HA NOI — A series of cultural activities representing the traditions and history of Hien Town, a commercial centre of northern Viet Nam during the 13-15th centuries, is being held until the end of the third lunar month (April 20).

Located 60km from Ha Noi, Hien Town, now in Hung Yen City, was a bustling commercial port that welcomed boats from around the globe.

Hien Town still possesses an architectural complex of 60 historical remains and 100 engraved stelae, as well as many temples and pagodas.

The annual festival started on Tuesday with an art performance including dance and songs depicting the history, development and cultural features of the region.

The festivities will include a singing contest, folk games, lion dancing, a lantern festival and human chess, as well as traditional rituals at the Xich Dang Temple of Literature, Chuong Pagoda, Tran Temple and Hien Pagoda.

Local specialities will be available such as honey, frankincense and cage-longan (the name comes from the technique of protecting the longan from birds using a cage).VNS