Vietnam’s Ethnic Mosaic: Diverse Cultures Unveiled.
Vietnam is a culturally diverse country with a rich tapestry of ethnic groups and minorities. The majority ethnic group is the Kinh, who make up about 85% of the population and primarily reside in the lowland areas of Vietnam. However, there are also several distinct ethnic groups and minority communities spread throughout the country.
One significant minority group is the Tay, known for their agricultural lifestyle and inhabiting the northern mountainous regions. They have their own language, customs, and traditional clothing, which adds to the vibrant cultural mosaic of Vietnam.
Another prominent ethnic group is the Hmong, who are concentrated in the mountainous areas of the northern part of the country. The Hmong people are known for their unique traditions, vibrant textiles, and intricate silver jewelry.
The Khmer Krom are an ethnic minority group residing mainly in the Mekong Delta region of southern Vietnam. They are culturally linked to the Khmer people of Cambodia and have their own distinct language and religious practices, including Theravada Buddhism.
Ethnic minorities make up approximately 8% of the total population.
That is around 9 million people of the total population in Vietnam.
Kinh (or Viet) residents constitute about 88% of the population and the remaining 4% of the other groups.
THE MOST POPULOUS ethnic minorities:
– about 1 million residents each group
– Tay, Thai, Muong, Hoa, Khmer, Nung
THE SMALLEST ethnic minorities:
– hundreds of residents each group
– Brau, Ro Mam, O Du
Most of the ethnic minorities in Vietnam live in the mountainous areas in the north, near the Chinese border to the mountains Truan Son in central Vietnam. In areas that have experienced heavy fighting in recent wars. Their modest dwellings are simple wooden houses with the very simple facilities.
There are often easily identifiable differences in language, physical properties and traditional clothes.
Based on the languages spoken, ethnologists separate Vietnamese residents on 8 major groups that count up to 54 subgroups.
Ethnic minorities and groups in Vietnam – listed by language group:
1. Vietic (Chut, Kinh, Muong, Tho)
2. Austroasiatic (Ba Na, Brau, Bru Van Kieu, Cho Ro, Co, Co Ho, Co Tu, Gie Trieng, Hre, Khang, Khmer, Kho Mu, Ma Mang, M’nong, O Du, Ro Mam, Ta Oi, Xinh Mun, Xo Dang, a Xtieng)
3. Tay – Thai (Bo Y, Giay, Lao, Lu, Nung, San Chay, Tay, Thai)
4. Tibeto – Burman (Cong, Ha Nhi, La Hu, Lo Lo, Phu La, La Si)
5. Malayo – Polynesian (Cham, Chu Ru, E De, Gia Rai, Ra Glai)
6. Kadai (Co, Lao, La Chi, Ha La and Pu Peo)
7. Mong-Dao (Dao, H’mong, Pa Then)
8. Han (Hoa, Ngai and San Diu)
Some of the subgroups can be divided further, e.g. according clothes:
HMONG – red, white, black, green, flower
DAO – red, black, with white pants, with blue jackets, with silver coins…
Most of the ethnic minorities in Vietnam share similar elements in their life:
• they live in rural farming lifestyle
• they have a similar village architecture dwelling
• traditional rituals (eg. the appointment of a child after reaching a certain age, protection against evil spirits)
• long history of tribal warfare
• many of these groups are semi-nomadic
• drinking a rice wine is popular with village celebrations
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Watch ethnic minority residents in their daily life.
Almost everywhere in the northern Vietnam where is a village, you can watch and see the locals at the work. Whether it’s working in a paddy field, gathering wood, collecting herbs, sale items or food or clothing and fabrics. When you try a homestay, you can try these work with the locals. You will see which such care is about rice and walk with the people on the rice terraces, or go to the wood. Surely you will experience a lot of fun.
The Vietnamese government is trying with subsidies, better health care, accessibility and education to encourage ethnic residents to move to lower altitudes. Despite this offer, as well as mistrust in the major lowland residents and some conflict in the past, most of the ethnic minorities stay and live in the mountains.
The History of ethnic minorities in Vietnam:
There are not to much historical records about the origin of these people. Some groups already inhabited the area of northern Vietnam before the forebears of Viet people came here. Viet residents came already from South China over 4-5 thousand years ago. At certain points the Viet residents differed from indigenous people living at the Red River Delta. They became the largest population group when inhabited the small villages and districts in Vietnam.
Some ethnic groups continued to interact with the Viet people. They decided to maintain their independence in the highlands, or were pushed to the mountain areas. Where they live today. Residents of the 2.biggest group are in Vietnam for centuries, since about 500 A.D. Hmong came to Vietnam about 300 years ago.
TAY people – the biggest ethnic minority after Viet (Kinh) people.
Tay ethnic minority occupies 1st place in the ethnic minorities of Vietnam. While Viet people have 86% of the population, Tay residents have less than 2%. Their number is estimated at approximately 1.7 million. It is estimated, they are in Vietnam already in the year 500 A.D. This group is divided into the another smaller groups (e.g. Ngan, Phen, Tho, Thu Lao, Pa Di). People inhabit the area mainly in the north-eastern part of northern Vietnam, in the provinces of Cao Bang, Lang Son, Bac Kan, Quang Ninh, Ha Giang, in smaller numbers in Yen Bai and Lao Cai.
The culture of the Tay ethnic group is very rich. Starting with traditional folklore and wedding songs, poems, dances and music. The well-known song is „Hat Luon„, it’s called. duet between lovers. During the year, there are a several festivals and celebrations that have different meanings. They are typical farmers and some traditions have persisted to the present. E.g. long tradition in the cultivation of wet rice, digging irrigation canals, threshing grain rice on wooden racks (Loong). The most famous craft of Tay ethnic minority is weaving brocade of original designs, which are highly prized.
Clothes are not so colorful as with other ethnic minorities. Clothes are made of cotton that is dyed indigo color. There is not so much to see the embroidery or other decorations. Women wear skirts or pants, polo shirt and black scarf, men wear trousers and shirt or T-shirt. Thu Lao ethnic minority wears cone-shaped scarf on their heads and Tho ethnic minority dresses like Thai residents of Mai Chau town.
Dwellings are similar to Thai residents, the house is built on the pillars. They use the tiles, straw or palm leaf for building the roof and wood or bamboo for walls. The villages are often built in the foothills and are often named according to mountains, rivers or fields that are located here. Villages are often large and have dozens of homes at once.
THAI people – 2nd biggest ethnic group after Tay residents.
Residents of Thai ethnic minority are the 2nd biggest ethnic minority in Vietnam after the Tay inhabitants. Their number is estimated at less than 2% of the total population of Vietnam. Approximate number is about 1.5 million inhabitants. Residents of this minority live mainly in Son La, Mai Chau, Lao Cai and Lai Chau. In the area of Lai Chau and Lao Cai in the north live more residents of the White Thais. While in the southern part of the province of Son La, Yen Bai Mai Chau live residents of the Black Thais. You will meet also the White Thais in Mai Chau. They wear their clothes for cultural performances.
Thai ethnic minority is well known for its beautifully woven garments and other accessories and typical houses on stilts. These houses are designed to protect the residents before the possible flooding and from the dangerous animals. They also provide shelter for their animals.Women retain their habits in dressing, while men received the dress in the style of Viet inhabitants (not yet everywhere).
Women of Black Thais wear blouses (green, blue, pink, purple) with a distinctive row of buttons, black skirt, black scarf, white scarf (White Thai women). Thai residents have a great heritage of legends, myths and ancient legends.
They like folk dances (Xoe, Sap, Han Khuong) and love to sing, these dances are a reflection of Thai culture. Custom of this ethnic minority is also, that the husband lives in the house of the family of his wife until the baby is born. Then they moved with the child to husband’s family.
HMONG people – one of the largest ethnic group in the north.
The Hmong is one of the largest ethnic group in Vietnam (about 1 mil. people). They inhabit mainly the mountainous area in the north near the chinese border. There are different ethnic subgroups and they can be easily identified by the clothes and according to tradition they comply.
The Black Hmong are known for their craft and their traditional indigo blue clothes. The Flower Hmong wear expressive colorful clothes, and it is not difficult to meet them at the marketplaces such in Bac Ha and Coc Ly in Lao Cai province. The Other subgroups of Hmong are White Hmong, Red Hmong, Green Hmong and also Chinese Hmong.
The Hmong came to Vietnam fom South China about 300 years ago, during the reign of Ming and Qing dynasties. This departure comes from their rebellion against Chinese imperialism. The large number of Black Hmong can be found just in Sapa or Lao Cai province.
Husband´s obligation consist in the care of the whole family, he gives a major decisions about the safety and welfare of the family. He is also seen as a major provider of money. His wife must be mainly a good housewife caring for children and preparing meals. Part of the work of women are also handicraft such handmade traditional clothing or jewelry.
For the manufacture of clothes it is used also hemp and indigo color. The Hmong use traditional method for coloring and decorating – batik. Hmong are very well known by this creating of clothes and cultivation of hemp for making clothing. Watch interesting video – Hmong and batiks.
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The situation is also slowly changing with the arrival of tourists in Vietnam. Lots of Hmong in Vietnam has left many of their traditions and customs. They adapt to new customs and culture, change clothes or make a business and ride a motorcycle. Hmong live mainly in northern Vietnam and there you can see their simple and difficult life in beautiful natural areas.
DAO people („Jungle people“)
Dao is another large group of ethnic population of Hmong language groups but the group of Dao, which can be seen in northern Vietnam. The history of this minority is not fully known. They came from China. Immigrating began between the 12th or 13th century and the early 20th century.
Religion of Dao people has elements of Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism. Ban House (Ban Vuong) was the legendary holy man and the oldest ancestor of the Dao minority group. The Dao group has population of around 600 000 in Vietnam and is divided into another subgroups (Dao with white trousers, Dao with narrow trousers, Dao with coins, Dao with blue clothes…).
Women in this group are easily identifiable through a triangular red turban / scarf decorated with silver coins and red tassels. Men wear mostly long pants and a shirt and a scarf on head. Family roles is similar to the Hmong. A man has a dominant role in the family, community, and he is also a major economic factor. Woman takes care of the household, their children and the associated work.
Very important is also choose the place where the family will live. Customary of this choice is fulfillment bowl of rice for whole night on this place. It represents the richness of the area, the number of cows, buffaloes, money and property. They follow their dream and when the rice is on this place, family stay here or move to another location. Check out the video about the life of Red Dao people.
Threats and loss of indigenous traditions.
Some factors, such as the using of electricity, modern medicine, education, increase of tourism, created a benefits for ethnic minorities. Such a development, however, also brought leaving many century-old traditions of ethnic populations.
• lots population of ethnic minorities already retreated to various external influences
• transition to a new culture or change in traditional clothes with the new modern mainstream clothing
• many ethnic people is assimilated into Vietnamese society
• notification of religious activities to the Vietnamese government
• expropriation of land for new building projects (eg. the largest dam in the province of Son La)
• growing number of tourists who visit the ethnic minorities and evolving trend of commerce
(especially in Sapa and Bac Ha town)
Increase of tourism in the areas where the ethnic residents live, but also gives an opportunity for very poor inhabitants to earn money. Residents in these areas very quickly grasped the elements of a simple business.
They offer their handmade accessories, clothing, trekking or homestay mainly in tourist areas such as Sapa.
Rulles to follow in a village of ethnic minorities:
During your travel and trekking in mountain areas you will meet people from ethnic minorities in their villages. It is recommended to follow these rules of behavior:
1. Do not use drugs – use or sale of drugs is illegal in Vietnam
2. Do not touch the sacred objects
3. Dress appropriately (long pants, dresses…)
4. Do not drink alcohol in the village and do not be noisy (you can drink the rice wine in their presence)
5. It is not recommended to kiss in public in the village
6. Be careful when taking pictures (especially the elderly and children, ask for permission and then show the photo)
7. Enter into their home only when you are invited (you can also bring a small gift – eg. fruit and balloons for children)
8. Do not give money and sweets to small children (it is better to give some small items, toys…)
9. You can purchase a handmade object for hospitality
10. If you are invited for lunch or a homestay – of course pay the money
Ethnic Groups in Vietnam:
| Ethnic Group | Population | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Kinh | Approximately 86% | Mainly in the lowland areas and urban centers |
| Tay | Approximately 1.9% | Northern mountainous regions |
| Thai | Approximately 1.8% | Northwest mountainous regions |
| Muong | Approximately 1.5% | Central mountainous regions |
| Khmer | Approximately 1.5% | Southwestern regions |
| Mong | Approximately 1.2% | Northern mountainous regions |
| Nung | Approximately 1.1% | Northern mountainous regions |
The Smallest Ethnic Minorities in Vietnam:
| Ethnic Minority | Population | Region |
|---|---|---|
| Ra Glai | Approximately 77,000 | Mainly in the Central Highlands |
| La Hu | Approximately 50,000 | Mainly in the northern mountainous regions |
| O Du | Approximately 2,000 | Mainly in the Central Highlands |
| Man Ta Pan | Approximately 1,000 | Mainly in the northern mountainous regions |
| Brau | Approximately 700 | Mainly in the Central Highlands |
| Ru Khom | Approximately 500 | Mainly in the Central Highlands |
| Ro Mam | Approximately 400 | Mainly in the Central Highlands |
❓ FAQ + Tips – Ethnic Groups + Minorities in Vietnam:
1. How many ethnic groups are there in Vietnam?
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- Vietnam is home to 54 officially recognized ethnic groups. These groups have diverse cultures, languages, traditions, and lifestyles, contributing to the rich ethnic tapestry of the country.
2. Which is the largest ethnic group in Vietnam?
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- The largest ethnic group in Vietnam is the Kinh (Viet) people, who make up the majority of the population. They are concentrated in the lowland areas and major cities of Vietnam.
3. What are some other prominent ethnic groups in Vietnam?
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- Some prominent ethnic groups in Vietnam include the Tay, Thai, Muong, Hmong, Dao, Khmer, Cham, and Hoa (Chinese) communities. Each group has its unique customs, languages, and cultural practices.
4. How do ethnic minorities contribute to Vietnam’s cultural diversity?
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- Ethnic minorities play a crucial role in shaping Vietnam’s cultural diversity. They bring distinct traditions, crafts, music, dances, festivals, and cuisine, adding vibrant and diverse elements to the country’s cultural heritage.
5. Are there any traditional costumes associated with ethnic groups in Vietnam?
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- Yes, each ethnic group in Vietnam has its traditional costumes that reflect their unique identities. For example, the Hmong people are known for their colorful, intricately embroidered clothing, while the Cham people have distinct traditional dresses and headgear.
6. What are some famous festivals celebrated by ethnic groups in Vietnam?
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- There are numerous festivals celebrated by different ethnic groups in Vietnam. Some notable ones include the Tet festival (Lunar New Year), the Khmer New Year, the Long Tong Festival of the Tay ethnic group, and the Gau Tao Festival of the Hmong people.
7. Can tourists participate in ethnic minority festivals and cultural activities?
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- Yes, many ethnic minority communities in Vietnam warmly welcome tourists to join their festivals and cultural activities. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience their traditions, music, dances, and sample their local cuisine.
8. How can I learn more about the ethnic groups in Vietnam?
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- To learn more about the ethnic groups in Vietnam, you can visit ethnic minority villages, museums, cultural centers, and attend local events and festivals. Engaging with local communities, interacting with locals, and hiring local guides can provide deeper insights into their cultures.
9. Are there any specific etiquette or customs to be aware of when visiting ethnic minority communities?
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- It’s important to show respect for the customs and traditions of the ethnic minority communities when visiting. It is advisable to dress modestly, ask for permission before taking photos, and follow any cultural protocols or guidelines provided by the local community or your guide.
10. Can I purchase traditional crafts and products made by ethnic minorities in Vietnam?
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- Yes, many ethnic minority communities produce traditional crafts and products that are available for purchase. These can include textiles, embroidery, handicrafts, jewelry, and traditional medicines. Supporting local artisans by purchasing their products helps preserve their cultural heritage and provides economic opportunities for the communities.
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| Facts About Ethnic Groups in Vietnam | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Tay Ethnic Group: |
The Tay people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Vietnam, have a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in agricultural practices. Residing mainly in the northern mountainous regions, the Tay are known for their distinctive stilt houses, traditional music, and vibrant festivals. The „Then“ singing style, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, reflects the spiritual beliefs and daily life of the Tay people. Their traditional attire, adorned with intricate patterns, further showcases the artistic expression woven into the fabric of Tay culture. |
| 2. H’Mong Ethnic Group: |
The H’Mong people, with a strong presence in the northern mountainous regions, boast a distinct cultural identity marked by vibrant clothing and intricate embroidery. Known for their agricultural practices and weaving skills, the H’Mong celebrate the „Gau Tao“ festival to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest. H’Mong New Year, marked by traditional dances and rituals, provides a glimpse into their rich cultural tapestry. The H’Mong’s deep connection to nature is evident in their reverence for spirits and the role of shamans in their communities. |
| 3. Ede Ethnic Group: |
The Ede people, indigenous to the Central Highlands, are known for their distinctive communal houses and unique spiritual practices. With a matriarchal social structure, Ede women play pivotal roles in family and community life. The „Don“ festival, celebrating the rice harvest, showcases traditional music, dance, and gong performances. The Ede’s spiritual beliefs center around the „Yang,“ a powerful cosmic force. The intricate wood carvings adorning their houses and communal spaces reflect the Ede people’s commitment to preserving their cultural identity. |
| 4. Cham Ethnic Group: |
The Cham people, residing mainly in central Vietnam, have a history steeped in maritime trade and Hindu-Buddhist influences. Cham towers, architectural marvels built between the 7th and 15th centuries, stand as testament to their ancient civilization. The Cham’s traditional dance, „Apsara,“ and vibrant silk weaving showcase their artistic prowess. Despite the challenges faced by the Cham community over the centuries, they continue to preserve their cultural heritage, evident in their festivals, ceremonies, and the graceful curves of Cham architecture. |
| 5. Dao Ethnic Group: |
The Dao people, residing in the northern mountainous regions, are recognized for their distinctive red clothing and intricate silver jewelry. With a strong emphasis on community and ancestor worship, the Dao celebrate festivals such as „Gau Tao“ and „Roong Pooc“ to express gratitude to deities and seek blessings for the future. Dao women’s skill in embroidery, creating elaborate patterns on clothing, reflects the cultural significance of craftsmanship in their society. The Dao’s deep connection to nature is evident in their agricultural practices and spiritual beliefs. |
| 6. Khmer Krom Ethnic Group: |
The Khmer Krom, an ethnic minority in the Mekong Delta, carry the rich cultural heritage of the Khmer people. Their traditional „Chol Chnam Thmay“ New Year celebration is marked by colorful processions, traditional dance, and the construction of sand pagodas. The Khmer Krom’s connection to Theravada Buddhism is evident in their temples and religious practices. Despite facing challenges, the Khmer Krom continue to celebrate their unique identity through festivals, traditional crafts, and the preservation of their Khmer language and customs. |
| 7. Muong Ethnic Group: |
The Muong people, closely related to the Kinh majority, have a distinct cultural identity rooted in the northern mountainous regions. Known for their traditional bamboo stilt houses and vibrant festivals, the Muong celebrate events such as „Tet Muong“ with communal feasts and traditional performances. Muong epic poetry, passed down through generations, reflects their cultural history and values. The Muong’s agricultural practices, often centered around rice cultivation, showcase their harmonious relationship with nature and the importance of communal bonds in their society. |
| 8. Gia Rai Ethnic Group: |
The Gia Rai people, indigenous to the Central Highlands, are renowned for their distinctive communal longhouses and vibrant festivals. The „Dak Nong“ festival, celebrating the harvest, features traditional dances, gong performances, and communal rituals. Gia Rai women’s skill in weaving intricate patterns into their traditional clothing reflects the artistic expression embedded in their cultural identity. The Gia Rai’s spiritual beliefs, centered around deities and ancestor worship, are intertwined with their agricultural practices and connection to the land. |
| 9. Ba Na Ethnic Group: |
The Ba Na people, residing in the Central Highlands, showcase a unique cultural heritage through their traditional attire, vibrant festivals, and spiritual practices. The „Gong“ festival, a significant event in Ba Na culture, features gong performances, traditional dances, and communal celebrations. Ba Na women’s skill in weaving colorful patterns into their clothing adds a distinctive touch to their cultural expression. The Ba Na’s connection to the land, reflected in their agricultural practices and spiritual beliefs, underscores the importance of harmony with nature in their society. |
| 10. Raglai Ethnic Group: |
The Raglai people, residing in the coastal areas of the Central Highlands, boast a unique cultural identity shaped by their maritime traditions and agricultural practices. The „Blai“ festival, celebrated to express gratitude for a bountiful harvest, features traditional dances, music, and communal feasts. Raglai women’s skill in crafting intricate patterns on their clothing reflects the cultural significance of craftsmanship in their society. The Raglai’s spiritual beliefs, intertwined with nature and ancestral worship, underscore their harmonious relationship with the land and the sea. |
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