Exploring Kinh Bac (North of the ancient Capital) Culture through the “Bac Bling” MV (Bac Ninh)

Date: 2025.04.17

Bac Ninh – Kinh Bac is one of the cradles of ancient Vietnamese civilization and wet rice culture. Thanks to its central location in the Red River Delta, fertile land, beautiful landscapes, and accessibility for cultural and economic exchange, this region has nurtured and preserved many distinct layers of Dai Viet culture.

According to the Woodblocks of the Nguyen Dynasty, this region has undergone several name and boundary changes: from Vu Ninh under the Hung Kings, to various districts and prefectures during the Tan, Han, and Ngo dynasties; then to Bac Giang Circuit and Kinh Bac Route under the Dinh, Le, Ly, and Tran dynasties; and finally renamed to Kinh Bac Province during the reign of Le Thanh Tong. In 1822, the Nguyen Dynasty considered it a strategic area and renamed it Bac Ninh Prefecture, which became Bac Ninh Province in 1831 with four main districts.

Despite administrative changes over time, Bac Ninh has remained a land of enduring cultural heritage, thriving in economics, culture, and military development.

Quan Ho Bac Ninh – The Cultural Essence of Kinh Bac

“Dear friend, please don’t leave…” – This familiar Quan Ho folk song lyric echoes in the memories of generations, inseparably tied to the land of Kinh Bac – Bac Ninh. More than just a land of natural beauty and talent, it is the cradle of Quan Ho – a lyrical form of folk singing that expresses the Vietnamese soul, aspirations, and identity. In 2009, Quan Ho Bac Ninh was recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Besides Quan Ho, Bac Ninh is also home to many historical and spiritual landmarks:

・Do Temple: Homeland of eight kings from the Ly Dynasty, originally built in 1030. After several restorations and being destroyed in 1952, it was rebuilt in 1989. The Do Temple Festival is held annually from the 14th to 16th of the third lunar month, attracting many visitors.

・Dau Pagoda: The oldest pagoda in Vietnam, regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in the country, located in Thuan Thanh District. It holds great historical, cultural, and architectural value and was recognized as a National Special Relic in 2013.

・Ba Chua Kho Temple: Situated on Kho Mountain in Vu Ninh Ward, this temple honors a talented woman from the Ly Dynasty who managed the national granary. Its festival on the 14th day of the first lunar month draws tens of thousands seeking blessings for wealth and prosperity.

・Phu Lang Pottery Village: A traditional craft village along the Cau River, famous for its signature brown ceramics. Today, artisans are creating unique artistic products, bringing Phu Lang pottery into modern markets. The village was recognized as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016.

・Dong Ho Folk Painting Village: Renowned for its folk paintings rich in Vietnamese rural spirit. These artworks use vibrant colors, imagery, and poetry to convey cultural beauty and philosophical values. It is a must-visit destination for both domestic and international tourists.

🌸 Discover Bac Ninh – The Land of a Thousand Years of Quan Ho

🔨 Dong Ky Wood Carving Village
Just 20km from Hanoi, Dong Ky is known for its exquisite woodcrafts made from precious woods like rosewood, ebony, and agarwood, etc. The intricate carvings reflect traditional artistry and the masterful skills of Vietnamese craftsmen.

🎉 Lim Festival – The Quintessence of Quan Ho Culture
Held on the 12th–13th day of the first lunar month in Tien Du District, Lim Festival is Bac Ninh’s signature celebration. It showcases smooth Quan Ho melodies through unique festivities, deeply reflecting the cultural essence of Kinh Bac.

🍃 The Betel Chewing Custom – A Charming Vietnamese Cultural Practice
Betel quid is not only a traditional offering during important occasions but also a symbol respectful invitation, especially in Quan Ho activities where the betel quid becomes a refined “beautiful custom.”

🎶 “Bac Bling” (Bac Ninh) MV – Where Tradition Meets Modernity
Released in March 2025, “Bac Bling” MV by Hoa Minzy quickly became a sensation, topping YouTube Vietnam and spreading Quan Ho culture through modern music and the trending “instant transformation into Quan Ho women” challenge among youth.

📅 Bac Ninh Festivals – Most Vibrant in the First Lunar Month
Numerous traditional festivals such as Lim Festival, Dong Ky Firecracker Parade, Nem Thuong Pig Slaughter Festival, and Quan Ho singing in Nem, Bo Son, and Hoa Dinh villages take place throughout the first month of the lunar year.

🍜 Bac Ninh Cuisine – Rich in Homeland Flavors

Must-try local specialties include:

・Phu the cakes, khuc cake, te cake, tro cake

・Phu Luu snails, Bui village fermented pork rolls, snakehead fish porridge

・Young beef wrapped in rice paper

・Dinh To soy sauce, Van village wine

📍 Recommended dining and cultural experiences:

・Dat Bac Quan Ho Restaurant – 18 Ly Thai To Street, Bac Ninh City

・Dinh To Soy Sauce Village – Thuan Thanh District

・Huong Thao Fish Porridge – 24 Le Van Thinh, Bac Ninh City

・Van Huong Restaurant – Van Village, Bac Giang (just ~10km from Bac Ninh)

🍶 Vân Village Wine
Vân Village wine – a famous specialty of Kinh Bac, is renowned for its rich aroma, sweet aftertaste, and moderate strength. It is a beloved and sought-after gift when visiting Bac Ninh.

📍 Suggested Culinary Destinations in Bac Ninh:

Quan Ho Dat Bac Restaurant
📌 18 Ly Thai To, Ninh Xa Ward, Bắc Ninh City
👉 Known for young beef wrapped in rice paper and rustic Bac Ninh dishes. The cozy atmosphere is perfect for family meals or hosting guests.

Dinh To Soy Sauce Village
📌 Dinh To Commune, Thuan Thanh District
👉 Enjoy traditional soy sauce at Bà Chín’s soy sauce establishment and learn about the authentic Kinh Bắc soy sauce-making process.

Huong Thao Fish Porridge Restaurant
📌 24 Le Van Thinh, Suoi Hoa Ward, Bac Ninh City
👉 Delicious and nutritious snakehead fish porridge – a favorite breakfast and dinner dish here.

Van Huong Restaurant
📌 Van Village, Van Ha Commune, Viet Yen District, Bac Giang (about 10km from Bac Ninh City)
👉 The place to enjoy authentic Van Village wine and attractive traditional dishes.

🎒 “Come visit Bac Ninh with us!” If you love Quan Ho and Bac Ninh cuisine but haven’t visited yet, now is the time to pack your bags and go! If you find anything interesting, don’t forget to share it with Help All !

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