Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Cho Gao offers a blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This hidden gem, located in Tien Giang Province, Vietnam, is an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive experience. With its winding rivers, lush rice paddies, and friendly locals, Cho Gao is more than just a stopover—it's a place to explore and enjoy. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventurer, Cho Gao has something to offer.
Population: Approximately 186,000 in 2019.
Economy: Cho Gao's economy thrives on agriculture, particularly rice and fruit cultivation, alongside local handicrafts and small-scale trade. The district's vibrant markets and river transport support economic activities.
Landmarks: Famous for the Cho Gao Floating Market, Cho Gao Traditional Handicrafts Village, and Binh Hoa Phuoc Pagoda.
Vietnam
Cho Gao’s history is a tapestry woven from diverse cultural threads. Over the centuries, this region has seen influences from various dynasties and colonial powers, each leaving an indelible mark on its culture and traditions. The town’s name, "Cho Gao," meaning “Rice Market,” reflects its historical role as a bustling trade hub in the Mekong Delta, where rice and other agricultural products were exchanged. The fusion of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese influences can be seen in the local festivals, cuisine, and everyday life, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
Cho Gao is home to a population of around 186,000 residents, predominantly of Vietnamese ethnicity. The people of Cho Gao are known for their warm hospitality and deep connection to the land, with many families having lived in the region for generations. Agriculture, particularly rice farming and fruit cultivation, is a significant part of daily life, shaping both the local economy and cultural practices. The community is close-knit, with traditions passed down through the years, reflecting a harmonious blend of history, culture, and the simplicity of rural living.
Enjoy the stunning natural wonders, and connect with friendly locals at our Vietnam tours here.
Cho Gao district - © VnExpress
Thoi Son Island - © VietnamNews
Craving Vietnamese cuisine? Explore more distinctive dishes in Hue, the old capital of Vietnam here.
Ca Kho To (Clay Pot Catfish in Caramel Sauce) - © BASAmaster
Cho Gao is alive with cultural festivals and celebrations that reflect the district’s deep-rooted traditions and vibrant community spirit. These events are an excellent way for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture, witness traditional rituals, and participate in lively festivities.
Vu Lan Festival - © Thanh Nien News
Orange Orchard in Cho Gao - © Vietnam Tourism
Cho Gao, located in the Mekong Delta, enjoys a tropical climate characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the weather conditions is essential for planning your visit, ensuring that you experience the best of what this charming district has to offer.
December to February: This period offers the most comfortable weather, with cooler temperatures and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for sightseeing and outdoor adventures. It’s also the time when many local festivals take place, adding to the cultural experience.
Wet season in Cho Gao - © CafeF
Getting to Cho Gao
Local Transportation
In Cho Gao, banking services and ATMs are readily available to cater to both locals and visitors. You'll find several ATMs throughout the town, especially in the center and near popular attractions, allowing withdrawals with both local and international cards. It's wise to carry some cash, as ATMs may be less accessible in rural areas. For more comprehensive banking needs, such as currency exchange or wire transfers, local bank branches can assist, though English proficiency may be limited. Cash remains the preferred payment method in markets, street vendors, and smaller shops.
Hide away in the gentle hills of Tochigi Prefecture, Mashiko is more than a stop on a map, it’s a living gallery of clay, craft, and community. Known worldwide for its Mashiko-yaki pottery, this charming rural town draws travelers seeking hands-on creativity and a slower pace of life. Here, kiln smoke curls into blue skies, and artisan shops spill treasures onto narrow streets. Only a few hours from Tokyo, Mashiko offers the perfect escape for lovers of traditional Japanese culture, authentic local food, and countryside landscapes.
Population: Approximately 22,000 in 2020.
Economy: Mashiko’s economy thrives on its renowned pottery industry, attracting both domestic and international buyers. Tourism plays a vital role, fueled by pottery fairs, local crafts, and cultural events.
Landmarks: Famous for the Mashiko Pottery Museum, Pottery Street, and the Saimyoji Temple.
Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go feels like a scene from an old Japanese folktale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, wooden homes with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snow. Here, each season paints the village in new colors: spring blossoms, green summer paddies, golden autumn leaves, and glistening winter snow.
Population: Approximately 60,000 in 2020.
Economy: Shirakawa-go’s economy blends heritage preservation with sustainable tourism. While agriculture, especially rice farming, remains part of local life, tourism is now the main economic driver.
Landmarks: Famous for Ogimachi Village, Wada House, and Shiroyama Viewpoint.
Fuji-shi, or Fuji City, is a vibrant gateway to Japan’s most iconic peak, Mount Fuji. Located in Shizuoka Prefecture, this coastal city blends scenic beauty with rich traditions. From its bustling streets to the peaceful banks of the Fuji River, every corner offers a postcard-worthy view of the mountain. Just an hour from Tokyo by train, Fuji-shi is ideal for travelers seeking authentic Japanese city life with nature close at hand.
Population: Approximately 245,000 in 2019.
Economy: Fuji-shi is a major hub in Shizuoka Prefecture’s manufacturing sector, known for its paper and pulp production. The city also benefits from the logistics and transport industries due to its location along the Tōkaidō corridor.. Fishing at Tagonoura Port, tea production in nearby plantations, and tourism linked to Mount Fuji further diversify the local economy.
Landmarks: Famous for Mount Fuji viewing points, Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine, and Tanuki Lake.
Nestled in the far west of An Giang Province, Châu Đốc is where the Hậu River bends toward the Cambodian border. This riverside city is a blend of cultures, faiths, and flavors. Here, Vietnamese, Khmer, Cham, and Chinese communities live side by side, shaping a rich tapestry of daily life. For travelers, Châu Đốc offers more than stunning river views. It’s a city of floating markets, sacred temples, and bustling border trade.
Population: Approximately 100,000 in 2019.
Economy: Chau Doc’s economy thrives on cross-border trade, aquaculture, and agriculture, especially rice and fish farming. Tourism also plays a key role, fueled by its cultural diversity and proximity to Cambodia.
Landmarks: Famous for the Sam Mountain, Ba Chua Xu Temple, and the Chau Doc Floating Market.
Tucked away on the southeastern edge of Cat Ba Island, Lan Ha Bay is a dazzling mosaic of emerald waters, hidden beaches, and towering limestone karsts. Often called the “quiet sister” of Halong Bay, it offers the same breathtaking scenery without the tourist crowds. Here, over 300 islets and unspoiled coves create a paradise for kayakers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic cultural encounters. This is where the rhythm of the sea shapes daily life, and where travelers can slow down to embrace Vietnam’s coastal charm.
Population: As a part of Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay is home to a small population, primarily concentrated in Viet Hai village, which has a population of around 300 people.
Economy: Lan Ha Bay’s economy is closely tied to tourism, fishing, and aquaculture. The bay attracts visitors with its scenic beauty, supporting hotels, boat tours, and local services. Fishing and seafood farming, especially oysters and squid, provide income for coastal communities. Eco-tourism and sustainable aquaculture are increasingly promoted to balance economic growth with environmental protection.
Landmarks: Famous for the Monkey Island, Dark & Bright Cave, and the Nam Cat Island.
Hai Phong, known as the City of Red Flamboyant, blends coastal beauty, historical depth, and vibrant urban life. Sitting on Vietnam’s northeast coast, this dynamic port city opens the door to famous attractions like Cat Ba Island and Ha Long Bay. Stroll along tree-lined boulevards, admire French colonial architecture, or wander through bustling markets alive with local flavors.
Population: Approximately 2 million in 2022.
Economy: Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s key economic hubs, driven by its strategic position as a major seaport in the north. The city’s economy thrives on shipping, logistics, shipbuilding, manufacturing, and fisheries. Tourism and hospitality also play a growing role, supported by Hải Phòng’s coastal attractions and cultural heritage.
Landmarks: Famous for the Ky Co Beach, Do Son Beach, and the Tam Bac Lake & Flower Street.