A large black ball placed on an iconic round terraced rice field in Mu Cang Chai, Lao Cai Province, northern Vietnam, on September 26, 2026, was removed within two hours following strong public backlash from tourists, according to photographer Pham Hoang Cuong.
Unauthorized Art Installation Disrupts Heritage Area
The unauthorized art installation completely covered a famous round terraced plot in Pung Luong Commune, altering the natural scenery of the golden rice season. Pham Hoang Cuong, a photographer from Hanoi, witnessed the object while taking pictures of the terrain and noted that multiple tourists and photography enthusiasts at the site voiced immediate objections. Cuong approached the foreigners responsible to ask for its removal, stating that it disrupted the view. According to Cuong, the individuals claimed they had secured permission from the field owner, paid an entrance fee, and rented the spot for a multi-day display before dismantling it due to the negative reaction.
Local Authorities Confirm No Permits Were Granted
Local government officials inspected the site after receiving reports, but the individuals had already departed. Ho Thi De, vice-chairwoman of Pung Luong Commune’s administration, confirmed that no one sought or received official permission to install an art project on the terraced fields. De stated firmly that the commune will not approve similar projects because they damage the historic site. Visitors pay an entrance fee of VND25,000, roughly US$1, to view and photograph the pristine harvest scenery, making artificial additions unwelcome to visitors and residents alike.
Community Resistance Protects Northwestern Vietnam Scenery
Local residents questioned the rationale behind placing the rubber ball on the agricultural landmark. Tran Ngoc Linh, a local resident, argued that the northwestern mountains and terraced fields require no alterations, asserting that modern art belongs in public spaces rather than protected historic areas. The Vietnam National Authority of Tourism notes that Mu Cang Chai features approximately 2,200 hectares of terraced rice fields. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism recognized 330 hectares of this area as a national heritage site in 2007, and the prime minister designated the fields as a special national heritage site in 2019. The destination draws travelers primarily during the flood season in April and May and the harvest season in September and October.
Common Questions About the Mu Cang Chai Art Incident
When did the black ball appear on the Mu Cang Chai terraced fields?
The installation was placed on a terraced rice field in Pung Luong Commune, Mu Cang Chai, on September 26, 2026.
How long did the installation remain on the field?
The black ball stayed in place for about two hours before being dismantled due to strong backlash from tourists and photographers.
What is the official heritage status of the rice terraces?
The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism designated 330 hectares of Mu Cang Chai’s 2,200 hectares of terraced fields as a national heritage site in 2007, and the prime minister named it a special national heritage site in 2019.
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