Vietnam is famous for natural landscapes like Ha Long Bay, refreshing Vietnamese cuisine, and its interesting colonial history.
As a cultural South East Asian country, Vietnam is known for its thousands-year-old history and heritage. It has been shaped by various influences, including Chinese, French, and American, and has seen many changes and struggles throughout history. That said, there is plenty to explore in this Asian gem.
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What Is Vietnam Famous For?
Vietnam is famous for its vibrant and colorful cities, and it also boasts a plethora of natural wonders. Ranging from famous landmarks in Vietnam to rich history, tradition, and culture. Despite its struggles in the past, it has emerged as a thriving and dynamic nation with much to offer you as a visitor.
Vietnam is also known for its traditional savory cuisines. Many tourists enjoy Vietnamese cuisine because of its fresh and flavorful ingredients. Trying the diverse range of Vietnamese food available is certainly a delicious way to learn about the culture firsthand.
Here are some specifics of what to expect when visiting Vietnam.
Where Is Vietnam?
Vietnam is a gorgeous Southeast Asian country bordered to the North by China, to the northwest by Laos, to the southwest by Cambodia, and to the east by the South China Sea.
History, Culture, and Traditions Vietnam Is Known For
Vietnam War
The Vietnam War was one of the events that Vietnam is known for globally. It is one of the most divisive and controversial wars in modern history. Millions of Vietnamese civilians and soldiers, as well as thousands of American soldiers, died in the war.
The war was fought in the jungles and villages of Vietnam, thus it was difficult for both sides to gain an advantage. The conflict finally ended when the North Vietnamese forces captured Saigon, the capital of South Vietnam, in 1975.
The war is still a painful chapter in both Vietnamese and American history. You will surely learn more about this international conflict when you visit the museums, galleries, libraries, and other architecture or landscapes that point to the war era. It’s an important history that helped shape the country’s culture and identity.
Vietnam Textiles
Intricate patterns, bright colors, and natural materials such as silk, cotton, and hemp distinguish Vietnamese textiles from other Asian styles.
The ao dai, a traditional Vietnamese garment worn by men and women, is one of the most popular textiles in Vietnam. It is made of silk or cotton, frequently brightly colored, and embellished with intricate embroidery or other designs.
Another popular type of textile in Vietnam is batik, made using a wax-resistant dyeing technique. Batik fabrics are frequently used to produce clothing, tablecloths, and other decorative items.
Whether you want a traditional or modern textile design, those available in Vietnam are a testament to the country’s rich artistic and cultural heritage. They also serve as a vibrant expression of its people’s creativity and skill.
The Lunar New Year
Tet, or the Lunar New Year, is the most important holiday in Vietnam. It is celebrated with great fanfare and excitement throughout the country. The exact date of Tet varies from year to year but usually falls in late January or early February.
The festivities usually last several days and include a variety of traditional customs and rituals. Families gather to clean their homes, prepare special foods, and decorate them with bright flowers, fruits, and other decorations. You will also witness various cultural performances like parades, dragon and lion dances, et cetera.
The exchange of gifts is one of the most important Tet traditions. Children and unmarried adults are given red envelopes filled with money to symbolize good fortune and prosperity in the coming year.
Enjoy this fascinating country’s vibrant culture and traditions and witness the Vietnamese people’s warmth and hospitality firsthand. You can eat delectable traditional foods, watch colorful parades and performances, and participate in time-honored traditions like lighting firecrackers or visiting a local temple.
Many tourists visit Vietnam during this time of year to enjoy the festive atmosphere, so the experience is more special than usual.
The Art of Water Puppetry
Water puppetry is a traditional form of Vietnamese entertainment that originated in the Red River Delta region and dated back to the 11th century. It involves intricate wooden puppets manipulated on a water stage while accompanied by live music and singing.
This one-of-a-kind art form, which tells stories from Vietnamese folklore and mythology, is an important part of the country’s artistic heritage.
Attending a live water puppetry performance that Vietnam is so famous for, is an absolute must-do for anyone interested in the country’s rich cultural heritage; it will undoubtedly leave an impression.
It is a fun way to spend an evening and provides insight into Vietnam’s artistic history and tradition.
Cities And Travel Destinations Vietnam Is Known For
Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, in southern Vietnam, is the country’s largest and most vibrant city. Formerly known as Saigon, it is a thriving center of commerce, culture, and tourism. When visiting this city, you can check out historic sites such as the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Reunification Palace, and the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
The city is famous for its savory cuisine, which includes pho, banh mi, and fresh seafood. Nightlife is also popular, with numerous bars, clubs, and rooftop lounges. It has earned itself the nickname of “Little Paris of the East” due to the colonial influences here.
Ho Chi Minh City is a must-see for a vibrant and dynamic urban experience in Vietnam.
Hanoi
Vietnam is famous for its capital city, Hanoi. It is located in the northern part of the country and is known for its ancient temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant street markets.
This city’s attractions include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. The city is also famous for its traditional water puppetry performances, which showcase Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
Furthermore, Hanoi has some of the best street food in the country, including the well-known egg coffee, with its unique combination of historic charm, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. A trip to Hanoi would be quite the adventure if you travel to Vietnam.
Da Nang
Da Nang, located along the central coast of Vietnam, is a modern and rapidly growing city that offers a mix of traditional and contemporary culture. My Khe Beach and Non-Nuoc Beach are two of the city’s most beautiful beaches, with pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters.
You can explore the city’s stunning bridges, such as the Golden Bridge and Dragon Bridge, and its many museums and art galleries. Da Nang is also known for its delicious seafood, caught fresh daily from nearby waters, with its perfect balance of modern amenities and traditional culture.
Hoi An
Hoi An is well-known for its well-preserved architecture, colorful lanterns, and scenic riverside views. Your visit to Hoi An will no doubt bring you to some meaningful historic sites such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and the Tan Ky Old House.
The town is also known for its traditional crafts, including silk weaving, lantern making, and pottery. Furthermore, Hoi An is a food paradise, boasting some of the best street food in the country, such as Banh Mi, Cao Lau, and white rose dumplings.
When planning a trip to Vietnam, you should include Hoi An on your itinerary. It will provide insight into Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage and traditional way of life.
Landmarks And Architecture Vietnam Is Famous For
Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay is one of the most famous landmarks in Vietnam and a must-see for anyone visiting the country. If you look through travel postcards featuring the country, you will most likely have seen some sort of scenery from here.
This breathtaking natural wonder in northern Vietnam features numerous limestone islands and islets rising from the water, creating a surreal and magical landscape that can captivate your imagination for centuries.
The bay provides a variety of activities, such as kayaking, hiking, and cruising, making it an ideal destination for both adventurers and nature lovers.
Thang Long’s Imperial Citadel
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases Vietnam’s deep history and culture. The citadel, built in the 11th century, served as Vietnam’s political and cultural center for centuries and is home to many ancient structures and artifacts.
The site in Hanoi will give you some insight into Vietnam’s imperial past, its unique architecture, and how it has evolved. This is quite a big area to explore so you can definitely spend some time exploring the historic complex. It costs about VND 30,000 for entrance and there is a discounted student rate.
Lake Hoan Kiem
Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter and is a popular landmark and a favorite spot for locals and tourists. This freshwater lake is considered sacred with folklore and legends about it.
Hoan Kiem Lake translates to Sword Lake or Lake of the Restored Sword, which gives an idea about what the stories relate to.
The lake, surrounded by ancient pagodas and temples, is a tranquil oasis amid the bustling city, providing a peaceful respite from the chaos of Hanoi’s streets. You can walk around the lake, observe locals doing tai chi and jogging, or relax and enjoy the scenery.
The Cu Chi Tunnels
The Cu Chi Tunnels are an intriguing piece of Vietnam’s history and a popular tourist attraction. During the Vietnam War, Vietnamese soldiers used the tunnels outside Ho Chi Minh City to hide from and evade American forces.
You can explore the tunnels, which provide insight into the conditions under which soldiers lived and fought during the war. The site also includes exhibits, displays, and documentaries that provide information about the Vietnam War and the country’s struggle for independence.
Food Vietnam Is Known For
Pho
One of Vietnam’s most recognized dishes, a steaming bowl of pho, is a must-try for anyone visiting the country. This flavorful noodle soup features rice noodles, herbs, and a rich broth that you can simmer for hours with beef bones and spices.
Pho is a hearty and delicious meal perfect for any time of day. You can serve it with slices of beef, chicken, or tofu, as well as bean sprouts, lime, and chili.
It’s a famous Vietnamese food that is easy to find in any city or town. You can see this in restaurants or road side stalls, making it a convenient and accessible option.
Bahn Mi
Banh Mi is a sandwich with a crispy baguette, butter, pate, and various fillings such as grilled pork, chicken, or tofu. It is another famous Vietnamese food that locals go to for a quick meal.
Banh mi is a savory and flavorful dish perfect for a snack or a light lunch. You can top it with pickled vegetables, cilantro, and chili. It’s a cheap food option you can eat while sightseeing or doing other fun outdoor activities.
Bahn Cha
Bun cha, a traditional Hanoi dish, is a flavorful combination of grilled pork, rice noodles, and herbs served with a dipping sauce made of fish sauce, vinegar, sugar, and chili.
The pork is marinated in a fragrant mixture of lemongrass, garlic, and other spices before being grilled to perfection, yielding a tender and delicious dish that will please any palate. Be sure to try this national cuisine and local favorite to get yourself immersed in the culture and tradition of Vietnam.
Banh Xeo
A popular street food in Vietnam, Banh Xeo is a savory pancake made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk, filled with various ingredients such as pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts.
Banh Xeo, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce, is a crispy and satisfying dish ideal for a quick and delicious meal. As a result, it is a famous Vietnamese food you can enjoy while exploring Vietnam’s landmarks and fun-filled places.
Famous People From Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh
As you probably already guessed; Yes! Ho Chi Minh City is named after this famous personality.
Ho Chi Minh is the most known Vietnamese revolutionary and leader. He played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s struggle for independence from France and, later, the United States.
After the country was divided in 1954, Ho Chi Minh founded the Viet Minh independence movement and became President of North Vietnam. His vision for a united and independent Vietnam inspired generations of Vietnamese people and cemented his status as a symbol of Vietnamese nationalism.
Ho Chi Minh also wrote several books and essays on politics and revolution, including his well-known “Declaration of Independence,” which was heavily influenced by the American Declaration of Independence.
Thach, Nguyen Co
Nguyen Co Thach was one of the Vietnam famous people who served and represented the country at both the local and international levels.
From 1980 to 1991, he was the country’s Foreign Minister and was instrumental in Vietnam’s efforts to normalize relations with the United States following the Vietnam War.
Nguyen Co Thach was instrumental in negotiating the Paris Peace Accords in 1991, which helped end the two countries’ conflict.
Kim Phuc, Phan Thi
Phan Thi Kim Phuc is a Vietnamese-Canadian woman best known as the “Napalm Girl” from the iconic Vietnam War photograph. The photograph, which depicts a nine-year-old Kim Phuc running naked and screaming from a Napalm attack, became one of the war’s most iconic images and a symbol of war’s horrors.
She is one of the famous people from Vietnam known for her peace advocacy and reconciliation, traveling worldwide to share her story and promote healing and forgiveness. The picture is a national treasure you would love to behold during your visit.
Thanh Tong, Le
Le Thanh Tong was the Emperor of Vietnam from 1460 to 1497. He is one of Vietnam’s greatest rulers, credited with modernizing and centralizing the country’s government and economy.
Land redistribution, tax reform, and the construction of a vast network of canals and roads were all implemented by Le Thanh Tong. He also promoted literature, the arts, and education and oversaw the creation of the first Vietnamese encyclopedia.
Le Thanh Tong’s reign is considered a golden age in Vietnamese history, and his legacy continues to inspire and influence the country today. When you visit, you will see the good works of this great emperor still evident all around the country.
Discovering More Things Vietnam is Known For
Exploring Vietnam is beyond the above landmarks, foods, cities, and histories. These are just some of the many things that Vietnam is famous for.
You can check out numerous other places to fully appreciate this beautiful country made up of accommodating and welcoming people. Also, your adventure will help you uncover some other fun facts about Vietnam culture and tradition.
Visit Vietnam to experience its distinct culture, learn about its history, take in the breathtaking scenery, and create lasting memories. There are also countless opportunities to explore the bustling cities, relax on the beaches, mountain trek, and sample the famous Vietnamese food.
