Discover the Bounty of Bắc Ninh: A Thriving Hub for Agricultural Tourism and Eco-Friendly Experiences

Published on December 26, 2025

Bắc Ninh Province, with its vibrant agricultural landscape, is quickly becoming a top destination for agricultural tourism. As the citrus harvest season approaches, the province highlights its abundant orchards and ecotourism initiatives, providing visitors with an immersive experience of its fruit-growing heritage. Visitors can observe the region’s agricultural prowess, enjoy its pristine natural beauty, and participate in sustainable tourism practices that benefit local farmers.

A Thriving Orchard Scene: Oranges and Pomelos of Bắc Ninh

The citrus orchards of Bắc Ninh, particularly those growing oranges and pomelos, provide a picturesque backdrop to the province’s burgeoning tourism sector. As the season progresses, the hillsides are blanketed in the golden hues of ripened fruits, creating a stunning visual spectacle. Orchards are not just agricultural sites; they are thriving destinations for tourists seeking a deeper connection with the land and its produce.

In the heart of Chũ Ward, Trần Đình Én’s 1.5-hectare pomelo orchard offers a perfect example of sustainable farming. Operating without herbicides, chemical fertilisers, or pesticides, the orchard produces a significant yield each year, attracting eco-conscious visitors. Én’s family-run farm has also invested in visitor-friendly infrastructure, including pathways, signposts, and designated rest areas. Tourists are encouraged to relax and savour the fruits of the land, with tables and chairs provided to enjoy freshly picked pomelos on-site.

In addition to the organic practices, the orchard’s commitment to sustainability extends to water management and packaging. Each weekend, Én’s orchard sees a steady stream of visitors, many of whom return to share their experiences with others. The family’s dedication to quality has not only resulted in a successful agricultural venture but has also contributed to the province’s growing reputation for responsible, eco-friendly farming.

Orange Orchards and Immersive Experiences

Not far from the pomelo orchards, another family-run farm in Phượng Sơn Ward showcases its impressive orange harvest. The 2-hectare orchard, managed by Trần Văn Hồng, produces over 30 tonnes of oranges each season. Like Én, Hồng has embraced agricultural tourism, offering guided tours where visitors can pick their own fruit, taste fresh oranges, and even photograph the picturesque orchard landscape.

Through these experiences, Hồng has seen firsthand how agricultural tourism can elevate the value of his products. Instead of relying solely on wholesale buyers, Hồng now sells directly to consumers, allowing visitors to connect with the cultivation process. This has not only built trust in the quality of the produce but has also enhanced the farm’s brand recognition. Visitors are eager to return and recommend the orchard to friends, providing a steady stream of customers and growing interest in the area’s agricultural heritage.

Bắc Ninh’s Expanding Eco-Tourism and Agricultural Initiatives

Bắc Ninh is not just about citrus orchards. The province has also invested in developing ecotourism sites such as Bầu Tiên and Hoa Quả Sơn. These destinations, along with the fruit orchards, are part of a broader effort to create a diverse tourism experience that blends agriculture, nature, and local culture.

As the deputy director of the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism noted, agricultural areas play a key role in the province’s tourism strategy. Bắc Ninh aims to expand its fruit-growing areas to over 53,700 hectares, with 8,602 hectares dedicated to citrus fruits alone. This expansion is projected to yield approximately 80,000 tonnes of fruit, with a value exceeding VNĐ1.8 trillion (US$68.4 million). Many of these orchards already meet the VietGAP (Vietnam Good Agricultural Practices) standards, ensuring that visitors can enjoy their experiences while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Balancing Tourism Growth with Infrastructure Challenges

While Bắc Ninh’s agricultural tourism sector holds great promise, it faces significant challenges. One of the main hurdles is the underdeveloped tourism infrastructure. Despite the province’s natural beauty and agricultural bounty, there is a pressing need for better roads, parking facilities, restrooms, and other essential amenities. The absence of these basic facilities can deter visitors, especially those seeking comfortable and convenient travel experiences.

Additionally, there is a need for stronger collaboration between farmers and tourism businesses. Without proper coordination, the potential for agricultural tourism remains untapped. To address these issues, the province is working on improving infrastructure, enhancing hospitality skills, and establishing better connections between local farmers and travel agencies. This will ensure that visitors enjoy seamless, well-organised experiences that showcase the best of Bắc Ninh’s agricultural offerings.

Promoting Sustainable Agricultural and Craft Village Tourism

Bắc Ninh’s commitment to sustainable tourism is reflected in its efforts to combine agricultural and craft village tourism. With a rich cultural heritage, the province is home to several traditional craft villages that produce products like ceramics, textiles, and handicrafts. This integration of agriculture and craft village tourism not only supports the local economy but also enriches the visitor experience.

The province’s cultural landscape, enriched by the presence of eight ethnic groups, is an added bonus for tourists. Visitors can immerse themselves in local customs, traditions, and artisan craftsmanship, all while exploring the agricultural heart of the region.

The Future of Agricultural Tourism in Bắc Ninh

The future of agricultural tourism in Bắc Ninh looks bright, with plans to attract even more visitors in the coming years. The province is targeting 7 million visitors by 2027 and 10 million by 2030. Agricultural tourism, particularly experiences related to fruit picking, farm visits, and ecotourism, will play a key role in reaching these ambitious goals.

To further bolster the industry, Bắc Ninh is embracing digital marketing initiatives, including the creation of an agricultural tourism map and the promotion of its organic farming practices. These efforts will help the province stay competitive in the rapidly growing ecotourism market, particularly as neighbouring regions develop their own ecotourism offerings.

The success of the Bắc Ninh Fruit Festival, held annually from December 5 to 10, is a testament to the potential of agricultural tourism. The festival, themed ‘Honouring Agricultural Products, Promoting Growing Areas, Elevating Local Brands’, has become a key event that blends trade promotion with cultural tourism, offering visitors a taste of the region’s rich agricultural heritage.

Conclusion

Bắc Ninh Province, known for its golden orchards, exemplifies sustainable agricultural tourism practices and a strong connection to the land. The province’s growing popularity as a tourist destination stems from its commitment to environmentally friendly farming, visitor-friendly infrastructure, and cultural preservation. Bắc Ninh’s agricultural tourism sector is on track for long-term success, creating memorable experiences for visitors and benefiting the local economy.