At Ao Xanh tourist site in Van Hoi Commune, Tran Yen District, the number of visitors surges on hot, sunny days. Over the years, thanks to the attention, guidance, and facilitation of local authorities and professional agencies, Ao Xanh has continued to expand and develop professionally. A major draw of this tourism model is its affordability: waterfall bathing costs only about VND 20,000 per adult and is free for children; rental of thatched huts for rest and meals ranges from VND 300,000 to 500,000, accommodating 10–20 people depending on the size.
Activities offered are diverse, including fishing, camping, picnicking, waterfall bathing, and local cuisine. In preparation for this summer’s peak season, the site has actively improved landscaping and sanitation, cleaned moss from waterfall paths, renovated accommodation and dining facilities, planted more flowers and greenery, and is urgently completing a new bathing area and access path.
In addition to its existing offerings, Yen Bai is introducing new agricultural tourism products this summer at several sites. This new form of experiential tourism caters to those who enjoy restful vacations but still want light, engaging activities. Visitors can pick tropical fruits such as dragon fruit, plums, mangoes, watermelons, and Korean melons in garden-like settings in Nghia Lo Town — known as the "fruit belt†— or harvest milk grapes on Thac Ba Lake Island in Tan Huong Commune, Yen Binh District. These experiences can be combined with sightseeing at Thac Ba Lake, enjoying water games, or spending a peaceful day at An Lanh Farm in Bach Ha Commune or OmTara in Dai Dong Commune.
Bui Thi Kieu, owner of An Lanh Farm, shared: "We chose May this year to launch our farm with the hope of becoming a cool summer getaway for urban families seeking relief from the heat and an experience of rural life. With six individual cottages, a spacious, green, and flower-filled landscape, a variety of fruit trees, and clean chicken coops, this place is perfect for families — especially children who’ve never experienced farming life. Guests can also enjoy beverages and meals made directly from what we grow or what they harvest themselves.â€
Along with finalizing preparations to welcome guests, tourism service providers are also actively ensuring security and safety, especially at sites with water-based activities. Service points publicly post prices, sell at listed rates, and avoid price gouging, ensuring a fair and enjoyable experience for visitors. In the first four months of 2025, Yen Bai welcomed nearly 950,000 tourists — achieving 47.4% of the annual target and up 6% compared to the same period in 2024. Estimated tourism revenue reached VND 810 billion, fulfilling 47.7% of the yearly plan and rising by 13.7% year-on-year.
With these positive signs early in 2025 and thorough preparations for the summer season, Yen Bai is looking forward to a successful and memorable tourism season.
Hoai Anh
