1. What is the most famous historical landmark in Bac Giang?
The most famous historical landmark in Bac Giang is the Tho Ha Village, which is known for its traditional paper and pottery making techniques dating back to the 17th century.
2. How old is the historical landmark of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda?
Vinh Nghiem Pagoda was founded in 1040, making it over 980 years old.
3. What significant events occurred at Tho Ha Village in Bac Giang?
There are a few significant events that have occurred at Tho Ha Village in Bac Giang:
1. Cultural Heritage Recognition: In 2012, the village was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Vietnam for its traditional craft of making pottery and rice paper.
2. Restoration of Ancient Houses: Tho Ha Village is known for its well-preserved ancient houses that date back to the end of the 19th century. In recent years, there have been efforts to restore and preserve these houses to maintain the unique cultural identity of the village.
3. Traditional Festivals: Tho Ha Village hosts various traditional festivals throughout the year, including “Le Jardin -Thi Tran,” a celebration of spring that features flower displays, exhibitions, and traditional performances. It also holds an annual mid-autumn festival with lion dances, dragon dances, lantern parades and traditional games.
4. Rise of Eco-tourism: The village has become a popular destination for tourists who are interested in experiencing traditional Vietnamese culture and lifestyle through homestays and participating in local activities such as farming and cooking.
5. Educational Initiatives: In partnership with non-government organizations, Tho Ha village has implemented educational programs to help preserve its heritage while promoting sustainable development and poverty reduction within the community.
6. Industrial Development: In recent years, factories producing potteries and rice paper have been established within the village, providing employment opportunities for locals while also boosting economic growth in the area.
4. Which famous leader visited Kiep Bac Temple in Bac Giang?
The famous leader who visited Kiep Bac Temple in Bac Giang was Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam and the first President of Vietnam. He visited the temple on August 28, 1947 during his national tour to promote independence and unity for Vietnam.
5. Are there any ancient citadels or fortresses to visit in Bac Giang?
There are several ancient citadels and fortresses to visit in Bac Giang, including:1. Ho Ancient Citadel: Located in Ho Village, Thanh Tien Commune, Viet Yen District, Ho Ancient Citadel was built during the Tran Dynasty (1225 – 1400) to defend against invaders from the North.
2. Ba Son Fortress: Situated in Nhan Da village, Viet Lap commune, Yen Dung district, Ba Son Fortress was built during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong (1460-1497) to protect the region from Mongol invaders.
3. Bao Dai Palace: Built in 1939 as a summer retreat for Emperor Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam under French colonial rule, this palace is located in Dinh Tram Commune, Viet Yen District.
4. Cam Son Citadel: Located in Cam Son village, Quy Kiem commune, Tan Yen district, Cam Son Citadel was built around the end of the 16th century to defend against Tay and Nung ethnic groups invading from China.
5. An Lac Fortress: Situated on a hilltop in Thua town, Luc Nam district, An Lac Fortress was used by Vietnamese revolutionaries during the 1950s as a base for fighting against French troops.
6. Than Cong Fortress: Located in Luc Ngan district near the border with China, Than Cong Fortress was built during the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945) to protect against Chinese invasions.
7. Dong Doi Fortress: Also known as Huan Dong Doi or Phat Diem Fortification complex is located on Nhu Nguyet River estuary at Phu Lam Xuyen hamlet Village Ward also adjacent sections Lang Mieu City Yen Bai province near Thuong Tien Bridge.
8. Ca Mountain Fortress: Built by Thai ethnic minorities to protect their land and crops, Ca Mountain Fortress is located in Phieng Luong commune, Vi Xuyen district and has been preserved to this day.
6. What is the significance of the Nguyen Temple in Bac Giang?
The Nguyen Temple in Bac Giang, also known as the Co Vien Lau Temple, is a historical and cultural site that holds significance for several reasons:
1. It is dedicated to the Trinh and Nguyen royal families – The temple was built in honor of the two ruling families of the Ly dynasty, the Trinh and the Nguyen. These two families were in power during different periods of Vietnam’s history and played a significant role in shaping the country.
2. It reflects architectural styles from different eras – The temple combines architectural elements from the Ly, Tran, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. This reflects the influence of these different dynasties on art and architecture in Vietnam.
3. It houses precious artifacts – The Nguyen Temple contains valuable artifacts such as statues, bronze bells, drums, stone tablets, and imperial seals that belonged to the Trinh and Nguyen families. These artifacts provide insight into their lives and customs.
4. It is a symbol of Vietnamese resilience – The temple has withstood various wars and conflicts throughout its history, including French colonization and American bombings during the Vietnam War. Its continued existence is seen as a symbol of resilience for the Vietnamese people.
5. It is a popular pilgrimage site – The temple attracts many visitors who come to pay their respects to the Trinh and Nguyen rulers and pray for luck and good fortune.
6. It highlights traditional Vietnamese beliefs – In addition to honoring the royal families, the temple also includes shrines dedicated to local gods or deities believed to bring blessings or protection to worshippers.
Overall, the Nguyen Temple serves as an important cultural landmark that showcases Vietnam’s rich history, blend of architectural styles, and traditional beliefs.
7. Where can one find traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and art in Bac Giang?
1. Dong Ho Village: Located in Thuan Thanh district, this ancient village is famous for its traditional woodblock paintings made on specially crafted paper using natural colors.
2. Bac Giang Provincial Museum: The museum houses a collection of traditional handicrafts and art from different ethnic groups in Bac Giang, including pottery, woodcarvings, and silk embroidery.
3. Phuong Hoang lacquerware village: Located in Yen Dung district, this village is known for its intricate and beautiful lacquer products such as vases, bowls, and jewelry boxes.
4. Hip Doi Carving Village: This village in Bac Giang city is famous for its skillful artisans who create wooden sculptures of animals and daily life scenes using traditional techniques.
5. Van Ha Embroidery Village: Situated in Viet Yen district, this village is renowned for its delicate hand-embroidered items such as scarves, tablecloths, and garments.
6. Pomelo Leaf Hat making village: The An Vinh Commune in Tan Yen district is popular for its unique conical hats made from pomelo leaves by skilled local women.
7. Quyet Thang Paper Fan Village: Located in Luc Nam district, this village produces handmade paper fans with various designs using traditional methods passed down through generations.
8. Is there a museum dedicated to Ho Chi Minh and his time in Bac Giang?
Yes, there is a museum dedicated to Ho Chi Minh and his time in Bac Giang. It is called the Bac Giang Provincial Museum of Revolutionary History and it showcases artifacts, photos, and documents related to Ho Chi Minh’s life and his revolutionary activities in Bac Giang province. The museum also features exhibitions on other important figures and events in the history of Vietnam.
9. Can one take a boat tour through the Lung Tam Silk Village in Bac Giang?
Yes, it is possible to take a boat tour through the Lung Tam Silk Village in Bac Giang. The village is known for its traditional silk production and many tour companies offer boat tours that visit the village as part of their itinerary. These boat tours usually also include a visit to nearby villages and attractions, making for a well-rounded experience. It is recommended to book these tours in advance through a reliable tour operator.
10. Are there any old French colonial buildings still standing in Bac Giang?
Yes, there are still several old French colonial buildings standing in Bac Giang. Some examples include the former government headquarters building, which is now used as a high school, and the Cao Dai temple in Chau Minh commune. There are also a few old villas and houses scattered throughout the city that were built during the French colonial period.
11. How did Yen Tu Mountain play a role in Vietnam’s history and culture?
Yen Tu Mountain, located in the northeastern province of Quang Ninh, is a sacred mountain in Vietnam’s history and culture. It is known as the “Cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism” and has been a popular pilgrimage site for over 2,000 years.
1. Birthplace of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism: Yen Tu Mountain is believed to be the birthplace of Truc Lam Zen Buddhism, founded by King Tran Nhan Tong during the 13th century. The king renounced his throne and became a monk on this mountain, developing a form of Buddhism that combined both Mahayana and Theravada traditions.
2. Spiritual Center: Yen Tu Mountain has long been considered a spiritual center for Vietnamese people as well as Buddhists from other countries. Pilgrims come to pray, meditate, and seek enlightenment at the numerous temples and pagodas that dot the mountain.
3. Historical Significance: Throughout history, Yen Tu Mountain has played an important role in Vietnam’s defense against invasions from China. Traces of ancient fortresses and citadels can still be seen on the mountain, serving as a reminder of its significance in protecting the country.
4. Cultural Heritage: The unique architecture found at Yen Tu Mountain reflects Vietnamese traditional design and religious symbolism, making it an important cultural heritage site.
5. Natural Beauty: In addition to its spiritual significance, Yen Tu Mountain also boasts stunning natural landscapes with lush forests, steep slopes, serene streams and waterfalls. Many visitors are drawn to its beauty and choose to hike or take cable cars up to experience it firsthand.
6. Celebrations and Festivals: Many festivals are held at Yen Tu Mountain throughout the year, including the Truc Lam Ceremony honoring King Tran Nhan Tong; major Buddhist festivals such as Vu Lan Festival (Ghost Festival); and Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year).
Overall, Yen Tu Mountain holds a special place in Vietnamese history and culture, serving as a spiritual hub and symbol of the country’s enduring resilience and preservation of traditional values.
12. Is it possible to visit an ancient rock carving site known as Xuong Rong Cave in Bac Giang?
Yes, it is possible to visit Xuong Rong Cave in Bac Giang. Located in the Yen Dung district of Bac Giang province, Xuong Rong Cave is home to ancient rock carvings dating back to the Neolithic and Iron Age periods. Visitors can access the site by trekking through a jungle trail, which takes about 1-2 hours from the local village. The area is also known for its scenic landscape and traditional culture, making it a popular destination for tourists. However, visitors are advised to hire a local guide and obtain permission from the local authorities before visiting the site.
13. Are there any unique floating markets or villages around the Cau River Delta in Bac Giang?
There are several unique villages and floating markets around the Cau River Delta in Bac Giang, such as:1. Vu Diem floating village: This is a Vietnamese fisherman village located on the Cau River and is known for its traditional woven bamboo houses and fishing activities.
2. Phuong Hoang Island floating market: This colorful market is located on an island in the middle of the Cau River and offers a variety of goods, including fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts.
3. Mai Trung floating village: This village is known for its beautiful scenery and traditional way of life, with many people living in houses on stilts above the water.
4. Bang Biang floating market: Located near Bac Giang city, this bustling market offers a variety of products including fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and handicrafts.
5. Truc Lam Thien Water Palace: This palace was built in the 18th century as a summer retreat for kings and queens. It features beautiful gardens, ponds, and pavilions that were built on stilts over the water.
Overall, these villages and markets offer a unique glimpse into the local way of life along the Cau River Delta in Bac Giang province.
14. Who was King Tong Bien Tran, and why is he important to the history of Bac Giang?
King Tong Bien Tran was the second king of the Tran dynasty who ruled over Vietnam from 1314 to 1329. He is important to the history of Bac Giang because he chose this region as his capital during his campaign to unify Vietnam and establish his rule.
After successfully defeating the Mongol forces and reunifying the country, King Tong Bien Tran moved his capital from Thang Long (modern day Hanoi) to Viet Yen, in Bac Giang province. He also selected a nearby mountain, Phuong Hoang, as the burial ground for members of his royal family, including himself.
Under King Tong Bien Tran’s rule, Bac Giang experienced a period of economic growth and the development of its agriculture and handicraft industries. The king also encouraged trade and commerce, leading to an increase in prosperity for the people of Bac Giang.
Furthermore, King Tong Bien Tran was known for being a just ruler who implemented policies that improved the lives of his subjects. He is regarded as one of the greatest kings in Vietnamese history and is still revered by many in Bac Giang today.
15. What type of agricultural practices and traditions are still alive and well in Tan Yen district?
Some of the agricultural practices and traditions that are still alive and well in Tan Yen district include rice cultivation, vegetable farming, livestock rearing, and fishing. Farmers still use traditional methods such as manual plowing and harvesting, as well as traditional tools like sickles and hoes. There are also many festivals and rituals related to agriculture that are still celebrated in this district, such as the Rice Planting Festival and the Harvest Festival. Additionally, there is a strong emphasis on sustainable and organic farming methods, preserving the land and natural resources for future generations.
16.Explain the connection between Lac Son Commune and trained elephants during Vietnam’s war against France.
Lac Son Commune in Vietnam was known for its traditional practice of training and using elephants for various tasks, such as logging and transportation. During the war against France in the 1950s and early 1960s, the Viet Minh (the communist revolutionary forces) utilized trained elephants from Lac Son Commune to help transport supplies, weapons, and troops through the dense jungle terrain.
The Viet Minh saw the advantage of using elephants as they could easily navigate through areas that were difficult for trucks or other vehicles to access. Trained elephants were also able to cross rivers and climb steep hills, making them valuable assets in conducting guerrilla warfare tactics. Additionally, their quiet movements helped to avoid detection by French forces.
Due to their intelligence and cooperative nature, the elephants were quickly adapted to military tasks, including carrying heavy loads, hauling artillery pieces, and even acting as mobile hospitals for wounded soldiers.
The use of trained elephants from Lac Son Commune played a significant role in the success of Vietnamese forces during their fight against French colonial rule. They became a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness, representing how ordinary villagers played a crucial part in supporting the struggle for independence.
17.What natural landmarks surround Guom Lake and make it a popular tourist destination?
Guom Lake is surrounded by several natural landmarks, including:
1. Jade Island: This small island in the middle of the lake is considered a symbol of Hanoi and is home to the famous Ngoc Son Temple.
2. Turtle Tower: Located on a small island in the northern part of the lake, this pagoda-style tower is another iconic landmark of Hanoi.
3. Ly Thai To Statue: A large statue of Ly Thai To, the founder of Hanoi, sits at the northeast corner of Guom Lake.
4. Red River: The lake is connected to the Red River, which flows through northern Vietnam and is an important water source for the region.
5. Hoan Kiem Bridge: This historic red bridge spans across Guom Lake and connects Ngoc Son Temple to the shore.
6. Hoa Lo Prison: Just a short distance from Guom Lake, this infamous prison was used by French colonists to detain political prisoners during their rule in Vietnam.
7. Hang Dau Water Tower: This old French colonial water tower overlooks Guom Lake and offers scenic views of the surrounding area.
8. Martyrs’ Garden: Located on Thanh Nien Road along the lake’s eastern side, this peaceful garden honors Vietnamese soldiers who lost their lives defending their country.
Due to its close proximity to these natural landmarks and its picturesque scenery, Guom Lake is a popular tourist destination for both locals and visitors alike.
18.Which influential Vietnamese poet called Ly Thuong Kiet home, and where can visitors learn more about him?
The influential Vietnamese poet who called Ly Thuong Kiet home was Nguyen Trai. Visitors can learn more about him by visiting the Nguyen Trai Cultural Village in Ly Thuong Kiet Commune, Nam Sach District, Hai Duong Province. This village was built to honor and preserve the cultural heritage of Nguyen Trai and educate people about his life and contributions as a politician, strategist, and literature figure. The village also hosts an annual festival to celebrate Nguyen Trai’s birthday on the 27th day of the eighth lunar month.
19.How has agriculture shaped the landscape and culture around Luc Nam district over time?
Agriculture has played a major role in shaping the landscape and culture of Luc Nam district over time. The district is located in the northern part of Vietnam, which is a fertile agricultural region known for its rice cultivation.
1. Landscape:
The landscape of Luc Nam district is dominated by vast rice fields, surrounded by hills and mountains. These rice fields are an integral part of the district’s landscape, and their lush green beauty adds to the overall charm and tranquility of the area. Over time, agriculture has also led to the development of irrigation systems, such as canals, dams, and waterways, which have further shaped the landscape.
2. Culture:
Agriculture has been an essential part of the local culture in Luc Nam district for centuries. The local people have strong ties to their land and take great pride in their farming traditions. Farming has not only provided food and income for the people but has also played a crucial role in shaping their way of life.
3. Traditional farming practices:
The traditional methods of farming used in Luc Nam district have been passed down from generation to generation. This includes techniques such as crop rotation, use of natural fertilizers like animal manure, and terrace farming on hilly terrain. These practices not only help preserve the fertility of the land but also add to the uniqueness of the landscape.
4. Festivals:
Agriculture-based festivals are an essential part of the cultural calendar in Luc Nam district. These festivals celebrate milestones in the farming cycle such as planting and harvesting seasons. They are marked with special rituals, offerings, local delicacies featuring freshly harvested crops, traditional dances, music performances, and games.
5. Community spirit:
Farming communities in Luc Nam district work together closely to support each other during peak seasons like planting or harvesting when labor requirements are high. This cooperation has helped build a strong sense of community spirit among locals and contributes to maintaining their close ties to the land.
Overall, agriculture has had a profound influence on the landscape and culture of Luc Nam district, providing sustenance, shaping traditions, and fostering a close-knit community. It continues to be the backbone of the district’s economy and an essential element in its identity.
20.What architectural style influenced Quan Van battlefield memorial temple, and what does it commemorate?
The architectural style of Quan Van battlefield memorial temple is influenced by traditional Vietnamese architecture, specifically the Nguyen Dynasty style. The temple was built to commemorate the Truong Dinh – Son Tay victory over French troops in 1883.