Tu San canyon - Kayaking hotspot on Ha Giang Loop Tour

Located on Nho Que River in the northern province of Ha Giang which borders China, Tu San is the deepest canyon in Southeast Asia stretching 1.7 kilometers with cliffs as high as 700 - 800 meters.

Local residents rent out kayaks for VND50,000 ($2.2) per person and motorboats for VND100,000 ($4.3). Visitors should call in advance to book. The winding road leading to Nho Que River, unlit at night, takes about 40 minutes to one hour on foot.

In February and March, both sides of the river are dotted with red kapok trees, contrasting with the emerald-green water.

A total 17 ethnic minorities call the plateau home, cultivating rice along the Nho Que River basin and corn on the rocky mountain slopes.

Situated around 300 kilometers (186 miles) from Hanoi, Ha Giang has become an increasingly attractive destination for its narrow, twisting mountain passes that kindle the adventurous spirit.