In the Thai minority language Han Khuong means a floor above the ground. In the middle of the floor, on stage is a heavily decorated Neu tree made from bamboo. Four girls sit at the four corners of the stage, singing and spinning their looms. The fifth sits in the centre and possesses a profound knowledge of folk art, particularly traditional singing skills.

Participating men must take a challenge by singing songs in response to those sung by the girls before they can be allowed to enter the stage. The audience sits around, playing music to encourage the men.

Lo Ngoc Duyen from the Institute for the Research of Traditional Music said the musical instruments used in Thai people’s love songs are mainly the Nhi (the two-stringed musical instrument) and drums.

“One side of the drum is covered by ox hide to create a bass sound while the other is made of cow hide to produce the treble,” Ms Duyen said. “The sounds blend to represent that of men and women singing.”

In the Han Khuong game, the girls are both judges and participants, and the men have to go through tough singing competitions. When the girls are pleased with the men’s performance, they will place a ladder for them to come on stage. After that, the singing continues until the men are permitted to sit down.

Following are some beautiful words from a Han Khuong love song:

“A small fire glittering by the blue river from afar,

            The river I wish I could swim in,

            I have been in love with the girl in the indigo,

            Will you give me a ladder so I can climb up.

Please don’t overlook the Muong men, who are here for Han Khuong,

            The three-step ladder trembles under your feet,

            I’m afraid our love would be severed.

Please don’t climb my ladder if you have had someone in your heart

            If you are not in the quest for love, don’t look over me.”

For older people, Han Khuong music reminds them of their youth. Local Mao Van Net said the ambience of the game remains the same as it was when he was young.

“I met my wife during such a singing performance,” Mr Net confided. “Han Khuong often takes place at night because darkness can hide our shyness.”

Although not everyone can be as lucky as Mr Net, who found his lifetime partner just by joining in the Han Khuong once, all will gain an unforgettable memory.