Vietnamese Culture

Vietnamese Culture is one of the oldest culture in the World which has undergone changes almost four thousands of years. Some people said Vietnam culture has influence from Chinese culture but there is a study shows Culture of Vietnam has its own characters and has parallel development to Chinese culture. Along the history of Vietnam from the Dynasty of Trieu, Dinh, Ly, Tran & Le. In the pretty much same time with Chinese dynasty of Han, Duong, Tong, Nguyen.

According to scholarly sources, the culture of Vietnam originated from ancient Nam Viet, an ancient kingdom of Giao Chi people which shared characteristics of Han Chinese cultures and the ancient Dong Son Culture, considered one of the most important progenitors of its indigenous culture, during the Bronze Age. Nam Viet was occupied by Northern evaders in 111 BC, leading to the first Chinese domination of Vietnam lasting over thousand years that propelled Chinese influences onto Vietnamese culture in terms of Confucian philosophy governance, and the arts.

Following independence from Chinese in the 10th century; successive Vietnamese imperial dynasties flourished as the country embarked on a southward expansion that annexed territories of the Champa and Khmer civilizations; which resulted in regional variances of modern-day culture of Vietnam. During the French colonial period in the mid-19th century; Vietnamese culture absorbed European influences including architecture; Catholicism, and the adoption of the Latin alphabet, which created the new official writing system that replaced the previous Chinese characters and Nom scripts.

After French left, Vietnamese culture was characterized by government-controlled propaganda, which emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges with fellow communist nations such as the Soviet Union, China, and Cuba. Following the reform in 1986, Vietnam has continuously absorbed various influences from Asian, European, and American cultures.

Vietnamese culture, with its roots intertwined with Chinese traditions, holds the family unit in high esteem. It’s a society where nurturing the young and honoring the elderly are seen as inherent duties. Multi-generational households are a common sight, symbolizing the deep-seated value placed on familial bonds.

Respect for elders, a reverence for food as a cultural cornerstone, and maintaining a serene composure are pillars of Vietnamese values. Loyalty and respect within the family are paramount. Influenced by Confucianism, many in Vietnam adopt its principles, shaping a way of life that emphasizes harmony, community, and moral conduct.

Important cultural symbols include 4 holy animals: Dragons, Turtles, Phoenix, Unicorn. The national flower is lotuses and the most popular plant in Vietnam is bamboo.

Here are some interesting facts about Vietnamese culture:

• Vietnamese culture values emphasize respect for family, harmony in community relationships, and humility in personal conduct. These values are rooted in Confucianism and permeate daily life, influencing everything from social interactions to business practices in Vietnam.
• Viet Nam’s culture blends traditions influenced by Chinese and Western cultures, alongside a mix of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, collectively known as Tam Giao in Vietnamese.
• Language: The official language is Vietnamese, which has six different tones, making it a tonal language.
• Writing System: The Vietnamese writing system uses the Latin alphabet with additional diacritics.
• Family Structure: Family is the cornerstone of Vietnamese society. Extended families often live together, and respect for elders is paramount.
• Ancestor Worship: Many Vietnamese people practice ancestor worship, believing that deceased family members continue to influence the living.
• Pho: A famous Vietnamese dish, Pho is a noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, usually beef or chicken.
• Diverse Ingredients: Vietnamese cuisine is known for its use of fresh herbs and vegetables, minimal use of dairy and oil, and reliance on rice and noodles as staples.
• Ao Dai: The Ao Dai is the traditional Vietnamese dress, known for its elegance. It is worn by both men and women, especially on formal occasions.
• Tet Nguyen Dan: The Vietnamese New Year, or Tet, is the most important festival in Vietnam. It marks the arrival of spring and is celebrated with various customs, such as cleaning the house, paying off debts, and cooking special foods.
• Mid-Autumn Festival: Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, this festival involves mooncakes and lantern processions, especially popular with children.
• Buddhism: The dominant religion in Vietnam is Buddhism, but there are also significant numbers of Catholics, Protestants, and followers of Cao Dai and Hoa Hao.
• Folk Religion: Many Vietnamese practice a form of folk religion that includes elements of animism, ancestor worship, and the worship of deities and natural phenomena.
• Water Puppetry: A traditional Vietnamese art form, water puppetry dates back to the 11th century. It involves wooden puppets performing on water, depicting rural life and folklore.
• Literature: Vietnamese literature has a rich history, with notable contributions in both poetry and prose. Classic works often reflect themes of love, nature, and patriotism.
• Traditional Music: Vietnamese traditional music includes various forms such as Ca Tru, Cheo, and Quan Ho. Each region of Vietnam has its own distinct musical styles.
• Dance: Traditional Vietnamese dance often depicts historical events, myths, and daily life. The Lion Dance is particularly popular during the Tet festival.
• Pagodas and Temples: Vietnam is home to many ancient pagodas and temples, which are architectural marvels. These structures often have curved roofs, intricate carvings, and statues of deities.
• French Colonial Influence: French colonial architecture is also prominent in Vietnam, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
• Vovinam: Vovinam is a traditional Vietnamese martial art that combines self-defense techniques with the philosophy of striving to achieve harmony between hard and soft elements.
• Silk Production: Vietnam is known for its high-quality silk and traditional silk weaving techniques.
• Handicrafts: Vietnamese handicrafts, such as lacquerware, ceramics, and bamboo products, are highly valued both domestically and internationally.

Ethnic groups in Vietnam

Vietnam is a multiethnic country with over fifty distinct groups (54 Totally). Each of them has its own language, lifestyle, and cultural heritage. Many of the local ethnic groups residing in mountain areas are known collectively in the West as Montagnard or Degar.

The largest ethnic groups are: Kinh (Viet) 85.7%, Tay 1.9%, Tai Ethnic 1.8%, Mường 1.5%, Khmer Krom 1.5%, Hmong 1.2%, Nung 1.1%, Hoa 1%, with all others comprising the remaining 4.3% (2009 census). The Vietnamese has term for ethnic group (literally “minority people”). One distinctive feature of highland ethnic minority groups in Vietnam is that they are colorfully attired whether at home, in the farm, traveling or in their home town.

Many ethnic groups elsewhere such as southern part of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, China, Papua New Guinea, and many other countries do not wear attractive clothes while engaged in their day-to-day activities. The clothing of one group is quite different from that of other groups and adds color to the social landscape. When you travel in Vietnam, you will meet and even talk to many of them. In the trip to Sapa, you may see dozens of them or some province as Lai Chau has 20 ethnic groups ( more than 3 hundreds thousand habitats). Dak Lak province has most in Vietnam with 47 ethnic groups.

Vietnam boasts a stunning diversity of ethnicities, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Over 54 ethnic groups are officially recognized in Vietnam, each with its own unique traditions, languages, and customs. The Kinh (Viet) ethnic group makes up about 86% of the population. But venture beyond the Kinh majority, and you’ll discover a mosaic of fascinating ethnic minorities.

Here are some of the major ethnic groups in Vietnam:

• Kinh (Viet): The dominant ethnic group, also known as Vietnamese.
• Tay: Renowned for their distinctive stilt houses, a must-see for any visitor to Northern Vietnam.
• Thai: Celebrated for their vibrant textiles and beautiful clothing.
• Hmong: Masters of embroidery and silversmithing, their handicrafts are a treasured souvenir.
• Dao: Skilled artisans, famous for their indigo-dyed fabrics.

This is just a glimpse into the rich ethnic landscape of Vietnam. Each group has its own story to tell, adding another layer of fascination to this captivating country. So, explore Vietnam’s ethnic tapestry and discover the cultural gems hidden within its diverse communities!

Social Beliefs & Customs in Vietnam

Family is very strong in Vietnam. Family and clan (dòng họ) are valued over individualism. Clan is the most important social unit in the country and each clan features a patriarch heading the clan and a clan altar. Even today, in some parts of the country, the tradition of clan members living together in longhouses is quite prevalent. It is also not uncommon to see three to four generations of a family living together in the same house. Members of a clan are related by blood and often name their villages based on their clan names. Death commemorations of clan members are usually attended by all members of the clan and villagers.

Weddings in Vietnam earlier was arranged mainly by parents and people were married very young. However, things have changed so much in recent years since Vietnam Open the door to the World and tourism pick up in early of 90. Vietnamese youth enjoy greater freedom of choosing the time of their marriage and their partner. Weddings are still mostly held in the traditional manner with elaborate rituals and ceremonies. The date for Wedding was carefully selected by Feng Shui master or most respected man in the Clan.

The traditional funeral ceremony in Vietnam is also quite elaborate and long-stretched. The body of the dead person is cleaned with fragrant water and dressed carefully in the special clothes. A lot of mourning following and depends on each tribe and location, they have the slightly different ceremony. Later the body will be burying, the most popular method. Recently, some area, people choose cremation instead of burying. Only 1 case of remains in frozen condition and several cases of Monks body was kept inside the statues…

According to Confucian, men and women can not touch hand unless they are husband and wife so Vietnamese people don’t hug when meeting. They say ” Xin Chao” or handshake between men.
People in the city talk gently and quietly and people come from the countryside or from the sea talk pretty loud. They work on the farm or ocean and they got to talk even louder than the wind or the waves.

Understanding social etiquette is important when visiting Vietnam. You can learn more about Vietnamese customs and etiquette in our Essential Guide to Customs and Etiquette in Vietnam.

Traditions in Vietnam

Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry is woven with traditions that reflect its vibrant history and diverse heritage. At the heart of Vietnamese life is the Lunar New Year, or Tết Nguyên Đán, a time when families reunite to honor ancestors and celebrate new beginnings. This reverence for forebears extends beyond the holiday, with many homes featuring altars for regular ancestral offerings.
Another cherished tradition is the Mid-Autumn Festival, where children’s laughter mingles with the glow of lanterns and the sweetness of mooncakes.

Vietnam’s sartorial heritage shines through in the elegant áo dài, often donned for special occasions. The country’s artistic spirit comes alive in unique water puppetry performances, while traditional music and dance add rhythm to cultural expressions. Vietnamese cuisine, a delightful balance of flavors and fresh ingredients, is more than sustenance—it’s a proud cultural ambassador. From the aromatic phở to the crusty bánh mì, each dish tells a story of Vietnam’s culinary traditions.

These customs, along with tea ceremonies and martial arts, underscore the nation’s deep-rooted respect for family, heritage, and cultural identity, inviting both locals and visitors to experience the warmth and richness of Vietnamese traditions.

Vietnamese traditions are a vibrant blend of ancient customs, communal values, and unique celebrations that reflect the country’s rich history and diverse cultural heritage. Here are some of the most notable traditions in Vietnam:

1. Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year): Tết marks the arrival of spring and is the most important holiday in Vietnam. Families gather to clean their homes, prepare special foods, and honor their ancestors with offerings and prayers.
2. Veneration of the Dead (Ancestor Worship): Honoring ancestors is a core aspect of Vietnamese culture. This deep-seated tradition involves maintaining home altars where they offer incense, food, and prayers and performing rituals to honor deceased family members, showcasing the respect for family and lineage.
3. Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu): Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, this festival is for children. It features lantern processions, lion dances, and mooncakes to celebrate the harvest and the full moon.
4. God of Wealth (Thần Tài): On the 10th day of the lunar year, businesses and households worship the God of Wealth to attract prosperity and good fortune for the year ahead.
5. Communal dining: Food is a big part of Vietnamese culture, and meals are often seen as a time to bond with family and friends. Sharing dishes from a communal plate in the center of the table is a common practice.
6. Respect for elders: Age is highly respected in Vietnamese society, and younger people are expected to show deference to their elders. This is reflected in greetings, conversation, and decision-making.
7. Tea culture: Tea is a beloved beverage in Vietnam, and drinking tea is seen as a way to relax, socialize, and bond with others.
8. Visiting Pagodas: Regularly visiting pagodas and temples is a common practice in Vietnam, reflecting the strong influence of Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism in Vietnamese spirituality.
9. Vietnamese People Are Relentlessly Optimistic: Despite hardships, Vietnamese people are known for their unwavering optimism and resilience, which is reflected in their cultural expressions and daily life.
10. Hùng Kings’ Festival: This festival commemorates the legendary Hùng Kings, the traditional founders of Vietnam. It includes ceremonies, traditional games, and performances to honor these ancient rulers.
11. Khau Vai Love Market: An annual event where ethnic minority groups gather in Khau Vai village to celebrate love and reunite with past lovers, reflecting the unique social customs of the region.
12. Perfume Pagoda Festival: Taking place from the first to the third lunar month, this pilgrimage involves a journey to the Perfume Pagoda, where devotees pray for health, prosperity, and happiness.

Vietnamese traditions are a beautiful mosaic of rituals, festivals, and social customs that bind the community together and celebrate life’s significant moments. These traditions offer a window into the soul of Vietnam, where the past and present harmoniously coexist.

Vietnamese Cuisine

Vietnamese food is fresh and healthy and getting more and more popular all over the World. It exhibits great diversity but can be classified into three primary categories by locations: the north, south, and central regions of the country. Many types of noodles and noodle soups and all type of spring rolls are popular here. Less use of oil and greater use of fresh vegetables is preferred. Soy sauce, fish sauce, mint, and basil are popular ingredients. Rice is the main food and eaten in 3 meals a day. The flavors of Vietnamese food range from spicy and sour to sweet. The Noodle Soup originating in North Vietnam is a noted Vietnamese dish and features rice noodles with beef, chicken, fish, sea food…. soup and scallions or bean sprouts as accompaniments. There is vegetarian noodle soup too.

Vietnamese cuisine is an explosion of fresh flavors and vibrant textures, a delightful dance on your taste buds. Imagine fragrant bowls of pho, steaming hot and brimming with rice noodles, succulent meats, and a rich, aromatic broth. Or picture crusty banh mi sandwiches, filled with savory meats, pickled vegetables, and a touch of creamy pate.

Vietnamese cooking boasts a beautiful regional diversity. In the north, dishes lean towards lighter broths and fresh herbs. Central Vietnam cranks up the heat with chilies and spices, while the south features a touch of sweetness and bolder flavors.

Here’s a taste of what awaits you:

• Pho: The national treasure, pho is a fragrant noodle soup with a rich beef broth, rice noodles, thinly sliced meat (often beef), and a vibrant array of fresh herbs and vegetables.
• Banh Mi: The quintessential Vietnamese street food, banh mi is a crusty baguette stuffed with savory fillings like pate, grilled meats, pickled vegetables, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili sauce for a flavor explosion.
• Bún Chả: This dish features grilled, marinated pork served with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and dipping sauce for a refreshing and flavorful experience.
• Gỏi Cuốn (Spring Rolls): Fresh and light, these spring rolls are packed with rice noodles, herbs, vegetables, and sometimes shrimp or pork, all wrapped in a thin rice paper sheet and dipped in a flavorful peanut sauce.

Traditional costumes of Vietnam

54 tribes in Vietnam has their own traditional costumes. The traditional dress of the Vietnamese people changed significantly from time to time and depended largely on the whims and fancies of the region’s rulers. The common people of the country had greater freedom to choose their clothing prior to the Nguyen dynasty. During Nguyen Dynasty, several restrictions were placed on the type and colors of clothes that could be worn by the common people of Vietnam.

Some of the examples of traditional Vietnamese costumes are the Áo Giao Lĩnh, the Áo Tứ Thân, Áo Cánh, and the Áo Bà Ba. The first one refers to a cross-collared robe worn by the Vietnamese men while the second is a four-part dress worn by the women.

The last two dresses were worn by the peasants in the north and south, respectively and appeared like silk-pajama-type costumes. The color code of the dresses also varied from time to time and during Nguyen dynasty, only the monarchs enjoyed the exclusive rights of wearing golden clothes while purple and red were popular among the nobles and aristocrats. The headgear worn in Vietnam changed over the years with the conical hat or Non La being the most popular among the community.

Beautiful Vietnamese girls in Ao Dai ( long dress) at Hue Citadel

Traditional Vietnamese costumes reflect the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Vietnam’s various ethnic groups. The most iconic is the “ao dai,” a graceful, long tunic worn over trousers, often made from silk and adorned with intricate embroidery. The ao dai is typically worn during special occasions, weddings, and festivals, symbolizing elegance and femininity.

For men, the “ao gam” is a traditional robe, usually worn with loose pants, featuring bold, symmetrical patterns.

In the northern regions, the “quan ho” singers wear “ao tu than,” a four-piece dress, showcasing the rustic charm of the countryside. Meanwhile, the Hmong people in the highlands sport vibrant, hand-embroidered garments with intricate motifs, reflecting their close-knit community and traditions.

Vietnam’s traditional costumes not only enhance the beauty of the wearer but also tell stories of the country’s rich history and cultural diversity.

Religion and philosophy of Vietnam

Most of Vietnamese people worshiping their ancestors and believe in animism. In the ID most of Vietnamese (about 90%), the line: Religion: None.

In reality, religion in Vietnam has historically been largely defined by a mix of Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism, known in Vietnamese as the Tam Giao (“triple religion”). Catholicism is also practiced in modern Vietnam.

Ancestor worship is common in Vietnamese culture. Most Vietnamese, regardless of religious denomination, practice ancestor worship and have an ancestor altar at their home or business, a testament to the emphasis Vietnamese culture places on filial piety

Vietnamese Music & Dance

Vietnam is associated with a rich tradition of dance and music. Vietnamese music also exhibits variance in each part of Vietnam. It is older and more formal in the north while Champa culture exerts considerable influence on Central classical music and music in the southern part of the country is a livelier affair. The country has nearly 50 national music instruments. The Imperial Court music and the Ca Tru are important traditional forms of Vietnamese music.

The great ethnic diversity of Vietnam has gifted the country with diverse dance forms. These dances are usually performed at the cultural programs and festivals held in the country. The Lion dance, platter dance, fan dance, imperial lantern dance is some of the traditional dance forms of Vietnam. The dances that developed in the imperial courts of Vietnam are quite complex in nature and require great skills to be mastered.

Vietnamese Arts & Literature

Water Puppetry

Literature in Vietnam has greatly evolved over the years from romanticism to realism. Two aspects of the literature in the country are the folk literature and the written literature both of which developed almost at the same time. Folk literature features fairytales, folk legends, humorous stories, and epic poems. Written literature was previously written in the Cham and Nom characters and focused on poetry and prose. Now, it is mostly written in the National Language and includes short stories, dramas, novels, etc.

Vietnamese art is mainly influenced by Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. However, more recently, the Cham and French influence have also been reflected in the art presentations. Silk painting is popular in Vietnam and involves the liberal use of colors. Calligraphy is also a much-respected art form and often, during festivals like the Lunar New Year. On the third day of new year people would visit a village teacher or an erudite scholar to obtain calligraphy hangings for their homes. Vietnamese wood-block prints are also quite popular. Water puppetry and several forms of theaters represent other performing art forms in Vietnam.

Martial Arts in Vietnam

Vovinam ( Viet Vo Dao) is Vietnam traditional martial art. Vietnam has a very well-developed tradition of martial arts that has some similarity to Chinese martial arts. Vietnamese Vovinam martial arts philosophy guides the martial arts practice in the country. It is associated with intense spirituality because of its close association with Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. The scissor kick is a famous movement of this form of martial arts.

Although Vietnamese martial arts is less popular in other parts of the world than its Chinese or Japanese counterparts, there is no doubt that it is gradually and steadily gaining greater popularity worldwide with the establishment of schools teaching this martial art form in many parts of the world.

Vietnamese martial arts, known as “Võ thuật Việt Nam,” offer a rich tapestry of history, culture, and diverse techniques. Rooted in ancient traditions and the country’s turbulent history, these martial arts emphasize both physical prowess and mental discipline. Styles such as Vovinam, Bình Định, and Võ Cổ Truyền are prominent, each with unique characteristics. Vovinam, for instance, incorporates a mix of hard and soft techniques, including grappling and weaponry, while Bình Định is famed for its dynamic footwork and powerful strikes. Vietnamese martial arts not only teach self-defense but also promote physical fitness, self-confidence, and respect. Whether practiced for sport, self-defense, or personal growth, they offer a holistic approach to martial arts, blending strength, agility, and a deep cultural heritage.

Festivals of Vietnam

Vietnam has many festivals. In Vietnamese Festival is Le Hoi. It includes 2 parts Le: Ceremony +  Hoi: Game & fun.
Festivals including both traditional ones and those adopted from other cultures are celebrated in the country with great pomp and glory. Here is the top 10 festivals in Vietnam:

• 1 -TET Nguyen Dan – TET holidays all over the country
• 2- Hung King Holidays in March 10th ( lunar calendar)- Phu Tho province
• 3- Saint Giong Festival – In March outside Hanoi in Soc Son district
• 4- Ka Te Festival – In Champa community in Ninh Thuan Province
• 5- Perfume pagoda festival – Outside Hanoi
• 6- Dong Da Festival in Hanoi
• 7- Cau Ngu Festival in Hue in December
• 8- Hội đua voi – Elephant racing in Don village – Dak Lak province
• 9- Ba Chua Xu Festival – In Chau Doc city, An Giang province in April
• 10- Cam Muong Festival in Lai Chau province.

Holidays and other important days

Vietnam’s charm goes beyond its postcard-worthy landscapes. Dive into the heart of Vietnamese culture through its captivating holidays and celebrations!

• Tết Nguyên Đán (Lunar New Year): Imagine a week-long extravaganza welcoming spring! Tet, the most important Vietnamese holiday, explodes with vibrant flower markets, firecracker displays that banish bad luck, and ancestor veneration ceremonies. Think delicious feasts featuring bánh chưng (sticky rice cakes) and lucky red envelopes bursting with wishes for prosperity.
• Hung Kings Commemoration Day (Mar 10th Lunar Calendar): Honoring the legendary founders of Vietnam with elaborate ceremonies.
• Liberation Day and Reunification Day: April 30th and May 1st are days that commemorate the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975. These holidays are marked with parades, cultural performances, and fireworks, reflecting Vietnam’s journey towards unity and independence. It’s a time to reflect on the country’s history and celebrate its resilience and progress.
• National Day (September 2nd): Step back in time and witness the national spirit soar! Every September 2nd, Vietnam commemorates its Declaration of Independence with parades, flag raisings, and cultural performances. It’s a powerful reminder of the country’s resilience and a chance to witness the national pride in full swing.
• Beyond Public Holidays: Vietnam’s calendar is sprinkled with other cultural gems. Celebrate the harvest moon with the Mid-Autumn Festival, where streets come alive with colorful lanterns and children carry lion dances. Or, delve into the spiritual realm during the Đền Hùng Festival, honoring the legendary Hùng Kings, the ancestors of the Vietnamese people.

Vietnam’s holidays offer a unique glimpse into its soul. Remember, some holidays (like Tet) can cause business closures and transportation snags. When planning your trip to Vietnam, consider timing your visit to coincide with these vibrant holidays and festivals. Whether you’re exploring bustling city streets, tranquil countryside, or scenic coastlines, experiencing these celebrations firsthand will immerse you in the heart and soul of Vietnam.

Vietnam holidays are a blend of ancient customs and modern celebrations, offering travelers a profound cultural experience. From the iconic Tet celebrations to the festive lantern-lit streets during Mid-Autumn Festival, each holiday paints a colorful picture of Vietnam’s rich heritage. Plan your journey to Vietnam, and let these vibrant holidays become cherished memories of your travels in Southeast Asia.

Experience the magic of Vietnam—where every holiday is a celebration of culture, community, and the spirit of a nation. Start planning your Vietnam holiday today and discover why this country’s festivities are truly unforgettable.