TransportWhen you visit Ha Giang, you’ll come across many village houses, but Pao’s House stands out as a truly special stop. Curious about what makes it so unique and attractive? Let’s dive in and uncover all the fascinating details that make Pao’s House a must-see destination. You won’t want to miss it!
Key Details About Pao’s House in Ha Giang
Let’s explore key details about this House in Ha Giang, a historic site that offers a deep insight into H’mong culture and breathtaking natural surroundings.
The Location of Pao’s House in Ha Giang
Pao’s House is located in Lung Cam cultural tourism village, Dong Van district, Ha Giang. It’s about 122 km from Ha Giang city center and 250 km from Dong Van Town. The village is right next to National Highway 4C, so it’s easy to reach and a great spot to explore other nearby attractions on the way.
The Captivating Story of Pao
In the movie Pao’s Story, the main character is Pao, a young and beautiful Hmong girl. She lives with her parents and younger brother, but her foster mother is the one who raised her with love and care. After a sad event where her foster mother takes her own life, Pao’s life becomes very difficult. She decides to find her real mother, and in doing so, she starts to discover the secrets of her family.
The actress who plays Pao shows her emotions in a very natural way, which makes the audience feel moved. Pao’s story also shows the culture and way of life of the Hmong people in the mountains.
The Secret Behind Pao’s House Fame
“Story of Pao” (2006) is a famous Vietnamese film about ethnic culture and the desire for freedom. It won several awards, including four Golden Kites. The film was made with the help of well-known filmmakers, such as Phillip Noyce (editor) and Cordelia Beresford (cinematographer), who captured the beautiful mountains of northern Vietnam.
Why Pao’s House is Famous:
Pao’s House became famous because it was featured in the movie “Story of Pao.” The film’s beautiful shots of Ha Giang’s landscapes and its success helped make Pao’s House a popular and well-known place.
Entrance Fee Information for Pao’s House
- Opening hour: 8 AM to 6 PM
- Ticket price: 10,000 VND (about 0.41 USD)
The entire House is open for visitors, so you can explore all its beautiful sections. It’s open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, giving you plenty of time to visit. The entrance fee is just 10,000 VND (about 0.41 USD), making it an affordable experience to enjoy the history and culture of this unique place.
The Ownership of Pao’s House
The owner of the house is Mr. Mua Sua Pao. He was a respected person in the Northwest of Vietnam. People say Mr. Pao was a leader in the army of King Meo before the August Revolution in 1945. The house was built in 1947. Mr. Pao asked the best workers in the area to help build it. It took many years to finish the house. At that time, it was the most beautiful house in the Sung La region.
The Unique Features of Pao’s House
Pao’s House’s Unique Architecture
The House is the largest staged house in the area, with a rich 80-year history. It is considered a “historic villa” and is a cultural treasure for the H’Mong people. The house is built in a U-shape, consisting of a main two-story section and two side sections used for storage, cooking, and raising livestock. The structure is made with rare wooden columns, compacted earth walls, and a tiled roof, with a spacious garden in front and a stone-paved courtyard that stays clean even in rainy weather.
One of the most striking features is the wooden gate with a tiled roof, using wooden hinges instead of iron, which reflects the owner’s kindness and hospitality. Finally, the house is surrounded by a handcrafted stone fence, arranged without any binding material, yet remaining strong and visually appealing.
Step Back in Time: The Luxury Living of Past Generations
This House attracts visitors because of its luxury living style and rich history. It belongs to the “old-money” Pao family and is one of the “four great mansions” in Ha Giang. The house still preserves ancient stone tools and family portraits, offering a glimpse into the family’s lifestyle over generations. Visitors are drawn to its cultural significance and traditional charm, showcasing the heritage of the Pao family.
How To Get to Pao’s House?
To get to Pao’s House, you can travel by motorbike or car. Many people from Ha Giang City prefer to join a tour and go by car. If you want to go on your own, you can rent a motorbike in Ha Giang City to explore Pao’s House, Ha Giang Loop, or other spots. There are many rental shops, and the price is usually around 150,000 VND to 200,000 VND per day. You can also take a public bus if you prefer. Make sure to choose a reliable rental service for a safe trip.
Discover More Sights Near Pao’s House
- Sung La Valley (15 minutes from Pao’s House): A beautiful valley with traditional H’mong houses, rice fields, and flowers. Great for photos and exploring the local lifestyle.
- H’mong King’s Palace (Vua Mèo Palace) (30–40 minutes from Pao’s House): A palace with both H’mong and French architecture. It’s a historical site where you can learn about the H’mong people.
- Pho Bang Old Town (30 minutes from Pao’s House): A quiet, less touristy town with old stone houses. Perfect for a peaceful walk and to experience local culture.
- Dong Van Plateau (45 minutes from Pao’s House): A stunning landscape with mountains, valleys, and limestone formations. A UNESCO Global Geopark with many scenic views.
When is the Best Time to Visit Pao’s House?
The best time to visit Pao’s House is from September to January. During this time, the weather is mild, with little rain and pleasant sunshine, making it perfect for sightseeing. It’s also the flowering season in Sung La Valley, when colorful flowers bloom, adding even more beauty to the area. Visiting during this time offers a wonderful experience of both nature and culture.
Tips for Visiting Pao’s House
Important tips to visit Pao’s house
Alt: The peaceful courtyard at Pao’s House in Ha Giang
- Keep noise levels low: Refrain from loud laughter and unnecessary noise during your visit.
- Visit on weekdays: To avoid crowds, plan your visit for weekdays, not weekends or national holidays.
- Explore the house: While mostly visited by Vietnamese, it’s a great opportunity to experience a traditional Hmong house both inside and outside.
- Clothing: Avoid wearing white linen fabric, as it is traditionally used for funerals and may be considered inauspicious. Instead, choose bright and vibrant clothes that will respect local customs.
- Actions: Avoid laughing or speaking loudly, whistling, littering, or picking flowers from the garden without permission. Whistling is believed to summon wild animals or spirits, causing disturbances.
- Respecting Space: If you see a cluster of leaves or a knife hanging at a local’s house, do not enter as it signals a ritual or confinement. When visiting Pao’s house, always ask for permission before entering and refrain from touching objects or leaning on the pillars. Avoid standing in the doorway or sitting on the front seats in the living room, as these are reserved for parents.
- Communication: Do not use words like “Meo” or “Man” when talking to locals, as these can cause misunderstandings. Speak politely, at a moderate volume, and avoid impolite gestures.
- With Children: Avoid touching children’s heads or hugging them. Locals believe that this can bring bad spirits to the child and cause discomfort or illness.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pao’s House is a great place to enjoy tasty food in a welcoming atmosphere. With friendly service and a variety of delicious dishes, it’s the perfect spot for any occasion. We hope this guide helps you discover all the wonderful things Pao House has to offer. Visit soon and experience it for yourself!
