Methods of realising the tourism potential of Pho Hien old town in the Red River Delta province of Hung Yen were tabled at a seminar in the locality on February 26.
The event drew the participation of representatives of the Vietnam National Administration of Tourism and travel companies from Red River Delta provinces.
Pho Hien used to be a bustling commercial port on the Red River, only second to the capital city of Thang Long, during 16 th -17 th century. It was well-known among foreign traders, especially those from China, Japan and the Netherlands.
Although Pho Hien is no longer crowed and busy as in the old days, an old architectural complex of the town still remains, with nearly 60 historical and cultural sites.
The participants proposed Hung Yen seek ways to lure more investment in planning projects to fully publicise the traditional values of Pho Hien and upgrade its tourist services.
The locality should establish close ties with travel companies in the region and across the country in order to develop spiritual and community-based tours along with introducing folks genres of music such as Cheo (traditional opera) singing, Ca tru (ceremonial singing) and Trong quan singing, the conference heard.
They also highlighted tours to explore craft villages and traditional festivals in Hung Yen, plus those to promote local specialties like lotus seeds, longan and honey.
It is necessary to raise public’s awareness of socio-economic values brought about by tourism as well as investment in human resources for the sector.
On this occasion, the Hung Yen information centre for tourism promotion inked agreements with others in the Red River Delta provinces to develop road and waterway tours.
Hung Yen province is now home to over 1,200 cultural and historical relics, of which 160 sites have been awarded the national heritage status, alongside with thousands of antique
objects and documents.