The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese. It is spoken and written throughout the country. English is increasingly spoken in major tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Still, one of the best things you can do before visiting any country is to learn a couple of words, phrases, and greetings in the native language.

Here are the top 10 phrases, greetings, and sayings a foreign traveler to Vietnam should learn in Vietnamese and how to pronounce them:

• Hello – Xin chào (sin chow)
• Goodbye – Tạm biệt (tarm byeet)
• Thank you – Cảm ơn (kam uhn)
• You’re welcome – Không có gì (comb caw zee)
• Excuse me/Sorry – Xin lỗi (sin loy)
• How are you? – Khỏe không? (kweh comb)
• I’m fine – Tôi khỏe (toy kweh)
• What is your name? – Tên bạn là gì? (ten ban la zee)
• My name is… – Tên tôi là… (ten toy la…)
• How much is this? – Cái này giá bao nhiêu? (kai nai zah bow nyew)

Greetings

The most common way to greet people in Vietnam is xin chào (sin chow), which means “hello” in English. However, this greeting is usually used by non-native speakers or in formal situations. Native speakers often use different greetings based on the age, gender and familiarity of the person they are talking to.

For example, if you are close in age or very familiar with someone, you can say chào bạn (chow bahn), which means “hello you” in an informal way. If you are speaking to an older male, you can say chào anh (chow anne), and if you are speaking to an older female, you can say chào chị (chow chee). These terms are polite ways to say “you” when addressing elders.

If you are speaking to someone younger than you, you can say chào em (chow ehm), which means “hello younger sibling” in a respectful way. You can also address someone by their name after the word chào if you know them well.

These greetings can be used with both men and women, but you should pay attention to the age and relationship of the person you are greeting. You should also bow your head slightly or shake hands when greeting someone in Vietnam.

Addressing Others

People in Vietnamese society do expect to be addressed with honorifics, which are titles that show respect and indicate someone’s position in the society. Honorifics are also known as personal pronouns in Vietnamese.

Honorifics are based on people’s gender, age and social relationship to one another. For example, if you are speaking to an older male, you can use anh, and if you are speaking to an older female, you can use chị. These terms are polite ways to say “you” when addressing elders.

If you are speaking to someone younger than you, you can use em, which means “younger sibling” in a respectful way.

You can also use other honorifics such as cô, chú, bác, ông, bà for people who are much older than you or have a higher social status.

If in doubt, you can inquire with your Vietnamese counterparts what is the best way to address them and/or others in your group.

Vietnam has religious and cultural sites that reflect the country’s rich and diverse heritage. Some of these sites are:

• The Complex of Hue Monuments: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that consists of the former imperial capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty (1802-1945). The complex includes palaces, temples, tombs, and other structures that showcase the architectural and artistic achievements of the Nguyen era. The complex also reflects the influences of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Taoism on Vietnamese culture.
• The Trang An Landscape Complex: This is another UNESCO World Heritage Site that comprises a scenic area of limestone karst peaks, valleys, caves, and rivers in Ninh Binh province. The complex also contains the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, which was the first capital of Vietnam in the 10th and 11th centuries. The complex is considered a cultural and natural site that illustrates the interaction between humans and nature over time.
• Hoi An Ancient Town: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that preserves a historic port town that flourished from the 15th to the 19th centuries. The town features a blend of local and foreign architectural styles, such as Chinese, Japanese, and European. The town also has a rich cultural heritage of handicrafts, festivals, cuisine, and folk arts.
• The Cham Towers: These are ancient Hindu temples built by the Cham people, who ruled a kingdom in central and southern Vietnam from the 2nd to the 15th centuries. The towers are decorated with sculptures and inscriptions that reflect the religious beliefs and artistic traditions of the Cham culture. Some of the best-preserved towers are located in Nha Trang, Phan Thiet, Quy Nhon, and Da Nang.
• The Ethnic Minority Villages: These are rural settlements inhabited by various ethnic minority groups in Vietnam, such as the Hmong, Dao, Tay, Nung, Thai, Muong, and others. The villages showcase the diverse lifestyles, customs, languages, costumes, and crafts of these groups. Some of the villages are located in scenic areas, such as Sapa, Mai Chau, Ha Giang, Cao Bang, and Kon Tum.

Vietnam is a country with a diverse and complex religious landscape. Although the official statistics may not reflect the actual religious practices and beliefs of the people, it is estimated that most Vietnamese follow some form of folk religion, which is a mixture of Indigenous faiths and influences from Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism.

Besides folk religion, there are also other major religions that have a significant presence in Vietnam, such as Buddhism, Catholicism, Protestantism, Caodaism, Hoahaoism, and Islam. Here is a brief description of each religion and some important information for foreign travelers.

Folk Religion

Folk religion is the most common and pervasive form of religion in Vietnam. It is not a unified or organized system, but rather a collection of practices and beliefs that vary from region to region and person to person.

Folk religion mainly focuses on the veneration of ancestors, spirits, and deities, who are believed to influence human affairs and natural phenomena. People often worship at home altars, communal halls, temples, or shrines, where they offer prayers, incense, food, and money.

Buddhism

Buddhism is the second-most popular religion in Vietnam, with about 15% of the population identifying as Buddhists. Buddhism was introduced to Vietnam from India and China around the 2nd century CE and has since developed into various schools and traditions. The most dominant form of Buddhism in Vietnam is Mahayana Buddhism, which emphasizes the bodhisattva ideal of compassion and wisdom.

Catholicism

Catholicism is the third-most popular religion in Vietnam, with about 7% of the population identifying as Catholics. Catholicism was brought to Vietnam by Portuguese missionaries in the 16th century and was later supported by French colonizers in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Catholics face some discrimination and persecution from the communist government, which views them as a potential threat to its authority and ideology. Catholics worship at churches or cathedrals, where they attend mass and receive sacraments.

Protestantism

Protestantism is a relatively new and minor religion in Vietnam, with about 1% of the population identifying as Protestants. Protestantism was introduced to Vietnam by American missionaries in the 19th century and was mainly adopted by some ethnic minorities in the highlands and central regions.

Protestants face similar challenges as Catholics from the communist government, which restricts their freedom of worship and expression. Protestants worship at churches or house churches, where they read the Bible and sing hymns. They also celebrate some holidays, such as Christmas and Easter.

Caodaism

Caodaism is a unique and syncretic religion that originated in Vietnam in the 20th century. It claims to be a universal religion that encompasses all religions and seeks to create harmony among them.

Caodaism combines elements from Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, Islam and other faiths. It also incorporates some Vietnamese folk beliefs and practices. Caodaists worship at temples or oratories, where they conduct elaborate rituals involving music, colors and symbols.

Hoahaoism

Hoahaoism is a syncretic and reformist religion that originated in Vietnam in the 20th century. It claims to be based on the teachings of Buddha and a Vietnamese mystic named Huynh Phu So, who is regarded as a prophet and a reincarnation of Buddha by his followers.

Hoahaoism emphasizes personal faith, simplicity, charity and social justice. It also rejects the authority of organized Buddhism and its rituals, monasticism and hierarchy. Hoahaoists worship at home altars or communal halls, where they conduct prayers, readings and meditation.

Islam

Islam is a minority religion in Vietnam, with about 0.1% of the population identifying as Muslims. Islam was introduced to Vietnam by Arab and Indian traders and missionaries between the 9th and 15th centuries.

Most Muslims in Vietnam belong to the Sunni branch of Islam, while some belong to the Shia or Ahmadiyya branches. Muslims worship at mosques or Islamic centers, where they perform prayers, recite the Quran, and observe Islamic laws and customs.

Vietnam has many holidays and festivals that celebrate its rich and diverse culture, history, and traditions. Some of these holidays and festivals are based on the lunar calendar, which means they vary from year to year. Here are some of the main holidays and festivals in Vietnam and when they are held.

Lunar New Year (Tết Nguyên Đán)

This is the most important and celebrated holiday in Vietnam, marking the beginning of a new year and a new spring. It usually falls between late January and early February, and lasts for about a week.

During this time, people visit their families, decorate their homes with flowers and fruits, exchange gifts and wishes, enjoy special foods and games, and pay respect to their ancestors and deities. Tết is also a time to forget the past troubles and look forward to a better future.

Hung Kings Temple Festival (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương)

This is a national holiday that commemorates the legendary founders of the first Vietnamese kingdom, the Hung Kings. It is held on the 10th day of the third lunar month, which is usually in April.

People flock to the Hung Temple in Phu Tho province, where they offer prayers, incense, food and money to the Hung Kings. They also enjoy various cultural activities, such as music, dance, poetry, wrestling, and dragon-boat racing.

Reunification Day (Ngày Thống Nhất)

This is a public holiday that celebrates the end of the Vietnam War and the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1975. It is held on April 30 every year. People celebrate this day by attending parades, fireworks, concerts, and exhibitions that showcase the achievements and aspirations of the nation.

International Workers’ Day (Ngày Quốc Tế Lao Động)

This is a public holiday that honors the contributions and struggles of workers around the world. It is held on May 1 every year. People celebrate this day by joining rallies, demonstrations, marches, and meetings that demand better working conditions and rights for workers. They also enjoy various recreational activities, such as picnics, sports, and entertainment.

Buddha’s Birthday (Phật Đản)

This is a religious holiday that celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Gautama Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. It is held on the 15th day of the fourth lunar month, which is usually in May.

Buddhists celebrate this day by visiting pagodas or temples, where they offer flowers, fruits, candles, and incense to Buddha. They also listen to sermons, chant sutras, meditate, and practice vegetarianism. They also participate in various charitable activities, such as donating blood, helping the poor, and releasing animals.

Mid-Autumn Festival (Tết Trung Thu)

This is a traditional festival that celebrates the harvest season and the full moon. It is held on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, which is usually in September or October. Children are the main focus of this festival, as they enjoy various activities, such as carrying lanterns, wearing masks, performing lion dances, and singing folk songs. They also receive gifts and toys from their parents and relatives.

The festival features special foods, such as mooncakes, fruits, nuts, and tea. The festival is also a time to honor the Moon Goddess and pray for good luck and happiness.

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its fresh ingredients, delicate flavors, and vibrant presentation. Here are several dishes that you should put on your list to try.

Pho

A fragrant and filling noodle soup with chicken or beef, herbs, and spices. It’s a national dish that can be found everywhere in Vietnam.

Banh mi

A crunchy baguette sandwich with various fillings such as pork, pâté, eggs, vegetables, and sauces. It’s a fusion of French and Vietnamese influences and a great snack for any time of the day.

Bun cha

A dish of grilled pork patties and slices, rice noodles, fresh herbs, and tangy dipping sauce. It’s a specialty of Hanoi and was famously enjoyed by former US president Barack Obama.

Cao lau

A noodle dish from Hoi An that combines thick rice noodles, pork, greens, bean sprouts, and crunchy croutons. It’s said to be made with water from a special well in the town.

Banh xeo

A crispy rice-flour pancake stuffed with pork, shrimp, bean sprouts, and herbs. It’s served with lettuce leaves and a sweet and sour dipping sauce. You can find it in many regions of Vietnam, but each one has its own variation.

Egg coffee

A unique drink that consists of strong black coffee topped with whipped egg yolks and condensed milk. It’s a rich and creamy treat that originated in Hanoi.

Bun bo hue

A spicy beef noodle soup originating from Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam. It’s made with lemongrass, chili, shrimp paste, and various cuts of beef and pork. It’s often garnished with lime, cilantro, onions, and banana blossoms.

Mi quang

A noodle dish from Quang Nam province that features yellow rice noodles, meat (usually pork or shrimp), peanuts, herbs, and a small amount of broth. It’s served with rice crackers, lime, and chiles for extra crunch and flavor.

Banh cuon

A delicate dish of steamed rice rolls filled with minced pork and wood-ear mushrooms. It’s served with a fish-sauce dip, fried shallots, and fresh herbs. It’s a popular breakfast or snack in northern Vietnam.

Bargaining or haggling is common practice in Vietnam, especially in tourist markets and street stalls where prices are not fixed. It is a part of Vietnamese culture and a way of communicating and building relationships with the sellers. However, you should also be respectful and reasonable when bargaining.

Some places where you should bargain in Vietnam are:

• Markets that sell clothes, souvenirs, handicrafts, electronics, and more, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi.
• Street vendors that sell food, drinks, fruits, and flowers, such as Bui Vien Street in Ho Chi Minh City or Ta Hien Street in Hanoi.
• Transportation services, such as taxis, motorbike taxis, and cyclos, that do not have meters or charge by distance.
• Tours and activities that do not have fixed prices or can be negotiated with the operators or agents.

Some places where you should avoid bargaining in Vietnam are:

• Supermarkets, department stores, shopping malls, and convenience stores that have fixed prices and barcodes on their products.
• Restaurants, cafes, and bars that have menus with prices and charge service fees or taxes.
• Hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that have standard rates and online booking options.
• Museums, temples, and historical sites that have entrance fees and tickets.

Bargaining may be a big part of the shopping experience in Vietnam, but you don’t want to be rude about it. Here are some moves to consider for a polite approach.

• Learn a few Vietnamese phrases to show respect for the local culture. Start off the exchange with xin chào, or hello (pronounced “sin chow”), and don’t be afraid to throw in a quá đắt (“kwah dah”)—too expensive!—if the price quoted is out of your budget.
• You’ll get a better deal if you refrain from bargaining with the first person you approach. Instead, survey a few vendors to gauge the going rates.
• Walk away if you’re not sold on the price. The seller might call you back with a better offer, or you could find what you’re looking for elsewhere.
• Conduct your bargaining in Vietnamese currency, and carry small bills to pay.
• Don’t put up too much of a fight. At the end of the day, a few thousand dong won’t make a big difference to you, but it could make a huge difference to the seller.

From how to behave at temples to the proper way to eat, these rules and guidelines will help you better respect Vietnam tradition and culture.

Temple and Religious Sites Etiquette in Vietnam

Vietnam has many religious and cultural sites that reflect its rich and diverse heritage. These sites are often sacred and revered by locals, so it is important to be respectful and mindful when visiting them. Here are some things that a foreign traveler should be aware of when visiting religious or cultural sites in Vietnam:

• Dress appropriately: As a general rule, you should reflect Vietnamese values and dress modestly and neatly when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid wearing revealing, torn, or dirty clothes that may be seen as disrespectful or indecent, and cover your shoulders and knees, especially when entering temples, pagodas or mosques. Some sites may also require you to remove your shoes, hats, or sunglasses before entering, so be prepared to do so.
• Follow the etiquette: Different religious and cultural sites may have different etiquette and customs that you should follow. For example, when visiting a Buddhist temple or pagoda, you should avoid pointing your feet at the Buddha statues, touching the monks or nuns, or turning your back to the main altar. When visiting a Hindu temple or ruin, you should avoid touching the carvings or statues or taking photos without permission. When visiting a Muslim mosque, avoid entering during prayer times and touching the Quran or other sacred objects.
• Be respectful and quiet: You should always be respectful and quiet when visiting any religious or cultural site in Vietnam. Avoid making loud noises, talking on your phone, playing music or smoking, and taking photos or videos without permission, especially if they involve flash or drones. You should also respect the local people who may be praying or worshiping at the site, and not disturb them or intrude on their privacy.
• Learn about the history and culture: One of the best ways to appreciate and enjoy any religious or cultural tourist sites in Vietnam is to learn about their history and culture. You can do this by reading signs, brochures or guidebooks, hiring a local guide, or joining a tour. You can also ask questions to the staff or locals, but make sure to do so politely and sensitively.

Dining Etiquette in Vietnam

Eating in Vietnam can be a wonderful experience, but there’s some etiquette a foreigner should know to avoid offending the locals or embarrassing themselves. To present yourself in the best possible light, here are some tips to follow:

• Wait for the oldest person to start the meal first: This shows respect for the elders and the host in Vietnamese culture. You should also say “Mời cả nhà ăn cơm” (Bon appétit/Enjoy your meal) before eating.
• Ordering only for yourself is a big no-no: Vietnamese meals are usually shared among the group, with various dishes placed on a round tray or table. You should order enough food for everyone and try a bit of everything.
• Use the serving spoon to take food from the common dishes: Do not use your own chopsticks or spoon to reach for food, as this is considered unhygienic and rude. Also, do not pass food through chopsticks from person to person, as this is associated with funeral rituals in the culture of Vietnam.
• Don’t hit the bowl with the chopsticks: This is seen as impolite and annoying. You should also avoid planting the chopsticks directly in the bowl, as this resembles incense sticks for the dead. Instead, place them horizontally on top of the bowl or on a chopstick rest when not in use.
• Take small portions and put them into your bowl before eating: Never eat from the sharing bowls directly. You should also try to take only as much as you will eat, as leaving food on your plate is impolite, especially rice. If you are full, you can leave a little bit of food to show that you are satisfied.
• Don’t rummage through food to find your favorite: This is considered greedy and disrespectful. You should eat what is given to you and appreciate the variety of flavors and ingredients.
• Stay until the others finish eating: It is rude to leave the table before everyone is done with their meal. You should also help with clearing the dishes and thank the host for their hospitality.
• Learn how to use chopsticks effectively: The Vietnamese are impressed by foreigners who can handle chopsticks well. You should hold them near the end, not in the middle or the front. You should also avoid pointing them at people or waving them around.
• Don’t burp in public: Unlike some neighboring Asian countries, Vietnam does not condone public burping. It is seen as vulgar and uncivilized. If you have to burp, do it discreetly and cover your mouth.
• Elbows on the table are okay: Unlike some Western countries, Vietnam does not have a rule against resting your elbows on the table. You can do it if you need to raise your bowl to your mouth or if you are tired.

Cultural Sensitivities in Vietnam

Vietnam is a country with a rich and diverse culture that has been influenced by various historical and geographical factors. As a foreigner, it is important to be aware of some cultural sensitivities that can help you avoid causing any offense or misunderstanding. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Show respect for elders and authority figures: Vietnamese culture stresses the importance of showing respect for elders, whether they are family members, teachers, bosses, or strangers. You should greet them first, use formal titles and pronouns, avoid interrupting them or contradicting them openly, and listen to their opinions and advice. You should also avoid touching their heads or shoulders, as this is considered disrespectful.
• Be modest and humble: Vietnamese people tend to be modest and humble about their achievements and abilities. They may politely protest or deflect compliments you give them in an effort to remain humble. You should avoid profusely complimenting people or using very colorful language to praise something, as this can be interpreted as insincere or exaggerated. Instead, you can show your appreciation by saying “thank you” or giving a small gift.
• Be aware of the history and politics: Vietnam has a long and complex history that has shaped its culture and identity. You should be sensitive to Vietnam’s history and avoid bringing up topics that may be controversial or painful, such as the Vietnam War, the division of the country, the relationship with China, or the human rights situation.
  If you are genuinely interested in learning more about these issues, you should approach the conversation with sensitivity and respect and let the Vietnamese person share their perspective without imposing your own views or judgments.
• Avoid public displays of affection: Vietnamese culture is generally conservative and reserved when it comes to expressing emotions and affection in public. You should avoid kissing, hugging, holding hands or touching your partner in public, as this may be seen as inappropriate or offensive. You should also avoid showing anger or frustration in public, as this may be seen as rude or immature; try instead to maintain a calm and polite demeanor at all times.
• Dress appropriately: Vietnamese people tend to dress modestly and neatly, especially when visiting religious sites, government offices, schools or formal events. Wearing revealing, torn or dirty clothes may be seen as disrespectful or indecent. You should also remove your shoes when entering a Vietnamese home or temple, as this shows respect for the host and the place.

Doing Business in Vietnam

If you plan to engage in business activities in Vietnam, consider the following:

• Formality: Initial meetings may involve formalities, such as exchanging business cards. It is advisable to dress professionally and maintain a respectful and polite demeanor.
• Hierarchy: Vietnamese business culture often respects hierarchy and seniority. It is customary to defer to those in higher positions and show proper respect.
• Building Relationships: Building personal relationships is important in Vietnamese business culture. Take the time to establish connections and rapport with your Vietnamese counterparts.

A foreign traveler should dress according to the weather, the occasion, and the local culture when in Vietnam. Vietnam has a tropical climate with hot and humid weather for most of the year, but it can also vary depending on the region and the season. Therefore, it’s advisable to pack light, loose-fitting and quick-drying clothes that can protect you from the sun and the rain.

Some general tips on how to dress in Vietnam:

• Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting temples, pagodas, government buildings and rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothes, such as spaghetti straps, short shorts, and crop tops, that may be seen as inappropriate or offensive by the locals. Cover your shoulders and knees with long sleeves, pants, skirts, or dresses.
• Wear comfortable shoes or sandals that are easy to slip on and off, as you may need to remove them when entering places such as temples, homes, restaurants, and bars. Flip-flops are a good option for casual wear, but you may also want to bring sneakers or hiking shoes if you plan to do some outdoor activities or explore the countryside.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun, which can be very strong in Vietnam. You may also want to bring a rain poncho or umbrella for the rainy season, which usually lasts from May to October in northern Vietnam and from June to November in the south.
• Dress appropriately for the occasion and the location. For example, if you are going to a formal event or a business meeting, you may want to wear a suit or a dress with a jacket. If you are going to a beach or a resort, you can wear swimwear or casual clothes, but make sure to cover up when leaving the beach area. If you are going to a mountainous area or a highland town, you may need to bring some warm clothes or layers, as it can get chilly at night, especially during the winter months.
• Respect the local culture and traditions. If you are visiting an ethnic minority village or a hill-tribe area, you may want to wear something that reflects their style or colors. You can also buy local clothes or accessories as souvenirs or gifts. However, avoid wearing anything that may be considered disrespectful or offensive, such as military clothing or symbols.

Some of the popular sports in Vietnam are:

• Football (soccer): Football is the most popular sport in Vietnam and has been since the colonial era. The Vietnam Football Federation is the governing body of football, futsal, and beach soccer in the country. The national football team has participated in several regional and international competitions, such as the AFC Asian Cup, the AFF Championship, and the Southeast Asian Games.
• Volleyball: Volleyball is a rising sport among the youth and is widely played in schools and universities. The national volleyball team has won several medals at the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Volleyball Championship.
• Badminton: Badminton is a popular sport for both recreation and competition. The national badminton team has competed in various events, such as the Thomas Cup, the Uber Cup, the Sudirman Cup, and the Asian Games.
• Wrestling: Wrestling is a traditional sport that dates back to ancient times. There are different styles of wrestling in Vietnam, such as vật cổ truyền (traditional wrestling), đấu vật tự do (freestyle wrestling) and đấu vật bóng (Greco-Roman wrestling). The national wrestling team has won many medals at the Southeast Asian Games and the Asian Wrestling Championships24.
• Cycling: Cycling is a popular sport for both leisure and competition. The national cycling team has participated in various races, such as the Tour de Langkawi, the Tour de Singkarak, and the Tour of Vietnam24.
• Basketball: Basketball is a growing sport among the young generation. The national basketball team has competed in several tournaments, such as the FIBA Asia Cup, the FIBA Asia Challenge, and the Southeast Asian Games24.
• Athletics: Athletics is a sport that encompasses various track and field events. The national athletics team has performed well in various competitions, such as the Asian Athletics Championships, the Asian Games ,and the Southeast Asian Games24.
• Futsal: Futsal is a variant of football that is played on a hard court with five players on each side. The national futsal team has qualified for several tournaments, such as the AFC Futsal Championship, the FIFA Futsal World Cup, and the Southeast Asian Games24.
• Australian Rules football: Aussie rules football originated in Australia and is played with an oval-shaped ball on a large oval field. The national Australian Rules football team, known as the Vietnam Swans, has competed in various events, such as the AFL International Cup and the Indochina Cup24.
• Cricket: Cricket is a long-running game that involves batting and bowling with a round ball and a flat bat. The national cricket team has participated in several matches, such as the ACC Trophy Challenge and the ACC Eastern Region T2024.
• Rugby union: Rugby union is a sport that involves running with an oval-shaped ball and tackling opponents. The national rugby union team has played in various games, such as the Asian Rugby Championship and the Asia Rugby Sevens Series24.
• Chess: Technically not a sport but still a serious competition, chess is a board game that involves strategic thinking and moving pieces according to rules. The national chess team has competed in various events, such as the Chess Olympiad, the Asian Team Chess Championship, and the Southeast Asian Games24.

Besides these sports, there are also some traditional sports that are unique to Vietnam, such as:

• Đá cầu: Known as shuttlecock kicking, or jianzi in Chinese culture, this sport involves kicking a feathered ball over a net or among players without using hands. It is considered to be the national sport of Vietnam and is played for both recreation and competition.
• Vovinam: Known in the Vietnamese language as Việt võ đạo or Vietnamese martial arts, this sport combines elements of various martial arts styles from Vietnam and other countries. It involves striking, grappling, weapons, and self-defense techniques. It is practiced for both physical fitness and spiritual development.
• Bầu cua cá cọp: Also known as bầu cua tôm cá or gourd-crab-shrimp-fish, this gambling game involves betting on six images of animals on a board. It is played with three dice that have the same images on their faces. It is a popular game during festivals and holidays.