Hanoians visit pagodas on Lunar New Year’s Eve

When the clock strikes midnight on New Year’s Eve, many people begin their pilgrimage to nearby pagodas in order to pray for health and luck for both themselves and their loved ones.

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Many citizens sincerely believe that all of their wishes made on New Year’s Eve will come true.

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Buying salt is a traditional custom that Vietnamese people have observed for centuries. It’s believed that salt is capable of warding off evil spirits and bringing good luck for the family over the course of the coming year.

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Tran Quoc pagoda attracts crowds as the Lunar New Year arrives.

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Many people go to a pagoda to say goodbye to the old year and welcome in the new-year.

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A crowded scene at Tran Quoc pagoda at 2 a.m. on January 22, or the first day of the first lunar month

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Local residents flock to Phu Tay Ho (Tay Ho Temple) after the Lunar New Year Eve to pray for for health, wealth and luck for their families.

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Vietnamese people believe that the act of going to a pagoda is not just about praying for good things in the coming year, but also serves to reflect on what they have done in the past and leave all hardship behind.