In April, kapok flowers bloom late along relics and village roads in Vu Thu, Kien Xuong and Quynh Phu districts, embellishing the rice countryside of Thai Binh.
The ancient cotton tree blooming bright red next to an irrigation canal in Hoa Binh commune, Kien Xuong district, was taken by photographer Nguyen Trong Cung during his "hunting" for cotton flowers in his hometown. Thai Binh is located in the Red River Delta, about 120 km southeast of Hanoi. The land is famous for its rice fields, traditional craft villages, and many historical relics. In April, when the cotton flowers bloom, the scenery of Thai Binh countryside is added to its beauty and peace.
Keo Pagoda is adorned with the red color of cotton flowers on April 8.
Keo Pagoda (Than Quang Tu) is located in Duy Nhat Commune, Vu Thu District, with Le Dynasty architectural style. Mr. Cung suggested that this is a place not to be missed when coming to Thai Binh. After more than 400 years, the pagoda still retains its ancient appearance, with its architecture almost intact.
"Keo Pagoda has a peaceful setting, where visitors can wander around the pagoda, meditate and admire the cotton flowers," Mr. Cung said.
During the season of cotton flowers, Ngai temple is a popular tourist attraction, according to Mr. Cung. Many people come not only to see the flowers but also to take pictures with the ancient scenery, seeking a sense of nostalgia.
In addition to Ngai communal house, Quang Binh commune also has Quan communal house. In the communal house yard, there are two cotton trees growing close together, which locals call "double cotton trees". During the flowering season, both cotton trees bloom together, creating a bright red color that stands out in the countryside.
The kapok tree is a woody plant with a round canopy. It originated in India and is widely grown in many places in Asia such as Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Taiwan and Southern China.
Cung said he was attracted by the peaceful beauty of the countryside where the kapok trees were blooming.
"After going there, I realized that there are so many beautiful scenes in my homeland," Cung said.
In Quynh Hoa commune, Quynh Phu district, the kapok tree next to Bo Trang church began blooming at the end of March. Due to the prolonged cold weather, the kapok flowers bloomed late this year. On the branches, clusters of red flowers have bloomed thickly, interspersed with buds that have just opened.
When Mr. Cung arrived at Thai Thinh commune, Thai Thuy district, he was attracted by the curved cotton tree, which the locals called "hunchback cotton tree". The cotton tree is a resting place for tourists and photography lovers.
