Early birds at a rural market in the Red River Delta. (Photo: Lai Dien Dam/VOV)

According to Charly Wilder, tourism editor of the New York Times, visitors to traditional villages in the Red River Delta can immerse themselves in centuries-old cultural practices and a way of life that is at risk of disappearing. For example, they can also enjoy a folk music genre called “Quan ho” – named a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009.

The New York Times said 49 ancient villages in Bac Ninh and Bac Giang provinces have taken steps to safeguard the cultural heritage of quan ho, which includes many rituals and culinary traditions, and to slow rural-urban migration through cultural tourism. Recently, some tour operators have been offering travellers a chance to explore Buddhist temples, and Ly Dynasty pagodas.