The art of crafting lotus-scented tea in Hanoi has been recognized as a national treasure, and rightfully so. Lotus tea is revered as one of Vietnam’s finest tea varieties and a unique gift for travelers visiting the capital city. Its delicate fragrance and subtle flavor notes are a testament to the artisans’ dedication and skill.
Creating lotus tea is a meticulous and time-honored process. Artisans carefully pour dried tea into the delicate lotus flower, with each flower typically holding approximately 13g of tea. It takes between 1,200 and 1,500 lotus flowers to infuse a mere three kilograms of tea with its distinctive aroma.
Another newly recognized intangible cultural heritage is the incense-making tradition of Tay Ninh province. One of the largest and oldest of its kind in southern Vietnam, the village buzzes with activity year-round as artisans skillfully craft incense sticks for the country’s main festivals, including Lunar New Year, First Full Moon Festival, and Seventh Full Moon Festival.
In the central province of Quang Ngai, visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the ancient art of pottery-making. The local community has meticulously preserved this heritage through generations, with skilled artisans creating an array of ceramic masterpieces.
The Sa Huynh pottery-making craft boasts a diverse range of over 40 products, from jars and vases to incense burners and candle holders. These functional and aesthetically pleasing creations have become a beloved part of daily life and cultural rituals.
The Muong ethnic people of Phu Tho province in northern Vietnam are renowned for their natural brocade weaving techniques. Their unique brocade products, dyed with natural materials, showcase the cultural imprints of ethnic groups, making them a cherished part of Vietnam’s intangible heritage.
Additionally, the traditional mat weaving craft of the Khmer ethnic people in Tra Vinh province has been added to the list of national intangible cultural heritage. Established in the late 19th century, this craft embodies the rich cultural traditions of the Khmer community.
These recognitions serve as a testament to the dedication and skill of artisans across Vietnam, inspiring them to continue preserving and promoting the country’s rich cultural heritage for generations to come.
Ca Tru Performances in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
A good way for tourists to experience the local culture of Hanoi is to attend a live Ca tru performance, a traditional form of Vietnamese music, performed by Thang Long Ca Tru Club’s singers at Quan De Temple on Hang Buom Street in the Old Quarter of Hanoi.