Hmong people

The H'mong people are an integral part of Vietnam's diverse tapestry of ethnic minorities, numbering approximately one million and ranking 8th among the 54 ethnic groups in the country. Primarily residing in the upland regions at elevations between 800 to 1,500 meters, they can be found mainly in the Northwest, with a few communities in the Central Highlands. Popular provinces to explore H'mong culture include Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Sa Pa, Lai Chau, and Son La.
Photo: Internet

The H'mong speak a language belonging to the Hmong-Mien family, though it is primarily oral and does not have a standardized written form. Their culture is remarkably rich and vibrant. The best time to experience H'mong traditions is during the Lunar New Year, which typically falls in late January or early February. This is when they celebrate a three-day Tet festival, engaging in joyful activities such as playing the "khèn" (a traditional wind instrument), swinging, participating in games, and singing around a communal area in the village.

One distinctive custom among the H'mong is called "Cướp vợ" or "Stealing Wife." In this tradition, if a man wishes to marry a woman, he must 'steal' her under the cover of darkness and keep her without food for two to three days. If she agrees to the marriage, the man will then approach her family to request permission from her parents.
Photo: baonghean.vn The H'mong hold a strong belief in their common ancestry, fostering a deep sense of unity within their communities. Families often organize themselves into clusters, with a designated leader overseeing communal activities. Traditional attire plays a significant role in their cultural expression, often consisting of self-woven garments crafted from linen, embellished with distinctive techniques that reflect their ethnic identity. Furthermore, H'mong people are known for their homemade beverages, including corn and rice wine, and they traditionally smoke using a pipe made from plow material. If you are offered a self-loaded plow by a H'mong, it is considered a gesture of friendship and hospitality.