Khau Vai Love Market recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage

In 2025, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism continues to celebrate Phong Luu Khau Vai Market’s social customs and beliefs in Khau Vai Commune, Meo Vac District, Ha Giang Province, which was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage site. This honor reflects the market's enduring significance in Vietnamese culture.

Sunset over the buckwheat flower field in Meo Vac Town, Ha Giang

Established over a century ago, Khau Vai is considered the most distinctive love market in Ha Giang. Located approximately 200 km from Ha Giang City, this market occurs only once a year on the 27th day of the third lunar month. Despite its infrequent schedule, it draws numerous locals and tourists eager for a unique experience. Unlike typical trading markets, Khau Vai Market serves as a vibrant gathering where young people don traditional attire to meet, converse, and share their life stories.

Maintaining Khau Vai Market is crucial for preserving local culture and boosting tourism and economic growth in Ha Giang Province. The province also organizes the Khau Vai Love Market Cultural and Tourism Week, which takes place over three days from the 26th to the 28th of the lunar month. This event offers travelers a chance to engage in various unique traditional activities, including drum dancing, flute playing, horse riding, and folk games. Visitors can also indulge in local specialties such as corn wine, smoked pork, hotpot, and more.