Feature -2
A New Attraction with Japanese Cherry Blossoms
Discover Viengxay, Houaphanh … Part 2
2024.05.08
In our previous report, we introduced Viengxay Village, known for its striking cave-filled landscape and revolutionary history. Here, the Japanese NPO ADDP has continued long-term efforts in employment, education, and tourism development.
ADDP first visited in 2012 to conduct a survey on people with disabilities. At the governor’s request, they planted cherry trees in a newly built Japan-Laos Friendship Park in 2014. Growing Japanese cherry trees in Viengxay’s unfamiliar climate wasn’t easy—it took over ten years of trial planting, expert support, and careful care.
This long process was led by local staff, including people with hearing impairments. In 2020, a café named Minnano Caféwas opened on-site, creating jobs in baking and service, and turning the park into a model for inclusive employment. Visitors can enjoy handmade bread and pastries while viewing the trees.
Among the six cherry types planted, the Ryukyu cherry thrived the most, blooming from early December to late January. During the season, tourists from neighboring countries such as China and Korea come to see the blossoms. Since this overlaps with the Hmong New Year, Hmong women in traditional dress also visit for hanami. The sight of them under the cherry trees is strikingly beautiful.
This time, we had the rare opportunity to visit the homes of local Hmong and Yao families. Their daily lives are steeped in tradition, with intricately woven fabrics produced on simple wooden looms. The contrast between the looms’ simplicity and the patterns’ complexity was fascinating.
Houaphanh is known for its outstanding textiles, and combining cherry blossoms with such local culture offers visitors a richer travel experience. With a new hotel being built nearby and plans for direct bus service from Vietnam, the area is steadily preparing for more visitors. Sitting in the café with a fresh croissant and cherry blossoms in view, I found myself already wanting to return.
Cooperation: ADDP / Jumping Tour
*ADDP
The NPO "Association for Aid and Relief, Asia"Since 1992, this NPO has supported people with disabilities across Asia. In Laos, it promotes education, sports, and employment. In 2015, it launched a cherry blossom park and café project in Viengxay to support deaf workers, which evolved into a tourism initiative. In 2023, it began a new revitalization project using a PPT strategy with Houaphanh Province.
*Jumping Tour Co., Ltd.
A travel agency specializing in Laos. It serves as the representative office of the Lao Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism in Japan, and is a member of the Japan-Laos Association. The company produces and coordinates the regional revitalization project in Viengxay Village.
