Bridging Cultures: The exciting highlights of Hanoi Days in Ho Chi Minh City

The 'Hanoi Days in Ho Chi Minh City' program, held from August 23-25, showcased a vibrant array of activities aimed at promoting product and tourism collaboration between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. This event brilliantly connected traditional crafts and cuisine with the southern region, creating a rich tapestry of cultural exchange.
The program not only celebrated the cultural wealth of Hanoi but also laid the groundwork for future collaborations and developments, ensuring that these cherished traditions will continue to flourish for generations to come.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Many artisans from Hanoi used this platform to kindle a passion for traditional crafts among the youth. Artisan Phan Thi Thuan from Phung Xa Village shared her enthusiasm: “I find immense joy in seeing young people take an interest in weaving. I hope this program encourages more individuals to appreciate the beauty of our craft.

Nguyen Van Tinh, another dedicated artisan from Phu Vinh Village, stressed the importance of engaging the younger generation. “Preserving our cultural heritage becomes a significant challenge if we don't pass on our love for traditional crafts,” he conveyed to Lao Dong Thu Do Newspaper.

Young participants, like Vo Tuong Vy from the University of Van Hien, expressed their newfound passion for traditional crafts. “I came out of curiosity, but I left feeling inspired and eager to dive deeper into these age-old trades,” she shared with enthusiasm.

This event has not only deepened the understanding of Thang Long's history and culture but has also reinforced the connections between generations, playing a crucial role in preserving and promoting our national identity.

Foreign visitors attend a handicraft booth. Photo: Van Dung

Each year, Ho Chi Minh City attracts millions of visitors, playing a crucial role in energizing the national tourism landscape. The dynamic collaboration between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City unlocks exciting opportunities for sustainable growth, with a special focus on celebrating cultural heritage and traditional crafts. Nguyen Anh Duong, Director of the Hanoi Promotion Agency, emphasizes this synergy’s potential.

At the vibrant "Hanoi Days in Ho Chi Minh City" event, the spotlight was on promoting traditional crafts and Hanoi cuisine, captivating attendees and fostering a rich cultural exchange. This celebration of heritage not only showcased traditional crafts but also deepened the connection between the North and South.

In the heart of District 1, Nguyen Hue Walking Street came alive with the enchanting "Crafts and Traditional Villages of Hanoi, Past and Present" exhibit. Featuring 28 booths, the event was a sensory delight, offering visitors a chance to admire the beauty of Bat Trang ceramics, Van Phuc silk, and Chuong village conical hats. Each item beautifully marries historical significance with modern appeal.

What truly set this event apart was the opportunity for interactive experiences with artisans. Attendees engaged in live demonstrations, uncovering the stories and techniques behind each craft. This hands-on approach allowed for a deeper appreciation of the heritage and skills involved, as Duong highlighted.

Com Hanoi booth. Photo: Huy Chuong

Another highlight, "Bringing the Flavors of Hanoi to the South," transformed the former Tax Trade Center into a vibrant showcase of 42 booths dedicated to promoting Hanoi’s culinary delights and specialty products under the themes "Essence of Hanoi Cuisine" and "Flavors of Hanoi."

Visitors immersed themselves in the sights and tastes of Hanoi, with enchanting displays of the Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market. Local chefs and artisans presented iconic dishes such as Hanoi beer, pho, bun cha, bun oc, and Vong Village's green sticky rice, allowing guests to experience the rich culinary culture of the capital.

Nguyen Thi Hien, owner of the "Bun Oc Ba Ngoai" booth, expressed her enthusiasm: "Ho Chi Minh City is a thriving tourism hub, and we want to awaken and widely introduce Hanoi's culinary treasures. Participating in 'Hanoi Days in Ho Chi Minh City' has been an emotional experience, sharing my products with the people here."

At the heart of the exhibition, the Hanoi beer booth drew a crowd. Nguyen Thi Hong Nhung, a resident of Thu Duc City, said: "Anyone who has spent time in Hanoi has probably sat at a Hanoi beer stall at least once. Seeing this space here truly stirs my emotions after more than six months away."

Local visitors enjoy Hanoi beer. Photo: Huy Chuong

During her visit, Vu Thu Ha, Deputy Chairwoman of the Hanoi People's Committee, praised the diverse flavors and cultural depth showcased at the event.

She highlighted that Hanoi is home to over 1,300 craft villages, with more than 300 traditional ones, many of which are still underappreciated. Through this promotional effort, she applauded the artisans for their dedication in sharing their stories and crafts with a wider audience.

Deputy Chairman Nguyen Manh Quyen emphasized the importance of the booths' quality and aesthetics, viewing this event as an excellent opportunity for local artisans and businesses to present their signature products to Ho Chi Minh City and beyond.

He encouraged exhibitors to create diverse displays and thoroughly convey the historical significance of their products to visitors.

"For food booths, ensuring food safety and hygiene is essential," he added, underscoring the commitment to maintaining high standards while promoting Hanoi's culinary heritage.