Tangible Culture

Tangible culture in Vietnam includes material cultural elements that are preserved and cherished as part
of the nation’s heritage. These elements are vital for showcasing the history, art, and daily life of
the Vietnamese people.

1.Historical Architecture

  • Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (Hanoi): A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this
    ancient citadel reflects over 1,000 years of Vietnamese history, from the
    Ly Dynasty to the Nguyen Dynasty.
  • Hue Imperial City (Thua Thien-Hue): Known for its grand palaces, temples, and tombs, this complex served as the royal capital during the Nguyen Dynasty.
  • My Son Sanctuary (Quang Nam): A cluster of Hindu temples built by the Champa Kingdom, showcasing intricate stone carvings and unique architecture.
  • One Pillar Pagoda (Hanoi): A historic Buddhist pagoda constructed in the 11th century, symbolizing a lotus flower rising from the water.

2.Monuments and Artifacts

2.1 Monuments
  • Vietnam National Museum of History houses invaluable artifacts from prehistoric times to modern history.
  • The Museum of Ethnology showcases the cultural heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
2.2 Archaeological Sites:
  • Son Doong Cave (Quang Binh): The largest cave in the world, featuring unique geological formations.
  • Da Dia Rock Reef (Phu Yen): A natural wonder made up of hexagonal basalt rock formations.

3.Modern Cultural Structures

  • Hanoi Opera House: A masterpiece of French colonial architecture built in the early 20th century.
  • Dragon Bridge (Da Nang): A contemporary bridge shaped like a dragon, symbolizing prosperity.
  • Landmark 81 (Ho Chi Minh City): The tallest building in Vietnam, representing the nation’s modern development.

Intangible Culture

Intangible culture includes non-material cultural elements, representing the soul and spirit of
Vietnamese traditions and customs. These elements are passed down through generations and play a
crucial role in preserving the nation’s identity.

1.Music and Performing Arts

  • Ca Tru Singing: A traditional form of chamber music performed with a lute and unique vocal techniques.
  • Quan Ho Folk Songs (Bac Ninh): A lyrical duet singing style performed at festivals and village gatherings.
  • Hue Royal Court Music: A ceremonial music form performed during imperial rituals, recognized by UNESCO.
  • Đờn Ca Tài Tử (Southern Amateur Music): A soulful style of folk music deeply rooted in the Southern region’s culture.

2.Customs and Festivals

  • Giong Festival: Celebrates Saint Giong, a national hero, with processions and traditional performances in Hanoi.
  • Perfume Pagoda Festival: A spiritual journey to a sacred Buddhist complex, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually.
  • Hung Kings’ Festival: Honors the legendary Hung Kings, the founders of the Vietnamese nation.
  • Gong Cultural Space: The unique gong music of the Central Highlands reflects spiritual beliefs and community unity.

3.Traditional Cuisine

  • Pho: A world-famous noodle soup, considered Vietnam’s national dish.
  • Bun Cha: Grilled pork served with noodles and dipping sauce, a specialty of Hanoi.
  • Banh Xeo: Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
  • Nem (Spring Rolls): A versatile dish with regional variations, often served during festive occasions.

Some famous tourist areas

Hoan Kiem Lake

  • A symbol of Hanoi, deeply connected to the city’s history and culture.
  • Visitors can stroll around the lake, admire the iconic red The Huc Bridge or visit Ngoc SonTemple.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

  • The final resting place of President Ho Chi Minh, combined with Ba Dinh Square and the Presidential Palace.
  • A must-visit site for those interested in Vietnam’s history.

Tran Quoc Pagoda

  • Located on a small peninsula in West Lake, Tran Quoc is the oldest pagoda in Hanoi,showcasing traditional Buddhist architecture.

Bat Trang Pottery Village

  • Located on the outskirts of Hanoi, this villageis renowned for its traditional pottery-making craft.
  • Visitors can try their hand at pottery and shop for handmade products.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a historicalrelic associated with many Vietnamese dynasties.

Ba Vi National Park

  • About 60km from Hanoi’s center, Ba Vi is known for its majestic mountain scenery, eco-tourism spots, and the Temple of Tan Vien Son Thanh.