BAC GIANG, Vietnam - A significant exhibition celebrating the rich history of Buddhism has recently opened at the Tay Yen Tu ecological and cultural tourism area, showcasing the flourishing Truc Lam Yen Tu sect. Titled "The Path of Spiritual Practice of Ancestors of Buddhism Truc Lam Yen Tu,” the exhibition features over 50 photographs and more than 100 original artifacts.
Launched on February 8 as part of the annual cultural and tourism week, which runs until February 13, 2023, the event aims to highlight the development and spread of the Truc Lam Yen Tu Buddhist tradition. The exhibition was organized by the Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism of Bac Giang Province, aiming to connect people with their heritage and promote local culture.
According to Nguyen Si Gam, deputy director of the Department, "The exhibition will present over 50 photographs and original artifacts to the public and visitors," providing insights not only about the artifacts but also the cultural narratives surrounding them. The artifacts were carefully selected, sourced from 11 archaeological excavation sites within the province, which reflect the historical significance of the Truc Lam Yen Tu sect.
The Truc Lam Yen Tu sect, established during the Ly and Tran dynasties, played a pivotal role during its peak, acting as both a center of religious life and cultural identity for many Vietnamese. The historical narrative indicates Bac Giang's significance as it became strategically important after the capital was moved to Thang Long. "Since the Ly Dynasty moved the capital to Thang Long, Bac Giang has become strategically important," explained Nguyen Si Gam.
This exhibition marks not only the showcasing of artifacts but also a renewed effort to preserve and promote the rich cultural history of Buddhist practices within the region. The displayed items serve as tangible evidence of the sect’s evolution and its impactful contribution to Vietnamese culture throughout the centuries.
Visitors can explore the exhibition from multiple perspectives, appreciating not only the aesthetic elements of the artifacts but also engaging with the rich stories embedded within them. Through the accessible format of photographs alongside the artifacts, the exhibition invites attendees to reflect on the intertwining of history, culture, and spirituality.
Beyond this exhibition, the cultural and tourism week is expected to engage and enlighten visitors about Bac Giang's unique attributes. Scheduled events this week will culminate with the opening ceremony of the Tay Yen Tu Spring Festival at 9 AM on February 9, 2023. This festival will not only celebrate the exhibition but also the wider cultural richness the region has to offer.
Local officials express hope the exhibition will boost tourism and draw attention to the area's historical and cultural significance, fostering greater appreciation for the Buddhist artifacts and heritage. The showcase intends to strengthen the connection between visitors and the cultural narratives of Buddhist practices, highlighting their relevance today.
Looking forward, Bac Giang exemplifies ambitions to utilize its heritage as part of broader tourism strategies. The Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism plans to focus on creating products centered around these cultural sites, promoting them as significant attractions within Vietnam's diverse tourism portfolio.
With efforts aimed at preserving and showcasing Buddhism's vivid history, Bac Giang is poised to become not only a custodian of ancient artifacts but also a vibrant space for cultural engagement and learning. The exhibition serves as just one step toward fostering this development, underscoring the province's commitment to honoring its past and presenting it to the future generations.