Vietnam Promotes 'Green Tourism' Balancing Environmental Conservation and Cultural Experiences

Vietnam is witnessing the emergence of 'green tourism' models across various regions, with environmental conservation serving as their foundation for development. Instead of pursuing large-scale construction projects, these localities are prioritizing the khai thác (utilization) of natural, agricultural, cultural, and community values. A key characteristic is the direct participation of residents in the management, operation, and protection of tourism resources, ensuring they benefit from these initiatives. In Hai Phong city, green tourism efforts, particularly in rural areas, are becoming prominent. For instance, the Dong Man ecological tourism area in Thanh Ha village exemplifies successful agricultural tourism centered around the region's specialty, lychees. Across more than 5 hectares of orchards, visitors can enjoy lychee picking and leisurely boat rides along the river. The khai thác (utilization) of existing natural resources, such as small boat experiences along waterways shaded by trees and agricultural activities, creates an environmentally friendly tourism product. This approach allows local residents to secure stable income not only from selling agricultural products but also from offering experiential services. Meanwhile, Co Island in Nam Thanh commune stands as a model of eco-tourism linked to biodiversity conservation. This protected area, spanning nearly 60 hectares, is home to tens of thousands of storks, egrets, and various waterbirds, forming a rare ecosystem in the Northern Delta region. The conservation efforts here are supported not only by the government but also by the voluntary participation of local residents in protecting the birds' habitat and minimizing activities that could affect the ecosystem. Furthermore, Viet Hai village, nestled deep within the Cat Ba archipelago, is known as a 'green oasis' harmonizing with nature. Surrounded by limestone mountains and facing Lan Ha Bay, this small fishing village, with fewer than 100 households, is a testament to the rare balance between nature and humanity. Visitors to Viet Hai can cycle along tree-lined village paths, explore primeval forests, experience the life of fishermen, and savor local delicacies. The appeal of Viet Hai lies in its tranquility, pristine state, and the pure beauty of an ancient fishing village within a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, residents not only engage in tourism but also preserve the environment and traditional cultural identity for future generations. International tourists, like overseas Vietnamese Mr. Tran Van Thanh, choose Viet Hai not for luxury services, but for the opportunity to live slowly amidst nature, experience local life, and learn about Cat Ba's unique ecosystem. The khai thác (utilization) of cultural values is also progressing. Cuc Bo village is renowned for its woodworking craft, with hundreds of artisans preserving techniques for building and restoring ancient wooden houses, temples, and pagodas, a tradition spanning over 400 years. Developing village tourism aims not only to promote products but also to conserve cultural values facing challenges from urbanization. Visitors can observe the intricate wood carving process and learn about the village's history, a core element of green tourism that creates sustainable appeal through cultural preservation. Similarly, at the Chu Dau pottery village, visitors journey back in time to discover the story of ancient ceramic products that once traveled far beyond the country's borders on merchant ships. Tourists can explore the ancient pottery exhibition house, learn about traditional handicraft processes, watch artisans shape clay and paint intricate patterns, and witness the firing techniques passed down through generations. The harmonious blend of heritage preservation and experiential development is a highlight, allowing visitors to create their own pottery. Amidst the peaceful rural landscape, the glowing kilns and ancient patterns create a unique charm, making Chu Dau a shining example of village tourism. These initiatives demonstrate Vietnam's commitment to environmental conservation and cultural heritage preservation alongside economic growth. Unlike centralized development under a one-party system, these efforts highlight a trend towards leveraging local distinctiveness and exploring resident-participatory sustainable tourism models, indicating a potential future direction for Vietnam's tourism industry.