Thái Nguyên province in northeast Vietnam is known for its mountains, rivers and tea plantations. In the west, Núi Cốc Lake is a huge reservoir and refuge for wildlife like storks and mountain goats. Its numerous islands are the source of local legends. Thái Nguyên, the capital city, sits on the banks of the Cầu River. It’s home to the Museum of the Cultures of Vietnam’s Ethnic Groups, plus temples and pagodas.