One of the most regrettable mistakes when visiting Binh Lieu is: rushing straight to scenic viewpoints – snapping photos – and heading back. Landscapes are only half of what Binh Lieu has to offer. According to official information from 2026, ethnic minorities make up a significant portion of the population in Binh Lieu, primarily comprising the Tay, Dao, San Chi, and Kinh communities. It is these communities that create the cultural depth making Binh Lieu completely distinct from Ha Long.
San Chi and Soong Co
Soong Co is an important form of folk singing and courtship among the San Chi people. The 2026 Soong Co Festival is held in the area of Khe Van Waterfall; the Soong Co singing art of the San Chi people in Quang Ninh has been recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Soong Co is not merely a song for tourists to request a “sample performance.” It is a living cultural practice intimately woven into community life and social communication.
San Chi Women's Football
A unique highlight of modern Binh Lieu tourism is the sight of San Chi women playing football in their traditional attire. In 2026, the Dao – San Chi women's friendly football match continues to be featured in the Soong Co Festival program. This is an intriguing example of how traditional culture can thrive within contemporary life rather than being confined to museum showcases.
Dao Culture
The Binh Lieu area also preserves unique festivals and customs of the Dao people, such as the Wind Avoidance Festival (Kieng Gio Festival), alongside community cultural preservation initiatives maintained by the local government. If you happen to visit during a ceremonial day, do not casually intrude into rituals just out of curiosity.
When entering a village: you are a guest
A few essential guidelines:
Do not enter homes without permission. Stand outside and greet or ask first.
Do not open private bedroom doors to look inside. Local homes are not exhibition booths.
Do not snap photos of residents the moment you meet them. Always ask beforehand, especially with the elderly and children.
Do not try on traditional attire without the host's consent. Traditional clothing is cultural heritage, not public stage props.
Buying Local Specialties
If you have the opportunity to purchase:
- Canna noodles (dong vermicelli).
- Handicrafts.
- Agricultural produce.
- Local culinary dishes.
buying directly from makers is a much better way to support the local economy than merely stopping by to take photos. In 2026, Binh Lieu continues to focus on developing community-based tourism from native resources such as traditional architecture, culinary heritage, canna noodle craft, and ethnic culture.
Do not “stage” culture for photos
Avoid demanding: “Please put on your ethnic attire and stand over there so I can take a photo,” unless it is an organized community performance. A candid photograph taken with permission is always far more meaningful than a staged, disrespectful scene.
Quick Checklist
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Ask for permission before entering a house.
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Ask for permission before photographing people.
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Do not touch altar items or sacred objects.
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Do not put on traditional costumes without the owner's consent.
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Do not treat sacred festivals as staged shows.
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Purchase local products directly from the community when appropriate.
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Keep noise to a minimum while in the village.
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Do not litter.
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Respect border demarcation lines and restricted areas.
