Ethnic minority groups: Discover the rich culture of 53 “brothers” of Vietnam

Vietnam is home to a wide variety of ethnic minority groups, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and language. While the majority of Vietnam’s population is of the Kinh ethnic group, there are 53 recognized ethnic minority groups living in various regions of the country.

Visiting the ethnic minority communities in Vietnam is a great way to learn about the country’s cultural diversity and gain a deeper understanding of its history.

Here are some of the most prominent ethnic minority groups in Vietnam:

1. Hmong: The Hmong people are one of the largest ethnic minority groups in Vietnam. They are known for their distinctive clothing, which is adorned with colorful embroidery and silver jewelry. The Hmong are also skilled in handicrafts, particularly in making hemp textiles and silver jewelry.
2. Dao: The Dao people are known for their traditional clothing, which is made from indigo-dyed hemp and adorned with intricate embroidery. They are also skilled in handicrafts such as weaving and woodcarving.
3. Tay: The Tay people are known for their stilt houses, which are raised off the ground to protect against flooding. They are skilled in agriculture and fishing, and their traditional clothing is made from linen and cotton.
4. Nung: The Nung people are known for their terraced rice fields, which are built into the hillsides. They are skilled in agriculture and handicrafts, particularly in making bamboo and rattan products.
5. Muong: The Muong people are the second-largest ethnic group in Vietnam after the Hmong. They are known for their traditional music and dance, and their cuisine, which includes dishes made from bamboo shoots, grilled meat, and fermented fish.
6. Khmer: The Khmer people are an ethnic group living in southern Vietnam, primarily in the Mekong Delta region. They are known for their unique language and cultural practices, which are influenced by their Khmer heritage.
7. Raglai: The Raglai people are an ethnic group living in the Central Highlands of Vietnam. They are primarily farmers and are known for their traditional handicrafts, including weaving and basket making.
8. Cham: An ethnic group with a long history in Vietnam and a distinct culture, including their own language and script. One of the most notable features of Cham culture is its traditional music and dance. Cham music is characterized by the use of drums and gongs, while Cham dance is known for its graceful and elegant movements.

Visiting ethnic minority groups in Vietnam is a great way to gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural diversity. Many tour companies offer trips to remote villages and homestays with ethnic minority families, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to learn about traditional customs and lifestyles firsthand.