Hai Phong launched its first-ever night tour titled “Dau thieng Hang Kenh” on the evening of June 28, offering a rich mix of cultural and artistic experiences at Hang Kenh temple.

Speaking at the launch, Tran Thi Hoang Mai, Director of Hai Phong’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, emphasized the goal of delivering a unique nighttime heritage experience distinct from daytime temple visits. The tour is the result of collaboration among various local departments and agencies.

“Dau thieng Hang Kenh” celebrates the historical and cultural value of Hang Kenh temple, a national architectural and artistic monument built over three centuries ago. The temple is dedicated to “National Ancestor Trung Hung” Ngo Quyen, the hero who ushered in Vietnam’s era of independence.

The night tour tells the story of Hang Kenh temple through the lens of Vietnam’s “van vo song toan” spirit - mastery in both scholarship and martial arts. Visitors enjoy a blend of traditional performing arts, ceremonial rites, and modern technology. Highlights include a water puppet show on the temple’s crescent-shaped pond and a ceremonial incense offering to pay tribute to Emperor Ngo Quyen.

Guests are treated to traditional genres such as cheo, hat van, and the temple’s own unique rendition of ca tru, all performed in the sacred courtyard space.

The tour’s most anticipated segment is a 3D mapping show titled “The spirit of Ngo Quyen and the Bach Dang waves”, dramatizing the emperor’s life and legendary military victories. The five-part presentation takes audiences from Ngo Quyen’s hometown in Duong Lam to battle scenes involving military training, tidal study, spike trap deployment, and the historic Bach Dang River naval battle.

Beyond performances, the tour offers hands-on cultural activities including traditional calligraphy, Dong Ho folk painting, and local culinary tastings.

“Dau thieng Hang Kenh” night tours will be held every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Hoai Anh - The Bang