21-04-2025
The irresistible appeal of the agricultural tourism trend
In Asia, Japan stands out for its well-established agritourism offerings. Hokkaido is celebrated for its sweeping dairy farms and dreamy flower fields, while Nagano is noted for its apple orchards and golden barley. Other provinces such as Wakayama delight visitors with peach, citrus, and Japanese apricot orchards—not to mention mesmerising sunset vistas.
South Korea, too, is investing in agritourism across many provinces. Jeju Island remains a favourite, offering farm stays, tea plantation visits and fruit-picking experiences. Gangwon-do, with its mountainous terrain and patchwork of potato and corn fields, offers a more rustic retreat. It also serves as a backdrop for beloved Korean dramas, making it a must-visit for those seeking nature and nostalgia in equal measure.
In Vietnam, Moc Chau is among the destinations drawing growing numbers of visitors, owing to its rich natural charm and cultural heritage. In spring, the hills come alive with apricot and plum blossoms in full bloom, while traditional festivals lend a festive air that appeals to travellers. As summer unfolds, the district is awash with the crimson hue of ripening plums and the vivid green of tea-covered slopes. Come autumn, Moc Chau is animated with festivals and cultural celebrations, while in winter, the landscape softens under a blanket of white mustard flowers, dotted with the golden glow of wild sunflowers.
Mang Den, too, has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years. Once little known among tourists, it has since become a favourite spot for photo opportunities on social media. In early 2025, the blush of cherry blossoms lured nearly 230,000 visitors, generating around VND80 billion in revenue. Looking ahead, Kon Plong district has plans to plant one million cherry blossom trees, with aspirations of transforming Mang Den into a town known for its flowering canopies. Agritourism: An inevitable outcome towards sustainable agricultural and tourism development
For travellers, agritourism offers more than novelty—it fosters physical and emotional wellbeing. As highlighted by VerywellMind, gardening activities are particularly effective in relieving stress, enhancing physical health and encouraging social interaction.
Spending time immersed in natural surroundings has also been linked to a surge in creative thinking and improved problem-solving abilities. The study Creativity in the Wild: Improving Creative Reasoning Through Immersion in Natural Settings noted the positive impact of unplugging from technology and reconnecting with nature, including elevated moods and mental clarity.
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Beyond offering visitors a genuine and memorable experience, agritourism supports local communities, small enterprises and the sustainable growth of the tourism sector. Travelling to regions rich in scenic beauty and agricultural traditions contributes directly to livelihoods and economic vitality.
Vietnam, with its varied terrain, abundant ecosystems and layered cultural history, holds immense potential in this area. When nurtured through thoughtful investment and planning, agritourism could emerge as a key draw for both domestic and international visitors. More than just a trend, this form of travel helps preserve the distinctive cultural character of each region, highlighting local identities while offering a unique competitive edge in a crowded tourism market. Many localities are now prioritising service upgrades, with a view to delivering more refined resort experiences and wellness-focused stays.
