National status for Hanoi’s intangible heritage

Xoi Phu Thuong, or sticky rice craft from Phu Thuong Village in Hanoi, has been added to the list of National Intangible Cultural Heritage by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism.

The title was announced at the 7th Traditional Festival of Phu Thuong Sticky Rice Craft Village on February 17.

According to Bui Thi Lan Phuong, Vice Chairwoman of Tay Ho District, Phu Thuong sticky rice and the traditional festival of Phu Thuong Village, Tay Ho District, Hanoi, have long become a feature of Hanoi’s culture.

“The title contributes to honoring the craft while recognizing locals’ efforts in promoting the traditional values of Hanoi,” she said.

Phu Thuong Village is, also known as Phu Gia, or Ga Village, located along the Red River. Xoi Phu Thuong has been in existence with the history of rice cultivation.

Every year, on the 8th, 9th, and 10th days of the first lunar month, villagers often cook sticky rice to offer to the village’s tutelary god. The custom is to pray for a prosperous, happy, and peaceful new year.

In 2016, Phu Thuong was awarded the title of “Hanoi’s Traditional Handicraft Village,” and its xoi ngu sac or five-color sticky rice, xoi xeo or stick rice with fried onion and ground mung bean, and xoi che or sticky rice with sweet dessert soup were awarded 4 stars by the city’s OCOP (One Commune, One Product) program.

Since then, Xoi Phu Thuong has become known to more Vietnamese and foreigners. The specialty has also been promoted in many places and events. The well-known Hanoi dish was also among the nine dishes served at the press center during the 2019 Trump-Kim Hanoi Summit.

Serving Xoi Phu Thuong at such important events will contribute to confirming and spreading the quality and brand of Xoi Phu Thuong at home and abroad.