Discover the Quay Son River in the border region.

Cao Bang – a borderland with many historical destinations such as Pac Bo Cave, Lenin Stream, and landmarks associated with ancient dynasties like the Mac Dynasty Citadel and the Le Dynasty Temple… The four main river systems in Cao Bang also contribute to the region's scenic beauty: Bang Giang, Quay Son, Gam River, and Bac Vong. Among them, the Quay Son River (also known as Que Son) leaves the deepest impression as it forms the natural border between Vietnam and China. The Quay Son River flows year-round with clear blue water between limestone mountain ranges, then freely and expansively stretches through lush green valleys and rice fields swaying in the wind.

The name Quây Sơn, in Sino-Vietnamese, means "encircling mountains." The river originates from streams in Tĩnh Tây (China), begins flowing into Vietnam in Ngọc Côn commune, Trùng Khánh district, Cao Bằng province, then flows through Đình Phong, Chí Viễn, and Đàm Thủy communes (Trùng Khánh district), through Hạ Lang district, and finally back into China.

The river is nearly 90km long, with approximately 50km flowing through Vietnamese territory, along with a tributary, the Suoi Can stream, which is 20km long. Sitting on a raft and drifting along the river, visitors will feel as if they are traveling through the setting of a historical film.

The turquoise water blending with the colors of the mountains and forests makes the phrase "picturesque landscape" more meaningful than ever. Along the riverbanks, glimpses of Tay and Nung villages can be seen. Clusters of bright red wildflowers on the cliffs after the rain, or patches of white reeds swaying in the breeze reflecting on the river, make visitors feel as if they are immersed in a world of romance and wonder.

Looking down from the watchtower of the Dam Thuy border guard post, the Quay Son River resembles a stunning splash of color painted by nature onto a canvas, transforming any place it flows through into a "fairyland."

The river's silt-laden waters seem to transform its banks. In some places, the emerald-green water flows calmly and contemplatively around towering cliffs; at other times, it is gentle and soft beneath lush green bamboo groves; and in some sections, the river resembles a soft veil flowing through vast fields of ripening rice.

For those who appreciate tranquility, visit the Quây Sơn River at sunset. As the sun sets, the silent forest trees reflect their image in the water. The scene is peaceful yet vibrant with a few rafts belonging to local people casting their nets to catch fish on the river. Beside the small waterfalls, visitors will encounter wooden rice mills powered by water, or waterwheels operated rhythmically by the local people.

The emotions of the borderlands, of the nation's frontier, awaken in every Vietnamese person when standing before Ban Gioc Waterfall – a masterpiece of the Quay Son River. Water unexpectedly cascades down from a height of over 30 meters, forming two streams amidst the majestic mountains and forests. Ban Gioc is considered by many international organizations to be one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the world. The water doesn't fall directly from above but separates into many different layers, creating white patches interspersed with the colors of leaves and wildflowers. Not far from Ban Gioc Waterfall is Nguom Ngao Cave – a labyrinth of nature with magnificent stalactites and fascinating ancient stories that captivate visitors.

Heritage Magazine