Visiting temples at the beginning of the year - a beautiful cultural tradition of the Vietnamese people.

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse 2026, many temples in the province welcomed a large number of Buddhists and people who came to visit and worship. The atmosphere was solemn yet warm, the sound of temple bells ringing in the early morning of the new year seemed to wash away old worries, opening up new hopes and dreams…

On the first day of the Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse 2026, many temples in the province welcomed a large number of Buddhists and people who came to visit and worship. The atmosphere was solemn yet warm, the sound of temple bells ringing in the early morning of the new year seemed to wash away old worries, opening up new hopes and dreams…

Visiting temples at the beginning of the year is a tradition deeply ingrained in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people for generations. Whether in urban or rural areas, people maintain the habit of going to temples in the early days of spring to pray for peace and blessings. (illustrative image)

Visiting temples at the beginning of the year is a tradition deeply ingrained in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people for generations. Whether in urban or rural areas, people maintain the habit of going to temples in the early days of spring to pray for peace and blessings. It's not simply a religious ritual, but also a journey to find inner peace.

Still holding onto the traditional belief that "a good start leads to a good finish," on the morning of the first day of Tet (Lunar New Year), Mr. Vuong Gia Minh's family (Long Ho commune) visited various temples. Mr. Minh said that he, like many families, chose the beginning of the year to start something auspicious.

“After New Year's Eve, besides the custom of picking lucky branches and wishing grandparents a Happy New Year, going to the temple is one of the first things to do. The fragrant incense symbolizes sincerity and the aspiration for goodness. People believe that when their hearts are pure, their prayers become more profound…,” Minh shared.

Visiting temples at the beginning of the year is also associated with a sense of community. People meet at the temple, shaking hands and exchanging greetings for the new year, even if they are strangers or have only met a few times. This atmosphere is both sacred and intimate, reflecting the rich cultural life of our people. Going to the temple at the beginning of the year is also an opportunity to remind each person to slow down amidst the pace of modern life.

Along with socio -economic development, people's spiritual needs are becoming increasingly diverse. However, it is important to maintain the tradition of visiting temples at the beginning of the year in a civilized and economical manner, avoiding superstition. In recent years, many temples in Vinh Long have actively promoted proper religious practices among Buddhists, avoiding ostentatious displays. Local authorities have also coordinated activities to ensure traffic safety and order around the temples, creating conditions for people to safely visit temples and worship during the spring festival.

The new spring arrives with many expectations. In the bustling atmosphere of the first days of 2026, the image of people respectfully visiting temples has become an indispensable part of the springtime scene in Vinh Long . It is a beautiful cultural tradition that has been preserved and promoted – so that every spring, the temple bells ring out, reminding people to strive for goodness, live with compassion, and work together to build an increasingly prosperous and beautiful homeland…

Text and photos: KHANH DUY

Source: https://baovinhlong.com.vn/van-hoa-giai-tri/202602/le-chua-dau-nam-net-dep-van-hoa-cua-nguoi-viet-d051f7e/