VIETLAND HOLIDAYS

The old quarter on Dong Van Karst Plateau in the northern province of Ha Giang is considered an architectural, historical and cultural relic. Many visitors have been impressed by the local environment and its residents' social, economic and cultural life. The old quarter has been well preserved to retain its wild original look from years ago.

At a height of more than 1,000 metres above sea level, the Dong Van old quarter appears amidst the fog which makes them seem to float in such a mysterious way.

There are several unique architectural works in the Dong Van old quarter, including a market built with meticulously-carved stone plates, helping it stand firm and imposing in the valley of the plateau. The market was built during 1925-1928 with a unique architectural stone design.

- H'mong King's Palace in Dong Van

A Hmong Palace built with French consent at the beginning of the 20th century, is located at Sa Phin, 16kms west of Dong Van town.

Large parts of Ha Giang Province were dominated by the Hmong tribe following their arrival from China centuries ago. During the Nguyen Dynasty, the Hmong King's rule over the area was recognised. Similarly, French colonial rulers acknowledged Hmong control of the region. Like today, the border area with China had strategic significance during the colonial period.

The area was also an important opium trade link.

In 1902, with the consent of the French colonial rulers, Chinese tradesmen built a mainly wooden palace Sa Phin. Two Hmong kings ruled from here.

The first, warlord Vuong Chinh Duc was aligned to the French. The second, Vuong Chu Sen, aligned himself with Ho Chi Minh's independence fighters.

The palace is built like a traditional Chinese courtyard mansion with four double storied wings.

During our visit, one of the descendants of the last King was on  hand to take questions from visitors.