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Sights - Cao Bang City
Cao Bằng is home to several ethnic minority groups, including the Tay, Nung, Dao, and Hmong. The Quây Sơn River passes right thought the centre of the city. It is a place where people gather, especially in the evenings, for socializing, fishing, and leisure activities. The riverbanks often host local markets, festivals, and community events, making it a hub of local life.
Food specialties
Cao Bằng offers unique local dishes that reflect the cultural diversity of the region. Some must-try dishes include bánh cuốn Cao Bằng (steamed rice rolls), vịt quay 7 vị (seven-flavor roasted duck - my personal favourite), and various dishes made with bamboo shoots and wild herbs. These dishes can not be found anywhere else in Vietnam.
Festivals - Long Tong
This annual festival is one of the highlights of the local calendar. Held to pray for good weather and abundant crops, the festival is a fantastic opportunity for tourists to dive into the local culture. Activities such as tug-of-war, rice cooking competitions and traditional folk singing create a lively atmosphere as well as plenty of song and dance.
Bằng River
The Bằng river flows across the border into China which is only 30km away. This connection is significant for cross-border trade and cultural exchange between the two countries. The Bằng river gives the town its name - Cao Bằng! Boats on the river are typically small, wooden vessels used primarily by local fishermen and traders. These boats are designed for shallow waters and can be rowed or powered by small motors, perfect for the river’s conditions.
*We know the photo of the market seller is not truly representative of the city of Cao Bang. We will update that as soon as we can.