Bom Bo: Vietnam’s Emerging Cultural Tourism Hub Amid Economic Growth

Published on November 30, 2025

In Bom Bo’s case, nearby Dong Nai Province has begun to make a name for itself in the Vietnamese travel industry. Once known for its gallant stance in the American-Vietnam War, this commune is now shifting towards fully sustainable approaches to branch its tourism activities because of the municipalities strong agro-pasts, cultural traditions, and untouched nature. This is why the administration in place, and the local people, have come together to change Bom Bo into a Southeastern focal point for cultural and heritage tourism while improving the economic living conditions of the area.

Bom Bo’s Heroic Past Drives Tourism Potential

Bom Bo is not just a picturesque rural destination; it holds significant historical importance. During the Vietnam War, Bom Bo’s S’tieng people played a crucial role in supporting the resistance. In 1965, amid the fierce Phuoc Long – Dong Xoai Campaign, the residents of Bom Bo launched the “Pounding Rice to Support the Troops” movement, where they produced more than five tons of rice in just three days to support the soldiers. This selfless act of dedication has been immortalized in the iconic song Tiếng Chày Trên Sóc Bom Bo (“The Sound of Rice-Pounding Pestles in Bom Bo Hamlet”) by late musician Xuan Hong.

Today, the same community spirit that powered their wartime efforts is now being channeled into tourism development. Bom Bo’s history and cultural significance make it an appealing destination for travelers seeking to explore the depths of Vietnam’s past while enjoying a mix of modern comforts and eco-tourism.

Bom Bo’s Strategic Vision: A Blend of Agriculture, Culture, and Ecology

Bom Bo’s push to become a major tourism hub is centered on its three key pillars: agriculture, culture, and ecology. The commune spans over 245.9 square kilometers and is home to more than 27,000 residents from 22 different ethnic groups, with ethnic minorities comprising a significant portion of the population. This diverse demographic creates a unique opportunity for cultural tourism, offering a mix of traditions, languages, and lifestyles that intrigue tourists from both domestic and international markets.

The local economy is heavily based on agriculture, with plantations of rubber, coffee, cashews, and pepper, as well as specialty fruits such as durian, avocados, and rambutan. The fertile soil and favorable climate make Bom Bo a prime location for agricultural tourism, where visitors can experience farm stays, homestays, and seasonal farming activities. Tourists can get hands-on by participating in activities like farming, harvesting, and processing local produce, forming meaningful connections with the S’tieng community and learning about their sustainable agricultural practices.

Cultural and Historical Tourism: The Heart of Bom Bo

At the core of Bom Bo’s tourism strategy is the preservation and promotion of its rich cultural heritage. The S’tieng Cultural Preservation Area serves as the center for cultural and historical tourism, showcasing traditional activities, performances, and rituals that are central to the S’tieng people’s way of life. The village’s deep connection to its heritage is reflected in the sound of gong performances, rice-pounding traditions, and the weaving of brocade and baskets, which have been passed down through generations.

Visitors can experience these traditions firsthand by participating in cultural festivals, watching live gong performances, and enjoying traditional cuisine such as bamboo-cooked rice and thut soup. Bom Bo’s rich cultural offerings provide an authentic, immersive experience that is difficult to replicate in more commercialized tourist destinations.

Local elders, such as 75-year-old Dieu Lon A, who performs traditional dances and crafts, emphasize the importance of passing these skills on to the younger generation. This commitment to cultural preservation not only benefits tourism but also offers a source of income for older community members who can no longer engage in heavy physical work.

Ecological Tourism: A New Frontier for Sustainable Travel

In addition to its agricultural and cultural offerings, Bom Bo is well-positioned to become a leader in ecological tourism. The commune boasts beautiful mountains, streams, and forests, making it an ideal location for eco-friendly activities such as trekking, camping, and nature exploration. Pham Anh Tuan, the Director of the Bom Bo Commune Integrated Services Center, envisions a future where the commune’s ecological tourism is fully developed, with trekking routes, camping sites, and green tourism experiences integrated with the local cultural fabric.

The commune’s commitment to sustainable tourism is key to its development strategy. By preserving its natural landscapes while offering eco-tourism activities, Bom Bo is creating a tourism model that respects both the environment and the local culture. These efforts are expected to contribute to the region’s overall tourism growth and enhance its appeal to eco-conscious travelers.

Youth Involvement and Economic Empowerment

A key aspect of Bom Bo’s tourism development is the involvement of its youth in both preserving cultural heritage and helping to grow the local tourism economy. As young people increasingly engage with the tourism sector, they are not only helping to safeguard traditional practices but also taking the lead in applying modern technology to connect local markets with a global audience.

Dieu Kiet, a cultural officer at the Bom Bo Commune Integrated Services Center, pointed out that the younger generation is playing a crucial role in promoting the commune’s cultural values through tourism activities. However, he also highlighted the need for additional support in areas like communication, customer service, and access to capital to ensure that tourism development is both sustainable and inclusive.

Vision for the Future: A Thriving Tourism Economy

As tourism continues to grow, it is expected to diversify the livelihoods of local residents, reduce dependence on traditional agriculture, and create more employment opportunities, particularly for young people. Bom Bo’s exceptional traits such as agriculture, culture, and nature offer unparalleled prospects to establish a thriving, sustainable tourism sector. Thanks to the collaboration of the local government, businesses, and the community, the commune is already a potential hotspot on Vietnam‘s rural and cultural tourism map.