As a unique folk performance, the lion, dragon, and unicorn dance is deeply rooted in the cultural traditions of the Chinese community, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. It is a familiar sight during festivals and major celebrations, carrying spiritual, artistic, and educational value.

With this recognition, Ho Chi Minh City now has five national intangible cultural heritage elements: the Nghinh Ong Festival in Can Gio, the Nguyen Tieu Festival in District 5, the Khai Ha - Cau An Festival at the Tomb of Ta Quan Le Van Duyet in Binh Thanh District, Vovinam - Viet Vo Dao, and the lion, dragon, and unicorn dance of the Chinese community. Additionally, Southern Don Ca Tai Tu music has been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The city has also added seven sites to its list of historical and cultural monuments. Among them, three village communal houses in Thu Duc City not only showcase the distinctive architectural style of Southern communal houses but also hold historical significance in Vietnam’s fight for independence. The other four architectural heritage sites highlight cultural exchanges between Vietnam, India, and Western influences.

Currently, Ho Chi Minh City has a total of 200 recognized historical and cultural sites, including two special national relics, 58 national relics, and 140 city-level relics.

Following the announcement, the Ho Chi Minh City Lion, Dragon, and Unicorn Dance Federation and local authorities will implement plans to preserve and promote this traditional folk art through tourism. Agencies managing the newly recognized heritage sites will also develop conservation strategies and raise public awareness about their significance.

On this occasion, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee awarded Certificates of Merit to seven organizations and two individuals for their outstanding contributions to preserving and promoting the lion, dragon, and unicorn dance. Portcoast Consultant Corporation also donated a digitalized version of the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House to support heritage conservation through modern technology.

Vietnam announces new entrants on list of national intangible cultural heritage

VOV.VN - The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has added new entrants onto the list of national intangible cultural heritage, including “Phở Nam Định” (Nam Dinh beef noodle soup) and “Mì Quảng” (Quang noodles).