More than 4,000 people gathered at the peak of Mount Yen Tu in Quang Ninh province, Vietnam, on September 2, 2026, for a landmark National Day celebration. The event, which brought together Buddhists, local residents and tourists, was a moment of exaltation of patriotism and national pride through music and historical rituals in a place of great spiritual importance.
“Radiant Vietnam” program connects faith and nation
The Executive Board of the Vietnamese Buddhist Association of Quang Ninh City was responsible for organizing the “Radiant Vietnam” program. The initiative’s main objective was to celebrate the 81st anniversary of National Day, which is celebrated on September 2, and at the same time pay homage to the city of Quang Ninh. The program has been carefully designed to integrate physical strengthening activities with profound cultural and spiritual experiences, taking advantage of the sacred environment of Yen Tu.
The journey to the top and the emotional flag ceremony
Participation in the event began on the evening of September 1, when thousands of Buddhists, local residents and tourists were already present at the Yen Tu historical and scenic site. They began their journey up the mountain, braving the cold weather to watch the sunrise from the summit and take part in the official ceremony. On the morning of September 2, a solemn flag-raising ceremony was held at Dong Pagoda. With more than 4,000 people facing the red flag with a yellow star, the national anthem was sung in unison, a powerful moment to express love and pride for the country.
Spiritual rituals and the remembrance of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong
After raising the flag, monks from the Vietnam Buddhist Association Executive Board of Quang Ninh City at Yen Tu Pagoda conducted a prayer ritual. Together with Buddhists and tourists, the ceremony sought to invoke peace and prosperity for the nation, praying for the well-being and harmony of all the Vietnamese people.
Then there was a significant offering of incense to the statue of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong located in the An Ky Sinh area. This gesture of gratitude honored the wise monarch and national hero, widely recognized for having led the people and army of Dai Viet to two historic victories against the Yuan-Mongol army. In addition to his military conquests, the emperor also renounced worldly life to become a monk and found the influential Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect.
Yen Tu’s Legacy: A Beacon of Patriotism and Values
Mount Yen Tu has established itself as a major tourist destination, attracting domestic and international visitors, especially during the National Day holiday on September 2. This place is intrinsically associated with the life and thoughts of Emperor Tran Nhan Tong, serving as a center for the transmission of fundamental values.
- Patriotism and deep love for the nation.
- The constant search for peace and solidarity among citizens.
- The cultivation of tolerance and dedicated service to the community.
- Educating new generations about the rich traditions of national construction and defense.
- Fostering a sense of appreciation for earned independence and civic responsibility.
These activities go beyond physical training, seeking to educate new generations about Vietnam’s rich cultural and historical heritage, cultivating a deep sense of pride and duty towards the motherland.
