Vietnam is a predominantly agricultural country, where 75% of the population lives in rural areas, and agriculture accounts for a significant portion of the economy.

However, the rural-urban income gap continues to widen, with per capita income in rural areas nearly 2.5 times lower than that of urban residents.

This disparity is exacerbated by the high number of unemployed and jobless people in rural areas, which is almost 7 million higher than in urban areas.

Furthermore, the rapid urbanization of Vietnam has led to the weakening of the social fabric of rural areas, and the associated increase in deforestation has placed additional pressure on the economic, social, and environmental problems of the cities.

The lack of basic infrastructure, such as transportation, roads, drainage, irrigation water supply, electricity supply, and communication, further compounds the challenges faced by rural communities.

Despite these challenges, Vietnam's rural areas offer a rich cultural heritage that is unique and captivating. One such example is the traditional incense-making, which is the oldest folk craft in Vietnam.

Every year during the Chinese New Year, incense and candles are needed to burn incense and worship, pray for blessings, and restore the spiritual essence of the surroundings. This time of the year is the busiest period for incense-making workshops in rural areas, with workers spreading out semi-finished bamboo incense to dry.

The sight of hundreds of dyed red bamboo rods upside down on the ground is a breathtaking view that has been captured by countless photographers from around the world.

Another attraction in rural Vietnam is the ethnic minorities in the mountainous areas, particularly in the neighboring provinces near the Chinese border. These areas remain relatively undeveloped for commercialization and tourism, thus preserving the authentic, rustic life of ethnic minorities.

The traditional rice field farming, the handicraft of sewing traditional ethnic costumes, the hurried market life down the mountain, and the elderly and children left behind are moments that photographers capture, showcasing the real, authentic life of these communities.

The unique landscapes of Vietnam are also a great attraction. From the window of a small train, one can enjoy endless streaks of green rice paddies, while in Halong Bay, the empty horizon dotted with incisor-like limestone islands is a sight to behold.

The southern town of Mui Ne offers stunning dune scenes reminiscent of the Saharan desert, while in the north, one can marvel at the scenic high mountain scenery and enjoy the distant northern karst mountains.

To address the challenges faced by rural areas in Vietnam, the government is investing in improving infrastructure, enhancing agricultural productivity, and promoting rural tourism. The development of ecotourism is seen as an opportunity to promote the unique cultural heritage of rural Vietnam while providing income and employment opportunities for rural communities.

There is also a growing interest in organic farming, which can improve agricultural productivity, promote sustainable practices, and provide healthier food for both rural and urban populations.

Vietnam's rural areas offer a rich cultural heritage and captivating landscapes that are unique to the country. Despite the challenges faced by rural communities, there is a growing interest in promoting sustainable practices and enhancing rural development through tourism and organic farming.

With these efforts, there is potential for Vietnam's rural areas to thrive and contribute to the country's overall development.