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Traditional Vietnamese games

Traditional games in Vietnam: Top 23 popular picks

13/10/2024 1.715 views
5/5 - (1 vote)

Traditional Vietnamese games are deeply rooted in the country’s culture. Famous games like O an quan (Mandarin square capturing), Bit mat bat de (blind man’s buff), Keo co (tug of war), etc. have been cherished by generations. Here, you will find the top 23 popular traditional Vietnamese games for players of all ages.
Traditional Vietnamese games

Traditional games in Vietnam reflect its cultural heritage (Source: Collected)

1. Traditional card games in Vietnam

Vietnamese card games are enjoyed on special occasions like Tet and even during casual meet-ups.

1.1. Tam cuc

Tam cuc, originating in China, is a traditional card game renowned in Northern Vietnam. For 2-4 players, this game is particularly favored by women due to its relaxed pace and simple rules. Its appeal lies in the balance of luck and strategy, as players aim to capture their opponent’s pieces by comparing card values. The deck consists of 32 cards divided into two colors – red and black, each representing symbolic characters, including General, Advisor, Elephant, Chariot, Cannon, Horse, and Soldier.

1.2. Tu sac

Tu sac shares similarities with Tam cuc but is uniquely suited for four players, though it can also be played with two or three. It is widely played in the central and southern regions of Vietnam. The game uses 112 rectangular cards divided into four colors: green, yellow, white, and red. Each color represents seven military ranks: General, Advisor, Elephant, Chariot, Cannon, Horse, and Soldier, with 16 cards per rank. The game’s strategy is to organize cards into matching sets while trying to outwit opponents.

Tu sac

Like many traditional Vietnamese games, Tu sac involves both luck and strategy (Source: Collected)

1.3. To tom

To tom is one of the most beloved traditional Vietnamese games for men of the older generation. It is typically played with 4-5 players, though 5 is considered ideal. The deck consists of 120 cards, featuring 30 types, each with a Chinese character and a symbolic image. Of these, 27 cards are divided into 9 ranks – each belonging to one of the three suits: Văn, Vạn, Sách. The remaining three cards belong to four special groups: Yên, Lão, Chi, and Thang. Victory is based on the composition of a player’s hand.

1.4. Bai cao (baccarat)

Bai cao is among the particularly popular traditional games in Vietnam during Tet. The rules are simple, relying entirely on luck. It is an ideal choice for casual players looking for some quick excitement. In each round, players receive three cards and calculate their total points, which range from 0 to 9. A score of 9 is the highest, and the player closest to 9 wins the game. Special combinations, such as three identical cards, three consecutive cards, or face cards (J, Q, K), can also lead to victory.

Bai cao

Bai cao is popular among traditional Vietnamese games (Source: Collected)

1.5. Tu lo kho (52-card game)

Tu lo kho is commonly referred to as “bài Tây” in Vietnam. The deck consists of the standard 52 cards in 4 suits: hearts, diamonds, clubs, and spades. In Vietnam, this deck is used for various games, including Tien len mien Bac (Vietnamese big two) and Ta la (Rummy). In Tien len mien Bac, players aim to play cards that are higher than the previous cards, with the first to play all their cards winning. Meanwhile, Ta la focuses on creating card sets (phỏm) to minimize points.

2. Traditional board games in Vietnam

These Vietnamese board games are played by both children and adults during festive occasions and in daily life.

2.1. O an quan (Mandarin square capturing)

As one of the most cherished traditional games in Vietnam, O an quan is connected to the childhood memories of many. This game is for two or more players. The rules are simple: each player takes turns distributing small pieces (often pebbles) across squares on a grid, starting from the nearest square and moving in a chosen direction. If the next square contains pieces, the player continues distributing them. When the next square is empty followed by one with pieces, the player can capture all the pieces in that square. The winner is the one who captures the most pieces by the end of the game.

O an quan

Playing O an quan is a fun way to engage with traditional Vietnamese games (Source: Collected)

2.2. Bau cua tom ca (Gourd, crab, prawn, fish)

Bau cua tom ca is a treasured gambling game in Vietnam, originating from the Chinese game Yu xia xie. It shares similarities with Western games like Chuck-a-luck and Crown and Anchor. The game involves unlimited rounds and players. To start, the dealer shakes three dice, each depicting different animals and fruits (gourd, crab, prawn, fish, etc.) Players bet on one or more animals they think will appear. Once the dice are revealed, if the chosen animals match the dice, the player wins their bet multiplied by the number of dice appearances. If not, the dealer takes the wager.

2.3. Co vay (Go)

Originating in China over 2,500 years ago, Co vay carries deep philosophical significance and was introduced to Vietnam through cultural exchanges. In this game, two opponents take turns placing black and white stones on a grid, aiming to capture more territory than the other. While the rules are simple – surrounding an opponent’s stones to capture them – the challenge deepens as each move affects the entire board. This balance of simplicity and strategy makes Co vay captivating for all players.

Co vay

Traditional Vietnamese board games like Co vay reflect the country’s love for strategic thinking (Source: Collected)

2.4. Co tuong (Chinese chess)

Co tuong is one of the most popular games in Vietnam, with origins tracing back to ancient China. The game is designed for two players who compete to checkmate their opponent’s general, the equivalent of a king in Western chess. The board is divided into two sides, each with pieces like General, Chariot, Horse, and Cannon, all of which have unique movements. What makes Co tuong appealing is its intricate balance of offense and defense, requiring players to plan multiple moves ahead while countering their opponent’s strategy.

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3. Other popular traditional games in Vietnam

There are also many other traditional Vietnamese games that reflect the country’s cultural heritage and communal spirit.

3.1. Danh quay (Spinning tops)

Danh quay tops the list of traditional Vietnamese games enjoyed by the Hmong ethnic group in Vietnam, particularly during the Tet holiday. It involves spinning a hand-carved wooden top, which is launched into motion using a string wrapped around it. Despite its simplicity, the game is highly competitive, with players aiming to keep their tops spinning the longest or knock their opponents’ tops off balance. The straightforward rules make it accessible to players of all ages.

Danh quay

Danh quay, one of the well-loved traditional Vietnamese games (Source: Collected)

3.2. Nhay sap (Bamboo dancing)

The ethnic groups in northwestern Vietnam have a lively traditional game called Nhay sap. This game features two groups. One group operates the bamboo poles, clapping them together in a rhythmic motion. The other group jumps in and out of the moving poles. Participants must time their jumps to avoid getting caught by the poles. The rhythmic sound of clapping bamboo and the participants’ swift movements create a mesmerizing display of coordination and balance.

3.3. Bit mat bat de (Blind man’s buff)

When it comes to traditional Vietnamese games, Bit mat bat de stands out with deep roots in the country’s culture. Originally played by young adults during festivals, it involved a male and female participant who are blindfolded and tasked with catching a goat inside a fenced area. Over time, the game has evolved, and it is now commonly enjoyed by children. In the modern version, one player acts as the “goat,” while another, blindfolded, tries to catch them by listening for their movements. 

Bit mat bat de

Bit mat bat de holds a special place in the lineup of traditional games in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.4. Co nguoi (Human chess)

Co nguoi is a unique variation of Chinese chess, where real people act as chess pieces on a large outdoor board. Traditionally played during the Vietnamese New Year in spacious areas like village courtyards, the game features 32 participants split into two teams – typically red and black. Each player represents a chess piece, marked with a sign, and stands on their designated position. When a piece is captured, the two participants often engage in a mock duel, adding a layer of entertainment to this game.

3.5. Keo co (Tug of war)

Celebrated as one of the funniest traditional Vietnamese games, Keo co is often played during Tet, village festivals, or daily recreational activities. The game requires a simple rope and involves two teams pulling against each other. A red cloth is tied in the center of the rope, and the objective of the game is to pull the cloth past a marked line on the ground. Each match typically consists of three rounds, and the team that wins two out of three is declared the winner. Keo co is an energetic game that fosters teamwork.

Keo co

Keo co is a crowd favorite among traditional games in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.6. Dau vat (Wrestling)

Dau vat is another highlight among traditional Vietnamese games, often seen at festivals such as Tet. This game emphasizes both physical strength and technique, where two competitors strive to pin each other to the ground. As a cultural activity, wrestling represents resilience, courage, and the pursuit of victory. It remains a popular sport, especially in rural areas, where local competitions draw in large crowds.

3.7. Di cau Kieu (Crossing the wobbly bridge)

Originating from the northern plains of Vietnam, Di cau Kieu is often played in villages with communal ponds. Participants must walk across a narrow bamboo pole placed over the water. The goal is to cross the “bridge” without falling. The game’s charm comes from its playful nature, as onlookers often laugh at the inevitable slips and splashes of the participants. Successfully reaching the other side brings not only victory but also a sense of accomplishment to the participants.

Di cau Kieu

Di cau Kieu is a playful highlight among the traditional folk games of the Vietnamese people (Source: Collected)

3.8. Nem con (Throwing cotton balls)

Nem con is one of the most exciting traditional Vietnamese games, often played during festivals by the Tay and Nung ethnic groups. The game takes place in an open field with a tall bamboo pole (20-30 meters tall) which is topped by a hoop. Male and female teams take turns throwing a cotton ball filled with seeds through the hoop. Passing the ball through the hoop is believed to bring good fortune, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous year ahead.

3.9. Dap nieu (Hitting hanging clay pots)

Dap nieu is especially celebrated in the northern rural areas of Vietnam. In this game, clay pots are hung 2-3 meters above the ground, and participants take turns trying to hit them with a stick. The challenge lies in hitting the pots while blindfolded, relying on the shouted directions of the spectators. This adds to the excitement as participants struggle to find their targets. Breaking the pots brings joy to both the participants and spectators.

Dap nieu

Dap nieu is one of the most entertaining traditional Vietnamese games (Source: Collected)

3.10. Rong ran len may (Dragon snake)

Rong ran len may is one of the favorite folk games in Vietnam among children during festivals. In this game, a group of players forms a line. Each person holds onto the one in front, moving together in a snake-like motion. One player, known as the “doctor,” stands separately. The doctor’s goal is to catch the last player in line (tail), while the player at the front tries to protect the tail by guiding the group evasively. If the doctor succeeds in catching the tail, the last player in line becomes the new doctor and the game continues with renewed excitement.

3.11. Bit mat bat lon (Catching pigs while blindfolded)

Bit mat bat lon is a fascinating addition to the list of traditional Vietnamese games. This game takes place in a large, sand-filled circular pen, where a blindfolded player must catch a pig. The challenge lies in relying solely on the shouted directions of the spectators. With a time limit in place, the player must act quickly to succeed. The reward for successfully catching the pig is the pig itself.

Bit mat bat lon

Bit mat bat lon represents the joy of folk games in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.12. Dua thuyen (Boat racing)

Dua thuyen is one of Vietnam’s oldest traditions, originating as both a competitive sport and a ritual to honor the water god. Teams of rowers race in long, narrow boats, relying on strength, coordination, and teamwork to outpace their rivals. Beyond just speed, the race showcases unity. Today, boat racing remains well loved and honored during festivals in Vietnam like the Lunar New Year.

3.13. Lay co

Played by the Tay, Nung, and Mong ethnic groups during festivals, Lay co is a more complex version of “rock-paper-scissors.” Two players simultaneously shout a number while showing a random number of fingers. The challenge is to correctly match the spoken number to the total fingers displayed. The player who does so wins the round. This game brings a playful energy to community celebrations.

Lay co

Lay co remains a cherished part of traditional games in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

3.14. Thi thoi com (Rice cooking)

You can find Thi thoi com at many festivals across Northern and Central Vietnam. Teams of 10 compete to cook rice from scratch. The competition is divided into three stages: processing the rice, creating a fire, and cooking. The winning team’s rice is offered as a tribute to the gods. A perfect pot of rice should be sticky, delicious, and white, completed in the shortest time possible.

These traditional Vietnamese games are more than just entertainment – they are a vital part of the country’s cultural heritage. From the rhythmic movements of bamboo dancing to the strategic depth of human chess, these games foster the communal spirit and strengthen the connection across generations.

Beyond traditional Vietnamese games, Vietnam’s stunning landscapes are also worth exploring. From the tropical island of Phu Quoc to the coastal city of Nha Trang and the ancient town of Hoi An, each destination offers a unique blend of cultural richness and natural beauty.

To elevate your Vietnam travel, make sure to visit VinWonders, a chain of entertainment complexes spread across Vietnam. With all sorts of thrilling games, captivating shows, and interactive activities, VinWonders offers something for everyone.

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For a truly comfortable stay in Vietnam, the hotels and resorts of Vinpearl provide top-tier accommodations and world-class amenities, ensuring a luxurious experience throughout your journey.

 

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