Vietnam is the kingdom of tropical plants, and it is famous for its bonsai tree industry. The interest for this art is unbelievable among its people as they have a natural affinity for bonsai trees. I have always had a great fascination for them as well and, it was wonderful to travel to northern Vietnam, where in every spot I visited I had the chance to see magnificent bonsai.

Vietnamese Living Landscapes – Hon Non Bo

A bonsai is a miniature tree that is planted on a pot or rock and this art is original from Japan. In Vietnam it is very common to see them everywhere but Vietnamese people are obsessed with miniature living landscapes called Hon Non Bo. These miniature landscapes imitate sceneries of traditional Vietnamese landscapes in islands, mountains and forests.

Every Day Bonsai Trees

In Vietnam bonsai trees are seen as magical things. People believe that they will bring good fortune, long life and strengthen family ties. No wonder you can see bonsai trees in every household, hotel or touristic place. For example is the first photo you can see that in every balcony there is a bonsai tree. In the second I am standing outside my hotel with a lovely bonsai behind me.

Hanoi Temple of Literature – Văn Miếu

The temple of Literature or Văn Miếu is one of Hanoi’s most visited attractions. It is a hallmark of education in ancient Vietnam and nowadays it plays tribute to centuries of education and literature in Vietnam. The temple of literature was Vietnam’s first university and it was initially opened only for aristocrats, nobles and royal family members. Even though Văn Miếu has gone through several destructions and restorations, it still retains its original features. The complex consist of five courtyards which are divided by walls and display different bonsai trees.

One Pillar Pagoda

This is one of the most famous Pagoda’s around Hanoi and it is a reflection of the city’s architectural splendor. The pagoda is built on wood standing over a stone pillar designed to resemble a lotus blossom which is the Buddhist symbol of purity. This Pagoda was rebuilt several times and in each restorations, the Pagoda and its surrounding landscape changed. Just outside the Pagoda a small bonsai expositions is displayed. Bonsai trees from different ages, species and sizes are shown.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is the most important monument in Vietnam and it holds the body of the first president of northern Vietnam and leader of the battle for national liberation: Ho Chi Minh. Of course bonsai trees are visible in the entrant of this marvelous monument, hover in a lower extent.

Ha Long Bay

Ha Long Bay lays in the Gulf of Tonkin and its really famous for its rocky mountains and emerald water. This place is a natural paradise! There are many things to do around here but I will come latter with an other post about this place! I just mentioned here because on the same way bonsai trees are displayed in Hanoi’s balconies, there are also present on several touristic boats. As I told you before, bonsai are a symbol of good fortune and that is probably why the are placed everywhere!

Well, definitely bonsai trees are a very important part of Vietnamese culture and tradition. You can see them literally everywhere as they represent positive things and good luck. I was very impressed with the care they had for the trees and how beautifully displayed they are in every corner of the country! I really hope you like this article!

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