Embark on a thrilling exploration of Vietnam’s treasured festival, the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival. This national excursion is more than just a birthday party; it is a deep journey through Vietnamese history, in honor of the kingdom’s founding fathers, the Hung King.
View of the Hung Kings’ Festival
The Hung Kings’ Temple Festival, additionally called the Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary, is a deeply respected part of the Vietnamese culture and tradition. Held annually on the tenth day of the 3rd lunar month to pay homage to the founders of the Vietnamese nation.
According to legends and folklore, the history of the festival dates back to the times of the ancient king Lac Long Quan, recognized for his strength and the ruler of the Lac-Viet trib. When the king of the Northern tribe De Lai, visited the south with his daughter Au Co, he was impressed with Lac Long and got his daughter married to him. When Au Co got pregnant, she gave birth to a membranous sac with 100 hundred eggs. Each egg hatched and the first Vietnamese human beings were born. They were referred to as the “descendants of the dragon and the fairy”. Their eldest son, King Hung I, established the Hung King dynasty at Phong Chau, now part of Phu Tho Province and laid the foundation for a sovereign Vietnam. The Hung Kung dynasty ruled for generations from 2879 to 258 BC.
Where and When is the Hung Kings’ Festival Celebrated?
The Hung Kings’ Temple Festival takes place from the 8th to the 11th day of the third lunar month, with the 10th day designated as a national holiday. The basic festivities take place at the Hung Temple, located on Nghia Linh Mountain in Phu Tho Province, about ninety kilometers northwest of Hanoi.
You can easily reach the destination via booking a bus from Hanoi to Phu Tho. A bus from Hanoi to Phu Tho takes only 2 hours to reach the destination and is a budget-friendly option besides being economical.
| Bus Operator | First Bus | Last Bus | Time Duration | Bus Ticket Prices |
| Green Travel | 07:00 | 22:00 | 1 hrs 25 mins | VND 300000 |
| Daily Limousine | 05:30 | 06:00 | 2 hrs 0 mins | VND 335000 |
Highlights of the Hung Kings’ Temple Festival
The festival boasts a mesmerizing mix of cultural activities. These include –
- Elaborate ceremonies conducted by Buddhist monks and dignitaries honoring the legacy of the legendary king.
- Enchanting traditional dances, songs and folk songs that tell the rich Vietnamese recordings and folklore.
- Delightful dining experience as the show turns into a haven of Vietnamese cuisine.
- Numerous stalls and vendors present an irresistible array of conventional dishes. From long-lasting pho noodle soup to festive Chung cake, indulge your taste buds and embark on a delicious adventure.
- Check out the craftsmanship from all over Vietnam with artists showcasing their ceramics, embroidery and various indigenous crafts
Tips to Make the Most of the Hung King Festival
- Dress modestly and effortlessly, respecting the cultural significance of the occasion.
- Embrace the traditions! Attend activities and ceremonies to better understand the essence of the competition.
- Be aware of image restrictions, especially during religious rituals.
- Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. Patience and courtesy are key.
The Hung King Temple Festival is more than just a celebration; it is a testimony to the rich history of Vietnam. Witnessing a mix of unworldly rituals, vibrant cultural sports and delectable delicacies offers an unforgettable experience. These local festivals are a great way to bond with Vietnamese people, their ancestral values and get an insight into their culture.
If you love exploring festivals while on your travels, check out details on Hue Festival in Vietnam!
Vietnam is also a great place to travel not just because of the landscape but also the easy navigation. There are bus, taxis and local transport available across popular destinations. Be it a trip to Fansipan Mountain in Sapa or taking a tour of Ho Chi Minh City, there are are bus routes available to and from major cities. You can book your Vietnam bus tickets either from bus ticketing offices or online via redBus and save more on your bus travels!
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