Vân Đồn is often introduced by: sea – islands – resorts – seafood. Yet venturing inland, you will encounter a completely different story: the Sán Dìu community. In Vòng Tre village, Vân Đồn special zone, the Sán Dìu Ethnic Cultural Village is being developed as a space for preserving and experiencing community culture. According to local 2026 sources, the village has over 1,500 residents, with the Sán Dìu accounting for more than 85% of the population.

What is Soọng cô?

“Soọng cô” in the Sán Dìu language means singing. This is a form of antiphonal folk singing in which the lyrics can express:

  • Courtship.

  • Sentiments.

  • Wishes.

  • Weddings.

  • Housewarming celebrations.

  • Longevity wishes.

  • Festivals and Tet occasions.

Official sources in Vân Đồn describe each Soọng cô song as a poem used in various contexts of community life.

Don't confuse Soọng cô with Soóng Cọ

The two names are very similar, but they are not the same practice.

Soọng cô → Sán Dìu people.

Soóng Cọ → Sán Chỉ people.

Professional literature from Quảng Ninh also clearly distinguishes between these two folk singing forms. This is a detail handbook writers should record accurately to avoid conflating the two communities.

What is in Vòng Tre Village?

The village space is developed for visitors to learn about:

  • Housing.

  • Cuisine.

  • Costumes.

  • Customs.

  • Community life.

  • Folk arts.

In April 2026, the locality continued to integrate this model into its community-based tourism development orientation, aiming to preserve culture alongside livelihoods.

Đại Phan Festival

In 2026, Vân Đồn continues to organize the Đại Phan Festival of the Sán Dìu people featuring various rituals and performance activities, including Soọng cô singing and traditional dishes. The religious rituals hold profound internal significance. Visitors should:

  • Stand in the designated areas as guided.

  • Not step into the ritual area.

  • Not imitate ritual movements to film TikToks.

  • Not touch worship implements.

When listening to Soọng cô

You don't need to understand every word to feel it. Pay attention to:

  • The antiphonal exchange between the two sides.

  • The rhythm of the exchange.

  • Vocal nuances.

  • The interaction between the singers.

If you want to film the entire performance, ask the organizers/artisans beforehand.

A good way to experience it

Instead of: arrive → change into costume → take photos → leave, try: listen to the introduction → observe daily life → taste the food → chat → listen to Soọng cô → buy community products. You will remember Vòng Tre for much longer.

Quick checklist

  • Soọng cô = Sán Dìu.

  • Soóng Cọ = Sán Chỉ.

  • Do not confuse the two communities.

  • Ask for permission when photographing people.

  • Respect rituals.

  • Do not treat traditional attire as a costume.

  • Purchase community products if appropriate.

  • Prioritize experiences organized by the locals themselves.