Bac Ha is a in a fertile valley near the Chinese border. In this area there are 10 minority groups and the Flower Hmong make up 65% of the population. People travel long distances into town from the surrounding area, often using pack horses to carry goods to and from market. The blacksmiths wear typical male clothing - plain black trousers, waistcoats and jackets, with many styles of hats and some green military style clothing, which is cheap and available in the market. The women stand out in their bright colours and full skirts which sway seductively as they walk.
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