Perched atop the majestic Cao Ly mountain, the border commune of Hoanh Mo recently came alive with its first-ever “Cao Ly moonlight night” on October 4, the opening event of the 2025 Hoanh Mo autumn-winter tourism week.
High atop Cao Ly Mountain, the melodious sounds of Soong Co, a traditional folk singing style of the Sán Chay people, resonated through the misty air, creating a magical harmony between nature and culture.
The program beautifully blended natural splendor with rich cultural traditions, marking an exciting step toward developing sustainable community tourism in this highland region of Quang Ninh.
Blessed with pristine landscapes and a cool, refreshing climate, Hoanh Mô boasts the breathtaking Cao Ly range, rising more than 1,000 meters above sea level. The area’s diverse ecosystem and unspoiled scenery make it a hidden gem for eco-tourism. Home to over 94% ethnic minorities, mainly Tay, Dao, and San Chay, Hoanh Mo preserves a treasure trove of traditional customs, music, and crafts that give the commune a uniquely vibrant identity.
Despite challenges such as fog, rain, and the absence of an electricity grid, the local authorities overcame numerous obstacles to bring “Cao Ly moonlight night” to life. Organizers installed generators, improved mountain paths, and ensured food safety, fire prevention, and medical support, creating a safe, welcoming space for both locals and visitors.
Under the luminous Mid-Autumn moon, crowds gathered at the mountaintop to enjoy a heartfelt night of music, dance, and cultural expression. The event celebrated not only the stunning natural beauty of Cao Ly but also the soulful heritage of Hoanh Mo’s ethnic communities. More than 100 local artisans and professional performers presented an array of captivating acts, from Then singing and Soong co folk melodies to Pa dung chants, weaving together a cultural symphony that highlighted the harmony between humans and nature.
The celebration drew not only residents of Hoanh Mo but also visitors from surrounding communes.
“We, the San Chi people, are delighted to join this first-ever ‘Cao Ly moonlight night’. The Soong co folk songs performed here are truly moving and full of cultural pride, shared folk artist Luc Thi Com from Na Ech hamlet (Binh Lieu commune).
“We highly appreciate the creativity behind organizing this event. Despite limited conditions, the local government showed great initiative by selecting an ideal location, engaging ethnic artisans, and fostering community participation. The program not only enriches spiritual life but also encourages local people to strengthen their self-reliance and economic development”, said Deputy Director of the Department of Ethnic and Religious Affairs, An Thi Thin.
Following the moonlit celebration, the autumn-winter tourism week continued with a series of engaging activities from tea tasting under the full moon, wild orchid exhibitions, and traditional sports competitions to folk games, OCOP product showcases, and ethnic culinary experiences.
With its breathtaking natural scenery and deep cultural roots, Hoanh Mo has become an enchanting destination where visitors can experience the harmony between people, heritage, and the mountain landscape, a shining example of how Quang Ninh is trying to turn its border highlands into a vibrant new chapter of sustainable tourism.