Pilgrims get on boats on the Yen river to reach pagodas. (Photo: dangcongsan.vn)

The Huong Pagoda Festival is one of the oldest and biggest festivals in Vietnam’s northern region. For many, embarking on the first trip of the year to the Huong Pagoda Festival is essential in spring.

Some tourists share their feeling. “We start the new year with a trip to the Huong Pagoda. We are very happy to visit the scared place on the opening day of the Festival.”

“There are many festivals in spring. But we always go to the Huong Pagoda Festival first. I have a sacred feeling on the land of Buddha.”

“On the land of Buddha, I feel relaxed and pleasant.”

Pilgrims and tourists travel to the Huong Pagoda, the Buddha realm, to experience traditional cultural values.

Venerable Thich Minh Hien, Deputy Head of the Executive Committee of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha and Abbot of Huong Pagoda, said: “Huong Pagoda has charming scenery of mountains and rivers. Pagodas and caves open to celebrate the new spring and welcome Buddhists and people to enjoy the three-month festival. This is the beauty of Vietnam's national cultural tradition, festivals of belief and Buddhism intertwined.”

Pilgrims offer incenses to Buddhas and pray for peace and good luck.

"At the beginning of the year, like other people, I pray for peace and happiness for my family.”

"I wish my children good health, good study, and successful business."

Huong Pagoda Festival is the biggest and longest spring festival in Vietnam's northern region. (photo: dangcongsan.vn)

Huong Pagoda is famous not only for its beautiful scenery but also the values of Vietnamese Buddhism. Pagodas and temples are built scattering on mountains, hidden in forests. Pilgrims have to climb steps from the foot of the mountain to multiple pagodas, from the Outer Pagoda to the Inner Pagoda, Giai Oan (Exculpating) and Thien Tru Pagoda, Hinh Bong Cave, and the main Huong Tich Cave.

During the festival season, the ancient and majestic pagodas are filled with incense smoke. The sacred atmosphere helps every person get rid of the hustle and bustle of life.

Sitting on a boat travelling slowly on the Yen river is a pleasure. On the main festival days, the Yen river is full of boats.

The Huong Pagoda Festival is a convergence of typical cultural practices, including worship, hopping on a calm paddled boat, and watching a mediumship ritual.