Vietnam Village Lifts 15,000 Through Green Tourism Model

In Vietnam's northernmost reaches, a small commune of 15,000 people is proving that economic growth and cultural preservation can go hand in hand.

Lung Cu Commune in Tuyen Quang province spans 95 square kilometers of rocky plateau home to diverse highland ethnic communities. Local leaders saw potential in their biggest assets: the Lung Cu National Flag Tower marking Vietnam's northernmost point and centuries-old traditions practiced by ethnic minority artisans.

The commune faced real challenges. Infrastructure was underdeveloped, agricultural income remained low, and young people had few local job opportunities. Instead of abandoning their heritage for rapid development, Lung Cu chose a different path.

Today, the village operates a green tourism model that creates jobs while safeguarding culture. Visitors can ride horses across stunning plateaus and learn traditional embroidery from local weavers. These experiences generate income for artisans while ensuring their crafts survive for future generations.

The results speak volumes. Lung Cu now supports 15 restaurants and over 90 guesthouses, homestays, and bungalows run by local families. Each business provides steady income while maintaining environmental standards and fair pricing practices.

The Lo Lo Chai community-based tourism village has become a cultural hub where visitors engage directly with traditions, crafts, and customs. Local folk art performances now complement the experience, giving performers paid opportunities to share their heritage.

The Ripple Effect

Lung Cu's success extends beyond tourism revenue. The model created vocational training opportunities, teaching residents hospitality skills and sustainable business practices. Young people who once had to leave for city jobs can now build careers at home.

Other rural communities across Vietnam are watching closely. Lung Cu demonstrates that remote villages don't have to sacrifice identity for prosperity. The approach balances visitor experiences with environmental conservation, proving sustainable tourism can be both profitable and protective.

The commune prioritizes maintaining traditional festivals and upgrading historic sites like Lung Cu Temple. These aren't just tourist attractions but living cultural assets that strengthen community identity while generating economic opportunity.

Lung Cu shows that the world's most remote places can chart their own path to prosperity without losing what makes them special.