[1] The area, Cao Bằng (高平; 'high plateau'), was the stronghold of the last years of the Mạc dynasty after their 1592 defeat at the hands of the Trịnh lords.

During the period 1954–1971, Cao Bang town included the entire Hop Giang ward (today) and the suburban neighborhoods: Tam Trung, Thanh Son, Nà Phia, Tan An.

In 1979, the Chinese army massively attacked during the 1979 Vietnam-China border war, Cao Bang town suffered heavy damage.

Accordingly: After adjusting the administrative boundaries, Cao Bang town has 10,760.93 hectares of natural area and 67,415 people with 11 affiliated administrative units, including 6 wards: De Tham, Hop Giang, Ngoc Xuan, Song Bang, Hien River, Tan Giang and 5 communes: Chu Trinh, Duyet Trung, Hoa Chung, Hung Dao, Vinh Quang.

After its establishment, Cao Bang city has 10,762.81 hectares of natural area and 84,421 people with 11 affiliated administrative units, including 8 wards and 3 communes as at present.

The distance from Thanh Nhat town (Ha Lang) to the hill area is about 6-7 km of concrete road, which can be traveled by motorbike or car.