Awakening Green Tourism Potential from the Springs of Heritage and Nature

Following its administrative boundary expansion, Phu Tho Province stands before a new opportunity to affirm its position as the sustainable tourism hub of the Northern Midlands and Mountains. With “green tourism” as its guiding axis, the province is harmoniously combining the preservation of traditional cultural heritage with the effective exploitation of its rich natural ecosystems, creating a solid foundation for sustainable growth.

Phu Tho Province leverages the water surface of Hoa Binh Lake to develop sustainable green tourism.

From the culturally rich community tourism models in Da Bac to the “resort paradise” of Dai Lai, Phu Tho is shaping a balanced tourism ecosystem where nature, people, and history resonate to generate long-term economic value. The province’s new landscape boasts one of the region’s most diverse natural ecosystems, ranging from the cool high-mountain climates of Tam Dao, Xuan Son, and Mai Chau to specialized forests, nature reserves, and vast reservoirs. This serves as a vital platform for building diverse yet identity-consistent tourism products, prioritizing eco-friendly, cultural, and community-based models.

Da Bac Commune vividly illustrates this shift. Utilizing its hilly terrain and the scenic landscape of the Hoa Binh reservoir, Da Bac has synchronized solutions to promote indigenous potential. Locals have transitioned from traditional farming to organic models and cage aquaculture combined with experiential tourism. With 47 hectares of water surface and over 280 fish cages, these models provide stable livelihoods while protecting the ecology of the Da River. Meanwhile, Dai Lai reaffirms its status as a "green retreat paradise." Nestled within lush forests and shielded by the majestic Tam Dao range, this 525-hectare lake creates a unique microclimate—cool in summer and warm in winter—attracting both domestic and international travelers.

Mr. Nguyen Minh Duc, a tourist from Hanoi, shared his experience at Hoa Binh Lake: "I am truly impressed by the tranquility of the lake. Sitting on a wooden boat, watching the local fish cages, and enjoying authentic Muong cuisine is a profound connection to nature and cultural roots that urban dwellers like us always seek."

Phu Tho province focuses on developing tourism products by preserving cultural heritage values in tandem with nature conservation.

The province has successfully established core product groups: Cultural-Historical Tourism (with the Hung Kings' Temple and Xoan Singing as the main axis); Eco-resort and Healthcare Tourism (leveraging Tam Dao, Dai Lai, and mineral springs); and Sustainable Community Tourism. Efforts to build “clean and beautiful villages” and protect cultural identity are widespread, enhancing both destination quality and local livelihoods.

Mr. Dang Tuan Hung, Head of Tourism Management (Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism), stated: "Green tourism is an inherent requirement for Phu Tho’s sustainable development after its expansion. We have successfully begun connecting Hung King heritage values with the diverse cultural spaces of ethnic groups and the majestic landscapes of the region."

Looking ahead, the province will mobilize social resources to invest in transport infrastructure and renewable energy at key tourist sites. The goal is to build Phu Tho into a sustainable tourism ecosystem where economic growth goes hand-in-hand with the protection of the region’s “green lungs” and the preservation of national identity for future generations.

Huong Lan