Culture of Vietnam

Vietnam's culture embraces local culture and influences from foreign cultures. According to Mr Huu Ngoc, a great teacher and specialist, Vietnamese culture can be compared to a tree with four main branches. Its root is the civilization of the Red River Delta (part of the rice-field civilization of Southeast Asian countries).

First branch - The influence of Chinese culture through Confucianism, over about 2000 years, includes 1000 years of rule and 900 years of independent royal dynasties.

Second branch - The French influence, during the 80 years of French colonial presence.

Third Branch (1945 - 1986) - The influence of the Soviet and Communist countries in North Vietnam, and that of America in the South.

Fourth branch (from 1986 to today) - The country has opened, the market economy reigns. Vietnamese, especially young people, are in daily contact with American, Korean and European consumer products ... but the way of thinking and the customs are still traditional. They are trying to adapt more to modern life and globalization while preserving the cultural identity of the country.

- Bronze drum: ancient musical instrument, symbolizing the long history of the country.

- Ao dai - The long tunic: national costume, symbol of the beauty and elegance of Vietnamese women.

- Non - Conical hat: a fashion accessory that is still popular in everyday life, symbol related to the campaign and image of women.

- Lotus: summer flowers growing in small marshes, symbol of purity and Buddhism.

- Bamboo: typical plant of the Vietnamese countryside, symbol of solidarity.

- Rice paddies and rice: the most popular staple food, which can not be absent from meals, symbol of agriculture.

- Dragon: the sacred animal, symbol of dignity, power and the royal family.

- Buffalo: the animal of the countryside, symbol of agriculture.

- Turtle: another sacred animal, a symbol of longevity and luck.