Ha Temple stands on what was once Ky Lan Mound, also known as Tu Forest, a site traditionally described as embodying the four sacred creatures, including Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix. The temple is located in Kep 2B residential quarter, Chu Ward.

Leader of the Department of Cultural Heritage presents the certificate recognizing the Soong Co folk performing art of the San Diu ethnic group as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The annual festival commemorates General Vu Thanh (Than Canh Phuc) and ethnic minority insurgent forces for their contributions during the resistance against Song invaders in the 11th century (1075–1077).

This year’s highlight was the ceremony to announce the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism’s decision to inscribe Soong Co folk performance art on the national intangible cultural heritage list.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Pham Hong Long, Chairman of the Chu Ward People’s Committee and head of the festival organising committee, said Chu is an ancient land with a rich historical and cultural tradition, home to several important relics.

Ha Temple, associated with the Ly and Tran dynasties, was recognised as a national historical and cultural relic in 1991 by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The site preserves numerous valuable artefacts and antiques. Over time, with state investment and contributions from organisations and individuals, the temple has been restored and upgraded while retaining much of its original architectural character.

Each year, local residents hold a three-day traditional festival from the sixth to the eighth day of the first lunar month to honour General Than Canh Phuc.

The ceremonial rites, maintained throughout the three days, include traditional offerings, incense ceremonies and solemn processions.

An performance at the event.

Festival activities feature vibrant cultural programmes, including Soong Co folk singing performances, exchanges of folk songs among local ethnic groups and spring celebrations involving all 16 residential quarters. Other activities include offerings competitions and ornamental plant displays.

The festival also hosts traditional folk games such as blindfolded pot smashing, sack racing and blindfolded duck catching, alongside sporting events within the framework of Chu Ward’s first Sports Congress, including men’s football, Chinese chess, table tennis and volleyball.

The events have drawn large numbers of athletes and spectators, creating a festive atmosphere at the start of the Lunar New Year.

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