Chợ tình Khâu Vai: The Rendezvous of Unfinished Love

Quick Facts

Data Field (Title)ContentIcon/Note
Official Vietnamese NameChợ tình Khâu VaiCommonly translated as Khâu Vai Love Market.
LocationKhâu Vai Commune, Mèo Vạc District, Hà Giang Province, Vietnam.Located in the remote, mountainous Đồng Văn Karst Plateau (UNESCO Global Geopark).
Date27th day of the 3rd Lunar Month (Main Day)Usually falls in late April or early May. The festival often lasts for several days as a Cultural Tourism Week.
SignificanceA unique gathering place for former lovers who could not be together due to family or tribal conflicts.A tradition built on the respect for enduring, sincere feelings.
Cultural HeritageRecognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage of Vietnam.

I. Overview and The Legend of Khâu Vai

The Market of Old Flames

The Chợ tình Khâu Vai is one of Vietnam’s most romantic and culturally unique festivals, taking place high in the stunning, remote mountains of Hà Giang. Unlike a typical market, this event is not primarily for trading goods, but rather for a very specific social purpose: it is a designated day for former lovers to meet and reconnect, often after years of separation.

The Touching Legend

The festival is rooted in a legend about a young couple from different tribes who fell deeply in love. The man was from the Giáy ethnic group, and the woman was from the Nùng ethnic group.

  • The Conflict: Their families and tribes forbade their union, leading to a bloody conflict between the two groups.

  • The Sacrifice: To stop the fighting and prevent further bloodshed, the couple made the heartbreaking decision to separate forever, vowing that they would meet once a year, on the 27th day of the 3rd lunar month, in the Khâu Vai area.

  • The Tradition: Their sacrifice led to the tradition, where local ethnic minorities—including the H’mong, Dao, Tày, and Nùng—respect the promise of sincere love by allowing separated couples to meet for a single day to share stories and memories, without any social disapproval from their current spouses.

II. The Festival Experience

1. The Day of Reunion

On the 27th, former lovers gather at the market area, often traveling for hours by foot.

  • The Atmosphere: Current spouses often bring their partners to the market and allow them to spend the day with their old flame, emphasizing respect and understanding.

  • The Exchange: The reunion is purely sentimental. They drink rice wine, share betel leaves, sing folk songs, and tell each other about their lives, before returning to their current families in the evening.

2. Cultural Tourism Week

In recent years, the Khâu Vai Love Market has evolved into a wider Cultural Tourism Week to celebrate the ethnic diversity of the region:

  • Traditional Arts: Visitors can witness vibrant folk music and dance performances, including the soulful sounds of the H’mong khen flute and the traditional songs (Then) of the Tày and Nùng people.

  • Folk Games and Crafts: Local communities hold traditional weaving demonstrations, sticky rice cake making, and various folk games, giving tourists a deeper appreciation of the indigenous culture.

  • Market Trading: Along with the romantic gatherings, a bustling market appears where locals trade special regional products, clothing, and crafts.

III. Visitor Information

Guide FieldDetails
When to GoThe 27th day of the 3rd Lunar Month is the crucial date for the reunion. Visiting during the preceding days of the Cultural Tourism Week offers access to more cultural events.
Getting ThereKhâu Vai is extremely remote, requiring a drive through the challenging mountain roads of Hà Giang Province (the Đồng Văn Karst Plateau).
AtmosphereIt is a day of deep emotional sincerity and cultural vibrancy. Visitors should observe the core tradition of former lovers meeting with great respect and discretion.
Attractions NearbyThe entire Mèo Vạc district offers spectacular scenery, including the Mã Pí Lèng Pass, one of Vietnam's "Four Great Mountain Passes."
Spot an error or outdated info?
We strive for accuracy! Your feedback helps us improve our travel guides.
error: Content is protected !!