Hanoians release fish to preserve ancient tradition
Releasing carp to bid farewell to the Kitchen Gods is a long-standing spiritual tradition in Vietnam that it has been preserved by Hanoians for generations.
THE HANOI TIMES — Early on the morning of February 10, people gathered at rivers, lakes, ponds and canals across Hanoi to release carp, marking the Kitchen Gods’ return to heaven and reflects hopes for peace, prosperity and happiness in the up-coming traditional Lunar New Year.
According to legend, on the 23rd day of the 12th lunar month, the Kitchen Gods ride carp to the sky. They report to the Jade Emperor on the affairs of the families they oversee throughout the year.
From early morning, many areas were crowded, including West Lake, the To Lich River, Linh Dam Lake, Hoan Kiem Lake and the banks of the Red River.
Families brought carp, incense, flowers and offerings, while many prepared offerings the night before and released the fish early in the day.
Releasing fish is part of the Kitchen Gods’ farewell, an ancient ritual passed down through generations. Photos: Duy Khanh/ The Hanoi Times
In folk belief, carp help the Kitchen Gods cross the Dragon Gate and reach the Heavenly Court. Releasing the fish expresses respect, gratitude and the wish for protection in the coming year.
The worship of the Kitchen Gods is not only a way to honor the past, but also a way to express hope for a prosperous and joyful New Year, while at the same time reaffirming the sincere and positive intentions of the family for the future.
After the Kitchen Gods depart, Tet activities officially begin. These rituals play an important role in preserving Vietnamese cultural identity.
At West Lake, Nguyen Thi Hong from Tay Ho Ward said her family performs the ritual every year. “This year feels more reassuring as officials and volunteers guided people from early morning to remove plastic bags and not throw trash into the lake, helping protect the environment while keeping the tradition.”
Dang Nhu Quynh from Ngoc Ha Ward agreed said volunteers and officials helped people release fish gently so they would survive. “I support this way as it allows people to complete the ritual properly and promotes a more civilized public space at the end of the year,” she stated.
West Lake is a popular site for releasing fish.
People gather at West Lake early in the morning despite cold weather.
The ritual now also carries a message of environmental protection.
The message is simple but meaningful: “Release fish. Not plastic”.
A volunteer assists residents and promote environmental awareness.
This year, fishes are first placed in a central container…
…then transported to the Red River for release.
The quiet act of releasing fish remains a simple symbol of Tet traditions.
Across time and hardship, Hanoians always preserve the ritual and remain faithful to the value of family reunion.
