Located some 180 kilometers northwest of Hanoi, the Moc Chau Plateau in the northern mountain province of Son La is famous in Vietnam for the delicious seasonal fruit of Japanese plum or Prunus salicina. With about 1,300 hectares, it is considered the largest plum-growing area in the North. Delicious fruits and beautiful flowers help bring great economic benefits to local people.
The tree also helps boost tourism in the area. As soon as the first rays of light of spring dawn, the whole plateau of Moc Chau is covered with the color of pure white plum blossom. Thanks to its impressive nature, the plateau is considered one of the most attractive destinations during the upcoming Lunar New Year.
Spring is the best time to admire the breathtaking beauty of the Moc Chau plateau. The two valleys with the largest plum plantations in Moc Chau are Na Ka and Mu Nau. The flowers are born in early spring, each about two centimeters in diameter with five white petals, and come in groups of three.
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| When the white plum blossoms cover many hills and valleys in the country, making it extremely charming and endearing. Photo: Lan Moc |
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| From late January to mid-February every year is the plum blossom season in Moc Chau Plateau, attracting many domestic and foreign travelers. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times |
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| The simple yet beautiful little flower captures the hearts of many travelers to this place. Photo: Lan Moc |
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| The whole plateau is covered with tiny pure white flowers. Photo: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times |
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Depending on the weather and humidity, the time of the plum blossom can vary each year, falling in early or late January. Photo: Lan Moc | | The plum blossom season in Moc Chau captures the eyes of visitors. Photo: Duong Van |
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The fragile petals look like snowflakes perched on a plum branch. Photo: Vinh Cam | The best time to visit a plum garden is from 9am to 3pm daily, with an entrance fee of around VND30,000 (US$1.5) per person. Photo: Vinh Cam |
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The flowering season is a bit fleeting, lasting for two to three weeks. Photo: Duy Khanh | | Travelers flock to the plateau to admire the white plum blossom forest. Photo: Lan Moc |
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