“Rhododendron school” - a tourism hit in Lao Cai

Using the regional flora Rhododendron simsii to attract visitors to a local elementary school, Lao Cai Province has developed an unprecedented approach to ethnic tourism which has helped promote local culture in a unique way.

Y Ty appeals to tourists with human wonder, tradition

Every week, visitors coming to Y Ty Elementary School for Ethnic Minorities in Lao Cai province are greeted with the sight of colorful Rhododendron simsii planted around the campus by the teachers themselves.

“Y Ty commune is always among the country’s most visited locations, so we had the idea to open up the school for tourists as well”, said the principal.

Rows of Rhododendron trees along the school gate

Besides the beautiful flowers that spark joy for any beholder, the school also sets up replicas of ethnic housing on the campus to teach students about their traditions.

Teachers at Y Ty Elementary believe that in taking care of the trees and cleaning up around the campus, students will learn valuable gardening skills that they can apply at home and nurture their love for the environment.

Replica of a house of H'Mong ethnic people

The school has become the first destination in the agenda of many tourists visiting Y Ty commune. In the photo: The blossom carpets naturally lend themselves to excellent group photos