Yen Lap Tourism: When potential becomes reality

With its appealing natural resources and rich indigenous culture, Yen Lap District is steadily asserting its position on the tourism map. From 2021 to 2024, the district has made notable progress by leveraging its advantages to develop ecotourism, community-based cultural tourism, and experiential tourism. In the broader context of Vietnam’s tourism sector shifting toward green and sustainable practices with an emphasis on authentic experiences, Yen Lap is emerging as a “hidden gem” waiting to be awakened and effectively tapped.

The cultural identity of local ethnic groups is a key driver in Yen Lap’s tourism development.

In recent years, Yen Lap has taken a clear direction in fostering tourism linked to the cultural heritage of its ethnic communities, particularly the Muong people. Covering over 400 km2 with a population of more than 90,000—over 80% of whom are ethnic minorities such as the Muong and Dao—the district is a vibrant cultural mosaic of festivals, folk beliefs, and distinctive traditions.

Several key destinations are currently receiving investment and development attention. These include the Cultural Heritage Experience Site of the Forest Opening Ceremony in Minh Hoa Commune, where visitors can immerse themselves in a unique spiritual setting and learn about age-old rituals. The Ga Gay sticky rice area in My Lung Commune offers insights into the cultivation and processing of this local specialty and a taste of peaceful rural life. The Ton Son–Mo Xuan Historical Site in Xuan An Commune is ideal for history enthusiasts interested in Vietnam’s resistance heritage. Lastly, Ngoi Gianh Lake Ecotourism Area in Trung Son Commune, with its serene waterscape, holds promise as a destination for resort-style tourism and outdoor recreation.

A small, poetic corner of Ngoi Gianh Reservoir hints at the rich experiences waiting to be discovered.

Mr. Dinh Van Tiep, Vice Chairman of the Trung Son Commune People’s Committee, noted that Ngoi Gianh Reservoir presents a major opportunity for developing community-based tourism. The commune has mobilized residents to protect the environment and enhance the site’s value. Trees have been planted along the lakeside to create a green, clean, and scenic setting. At the same time, locals are being encouraged to preserve the cultural traditions of the Muong, Dao, and Mong communities to serve future tourism offerings. Presently, two clubs are actively promoting Muong dance and cultural heritage.

To support these attractions, Yen Lap has also prioritized investment in transportation infrastructure—most notably the Xuan An–Trung Son route, which connects to Ngoi Gianh Lake. Spanning nearly 15 kilometers and backed by VND 150 billion in funding, the road has been upgraded to significantly enhance accessibility for tourists.

Yen Lap also places strong emphasis on agricultural tourism and OCOP (One Commune, One Product) offerings. The district has supported organizations and individuals in improving product quality, developing brands, and boosting trade promotion. As a result, Yen Lap now boasts 18 OCOP products rated between 3 and 4 stars, with strong quality standards and appealing packaging. Signature items include Ga Gay My Lung sticky rice, Nguyen Phat cordyceps, and Nguyen Phat cordyceps honey, all of which are widely showcased in major supermarkets, festivals, and trade fairs—helping to spotlight the district’s strengths to both domestic and international visitors.

Women’s Union members plant flowers and ornamental plants to enhance the environment and support ecotourism and community tourism efforts in Trung Son Commune.

Tourism promotion has been ramped up across multiple platforms, including local and national media and digital channels like the district’s website and fan pages such as Yen Lap Homeland and Center for Culture–Sports–Tourism and Communications. Reports and videos highlighting the district’s cultural heritage, traditions, historical sites, and natural beauty are regularly shared online, drawing increasing interest from tourists.

Going forward, Yen Lap remains committed to refining policies that attract investment—particularly in community-based and ecotourism. The goal is to build a civilized, welcoming tourism community and foster a safe, supportive environment that empowers local residents to take an active role in tourism development.

Ms. Duong Thi Ha, Deputy Head of the Tourism Management Department under the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, shared, “Yen Lap is one of the districts with growing tourism potential. To promote its cultural and natural values and help attract visitors to Phu Tho, we are organizing press trips and fam trips to call for investment. We hope to encourage the development of tourism products here, with a priority on ecotourism, followed by community-based cultural tourism.”

With clear strategic direction, strong provincial support, and a wealth of natural and cultural assets, Yen Lap is taking confident strides toward becoming an attractive destination on Phu Tho’s tourism map—contributing to the sustainable socio-economic development of the region.

Hoang Giang