24th - Culture

Phu Tho culture is closely linked to the roots of the Vietnamese nation, prominently featuring the worship of Hung Kings and the Xoan singing genre – an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO. Not only does it preserve many unique traditional festivals, but Phu Tho also embodies the characteristics of the midland region through its customs, cuisine, and simple lifestyle, creating a distinctive beauty that is both rustic and profound.

Worship of the Hung Kings

The worship of Hung Kings is a unique traditional belief of the Vietnamese people, aimed at remembering and honoring the Hung Kings– the first rulers who established the nation of Van Lang. The center of this belief is the Hung Temple Historical Site, located in Phu Tho Province, the homeland of the Vietnamese nation. The worship of Hung Kings deeply reflects the moral principle of “When drinking water, remember its source,” gratitude to ancestors, and awareness of the shared origins of the Vietnamese community. This is not only a religious activity but also a spiritual bond that unites the national identity, transcending space and time. Typical activities include the Hung Kings' Death Anniversary (the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month), offerings of incense, procession of palanquins, traditional rituals, and folk festivals, associated with Phu Tho Xoan singing and village communal activities. In 2012, the worship of Hung Kings was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This affirms the great value of this belief in preserving cultural identity, educating patriotism, and fostering a spirit of unity.

Xoan singing in Phu Tho

Xoan singing in Phu Tho is a traditional folk art form with a long history in Phu Tho province, associated with the worship of King Hung and the cultural activities of rice farming communities in the Northern Midlands. Xoan singing is usually performed in the spring, at village communal houses and temples, to pray for favorable weather, bumper crops, and peaceful life. It is not only a form of singing but also carries deep spiritual and community significance. Xoan singing features simple, folk-rich lyrics, gentle and profound melodies, and a harmonious combination of singing, dancing, and rituals. It consists of three main parts: worship singing (offering to King Hung), ritual singing, and festival singing (socializing and entertainment). In 2017, Xoan singing in Phu Tho was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This is a great pride for the people of Phu Tho, contributing to the preservation of national cultural identity and the development of cultural tourism.

Muong-Thai-Dao Culture

The cultures of the Muong, Thai, and Dao are distinctive ethnic cultural features of the northern midland and mountainous regions of Vietnam. Each ethnic group has its own unique identity but is closely connected to the mountains, rivers, and community life, contributing to the richness of Vietnamese cultural diversity.

a. The Muong ethnic culture is deeply rooted in agriculture and village community life. They mainly reside in Hoa Binh and Phu Tho with traditional stilt houses, Muong gong culture, the "Born of the land, born of water" epic, simple clothing, a life linked to wet rice cultivation, festivals, wine jars, and highly cohesive community activities.

b. The Thai ethnic culture is notable for its artistic and communal spirit. They are widely distributed in the Northwest with high, airy stilt houses, intricate brocade clothing, Xoe dance, festivals, rich culinary culture, and a wealth of folk art and traditional festivals.

c. The Dao ethnic culture reflects a profound spiritual life and indigenous knowledge. They live in high mountainous areas with colorful, intricately embroidered clothing, and deep spiritual beliefs.

Truc Lam Buddhism

Truc Lam Buddhism is a Zen tradition deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, founded by King Trần Nhân Tông at the end of the 13th century. It is a form of Buddhism that harmoniously combines Buddhist philosophy with national cultural traditions, emphasizing the spirit of practice closely linked to social life. Truc Lam Buddhism advocates: practicing within the mind – enlightenment from oneself, engaging with the world – living a good life, upholding righteousness, guiding people toward serenity, compassion, and wisdom. Unlike many other Buddhist traditions, Truc Lam emphasizes that practice is inseparable from everyday life. The culture of Truc Lam Buddhism is associated with: Truc Lam Zen Monastery, temples, scenic mountain areas, and Buddhist rituals characterized by simplicity and purity. Notably in the Phu Tho region after the merger is Truc Lam Tay Thien Zen Monastery (Tam Dao) – a major Buddhist center attracting many followers and tourists. Truc Lam Buddhism contributes to: preserving national cultural identity, moral education, promoting virtuous living, and developing spiritual tourism – healing.

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