Society - Culture

Vietnam’s pho and water puppetry to be proposed for UNESCO intangible cultural heritage listing

Translated by MAI DUNG •

DNO - Two of Vietnam’s most cherished cultural features: ‘pho’ and water puppetry are set to be nominated for inscription on UNESCO’s list of intangible cultural heritage.

Water puppetry is a form of traditional folk theatre with a unique and compelling appeal. Photo: Vietnam+ — Water puppetry is a form of traditional folk theater with a unique and compelling appeal. Photo: Vietnam+

Deputy Prime Minister Mai Van Chinh has given in-principle approval for the preparation of scientific dossiers on 'pho' and water puppetry, to be submitted to UNESCO for inclusion on its intangible cultural heritage list following recommendations from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The Ha Noi People’s Committee is assigned to coordinate with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the People’s Committees of Ninh Binh Province, Hai Phong City, Hung Yen Province and other localities where the heritage is actively practiced, to compile the dossiers and carry out all related tasks, procedures and formalities in a rigorous manner and in accordance with the law.

'Pho' is often likened to the “national soul and national essence” of Vietnamese cuisine. Photo: Vietnam+

Given the distinctive values of the two heritages: a world-famous culinary icon beloved by international friends, and a unique form of traditional folk theater that has left a lasting impression on visitors worldwide, Vietnamese experts affirm that the recognition of 'pho' and water puppetry as heritage of humanity is entirely well deserved.

Water puppetry was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2012. Later, in 2024, 'Pho Nam Dinh' and 'Pho Ha Noi' were officially recognized as national intangible cultural heritage.