Hon Da Song Ao – a photo spot amid the Phan Thanh grassland hills
Among the lush green hills of Phan Thanh, a large boulder sits alone, as if someone placed it there to make the perfect photo backdrop. Behind it, rolling mountains, green pine forests and a wide-open sky complete the scene. Travelers call it by a distinctly social media–friendly name: Hon Da Song Ao. And true to its name, this is where you can take photos that will have your friends asking, “Where is this?”
Where is Hon Da Song Ao?
Hon Da Song Ao is in Phan Thanh Commune (formerly in Nguyen Binh District), amid the Phan Thanh grasslands. The grassland hills are in Na Mung Hamlet and are gradually emerging as a new destination on Cao Bang’s travel map.
Visitors who have been there say the route is fairly easy, and you can get close by motorbike or car. Search for “Hon Da Song Ao” on your map app for accurate directions.
A boulder in the grasslands
The appeal of Hon Da Song Ao lies not only in the boulder but also in the scenery around it. Grassy hills roll across the landscape, interspersed with pine forests to create a peaceful, restorative setting. Visitors say the scenery here is breathtaking, and the boulder makes a striking backdrop for photos.
The Phan Thanh grasslands stretch across a vast area, with cool air and an unspoiled landscape. Here, you can walk freely along the hillsides, breathe in the fresh air, or simply sit quietly and watch the clouds drift across the sky.
A different view in every season
- Spring: Plants turn a vibrant green after the first rains of the season.
- Summer: Clear skies, bright sunshine and cool green hills.
- Winter: Mist drifts across the hills, and dew glistens on the grass like tiny jewels. The landscape feels quiet and otherworldly.
Photo tips for Hon Da Song Ao
Angles:
- Stand or sit on the rock and shoot from below: Use the sky as your backdrop to create the impression that you’re standing in midair.
- Take a wide shot from farther away: Show the boulder dwarfed by the vast grasslands for a cinematic look.
- Sit beside the boulder and take in the grassy hills: This makes a lovely setting for calm, reflective photos.
Best times:
- Early morning: Light mist and soft light create a dreamy atmosphere.
- Late afternoon: Golden sunlight washes over the hills, giving photos a warm tone.
What to wear: Dresses, red, yellow or white tops, and traditional ethnic clothing stand out against the green grass.
Explore more around Phan Thanh
Visitors suggest adding these nearby stops to your itinerary:
- Phan Thanh Grasslands: Walk across the wide, rolling hills.
- Bamboo Forest: Enjoy the cool greenery characteristic of Nguyen Binh.
- Phia Oac Peak (1,931 m): Watch the clouds roll in and see winter frost.
- Ban Phuong Bamboo Forest and Phia Den Red Villa: Sights in the Phia Oac–Phia Den area.
There are guesthouses around 4–5 km from Hon Da Song Ao, a convenient option for travelers coming from farther away who need a place to stay.
Photo safety tips
- Don’t climb onto the rock in the rain or when it is wet with dew; it can be very slippery.
- Wear shoes with good grip and avoid slippery sandals.
- Stay away from the edge of the rock and avoid risky poses just to get a good photo.
- Keep an eye on children when they are climbing.
- Don’t draw or carve on the rock; help preserve its natural beauty.
- Take your rubbish with you: There is no waste collection service on the grasslands, so leave the area as clean as you found it.
Final Thoughts
Hon Da Song Ao may not be a famous attraction, but it’s the kind of place that makes a trip to Cao Bang feel complete: a rock, a grassland, a wide-open sky, and a photo you’ll want to share for years to come. Visit Phan Thanh while it’s still unspoiled, take plenty of beautiful photos, and help preserve it so future visitors can enjoy it just as you did.