Spring in Vietnam, especially in the north, is the time that almost every person visits pagodas wishing for a great lucky year ahead. There are so many pagoda festivals in different areas and the more famous pagodas attract the most people.

The main reason people go is to pray for good health and success in business. This is a traditional side of Vietnam’s culture Here, there and everywhere people put incense, the smell, the smoke and the non-stop praying give the impression that these places are very holy.

My friends and I went to Ba Chua Kho temple, one of the most famous temples in the north which is always crowded on special days. Even though it was such a cold and rainy day, there were still so many people there. It took me 20 minutes to get into the temple centre to take a few pictures and have a good look at the pagoda and see people praying.

There were so many people praying for their family, reading out a list of friends and relatives’ names so loud that god could probably hear their voices. People are offering paper money and food, flowers and fresh fruit plus fake sample from air conditioning to air planes.

Business men are feeling secure going to visit Ba Chua Kho temple because they can borrow money from God for a year and their business will be success regardless god will keep eyes on them. End of the year is time to return the debt and those people comeback the place with lots of offerings.

According these festivals, local people have a chance to work hard by opening food businesses and souvenir shops, carrying the offering trays, exchanging money, and reading pray lists and lighting incense.