Top Things to Do in Cat Cat Village – Discover Sapa’s Ethnic Charm

Nestled just a short walk from Sapa Town, Cat Cat Village is one of the most popular ethnic villages in northern Vietnam. Home to the Black Hmong people, the village offers a blend of natural beauty, traditional crafts, cultural performances, and peaceful countryside life. If you're planning a visit, here are the top things to do in Cat Cat Village that will make your journey memorable.

1. Admire Tien Sa Waterfall

   
   

One of the most beautiful natural spots in the village, Tien Sa Waterfall flows gently through a green valley surrounded by traditional wooden houses, rice terraces, and bamboo bridges. The waterfall is especially scenic during spring and early summer, and the cool mist provides a refreshing break after a walk through the village. It's also one of the best photo locations in the area.

2. Watch Traditional Hmong Performances

   
   

Cat Cat Village often hosts cultural shows that feature Hmong dances, folk songs, and traditional instruments like the "khèn" (panpipe). These performances usually happen at a small outdoor stage near the waterfall or inside community houses. They give visitors a glimpse into local customs and add an emotional, artistic touch to your trip.

3. Explore Traditional Hmong Houses

   
   

Wandering through the village, you’ll find wooden stilt houses built in classic Hmong architectural style. Some of these homes are open to visitors, offering a look into how locals live, cook, and work. You'll see kitchens with wood-burning stoves, indigo-dyeing stations, and tools for farming and weaving—all reflecting a sustainable lifestyle deeply tied to nature.

4. Join a Weaving or Indigo Dyeing Workshop

   
   

One of the most authentic things to do in Cat Cat Village is to try your hand at Hmong textile weaving or indigo dyeing. Many families still make their living from handwoven fabrics, and some offer workshops where you can learn about the process—from spinning hemp fibers to coloring cloth with natural dyes. It’s a fun and educational way to connect with the local culture.

5. Take Photos at Scenic Viewpoints

   
   

Cat Cat Village is full of photo-friendly locations. Flower gardens, traditional houses, wooden bridges, and mountain swings are just a few of the picturesque spots you'll find. Many visitors love taking photos in traditional Hmong clothing, which you can rent near the village entrance. Whether you're a professional photographer or a casual traveler, Cat Cat offers countless Instagram-worthy scenes.

6. Shop for Handicrafts and Souvenirs

   
   

As you walk through the village, you'll see local vendors selling handmade textiles, silver jewelry, embroidered bags, and herbal products. These items are made by the Hmong and other ethnic minorities in the region. Buying souvenirs here supports local artisans and gives you a meaningful keepsake from your journey.

7. Try Local Food and Snacks

   
   

Don’t miss the chance to taste authentic highland cuisine. Some local dishes to try include:

• Grilled skewers (pork, chicken, or mountain vegetables)

• Sticky rice in bamboo (cơm lam)

• Corn wine (rượu ngô), a traditional Hmong alcoholic drink There are small food stalls and family-run eateries scattered around the village where you can enjoy simple but hearty meals with a view

8. Relax by the Stream or in a Garden Café

   
   

After exploring, take a break in one of the charming garden cafés by the stream or near the entrance. These quiet spots offer tea, coffee, and mountain views. It's the perfect way to rest your feet and take in the peaceful rhythms of village life.

9. Rent Traditional Hmong Outfits

   
   

For a fully immersive experience, you can rent colorful Hmong costumes to wear while exploring the village. These outfits are beautifully embroidered and make your photos extra special. Rentals are available near the ticket booth and cost around 100,000–500,000 VND.

10. Walk Through the Terraced Rice Fields

    
    

One of the most visually stunning experiences in Cat Cat Village is walking through the iconic terraced rice fields that surround the village. These stepped fields are carved into the mountainsides and change color with the seasons—lush green in summer, golden yellow in autumn, and peaceful brown in winter. There are walking paths that lead visitors along the edges of these terraces, offering panoramic views of the valley and chances to observe local farmers at work.

It's an ideal way to connect with nature while understanding how the Hmong people have adapted farming techniques to the steep mountain landscape. The serenity and open air make it a perfect activity for photographers, couples, and anyone who loves slow travel.

There are plenty of meaningful and relaxing things to do in Cat Cat Village—whether you’re interested in cultural immersion, natural landscapes, or simply slowing down. It’s an easy day trip from Sapa, but it offers a window into centuries-old traditions and the daily life of Vietnam’s northern highlands.