Le Chi: Discovering the peaceful golden hues of mustard flowers in the suburbs of Hanoi.

The tranquil beauty along the Duong River

As the first chilly winds of winter arrive, the outskirts of Hanoi are adorned with the vibrant yellow of mustard flower fields. In Le Chi commune, along the banks of the Duong River, this year's flower season has a different kind of beauty – quieter and more rustic, instead of the bustling crowds of tourists seen in previous years.

Despite the significantly reduced area, the remaining rows of mustard greens still bloom simultaneously, stretching out like shimmering golden silk ribbons. Under the slightly misty morning sky, the flowers stand out even more, evoking a peaceful and pristine scene of a Northern Vietnamese village. Free from the hustle and bustle, visitors can leisurely stroll, fully appreciating the open space and the delicate fragrance of the flowers carried on the breeze.

Hanoi: Strolling through fields ablaze with the vibrant yellow of canola flowers - Part 1 — The rows of yellow mustard greens stretching along the Duong River create a peaceful scene.

The story behind the flowerbeds

This change stems from the difficulties faced by farmers. Mr. Thang, a long-time flower grower in the area, shared that unfavorable weather conditions, especially heavy rains that can cause flooding, have made growing cabbage risky. "This year, people have switched to growing short-term vegetables for greater safety," he said. Therefore, only a few households still maintain small patches of cabbage for traditional farming.

Hanoi: Strolling through fields ablaze with the vibrant yellow of canola flowers - 7 — Despite its reduced size, the rapeseed flower field still retains its original beauty.

An opportunity for candid shots.

The quietness of Le Chi this season presents a special opportunity for photography enthusiasts. Without the crowds, you can freely find unique angles, focusing on the minimalist and rustic beauty of the rapeseed flowers. This tranquil setting is perfect for creating natural, nostalgic-style photographs.

The ideal time for taking photos is early morning when dew still clings to the leaves, or late afternoon when the slanted sunlight makes the flowers' colors warmer and more vibrant. A riverside location also provides a more open and airy frame, with fewer buildings obstructing the view.

Hanoi: Strolling through fields ablaze with the vibrant yellow of canola flowers - 5 — The vibrant yellow of rapeseed flowers provides the perfect backdrop for winter photographs.

Essential information for your trip to Le Chi

Move

Le Chi commune is located in Gia Lam district, not too far from the center of Hanoi. You can travel by motorbike or car, crossing the Vinh Tuy or Chuong Duong bridges, then following National Highway 5 and finding your way to Le Chi commune. The flower fields are usually located in the alluvial plains along the Duong River.

Time to visit

Mustard flowers are usually sown in late September and bloom for over a month, usually from late November to the end of December. However, the blooming time can vary depending on the weather each year.

Important note

Respect the property of the people: These are cultivated fields, so please move carefully along the designated paths, avoiding trampling on flowers and vegetables.
Maintain public hygiene: Do not litter indiscriminately to protect the environment.
Outfit: To get striking photos, you can choose clothing in colors that contrast with the yellow of the flowers, such as white, blue, or soft pastel shades.