(TITC) – Located along National Highway 4H, Na Su Village in Nam Po, Dien Bien Province, has quickly risen to prominence as a model of community-based tourism in Vietnam’s northwest.
Blessed with a favorable geographical location, unspoiled natural landscapes, and a rich tapestry of traditional culture, Na Su has transformed its inherent strengths into sustainable tourism opportunities. With the concerted efforts of local authorities and villagers, it has become the first community tourism model in Nam Po – paving the way for new economic prospects in this mountainous border region.
After three years of welcoming visitors, Na Su has firmly established itself as an indispensable stop for travelers exploring Dien Bien and the iconic westernmost point of Vietnam, A Pa Chai. Encircled by rolling hills and mountains, with the peaceful Nam Bai Stream winding at the village’s edge, Na Su offers a breathtakingly poetic setting that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive.
The village is predominantly inhabited by the White Thai ethnic group, which accounts for 95% of its population. Known for their unity, hard work, and deep-rooted cultural values, the White Thai people of Na Su have preserved many unique traditions while embracing a warm, open-hearted approach to tourism. Their hospitality – expressed through everyday gestures, traditional practices, and community pride – has become one of the village’s most appealing features.
To build an inviting tourism environment, Na Su residents have dedicated significant effort to village beautification and infrastructure improvements. They have constructed stone pathways, built a charming bamboo bridge across the Nam Bai Stream, planted flower beds, installed lighting, handcrafted traditional water wheels, and regularly cleaned public spaces. Every week, members of the village Women’s Union gather to sweep roads, tidy up communal areas, and ensure the village remains clean and welcoming. Today, vibrant flowers bloom in front of every home, painting Na Su with bright colors and creating a harmonious, picturesque landscape.
Visitors to Na Su often find themselves pleasantly surprised by the village’s thoughtfully designed tourism spaces, which still preserve their authentic rural charm. Highlights include the bamboo bridge, traditional water wheels, and original Thai stilt houses – structures that reflect the distinctive architectural identity of Vietnam’s northwest region.
A stay in Na Su brings a variety of immersive experiences. Waking up to fresh mountain air, morning mist drifting over distant ridges, the sound of roosters crowing, and the soft murmur of flowing water offers a sense of tranquility rarely found elsewhere. During the day, travelers can join local residents in weaving, farming, cooking traditional dishes, or learning about White Thai customs and rituals. In the evening, cultural performances featuring Thai dances and folk songs take place at the riverside culinary experience space, creating a lively and intimate atmosphere where visitors can interact with local artists and villagers.
Na Su has also embraced digital transformation, becoming one of the first community-based tourism villages in Dien Bien to implement comprehensive digital solutions. Visitors can access all service information simply by scanning QR codes placed throughout the village. Additionally, local authorities have launched a website and social media platforms showcasing Na Su’s attractions, tourism services, and cultural features, helping guests plan their visits with ease.
Thanks to strong community cooperation, dedicated local leadership, and the sustainable development of tourism, Na Su is rapidly transforming. It has emerged as a compelling destination and a bright example of community-based tourism in the remote border region of Dien Bien. More importantly, community tourism has become a stable, long-term livelihood for villagers, contributing to economic growth, cultural preservation, and improved quality of life.
Tourism Information Technology Center
