Vietexplorer2024

The Bat Trang Pottery and Van Phuc Silk Weaving villages, now officially part of the World Crafts Network, were celebrated on the evening of February 14 at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi. This recognition shines a light on the rich history and cultural significance of these traditional craft villages. Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, in his speech, emphasized the longstanding reputation of Thang Long – present-day Hanoi – as the “land of hundreds of trades” in Vietnam. He highlighted that for centuries, Hanoi has been the nation’s cultural epicenter, boasting a wealth of historical relics, cultural heritage sites, and, of course, its renowned craft villages.  Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, delivers an impassioned speech at the ceremony. Photo: Tung Nguyen/kinhtedothi.vn Mr. Quyen went on to describe the villages of Bat Trang and Van Phuc as not just symbols of Vietnamese craftsmanship but ...

Le Mat, a village located about seven kilometers from downtown Hanoi, in the present-day Viet Hung Ward of Long Bien District, has gained a reputation for its unique snake farming tradition and mouthwatering snake cuisine. To commemorate this ancient trade, the village hosts an annual festival on the 23rd day of the third lunar month, attracting locals and visitors alike. The village of Le Mat comes alive during its annual festival, with the highlight being the famous Jiaolong or snake dance. This ancient ritual draws visitors from near and far, eager to witness this unique tradition. Photos: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times The festival is a celebration of rich cultural heritage, featuring a range of rituals and folk activities. Among these, the Water Offering Ceremony and the Jiaolong or Snake Killing Dance stand out as particularly unique. The latter, one of the ten ancient dances of the imperial capital of Thang Long, showcases the village’s deep-rooted traditions. Accordi...

Hanoi has embarked on an ambitious project to restore and rejuvenate iconic historical and cultural landmarks, with a scheduled completion date of 2026. With a substantial investment of VND267 billion (US$10.5 million), the project aims to conserve the revered pagodas and create a new memorial dedicated to the beloved President Ho Chi Minh. The Tram Pagoda complex, nestled in the serene Tram Mountain, is one of Vietnam’s four oldest architectural treasures. A short walk from the main pagoda leads to the mystical Long Tien Cave, enhancing the spiritual ambiance of this sacred site. The National Relic Complex, comprising the Tram Pagoda and the Tram Gian Pagoda, is a testament to Vietnam’s rich historical and cultural heritage. Located just 20 kilometers from the bustling heart of Hanoi, the complex offers a tranquil escape amidst ancient trees and a sense of spiritual serenity. As visitors approach the Tram Pagoda, they are greeted by majestic ancient trees that provid...

On January 5, Vietnam clinched their third ASEAN Cup title with a thrilling 3-2 victory over Thailand at Bangkok’s Rajamangala Stadium. The match was an exhilarating display of footballing prowess and determination by both teams. Vietnamese players and coaching staff celebrate their third ASEAN Cup triumph. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times Vietnam drew first blood in the 8th minute through a skillful finish by striker Pham Tuan Hai. Thailand, however, responded strongly with two goals from Ben Davis in the 28th minute and Supachok Sarachat in the 64th, turning the game around to lead 2-1. Controversy arose when Thailand’s second goal was scored after Vietnam had put the ball out of play to attend to an injured player, expecting a return of possession from their opponents. Striker Pham Tuan Hai (number 10) celebrates his opening goal. Photo: Ngoc Tu/The Hanoi Times The match took another turn in the 75th minute when Thai player Weerathep Pomphan received hi...

**Prime Minister Narendra Modi Meets Fahad Ghazi Alabduljaleel, President of the Kuwait Heritage Society** Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Mr. Fahad Ghazi Alabduljaleel, a prominent figure in Kuwait’s cultural landscape. Fahad, born in 1974, is an author, businessman, and passionate preserver of Kuwait’s heritage and history. He currently chairs the Kuwait Heritage Society and is a member of the Kuwait Writers Association. During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi expressed appreciation for Fahad’s dedication to conserving rare manuscripts and artifacts connected to India and Kuwait. This work strengthens the historical connections between the two nations. Fahad has published numerous books on Kuwait’s heritage, including encyclopedias on its economy, press, and media history. He is also working on a book titled “Encyclopedia about Kuwait India relations.” His efforts have been recognized by the Gulf Cooperation Council countries, who named him the Heritage Personality of the...

Van Phuc, a thousand-year-old craft village nestled in Hanoi’s Ha Dong District, is renowned for its rich heritage centered around the exquisite art of silk weaving. With over 160 households dedicated to this revered craft, Van Phuc has earned a place in the Vietnam Records Book Center as “the oldest silk village in operation” in the country. **A Timeless Craft, A Passionate Community** Step into the Van Phuc Silk Village, and you’ll find yourself in a world where the ancient art of silk weaving is still thriving. This village, located in Ha Dong District, Hanoi, is home to a passionate community that has dedicated themselves to preserving and perfecting this timeless craft. Van Phuc silk is celebrated for its unparalleled smoothness and its deep cultural significance. Once a tribute to kings during the feudal dynasties, it gained international acclaim at the 1931 Marseille International Fair. The French hailed it as “the most exquisite product of Indochina,” and by 1958, Van Phuc...