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A traditional art form rich in national identity.
Xẩm singing is a traditional art form deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, popular in the Northern Delta region, especially in the spiritual life of the people of Hanoi in the past. Xẩm singing is renowned for its simple melodies and straightforward lyrics, yet it contains many images with profound meanings.
Artists perform Xam singing on the bus.
This art form, once popular on the streets and closely associated with the livelihoods of visually impaired artists, is capable of reflecting a relatively diverse range of social life as well as people's thoughts and feelings. Through many historical upheavals, this art form went through a period of decline, gradually disappearing from the streets of Hanoi. Thanks to the efforts of dedicated artists and cultural organizations, Xẩm singing is gradually being revived, returning to the spiritual life of the people of the capital city.
Breathing new life into traditional heritage with modern tourism.
To prevent this art form from fading away and to promote the traditional cultural value of Xẩm singing to tourists, Vietnam Sightseeing's double-decker bus service has collaborated with the Vietnam Center for Promotion of Intangible Cultural Heritage (VICH) to organize "Xẩm on the bus" shows, usually held every Saturday and Sunday evening.
Tourists experience "Xẩm on the bus" (a traditional Vietnamese folk singing style).
"Xẩm on the bus" is a unique show that brings traditional Xẩm singing art onto double-decker buses to serve tourists exploring Hanoi. This innovative model offers visitors a multi-dimensional cultural experience by combining sightseeing and enjoying folk music, showcasing a modern Hanoi that still retains its rich cultural identity.
What's unique about "Xẩm on the bus"?
What sets "Xẩm on the bus" apart from other traditional Xẩm performances is its uniquely creative stage. A double-decker bus is repurposed as a mobile stage, taking tourists to famous Hanoi landmarks such as the Ho Guom pedestrian street, the Hanoi Opera House, and the Hanoi Cathedral. Artists will perform familiar Xẩm melodies live, while also interacting directly with tourists through engaging and exciting activities.
Double-decker buses are transformed into mobile stages for Xẩm folk singing performances.
Incorporating cultural stories
"Xẩm on the bus" is also showcased through famous songs that have delighted millions of listeners, such as: "Northerners are the happiest in Hanoi", "Countryside", "Moonlight in the Tea Garden", "Friendship Across the Four Seas"... Tourists can also interact and chat with the artists to learn about the history and culture of this unique heritage form.
"Xẩm on the bus" offers tourists interesting experiences.
At the end of the tour, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking view of Hanoi at night while immersing themselves in the heartfelt and poignant melodies of Xam singing.
With the effort to revive traditional heritage through this unique model by people passionate about culture, "Xẩm on the bus" has been receiving attention and support from a large number of tourists and Hanoi residents. Many tourists shared that they were truly impressed with this interesting experiential model. In addition, it gave them the feeling that Hanoi is a wonderful tourist destination with valuable cultural features and enthusiastic, friendly, and hospitable people.
A few things to keep in mind when attending the "Xẩm on the bus" show.
- Starting point: Hanoi Opera House
- Stage: The second floor of a Hanoi double-decker bus - Vietnam Sightseeing
- Number of participants: 25-30 people/tour
- Ticket price: 320,000 VND/adult and 280,000 VND/child.
