Vietnam is a country with a deep and vibrant cultural heritage, and exploring it by river offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in its traditions, history, and daily life. This guide will introduce you to some of the most enriching and lesser-known aspects of a Vietnam river cruise, focusing on cultural experiences that go beyond the usual tourist trail. From traditional music and performances to visits to ancient temples, Vietnam’s waterways provide an intimate look into its rich heritage.
One of the most memorable aspects of a Vietnam river cruise is the opportunity to experience the country’s traditional music and live performances. Onboard many river cruises, evenings are often filled with shows that showcase the deep musical traditions of Vietnam. Performances might feature instruments like the đàn bầu, a one-stringed zither, or the bamboo flute, which are used in traditional Vietnamese music to create hauntingly beautiful sounds.
These performances are not only a form of entertainment but also an important cultural experience. They provide a window into the rich artistic traditions of Vietnam, which have been passed down through generations. Some cruises also offer performances of Vietnamese water puppetry, a centuries-old art form that tells stories of rural life, mythology, and history through puppets that perform on the water’s surface.
If your river cruise coincides with one of Vietnam’s many local festivals, such as Tết (Lunar New Year) or the Mid-Autumn Festival, you’ll have the opportunity to witness vibrant celebrations up close. These festivals are deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, featuring traditional music, lion dances, and firework displays. Being a part of these events gives travellers a more immersive understanding of Vietnamese customs and beliefs.
Vietnam is renowned for its diverse and intricate handicrafts, many of which are produced in small villages along the Mekong River. These traditional crafts include everything from silk weaving and embroidery to pottery, lacquerware, and bamboo products. Visiting these villages provides a fascinating glimpse into the skill and artistry that goes into making these beautiful items, many of which are still produced using techniques that have been passed down through generations.
Many river cruises include excursions to these handicraft villages, allowing guests to see artisans at work. You can watch as weavers create beautiful silk scarves on traditional looms, or observe potters shaping clay into stunning vases and bowls.
In some villages, travellers can participate in hands-on workshops where they learn traditional skills directly from local artisans. You might have the opportunity to try your hand at making your own pottery, weaving a silk scarf, or creating lacquer paintings. These workshops not only provide a fun and interactive experience but also support local communities by preserving traditional crafts.
Vietnam’s rivers have long been the lifeblood of its civilisation, and many of the country’s most important cultural and religious sites are located along these waterways. A river cruise offers easy access to many ancient temples and pagodas, each with its own unique story and spiritual significance.
Vietnamese temples and pagodas are deeply tied to the country’s Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian traditions. These sacred spaces are places of worship and meditation, but they are also stunning architectural marvels, often adorned with intricate carvings, vibrant colours, and statues of deities.
Some of the most notable temples that can be visited during a river cruise include the Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, known for its impressive architecture and large Buddha statues, and the Cao Dai Temple in Tay Ninh, a colourful and eclectic building that represents the unique Cao Dai religion, which blends elements of Buddhism, Christianity, Taoism, and Confucianism.
Visiting these temples offers a deep cultural experience and insight into the spiritual lives of the Vietnamese people. River cruises often include guided tours that explain the significance of the rituals and architecture, adding a layer of historical context to your visit.
For travellers looking to experience Vietnamese culture in a truly authentic way, some river cruises offer optional homestays in local villages. This is an opportunity to live with a Vietnamese family, share meals, and participate in their daily routines. It’s a rare chance to step away from the tourist circuit and experience Vietnamese life as it’s lived in rural areas, where traditions remain strong, and the pace of life is slower.
Homestays often include cultural exchanges, such as cooking lessons, where you can learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho (noodle soup) or banh xeo (crispy pancakes) using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. You’ll also have the chance to visit local markets, where families buy their food and essentials, gaining a deeper understanding of the day-to-day life in Vietnam.
Cooking is an integral part of Vietnamese culture, and one of the most enjoyable aspects of staying in a village is learning how to cook traditional meals. Many river cruises offer cooking classes as part of their shore excursions, allowing you to work alongside local chefs or home cooks. You’ll learn about the balance of flavours in Vietnamese cuisine, which is known for its use of fresh herbs, spices, and bold combinations like sweet and sour, or salty and spicy.
Vietnam’s colonial history, particularly its period under French rule, has left an indelible mark on the country’s architecture and culture. As you cruise along the Mekong River, you’ll notice the blend of Vietnamese traditions with French colonial influences, especially in cities like Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) and Hanoi.
French architecture is evident in the grand buildings, villas, and churches that line the riverbanks. Many cruises offer guided walking tours through these cities, where you can explore the remnants of the French colonial era, including grand hotels, government buildings, and wide boulevards that are a hallmark of French urban design.
In Ho Chi Minh City, highlights include the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture, and the Saigon Central Post Office, designed by Gustave Eiffel. These buildings are not only beautiful but also hold deep historical significance, reflecting the complex and often tumultuous relationship between Vietnam and its colonial past.
A river cruise through Vietnam offers far more than just scenic views—it’s a cultural immersion that brings you face-to-face with the country’s rich traditions, spiritual beliefs, and colonial history. From visiting ancient temples to experiencing traditional music and arts, a Vietnam river cruise is an unforgettable way to discover the heart of this fascinating country.
At S.W. Black Travel, we specialise in curating bespoke travel experiences that allow you to fully explore and appreciate Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Whether you’re interested in homestays, culinary experiences, or exploring historic landmarks, our expert travel advisers can help craft the perfect itinerary for your river cruise adventure in Vietnam. Get in touch today to start planning your cultural journey through one of Southeast Asia’s most captivating countries.