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Exploring the Different Ethnic Groups of Sapa
Exploring Northern Vietnam is not the same without a trip to Sapa. This charming town is nestled in the Northwest mountains, just a 5-hour drive from Hanoi. Sapa is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes, including terraced rice fields and stunning valley views. Moreover, Sapa is renowned for its diverse ethnic minority groups like the Hmong, Yao, Tay and Giay, each with their own distinct traditions, clothing, languages, and customs.
1, H’Mong
The Hmong community is prevalent throughout Sapa, with Cat Cat Village being a notable hub. Recognizable by their distinct clothing, Hmong people often wear natural fabrics dyed in deep blue hues. The Flower Hmong subgroup, on the other hand, embellishes their garments with colorful embroidery. Among the various Hmong groups, the Black Hmong stand out for their meticulously handcrafted textiles, available in local markets across Sapa. If you visit Sapa in January, you may have the opportunity to witness the Gua Tao festival, the largest annual Hmong celebration. This festival showcases traditional activities like archery, pipe dancing, and horse racing, providing visitors with the chance to partake in these age-old customs.
2, Dao
The Dao people in Sapa stand out with their bright red turbans, differentiating them from other local minority groups. Their turbans can vary in style, with some adorned with silver coins or yellow pompoms. The Dao have a long history, having migrated across Southeast Asia even before the Hmong, possibly as early as the 12th century. Today, the Dao are known for their livestock breeding skills. Every year on January 1st and 2nd, they hold the Tet Nhay Festival in Ta Phin village, where you can find their popular brocade footwear.
