstones is the third solo album by Adam Green, released in 2005. The album is characterised by the heavy presence of Wurlitzer piano, whereas its predecessor relied on a string section in its instrumentation.-Track listing:#Gemstones – 2:24...
, kaolin and mineral water
Mineral water
Mineral water is water containing minerals or other dissolved substances that alter its taste or give it therapeutic value, generally obtained from a naturally occurring mineral spring or source. Dissolved substances in the water may include various salts and sulfur compounds...
. These are contributing to industrial development in the province. Plans have been put in place, with appropriate policies to attract direct foreign investments in the province; China, South Korea, Thailand and other countries have already chipped in with investments in the mining and processing industries and the anticipated growth rate of achievement is pegged at 20%. Asian Development Bank also provided loans of USD 3 million to promote tea industry in the province.
As Hà Giang is a mountainous region, the population is not large, and the majority of inhabitants are ethnic Vietnamese. The remainder are Thổ
Tho people
The Thổ ethnic group inhabits the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, mainly Nghệ An province southwest of Hanoi. They speak the Tho language, which is closely related to Vietnamese...
, Hmong
Hmong people
The Hmong , are an Asian ethnic group from the mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Hmong are also one of the sub-groups of the Miao ethnicity in southern China...
, Tay
Tay people
The Tày people speak a language of the Central Tai language group, and live in northern Vietnam. They are sometimes also called Thô, T'o, Tai Tho, Ngan, Phen, Thu Lao, or Pa Di....
, Dao, Mán, Nung
Nung people
The Nùng are an ethnic minority in Vietnam. In China, the Nùng, together with the Tày, are classified as Zhuang people.-Description:The population of the Nùng is estimated to be more than 700,000...
, Giấy and Lô Lô. The majority engage in ancestor and spirit worship.
Some of the economic indicators, according to the General Statistics Office of the Government of Vietnam are:
The population of Yên Bái province as on 2008 was 705,100 with a density of 89 persons per sqkm over a total land area of 7945.8 square kilometre of the province. It is one of the least populated provinces in the Northern midlands and mountain areas of Vietnam. The male population during this period was 346,900 with females accounting for 358200. The rural population was 625,500 against an urban population of 79,600 (about 7% of the rural population).
As against the national figure of 273 Agriculture, Forestry and Fishery cooperatives there are 32 cooperatives in the province, of which 22 are agricultural cooperatives and eight are fisheries cooperatives. The number of cooperatives is 32 as against 7592 cooperatives in the country.
There are only 169 farms in the province as against the national number of 120699.
The Output value of agriculture produce at constant 1994 prices in the province was 838.4 billion đồngs against the national value of 156681.9 bill. dongs.
The province produced 280,300 tonnes of cereals as against the national production of 43.58 million tonnes
The per capita production of cereals in the district was 397.5 kg as against the national figure of 501.8 kg. in 2007.
In 2007, the industrial output of the province was a meagre 526.1 bill. dongs against the national output of 1.47 million Bhilldongs. However, there is cement plant with capacity of 300,000 tons per year that was established recently.
Attractions
There are many attractions in the province.Quản Bạ Valley
Quản Bạ
Quan Ba
Quan Ba is a district of Ha Giang Province in the Northeast region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 39,821. The district covers an area of 550 km²...
Valley, located at 45 kilometres (28 mi) from Ha Biang, at 7945.8 metres (26,068.9 ft) elevation, is called the "Heaven's Gate" and has a TV Transmitter on a summit. Uniformly shaped hills of the valley are viewed from this summit. Quan Ba Pass provides alluring views of the voluptuously named Thach Nu Doi (literal meaning: double stalagmite
Stalagmite
A stalagmite is a type of speleothem that rises from the floor of a limestone cave due to the dripping of mineralized solutions and the deposition of calcium carbonate. This stalagmite formation occurs only under certain pH conditions within the underground cavern. The corresponding formation on...
) but also known as “Two Stone Breasts” in the valley below. The valley has forested hills and meadows, with temperatures ranging between 10 °C (50 °F) in winter and 24 °C (75.2 °F) in summer. It is well known for its secret grottoes and caves, colourful orchids, plum and peach trees, persimmon orchards, medicinal plants and many more. The town of Dong Van is famous for its Pho Bang Street which features multistoried buildings built with clay bricks and tiled roofs. The weekly market is where the Tay and H’Mong ethnic groups of the province visit in large numbers to trade in various types of goods and colourful hand woven cloth.
Phương Thiện Cave is 7 km to the south of the township of Ha Giang. It is the location of many sights, especially natural caves and grotto
Grotto
A grotto is any type of natural or artificial cave that is associated with modern, historic or prehistoric use by humans. When it is not an artificial garden feature, a grotto is often a small cave near water and often flooded or liable to flood at high tide...
s of Doi, Lang Lo and Phuong Thien. The surrounding area is also known for its plums, pears, oranges, apples and Tuyet Son tea above 900 metres (2,952.8 ft). Chui Cave lies 7 km to the south of Ha Giang. It is set about 100 metres (328.1 ft) into the face of the hill. Tiên Cave và Tiên Spring: The cave is 2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Ha Giang town. Động có Suối Tiên rất đẹp. According to folklore, heavenly female beings came there to bathe in the lunar new year, thus its name. The local population uses it as a water source and to pray for good luck in the new year.
Dong Van
Dong Van is a market town 16 kilometres (9.9 mi) from Sa Phin and 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) from Chinese border is inhabited by Tay People and also Hmong. It is an altitude of 1025 kilometres (636.9 mi) and experiences freezing temperature of 0 °C (32 °F) in winter and 24 °C (75.2 °F) in summer months. The highland region is famous for fruits such as Hau plums, peaches and persimmons without seeds. It also has many medicinal plants (ginseng
Ginseng
Ginseng is any one of eleven species of slow-growing perennial plants with fleshy roots, belonging to the genus Panax of the family Araliaceae....
, cinnamon
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several trees from the genus Cinnamomum that is used in both sweet and savoury foods...
and anise
Anise
Anise , Pimpinella anisum, also called aniseed, is a flowering plant in the family Apiaceae native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. Its flavor resembles that of liquorice, fennel, and tarragon.- Biology :...
.
Mèo Vạc
Meo Vac
Meo Vac
Meo Vac is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 58,944. The district covers an area of 574 km²...
is a mountain pass at about 1500 metres (4,921.3 ft) elevation which forms the basin boundary of the Nho Que River on the border with China is restricted zone. The market held at Khau Vai which is about 20 kilometres (12.4 mi) from Meo Vac, is where once a year on the 27th day of the third month of the Lunar calendar is known famously as the Khau Vai “Love Market.” The ethnic clans of White Hmong, Tay and Lolo congregate here, particularly the young people assemble here in search of life partners or to exchange partners. The Lolo people who dominate the local village by the same name in particular come here in their colourful regale. This ancient custom is now reported has become a "circus" with gate crashers landing in very large numbers.
Chợ tình Khâu Vai
The Chợ tình Khâu Vai market only meets once a year, on the 27th day of the third lunar month at Khâu Vai commune in Mèo Vạc
Meo Vac
Meo Vac is a district of Ha Giang Province in the northeastern region of Vietnam.As of 2003 the district had a population of 58,944. The district covers an area of 574 km²...
district, based on an old folk tale. A long time ago, there was a young beautiful couple who were in love but they were in different districts, which would have meant that she would have moved to her husband’s area. Her home district opposed this, while the boy’s district wanted this, causing political tension.
When the couple were meeting, the two groups descended into warfare. To avoid bloodshed for their societies, the couple decided to break up and only secretly meet once a year on the anniversary, at Khâu Vai. Since then the area has become a dating spot for couples. In the last 10 years, economic pressures have led to a market being set up to capitalize on the anniversary celebrations.
Do Thong
Do Thong (Pine Hill) settlement, is an ancient settlement dated back to 30,000 years, belonging to the Son Vi period as established by archaeological excavations. The excavations had unearthed antiquary axe heads and primitive tools which are displayed in the local museum at Ha Biang and the History Museum in Hanoi.
Ha Biang museum
Ha Biang museum located in the centre of the Ha Biang town, not only has an array of display of findings from archaeological excavations but also houses historical artefacts, bronze drum collection and also costumes of the local ethnic clans. Museum building is in form of a big lotus opening up its petals, in red and white colour mansion.
Ha Giang market
Ha Giang market is an important market centre in Ha Biang town on the east bank of the Lo River. At this place, Tay
Tay people
The Tày people speak a language of the Central Tai language group, and live in northern Vietnam. They are sometimes also called Thô, T'o, Tai Tho, Ngan, Phen, Thu Lao, or Pa Di....
, Nung, Red Dao and White Hamong ethnic groups congregate every Sunday.
Lang Si
Lang Si is a village at the Lang Si pass where the White Hmong tribes assemble at the market held once every six days. The village is 116 kilometres (72.1 mi) from Ha Biang and parts of the border wall built by the French army are seen here delimiting the border of White Hmong Kingdom. It is honey producing area and has many apiaries.
Sa Phin
Sa Phin
Sà Phìn
Sà Phìn is a commune Đồng Văn district, Hà Giang province, Vietnam. It has 2264 inhabitants, most of whom are Hmong.Sà Phìn was the sight of the residence of the Hmong kings of Ha Giang province....
is a small town in the remote Sa Phin valley (2 kilometres (1.2 mi) from Chinese border) where Hmong Kings ruled. The unique feature of the place is of the large double storied houses which are built in Chinese style made out of yellow bricks with Chinese style roof. The twin white towered palace building is distinct among the 20 odd buildings.
Khu nhà Dòng họ Vương
The Vương family mansion is an architectural heritage landmark in Sà Phìn commune, Đồng Văn district that was listed by the government in 1993. At the start of the 20th century, Vương Chính Đức, a member of the Mong people, was appointed the Bang Tá and he had the family residence expanded into a mansion from where he worked. It is a of a style that is rare in this mountainous region of northern Vietnam. The building was designed in the style of the later period of the Qing Dynasty
Qing Dynasty
The Qing Dynasty was the last dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912 with a brief, abortive restoration in 1917. It was preceded by the Ming Dynasty and followed by the Republic of China....
of China, and is grouped into three sections, the front, middle and rear. It comprises six lengthwise and four sideways buildings, two levels, and 64 rooms and 1120 metres (3,674.5 ft) of land space. The building is surrounded by a stone wall, of width between 0.6 kilometre (0.372823641989884 mi) and 0.9 metres (3 ft) and of height from 2.5–3 km (1.6–1.9 mi). The mansion is 145 kilometres (90.1 mi) to the northwest of the town of Hà Giang and 24 kilometres (14.9 mi) to the southwest of the district of Đồng Văn.
Festivals
Hà Giang has many cultural festivals due to the presence of more than 20 ethnic minority groups. Many of these groups are noted for their artistic abilities, especially their weaving and hand-made textile products. The Spring Festival is celebrated by the HmongHmong people
The Hmong , are an Asian ethnic group from the mountainous regions of China, Vietnam, Laos, and Thailand. Hmong are also one of the sub-groups of the Miao ethnicity in southern China...
and Dao people, usually shortly after the Lunar New Year
Tet
Tet can mean:*Tết or Tết Nguyên Đán, the Vietnamese new year**Tet Offensive, a military campaign that began in 1968*Têt in Roussillon, France*Equal temperament, abbreviated as 12-TET, 19-TET and so on...
and lasts between three and seven days. The people celebrate with singing and feasting and drinking alcohol.