For years, Truc Lam Hung Quoc Pagoda and the Truc Lam Rang Tech Spiritual and Cultural Centre have drawn large crowds of worshippers and visitors who come to offer incense and pray for peace at the start of spring.

To ensure a solemn and well-organised reception, preparations began in the final lunar month, as the provincial chapter of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha readied facilities and refreshed the grounds. From the three-entrance gate to the courtyard and main sanctuary, the pagoda has been carefully beautified, with decorative details thoughtfully arranged to complement the sacred setting.

More than 100 yellow apricot blossoms, marigolds and symbolic horse statues have been placed throughout the courtyard and surrounding grounds, creating striking seasonal focal points for visitors.

Venerable Thich Khai Bao, standing member of the Executive Board of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha’s provincial chapter, said monks, nuns and volunteers have been assigned to remain on duty, guiding worshippers in offering incense and practicing their faith in accordance with Buddhist teachings.

“We hope that when people come to the pagoda, they not only pray for peace and good fortune for their families, but also find inner calm, nurture positive values and begin the new year with compassion and kindness,” he said.

To create a festive space that feels both polished and welcoming, preparations have extended beyond the pagoda’s own efforts, with devoted Buddhists and local residents pitching in. Many have volunteered their time to clean the grounds, put up lanterns and arrange decorative displays.

The atmosphere has been warm and communal, with everyone eager to contribute, however small their role, to the Lunar New Year celebrations at the pagoda.

Phung Thi Mai, a Buddhist follower from Chieng Sinh ward, said the days leading up to Tet are among the busiest of the year at Truc Lam Hung Quoc Pagoda.

“With so many people coming to offer incense, we often stay on duty to support the monks in welcoming visitors, helping write prayer petitions and reminding everyone to keep the surroundings clean, so the pagoda remains a serene and spotless space,” she said.

Historic and cultural sites managed by the provincial Centre for Culture and Sports are also ready to welcome visitors during the Tet holiday.

The Que Lam Ngu Che stele at the King Le Thai Tong Temple - one of four key heritage sites - has undergone infrastructure upgrades since 2023. Improvements to parking areas, the temple gate, festival courtyard and landscaped grounds have enhanced access, making it easier and more welcoming for residents and visitors to offer incense and pay their respects.

Each Lunar New Year, the temple welcomes between 3,000 and 5,000 visitors a day. To ensure safety during the holiday peak, site managers have arranged staff rotations throughout Tet, strengthened security measures and fire prevention efforts, maintained environmental hygiene and guided visitors to observe respectful and orderly practices.

Pham Van Tuan, head of the Museum and Library Division under the provincial Centre for Culture and Sports, said the unit has inspected the electrical system and ensured that on-site firefighting equipment is fully in place.

A designated area for burning votive offerings has been set up separately, with clear signage and safe distancing to minimise fire risks. Donations are received in a transparent manner, with proper records maintained.

There is also a calligraphy space in the temple courtyard, where visitors can request traditional New Year couplets — adding a touch of early-spring culture and enriching the festive experience for those strolling through the site.

To cater to residents and pilgrims traveling from near and far, many heritage sites have accelerated their digital upgrades, rolling out QR codes to provide on-demand guides, offering free drinking water and setting up dedicated check-in corners that showcase and promote the destinations.

With these thoughtful preparations, historical and cultural landmarks across the province are poised to welcome visitors seeking a meaningful start to the Lunar New Year.