Pao’s House in Ha Giang is a cultural landmark, made famous as the filming location for the award-winning movie “The Story of Pao.” Surrounded by rugged stone walls and a sunken earthen courtyard, the house reflects the architectural beauty and traditions of the H’Mong people. This guide by Phieu Travel helps you explore its cinematic legacy, cultural significance, how to visit and nearby attractions worth your time.

1. Discover Pao’s House in Ha Giang

Pao’s House in Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province, has stood for nearly 70 years as a lasting symbol of H’mong heritage. Originally built by Mua Sua Pao –  a former platoon leader under the H’mong King, the house has embraced four generations and is now cared for by his grandson – Mua Phai Tua.

With its rammed-earth walls, stone courtyard and historical value, the home offers travelers a rare, authentic look into traditional highland life in northern Vietnam.

2. Why is Pao’s House famous?

Pao’s House rose to national prominence after being featured in The Story of Pao (Chuyện của Páo), a critically acclaimed Vietnamese film released in 2006. Known for its emotional depth and striking cinematography, the film follows a young H’mong girl as she uncovers her family’s hidden past and explores her cultural roots in Vietnam’s northern highlands.

Adapted from a novella by celebrated author Nguyen Huy Thiep, the film offers a rare and poetic glimpse into ethnic life in the mountains. Shot entirely in Ha Giang, the house’s preserved architecture and authentic setting helped the film win the Golden Kite Award and earn a screening at the 2007 Cannes Film Festival. 

Today, Pao’s House remains a powerful symbol of H’mong heritage and a must-visit for travelers drawn to Vietnamese cinema and culture.

3. Who is Pao?

Pao is the main character in The Story of Pao, depicted as a resilient and introspective H’mong girl growing up in a remote highland village. Although born to her biological parents, she is lovingly raised by her foster mother, who becomes her most trusted figure.

After a life-changing tragedy, Pao sets out to find her birth mother and uncover long-buried family secrets. Her emotional journey mirrors the lived experiences, traditions, and quiet strength of the H’mong community in northern Vietnam.

4. Location & road to Pao’s House

Pao’s House is located in Lung Cam Cultural Village, nestled in the picturesque Sung La Valley of Dong Van District, Ha Giang Province. It lies along National Highway 4C, about 122 km from Ha Giang City and 25 km from Dong Van Town, making it a convenient stop for travelers on the Ha Giang Loop.

To reach the house from Hanoi, visitors typically travel by bus or motorbike to Ha Giang City, then continue toward Dong Van. Once in Sung La Commune, follow signs to Lung Cam Cultural Village. After a short drive, Pao’s House appears on the left, set against a backdrop of flower fields and limestone mountains.

5. Unique features of Pao’s House

The house is built in a U-shaped layout with a two-story central hall and two side wings. While the main section serves as a living and sleeping area, the wings are designed for cooking, storage, raising livestock. Every element was constructed using rare hardwood pillars, rammed earth, handmade clay tiles, reflecting the resilience and craftsmanship of the H’mong people.

One of the home’s most symbolic features is its wooden gate, topped with a tiled roof and assembled without iron hinges. In H’mong culture, avoiding iron in sacred household structures is believed to preserve warmth, hospitality, peaceful intent.

Equally captivating is the dry-stacked stone fence surrounding the home. Built entirely by hand without cement or adhesive, it stands firm through time and weather, an enduring testament to ethnic ingenuity, balance between beauty and durability.

6. Best time to visit Pao’s House

Sung La Valley, often praised as an “oasis on the stone plateau,” showcases breathtaking scenery all year. Still, the most rewarding time to visit Pao’s House is from September to January, when the weather is dry, mild and ideal for travel.

This season aligns with Ha Giang’s famous flower bloom, as buckwheat, wild sunflowers, and mustard flowers blanket the valley in radiant colors. It’s a golden window for photography, cultural experiences, soaking in the peaceful charm of the highlands.

7. Entrance fee and visiting tips

Visitors are welcome to explore every part of Pao’s House, from its living quarters to the garden and courtyard. The experience offers a close-up look at authentic H’mong architecture, highland culture.

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: 10,000 VND (approx. $0.41 USD) per adult or child taller than 1 meter
• Free admission: For children under 1 meter tall

8. Nearby attractions around Pao’s House

In addition to Pao’s House, the surrounding area boasts several must-see attractions:

• Sung La Valley: Renowned for its peaceful beauty, especially during the buckwheat blossom season from October to December. Located about 6 kilometers from Pao’s House, the valley offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation and photography.
• Chin Khoanh Pass: A striking mountain pass approximately 4 kilometers away, offering panoramic views and a scenic, winding road ideal for nature lovers, photographers.
• H’mong King’s Palace: Situated about 10 kilometers from Pao’s House, this historical landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the H’mong royal family. It serves as an important cultural and historical site in the region.
• Pho Bang Old Town: Located around 7 kilometers from Pao’s House, this quaint village features well-preserved French-era architecture. Its peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal place to explore history and experience timeless charm.

9. Phieu Travel: your guide to Pao’s House and Ha Giang

Phieu Travel is the ideal guide for discovering the wonders of Pao’s House and the stunning landscapes of Ha Giang. With expert knowledge of the region, we provide a travel experience that goes beyond sightseeing, offering deep cultural immersion and personal connection with the area’s heritage.

Why Choose Phieu Travel for Your Ha Giang Trip?

• Local Expertise: Our guides, all Ha Giang natives, offer authentic insights into the region’s rich culture, history, and traditions, ensuring you experience Ha Giang like a local.
• Customized Tours: We design personalized itineraries tailored to your interests, allowing you to explore Ha Giang at your own pace while ensuring a unique adventure every time.
• Cultural Immersion: Explore H’mong culture intimately, from visiting Pao’s House to touring local markets and villages, providing an authentic cultural exchange.
• Seamless Travel: With well-planned, comfortable travel arrangements, we ensure a stress-free, enjoyable journey from start to finish, allowing you to focus on the beauty of Ha Giang.

Phieu Travel provides a range of tour options to help you experience the best of Pao’s House and Ha Giang. Let us guide you through this unforgettable journey, ensuring you enjoy the unique beauty and culture of the region to the fullest!