By Lâm Giang

If you seek a relaxing escape from the bustling city life, look no further than Sưng Village. Nestled in the heart of nature, this idyllic destination allows visitors to slow down, breathe in fresh air and immerse themselves in serene surroundings.

Located about 130km from the centre of Hà Nội, Sưng Village is situated in Cao Sơn Commune, Đà Bắc District, Hòa Bình Province. Perched at an altitude of 530m above sea level, the village is nestled within the majestic Biều mountain range. Originally known as Sâng, a name derived from a local tree species, the village adopted the simpler name Sưng for ease of pronunciation. This highland village boasts a rich history that spans over 300 years and is primarily home to nearly 80 households of the Dao Tiền ethnic group.

Sưng Village welcomes visitors with its tranquil landscapes, particularly enchanting during the golden autumn sunshine. The traditional wooden houses, topped with palm-leaf roofs, captivate the eyes and evoke a sense of nostalgia. These homes are nestled against the backdrop of the Biều mountain range, while terraced fields gracefully cascade down the hillsides, creating a breathtaking tableau.

Each morning in Sưng is a gift, allowing one to awaken in a peaceful haven, surrounded by cool, fresh air. This serene environment stands in stark contrast to the modern, bustling life many leave behind in the city.

Since the launch of its community tourism model in 2017, Sưng Village has managed to retain its pristine natural beauty and traditional customs.

Local residents guide tourists through various cultural experiences, such as indigo dyeing, beeswax printing on fabric, brocade weaving, and making traditional dó (poonah) paper. Visitors can even indulge in herbal baths, a practice rooted in the ancient folk remedies of the Dao people.

The Dao Tiền community has its own unique writing system, traditionally inscribed on dó paper. While the origins of this craft remain unclear, it is believed to have emerged alongside the development of their writing system. Once on the verge of disappearing due to the rise of industrial paper, the craft has been revitalised through community tourism, becoming a point of pride for the villagers.

Lý Sao Mai, a member of the dó paper production facility, explained: "The dó tree is a traditional tree for the Dao people. Historically, we cultivated dó trees to create paper for our daily needs. When industrial paper took over, our craft was nearly lost. Thankfully, with the growth of community tourism, we received support to revive this traditional profession."

For those with a thirst for adventure, Sưng Village offers numerous opportunities for exploration. Visitors can embark on journeys to Sưng Cave, discover hidden waterfalls, or hike through Shan tuyết tea hills adorned with centuries-old tea trees. Along the way, local guides share fascinating stories about the Đà Bắc mountains, the customs of the Dao Tiền people, and the folklore that enriches their culture.

The community in Sưng Village is tightly knit, largely due to a unique custom of child adoption. In this tradition, a newborn can be adopted by another family, establishing a bond that transcends biological ties. The adoptive parents become the child's true family, while the child's original family maintains a friendship with the adoptive family, collaborating in nurturing the child’s growth. This practice fosters deep connections among families, highlighting a sense of unity that goes beyond mere blood relations.

Visitors fortunate enough to arrive during a wedding or traditional festival may find themselves invited to partake in the celebrations. Such occasions provide an authentic glimpse into the vibrant culture of the Dao Tiền people.

The residents of Sưng Village are known for their warmth and hospitality. Visitors are treated to home-cooked meals featuring local specialties, such as sour meat, stream fish and a variety of wild vegetables.

As night falls, guests gather around a cozy fire in their homestays, roasting cassava and sweet potatoes while listening to village elders recount tales of the land and its people. The village also boasts a performing arts team that showcases traditional songs and dances, enriching the cultural experience for tourists.

Tourist Thủy Tiên expressed her excitement about Sưng Village: "Here, I can immerse myself in nature, surrounded by lush greenery and blooming flowers. Stepping outside feels like entering a forest. I truly love it."

Post-COVID-19 pandemic, many travellers are increasingly drawn to Sưng Village to reconnect with nature and experience the authentic culture of ethnic minorities. As a result, the village has emerged as a sought-after destination for those yearning for a peaceful retreat from the chaos of modern life. VNS