1 INTRODUCTION 1 Rationale Research on Sea and Island Issues

INTRODUCTION

1 Rationale Research on sea and island issues has recently received great attention of natural sciences, social sciences and etc. Vietnam has a coastline of over 3260 kilometer long, the coastal region has spread over territorial sea, and exclusive economic zone. In coastal and island environment, local communities have created valuable cultural heritage which should be preserved and promoted. The issue of conservation and promotion traditional culture, including regional traditional festivals, has set out important tasks to contribute to spiritual foundation of the society. It has long been recognized that culture plays the role of a foundation for development of a nation. Deep imprints of history, social-economic life, community psychology, customs, traditions and beliefs ... all can be found in culture, especially in traditional festivals. Entering the XXI century, in line with the trend of globalization and international integration, our Party identified traditional culture as a resource to create motivation for building an advanced Vietnamese culture deeply imbued with its national identity, contributing to promotion of socio- economic development in a sustainable manner. However, in many places, traditional culture (including traditional festivals) is not always respected. In somes areas, restoration of the old is performed disorderly without proper orientation, resulting in deforming precious cultural heritage. Even, national culture values are turned back on, and considered conservative, and outdated. Therefore, it is necessary to keep an objective and scientific attitude towards cultural heritages, including festivals. It is increasingly proposed that the XXI will be "The century of ocean". Resolution of the fourth Conference of the Central Committee of the Communist Party, session X (February 2007) on "Vietnam Sea Development Strategy until 2020" also noted the above comment and aimed to achieve the goal of "extending its reach over the sea further". And therefore, "ordinary eyes" should be replaced by "ocean vision". To have "ocean vision", it is the terrain, climate, ecological environment, customs, habits and etc. of coastal inhabitants that can not be missed in study. They are among factors that establish and develop different cultural regions. Quang Ninh is an ancient land, which is demonstrated by archaeological studies, and collection of old documents. Quang Ninh gathers full characteristics of our national ecosystem, featured by mountains, plains, especially striking biodiversity of the sea. Quang Ninh has more than 20 ethnic groups, each of whom has typical culture, all making up richness and diversity of a unique cultural region. Quang Ninh's terrain is mainly mountainous (accounting for four-fifth of the total area). However, when its comes to Quang Ninh, many people think

1 right of the sea, because this place has a large island zone with 250 km of coastline and more than 2000 small and large islands in Ha Long Bay and Bai Tu Long. Ha Long Bay has been recognized by UNESCO as a world natural heritage for twice, and in 2007, it was in the list of voting 7 natural wonders of the world. However, Quang Ninh is not only associated with beautiful beaches, majestic and poetic landscapes, but Quang Ninh province is also known for historic-cultural relics, unique architecture, customs, traditions, beliefs, folklore and diverse, and special system of traditional festivals outstanding for a coastal and island cultural area. Quang Ninh is a coastal province located in the key economic triangle of the North region (Hanoi-Haiphong-Quang Ninh), and is one of the four Vietnam's tourism centre. Therefore Quang Ninh province has great advantages in socio-economic development strategy of the northern provinces in particular and of the country in general. Therefore, from the point of view of geography - culture, the author selected the topic "Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh (through research on traditional festivals)" for the research thesis. The study of the subject will contribute to clarification of outstanding features, diversification, and richness of traditional festivals ofQuang Ninh in the history and at present. Results of the study will be a scientific basis contributing to orientation of cultural development plan, creation of a stable and sustainable social environment, including the exploitation of traditional festivals as a cultural resource for social-economic development of Quang Ninh in particular, of the country in general in the period of industrialization and modernization promotion of the country. 2 Research objectives and mission: 2.1. Research objectives To gain in-depth awareness of constituent elements and cultural features of Quang Ninh coastal and island zone. 2.2. Research mission - To study on theoretical background and practices related to marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh. - To conduct a survey on marine, coastal and island zones of Quang Ninh, and especially to participate in traditional festivals. - To describe traditional festivals of Quang Ninh coastal and island zones in all three groups: internal field, coastal and island festivals to clarify involvement of internal field and marine elements. - To clarify basic characteristics of traditional festivals in Quang Ninh through comparison with other island zones in the Northern and Central region. 3 Objects and scopes of the study 3.1. Objects of the study: The object of the research is traditional festivals of Quang Ninh coastal and island zone.

2 3.2. Scope of the research : - In term of space: The topic primarily studies traditional festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh province. However during the research process, the author refer to a number of typical sea-related festivals of provinces, and cities in northern coastal regions such as Hai Phong, Thai Binh and some localities in the Central region to find out similarities and differences among traditional festivals in Quang Ninh and those of other regions. - In term of time: The thesis conducted survey on traditional festivals of current sea and island zone of Quang Ninh . The survey data were collected in 7 years (from 2007 to 2013). Based on the study results, comparison with coastal traditional festivals before 1954 and material of the predecessors, it can be seen that traditional elements have still been reserved in present festivals. 4 Study methodology: - Inter-disciplinary approach: The issue is approached from geographical, historical, economic, cultural, and social aspects of Quang Ninh province. - Fieldwork method of Ethnology: The author particularly appreciated and applied fieldwork method to observe, get involved in cultural activities of local residents for the purpose of survey and actual description of phenomena in traditional festivals to collect the most accurate and updated information sources. Besides, observation, interviews, exchange of ideas to gather information on issues related to traditional festivals of coastal and island zone are also performed. - Method of analysis-synthesis is employed to study in depth of the research object. - Comparative method to point out the similarities and differences between culture of Quang Ninh coastal and island zone and others'. 5. New contributions of the thesis - Classification of coastal traditional festivals in Quang Ninh. - Description of internal field elements and marine culture in traditional festivals of Quang Ninh sea and island zone. - In addition to access to published documents, the research topic will also unveil some new materials. - Outline of some typical characteristics of QN sea and island area and comparison with those of other areas in the Northern and Central region. - Results of the study can be used as a reference for regional culture studies and geographical - cultural book. 6 Study design In addition to Introduction, Conclusion, References and Appendices, main contents of the thesis are presented in Chapter 4: Chapter 1: Research overview, theoretical background, and general introduction of traditional festival of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh Chapter 2: Internal field element in the marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh embodied by traditional festivals

3 Chapter 3: Marine element in the marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh embodied by traditional festivals Chapter 4: Characteristics of marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh

Chapter 1: RESEARCH OVERVIEW, THEORETICAL BACKGROUND AND GENERAL INTRODUCTION OF TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS OF MARINE, COASTAL AND ISLAND ZONE OF QUANG NINH

1.1. Research overview of issues related to the research topic 1.1.1. Research works on marine culture of the Northern region It can be affirmed that study on traditional festivals of North Coastal region has not been as greatly concerned as those of the Central and Southern region of Vietnam. Thus, documents on these issues are not many. Typically, there is one article of such following authors: Diep Trung Binh wrote an article about "Some features of fishermen's lives of North East region of Vietnam”; Nguyen Thanh had an article named, "Reo Ong Festival of Quang Lang village"; Do Lan Phuong had a work: "Red River estuary's culture as a form of marine culture of Vietnam (through study on two communes in Nam Dinh and Thai Binh)"; in 2012, Ph.D. thesis of Le Thanh Tung named"Traditional festivals of Hai Phong coastal inhabitants and their changes in current period". 1.1.2. Research works on marine culture of Central region Geographically, Central region borders the sea for the most in Vietnam. Therefore, research works on marine culture and coastal festivals are released most in this region. Typical works: Culture of Viet people in Phu Yen coastal area, Belief of coastal inhabitants in Quang Nam - Da Nang Traditional cultural activities in Canh Duong coastal village, Sea in the history of Vietnam from the perspective of Charles Wheeler, ... 1.1.3. Research works on marine culture of Southern region Researches on traditional festivals in the South coastal region are mainly scientific articles referring to elements of traditional festivals. In addition, among research works of the Southern region, there are many other works. Nguyen Thanh Loi, 2000 " Custom of worshiping Whale God in Can Thach (Can Gio) and the South Coast ”; or author Tran Quoc Vuong, 2000 "Cau Ngu Festival - the beauty of sea village's culture" ... 1.1.4. Research works on marine culture of Quang Ninh There are many research works on archeology regarding marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh. Typically, there are scientific researches of author Nguyen Khac Su. In 1986, he had an article named " Cai Beo relics prehistory of Northeast coastal region of Vietnam ”. In 1997, the author continued to publish another work " Prehistoric marine culture of Vietnam:

4 models and assumptions "... These works have not only archaeological values, but also theoretical value about marine, coastal and island culture. 1.2. Theoretical background on cultural zone, marine, coastal and island culture and traditional festivals 1.2.1. Theoretical background on cultural zone Expressions of culture are extremely rich and diverse, reflected on all aspect of human activities such as: "lifestyle, way of life of fishermen, including working, dressing, travel and communication, entertaining, customs, rituals, beliefs, festivals; cultural - art activities, especially folk culture, music, folk music, architecture, decoration, and to some extent in style and mentality of people ... ". According to Professor Ngo Duc Thinh, system of cultural zone levels is divided as follows: region (area), sub-region, sub-area, etc ... Thus, based on the theory of classification of cultural zone of Prof. Ngo Duc Thinh, the author of the thesis initially introduces the concept of marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh as follows: marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has a long history, with similarities in demographics, level of socio-economic development, and cultural exchange. Experiencing periods of working and innovation, residents of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh have created their own typical cultural traits (including: strong internal field and historical elements and weak marine elements, ...). These cultural features are embodied in material and spiritual lives (especially through traditional festivals), which can be distinguished from those of other regions. 1.2.2. Theoretical background on marine, coastal and island culture After synthesizing opinions of previous researchers, we initially introduce concept of marine, coastal and island culture as follows: Marine culture or specifically marine, coastal and island culture is a cultural phenomenon derived under influence of marine, coastal and island environment on human life, thereby, forming a system of knowledge, customs, values, cultural symbols on marine, coastal and island zone. From the above concept, we can draw out basic characteristics of marine, coastal and island culture. They are: outlook on life, historical feature, interactivity, etc... Like the other cultural phenomena, fundamental expressions of marine, coastal and island culture (or elements of marine, coastal and island culture) include: culinary culture, dressing culture, holidays and celebrations, and religious beliefs, customs, and etc. 1.2.3. Theoretical background on traditional festivals 1.2.3.1. General concept of festival Folk festival is the term used to refer to a type of folk culture activities including many elements of religious beliefs, customs, folk arts and literature, etc., taking place in one location, at a certain time of periodic nature.

5 Festivals are always associated with a certain community. Festivals are associated with each village. Different villages have dissimilar festivals. On the other hand, festivals clearly represent special feature of each ethnic group. Different ethnic group will have different festivals. 1.3. Overview of traditional festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh 1.3.1. Natural and social background of society, marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh Terrain of the province can be divided into three zones: Mountainous, midland zone; coastal plain zone; marine, coastal and island zone. Quang Ninh has a total of 30 rivers and streams with total length of over 10 km. According to regulations of Vietnam law of the sea , marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh includes: estuaries, bays, embouchure and sea water inside the baseline and adjacent to the coastline. Quang Ninh province has 14 districts and towns, eight of which belong to island zone. They are: Mong Cai city, Ha Long city, Cam Pha city, Yen Hung district (with Ha Nam Island), Hai Ha district, Dam Ha district, Van Don Island District, Co To island; two districts partially bordering the sea are: Hoanh Bo and Tien Yen districts According to 2010 Vietnam Population and Housing Census, population of Quang Ninh is 1,159,463 people, in which 566,184 people are female. Proportion of urban population is the third highest in Vietnam (following Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang), number of urban population is 667,862 inhabitants (58.1%). An outstanding feature of of marine, coastal and island economy is tourism economy. Besides, seaport economy, capturing fishery, aquaculture and seafood processing are among important economic sectors of the region. 1.3.2. Number and distribution of festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh According to our survey, currently in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh, there are 46 traditional festival on 7 administrative units bordering the sea and island zone. However, there is significant disparity in distribution of festivals among these administrative units. Hung Yen district has most festivals, followd by Ha Long city, Van Don district, Mong Cai city and some festivals are scattered in Dam Ha district, Hai Ha district, and Cam Pha city. 1.3.3. Classification of traditional festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh 1.3.3.1. Basis for classification Based on festival space in Quang Ninh, we temporarily divide traditional festivals of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh into three typical groups of festivals: Island festivals, coastal festivals and internal field festivals.

6 This classification is only relative in nature. Since marine cultural space includes coastal plain areas, inshore, offshore waters, and island zone, determination of boundary among these areas in a marine zone is very difficult. As identified by some researchers, coastal inhabitants have turned their back against the sea and continue to enter deeply into the mainland, close to the plain zone. This process takes a long time for human interaction with nature and vice versa. Therefore, the classification into 3 above festival groups partly reflects gradual transition from fishing to agriculture of inhabitants, and aims to identify the characteristics of marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh. 1.3.3.2. Types of traditional festival in Quang Ninh + Island Festival Group: Island Festival Group accounts for 43% (20 festivals) in the total of 46 traditional festival in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh. + Coastal Festival Group: Quang Ninh has 17 direct coastal festivals, accounting for 37%, less than Island Festival Group. + Internal field festival group: This group has 9 festivals, representing 20%, mainly located in Yen Hung district, Dam Ha district and Mong Cai city. Sub-Conclusion: Theories about cultural zone, marine, coastal and island culture and traditional festival will serve as a basis for further study of issues related to traditional festivals in general and traditional festivals of Quang Ninh in particular. Factor of cultural zone (natural environment, socio- economic factor, system creation factor, etc.) will have impacts on cultural characteristics of each region. In each cultural zone, there will be sub-zones, and cultural center ... Traditional festivals of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh are quite diverse. In our first step to identify coastal traditional festivals of Quang Ninh, based on scope of festival space, we classified into festivals in to 3 groups: Island festivals, coastal festivals and internal field festivals. Each group of festivals has their own outstanding features within its uniformity of in marine, coastal and island festivals.

Chapter 2: INTERNAL FIELD FACTOR IN MARINE, COASTAL AND ISLAND CULTURE OF QUANG NINH, EXPRESSED BY TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS 2.1. Local communities and structure of the agricultural villages 2.1.1. Local communities Composition of residents in Quang Ninh are quite complex. Though migration flow of residents from many places and through many historical periods with different causes, and circumstances, inhabitants of Quang Ninh are mostly from agricultural origin. They may be in pursuit of livelihood, new land to live; they may be immigrants following a policy of reclaiming, and

7 expansion of land under feudal dynasties; they may those who seek refuge, avoid oppression and hunting of the feudal monarchy, and their previous land had fluctuation in politics, protests, conflicts; or they may be soldiers, ruling class who were mobilized by the government to build and govern the new land. But every time celebrating the festival, they forgot their origins and harmonized in festive atmosphere with rituals of the agricultural population. 2.1.2. Organizational structure of agricultural villages Many villages of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh still have the same organizational structures as those of agricultural villages (in plain zone). Therefore, traditional festivals in Quang Ninh still retain many characteristics of festivals of agricultural residents such as Going to the Field festival, Dao Vu festival on Ha Nam island, and Tra Co festival in Mong Cai, etc. Tra Co village is a represent ave of coastal village with strong internal field feature. Besides, board of elder village notables like other villages, Tra Co Village also has the following titles: Village chief, followed by Thu Khan or Thon Khan and Van Thuoc. In hamlets of Tra Co village, besides Ong Dam (person selected and appointed to be in charge of the Village's festival), there are also Ong Mo, Su Mo; cultural and martial art units; board of elder village notables; board of Village officialdom. Management and organization of Tra Co festival are almost the same as those of traditional farming villages. In Tra Co festival, there are many rites and games of agricultural residents such as: Ong Voi contest (raising pig - domestic cattle of agricultural residents) or blind-man to guillotine eels 2.2. Manifestation of internal field factor in traditional festivals 2.2.1. Internal field factor manifested in worshiping Master gods 2.2.1.1. God of agriculture Coastal traditional festivals of Quang Ninh often worship God of Agriculture in: Going to the field Festival, Coc Communal House festival. In other festivals, God of Agriculture are worshiped together with Tutelary god in Communal Houses such as: Phong Hai Communal House festival, family Cam La Communal House festival, Yen Dong Communal House festival, Trung Ban Communal House festival. All festivals above are in Yen Hung District, a district bordering the sea. Annually, in Communal Houses, ceremonies relating to worshiping God of Agriculture often take place such as: Khai uong festival (rice sowing), Ha dien festival (going to the field), Thuong dien festival (after transplanting rice seedlings), Thuong tan festival (new rice - harvesting rice) 2.2.1.2. Tutelary God In many traditional festivals in Quang Ninh coastal area, Tutelary God has been regarded as the Master God and played an important position for coastal fishermen and those at middle of the sea (such as Van Don Festival, Tra Co festival, Yen Dong village festival, Giang Vong village festival, But Day temple festival, Cau Vang temple festival, Coc Communal House

8 festival, Hai Yen Communal House festival). In addition, in other festivals, Tutelary God is combined to worship in: Hiep Hoa Village Festival, Tien Cong shrine Festival, Trung Ban Communal House festival, etc. 2.2.1.3. Tien Cong (Immortals) In Quang Ninh, Tien Cong is worshiped in Ha Nam Island. Total number of Tien Cong having the merit of founding Ha Nam Island is 24. To remember their merit, local people established a temple to worship 24 Gods with details as follows: Phong Coc Commune worships 11 Gods (Vu Song, Vu Hong Tiem, Bui Huy Ngoan, Vu Tam Tinh, Le Mo, Vu Giai, Le Khep, Ngo Bach Doan, Nguyen Phuc Coc, Nguyen Phuc Thang, Nguyen Phuc Vinh), Yen Dong Commune worships 3 Gods (Nguyen Thuc, Nguyen Nghe, Bui Bach Nien), Cam La Communne worships 3 Gods (Pham Viet, Duong Quang Tan, Duong Quang Tin) Vi Duong Commune worships 2 Gods (Hoang Kim Bang, Hong Duc Han), Ban Dong Commune worships 2 Gods (Hoanh Nong, Hoang Nenh), Luong Quy Commune (Do Ba, Dao Ba Le, Pham Nhu Lam). Those immortals are honored in coastal festivals ofQuang Ninh. Tien Cong is the Master God for worship only in some festivals, or combined to worship with other Gods in: Tien Cong Festival, Hiep Hoa village festival, Trung Ban Communal House festival, Yen Giang Communal House festival, Tra Co Communal House festival. Tien Cong festival in Cam La Commune is the most one for the region with very unique characteristics and values that can not be found anywhere else. 2.2.2. Internal field factor manifested through rituals 2.2.2.1. Water procession ritual Among typical festival of marine, coastal and island zone in Quang Ninh is water procession in Giang Vong Communal House Festival. If water procession of agricultural residents is usually held on the river, water procession ritual in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh takes place on the sea. However, nature of the ceremony does not change, which aims to pray for favorable weather condition, lush crops and has the meaning of "When drinking water, think of its source". 2.2.2.2. Dao vu ritual Dao vu ceremony in Yen Hung district takes place not only in a village, and a commune but inter-village and inter-commune. In years of prolonged drought, Vi Khe, Vi Duong, Luu Khe, Quynh Bieu, Trung Ban, Cam La, Yen dong, Hai Yen, Huong Hoc villages organizes Tutelary God procession ritual to Coc Communal House for Dao vu Ceremony. It can be seen that there are many differences between Dao vu ceremony and festivals in island and coastal groups. The outstanding feature here is that farmers have to live in coastal area, upgrade the coastal area for farming. 2.2.2.3. Going to Field ritual

9 Residents on Ha Nam island reclaim land for farming activities, thus Going to the field and Thuong dien rituals are very important in praying for abundant crops. In lunar June, before the transplanting season, in Coc Commune House, local people perform God of Agriculture worship ceremony and xung dong ritual (first transplantation), so-called Ha dien ceremony (Going to the field). Going to the field festival in Ha Nam is a unique one taking place in late summer. In ritual part of the festival, besides worshiping God of agriculture, Tutelary God, Immortals, there is also a ritual to regulate schedule for agricultural activities. This festival has strong cultural identity of wet rice-growing residents in estuary regions. 2.2.2.4. Tien Cong ritual Tien Cong (Immortals) worshiping is embodied in Creator commemoration, longevity wishing ceremony, worshiping Tien Cong, processions and dyke embankment, wrestling rites. Tien Cong Festival aims to commemorate Creator having the merit of breaking fresh ground, which is a form of community-based cultural activity of Vietnamese people. Along with Tien Cong festival, there is a very special family activity, which is Longevity wishing ceremony held by the whole family for those who reach the age of 80, 90, 100. This activity aims to remind people of respecting the elders, and their experience to pass down to descendants. It is also a cultural community activity of internal field residents in general, while being associated to Tien Cong Festival in Ha Nam island in particular. 2.2.2.5. Cai dam tree procession and calling blue cover book rituals in Tra Co Festival In the past, Cai dam tree planting took place from May 30 of lunar calendar in the afternoon. Now, the ritual take place at about 8:00p.m in June 1, in lunar calendar. The ritual will be held by Ong mo and Ong dam. Before planting the Cai dam tree, Ong mo will read aloud wishes to welcome gods to join the festival and bless villagers have abundant harvest ... After the ceremony, calling blue cover book will take place. Participants are able-bodied young men in the locality for the purpose of checking the old young men book, and add new able-bodied young men to the new book. Blue cover book record male persons in the village from 15 years old and above. This book is a basis to allocate the village's affairs and Cai dam (chair the festival) during the year. Blue cover book will read from the elderly to the young men and appoint a new Ong dam, which is also a honor of the family. Men of the same age, however one with better economy will be appointed as Ong dam at first. 2.2.3. Internal field factor manifested through activities of the festival

10 Festive part in festivals of marine, coastal and island residents of Quang Ninh has many familiar games similar to those of other folk festivals in the Northern region or other cultural zones such as: playing Chinese chess, Blind- man's-buff, swinging, playing shrimp's nest, etc. However, customs, contests of agricultural residents are organized on coastal background, which explains why agricultural marks have been deepened. Typical games include: raising and competing in Ong Voi contest in Tra Co festival; transplanting rice seedlings contest, boat-race in Going to the field Festival in Hung Yen, swimming contest, etc. Sub-Conclusion: Internal field factors in coastal festivals in Quang Ninh are quite strong with outstanding characteristics. Water procession festival in Giang Vong Communal House festival of Ha Long fisherman residents, Dao Vu Festival of Ha Nam residents, Going to the Field festival, Tien Cong Festival, etc. are rituals of agricultural residents which have been maintained since long time ago. Boat race, transplanting rice seedlings contest, Ong Voi contest (raising pig, To tom contest - a Vietnamese card game - Shrimp's nest, chicken fighting, wrestling) which are familiar works in daily production activities of farmers are brought into the Festival in a natural way, to satisfy the need of "collective destiny, collective sympathy" of culture's owners.

Chapter 3: MARINE ELEMENT IN MARINE, COASTAL AND ISLAND CULTURE OF QUANG NINH EMBODIED BY TRADITIONAL FESTIVALS

3.1. Community of fishermen and organizational structure of marine, coastal and island villages 3.1.1. Fishing communities Through archaeological findings in Ha Long, Trang Kenh, Viet Khe, etc., it is demonstrated that a part of local residents in Quang Ninh was once the owner of Neolithic Period (Stone Age) and early Iron Age. In addition, there were groups migrating from midland and plain regions to reclaim the land in Hai Dong sea, who are today considered as immortals, and Tutelary God re worshiped in traditional festivals. Besides, small residential groups crossed the sea from the North downwards or from the South upwards also settled in the area, cohabiting with local people through myths, and folk tales. There are residential groups living on fishing, typically Tran family and Mac family, who were orginally coastal residents, later settled in Thai Binh, Nam Dinh and a part of islandsin Quang Ninh . 3.1.2. Organizational structure of marine, coastal and island villages

11 In Quang Ninh, apart from coastal communes living on both farming and fishery, there are also villages whose residents gather from different region such as fishing villages in Ha Long Bay. These villages only do fisheries, trading, seafood processing, knitting net, etc. These are so-called Van or Van chai (Fishing village). It is also called "thuy sinh" (village on the water). It is an community-based organization of fishermen living on capturing fishery at sea. Today, along the coast of Quang Ninh there are many places having "Van" letter in their name: Cua Van, Van NInh, Van Gia ... Van is gathering of fishermen of the area, usually of the same fishing grounds. When not going offshore to catch fish, they anchor their boat in a sheltered estuary in the region and form a community. 3.2. Marine element in traditional festivals 3.2.1. Marine element manifested by worshiped gods 3.2.1.1. Sea Gods Coastal and Island zone of Quang Ninh primarily worship Sea Gods such as: Four Lady Saints, Bach Diem Tuoc Great King, Khong Lo God (Khong Lo Giac Sea King), Nam Hai God ... Custom of worship Sea God, River God in coastal festivals in Quang Ninh has many differences with that in the Central and Southern region of Vietnam. In addition to Sea God, Lady Holy in water palace, Can Hai gate Sea God, Nam Hai God, Dai Hai Chi Than, Ha God of water, in Quang Ninh, there are also special ritual of worship Long ma in Longevity wishing ceremonies; worship of awe-inspiringly powerful boggeddown in culverts pulling boat towards the river and sea. Place of worship Sea God are in Communal house of the village, temple in river estuary and especially culverts pulling boat through dykes of villages. 3.2.1.2. Worship of gods personalized to the sea Residents of coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh , in addition to worship of Sea Gods, also worship the deity personalized to the sea. These gods do not originate from Sea God, but experiencing different level of culture to carry a similar meaning of Sea Gods, such as: Pham Tu Nghi, Holy Tran Hung Dao, Tran Quoc Nghien, Tran Quoc Tang, Cua Suot Girl (Cap Tien Temple festival), Sea Lady Lord (Men Lady Temple festival), Lady King ... 3.2.2. Marine element manifested in rituals 3.2.2.1. Burning joss paper for souls and closing ceremony of the festival Most of the traditional festivals in coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh have the custom of burning joss paper for souls and closing ceremony of the festival. What is different from other regions is that in burning joss paper for souls and closing ceremony of the festival, there will be a large paper boat to be prepared. In Van Don Festival, Cua Ong Temple Festival, Tra Co Festival, Giang Vong Communal House Festival, when closing the

12 festival, there will be a solemn procession of joss paper, which is followed by the closing ceremony of the festival, so-called Xa gia hoan cung ceremony. 3.2.2.2. Sea God worship ritual In addition to ancestor worship, fishermen in Ha Long Bay also sacrifice Sea God in first day of the lunar January or February. They prepare offerings such as: porridge, eggs, meat, chicken, bananas, joss paper, incense... After making offering, porridge, and burned joss paper are poured into the sea. On the afternoon of the 30th of lunar December, fishermen will make offerings to thanks for the bless of Sea Gods throughout the year. When occurring incidents such as accidents, sinking boat, sickness, death, or risks like difficulties in fishing, trapped nets. ... fishermen also pray Sea Gods sincerely for overcome hardship and safety. 3.2.3. Marine element embodied in festive activities - Boat racing in Men Lady Temple festival - Boat sailing festival in Giang Vong Communal House festival - Blind man to guillotine eels Sub-Conclusion In traditional festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh, marine element is manifested in object of worship, in rituals, in boat races but also in games, folk performance, ... With the meaning to honor profession of fishermen, Men Lady boat-race and Giang Vong communal house boat race, and games in these festivals also express the desire to pray for water, rain, harvest, and peace !!!. Boat race of fisherman in coastal and island zone ofQuang Ninh has similarities and differences with that in other regions of the country. The most outstanding similarity is the boat race is still in the general flow of a traditional festival of Vietnamese people, with pure agricultural feature, even when they are living on the coastal or island zone or even on the sea.

Chapter 4: CHARACTERISTICS OF MARINE, COASTAL AND ISLAND CULTURE OF QUANG NINH

4.1 Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has strong internal field element and insignificant marine element 4.1.1. Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has strong internal field element For the residents of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh, though they live in the sea but plain culture still present along sea culture in material life as well as the spiritual life. Water procession, praying-for-water of agricultural residents are still performed with a new cultural level in coastal festivals such as: Giang Vo

13 Communal House Festival, Tra Co Communal House Festival, Cam Hai Communal House Festival, Men Lady Temple Festival, But Day Templem Dao Vu praying ritual (Yen Hung) ... Among Gods worshiped in coastal area of Quang Ninh there are also many agricultural Gods. Typically, God of agriculture is popularly worshiped (Going to the field Festival, Coc temple, Ha Nam). Going to the field Festival aims to pray for harvest in farming. In festive part of these festivals, there is Ong Voi contest (raising pig) in Tra Co festival with strong expression of agricultural feature. 4.1.2. Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has insignificant marine element Quang Ninh has a quite large sea area with many islands (more than 2000 small and large islands). Residents living along the coast and on islands, however, marine element in their traditional festivals is insignificant. During the festivals, marine element are clearly manifested in worship of Sea Gods. However, in Quang Ninh, Sea gods are mainly combined to worship instead of the Master Gods such as Four Lady Saints, Khong Lo God, Bach Diem Tuoc God, Long ma God, Pham Tu Nghi God, Thoai Lady Lord... Where having Sea Gods, they are personalized into Tran Hung Dao, Tran Quoc Nghien, Tran Quoc Tang ... Monuments to worship Sea Gods are not so large in scale as those in the Central and Southern region of Vietnam. On Quan Lan island, Lady Shrine is still built from bamboo and soil walls. In Yen Hung, Crab Lady Lord, Snail Lord shrines are still in small scale on dykes and along the coast. Rituals in those festivals are featured by burning joss paper boat, boat's bow opening ceremony of Cua Van fishing villager on Ha Long Bay or worshiping Sea God ceremony. And offerings for sacrifice are still mainly agricultural products such as porridge, chicken, sticky rice ...without any specialties of the sea like fish, shrimp ... 4.2 Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has strong historical meaning 4.2.1. Historical process Quang Ninh has been a land of strategic significance in building and protecting the nation from ancient period until now. It can be considered a fencing zone of the north pole of Vietnam (Sa Vi point). In feudal period, Quang Ninh is a sacred area for our dynasties to fight against the Northern invaders. Therefore, there were so many talented generals and soldiers who sacrificed in this area. Sea Gods and River Gods are developed on the base of personalizing Generals into Sea Gods and River God to be in charge of important place of the northeast sea zone (Tran Quoc Tang protects Cua Suot, Tran Quoc Nghien protects Cua Luc sea zone, Tran Hung Dao protects Bach

14 Dang river, Tran Khanh Du protects Mang river estuary, Van Don ...). During the Festival, these gods are worshiped and have influence on a large region. This can be considered a unique feature which has not been found in other coastal provinces.

4.2.2. Events and historical figures are direct premise of historic festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh 4.2.2.1. Tran Khanh Du defeated invaders in Mang river When it comes to Van Don Festival, we often remember the event that Tran Khanh Du fought against invaders in Mang river. In early February 1288, in the encounter with battling boat teams of Mongolian invaders in Ha Long Bay, whose the ringleader was O Ma Nhi, Tram army commanded by Tran Khanh Tran was defeated. King Tran Thanh Tong got angry and ordered to tie Tran Khanh Du in chain to receive punishment. Shortly after that, a boat team commanded by Truong Van Ho entered into Ha Long Bay, Tran Khanh Du ordered army to besiege and fight against. Taking the advantage of Mang river's terrain and narrow and slope Cong Cai, Tran Khanh Du and his army destroyed completely battling boats of the invader. This victory laid an important premise for our great victory in Bach Dang River in April in 1288, wiping out enemy in our territory, ending the third and last invasion intention of Mongol dynasty, well protecting independence and self-reliance of the nation. Especially, in Quan Lan boat racing festival, both parties, win or lose, are all awarded with prizes. The boat race, according to village rules, is largey ceremonial in nature. The boat race aims to re-perform Van Don - Cua Luc Victory in 1288 commanded by General Tran Khan Du. 4.2.2.2. Tran Hung Dao defeated invaders in Bach Dang River Bach Dang victory event associated with the talented General Tran Hung Dao is not only a remark in coastal zone of Quang Ninh but also a historic landmark of Tran Dynasty and the whole nation. Therefore, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh all worship him and his partners, who contributed the glorious victory. Not only generals such as Tran Khanh Du, Tran Quoc Nghien, Tran Quoc Tang, Pham Ngu Lao are worshiped but ordinary people having contribution to the victory are ordered by Tran Quoc Toan to establish temple, and shrine to worship such as: Water dweller, Mrs. Men, Cua Suot Girl ... Currently, in traditional festivals of Quang Ninh General Tran Hung Dao is workshiped in many festivals such as: Bach Dang Festival, Den Cong Communal House Festival combining worship of 4 Generals: Cao Son Quy Minh, Nam Hai God, General Phi Bon, General Bach Thach. Besides, Tran Hung Dao and Pham ngu Lao are also worshiped in Trung Coc Communal House Festival, in Nam Ha commune, Yen Hung district to commemorate the

15 event that two of them surveyed the battlefield to plant wooden piles in Bach Dang River to fight against Mongolian invaders (1287-1288). Bach Dang Festival is also known the victory anniversary, which is held annually on March 6 to March 8, in Lunar calendar, and sometimes lasts for four days and nights. Festivals often take place in locations associated with Bach Dang victory: Tran Hung Dao Temple, Lady King Shrine, Yen Giang Communal House are among festival centers, festivals also take place in Trung Ban Communal House, Dien Cong Communal House, Trung Coc Temple. In ritual part, there is offering of incense rite in Tran Hung Dao, and Lady King shrine. Villagers join palanquin procession along the river, and similar to rituals of river residents, swimming custom is an important ritual. 4.2.2.3. Tran Quoc Tang defeated the Mongolian invaders for the second time Close to Cua Suot wharf, there is also a Cua Ong Temple festival worshiping Tran Quoc Tang as the Master God. He is also worshiped in Xa Tac temple festival, Ka Long Ward, Mong Cai city; In Cua Luc, there are also Great Tran Quoc Nghien Temple festival, elder brother of Great Tran Quoc Tang. To help the Court to expel aggressors, two brothers Tran Quoc Nghien and Tran Quoc Tang together went to the frontier land to fight against the invaders and turned into Sea Gods of local people here. Every year, people in Cua Suot area organize festival to honor them. Although the event associated with Tran Quoc Toan is somehow fictive, large scale of Cua Ong Temple Festival has demonstrated intense belief, and admiration of coastal residents of a General in the North-East region of the country. 4.2.2.4. Ly Thuong Kiet defeated Tong invaders Van Ninh Communal House Festival, in Van Ninh commune, Mong Cai village takes place on the 10th and 11th of January in lunar calendar. The commune is where Ly Thuong Kiet gathered naval army in the battle against the invasion of Tong Dynasty. So, local people honor Ly Thuong Kiet as Tutelary God of the village and City God together with other Gods. including: Ly Thuong Kiet, Khong Lo Buddhist priest, Giac Hai Buddhist priest, Tran Hung Dao, Tran Thanh Tong, Pham Ngu Lao, Yet Kieu, Le Loi. 4.3 Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has similarities and differences with other coastal and island zones 4.3.1. Marine, coastal and island culture of Quang Ninh has similarities and differences with other coastal and island zones of the Northern region 4.3.1.1. Similarities and differences in worship custom Folk beliefs of Vietnamese people in traditional festivals in coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh are essentially similar to those of delta provinces: Thousands of Gods, Lady Saint, Tutelary God ... "Folk Beliefs in

16 Quang Ninh recognized great merit of pioneers reclaiming land. By strong will, sweat and tears, they reclaimed land to the sea, leveled hills, mountains, form villages for their grandchildren to continue smoothly and not to forget their gratitude towards forerunners ". 4.3.1.2. Similarities and differences in traditional festivals Usually, the first ritual of traditional festival in coastal and island zone (mainly boat racing festival) has its spiritual nature. Typically, each village when organizing a festival will report to one or two Gods (or Holy) such as in Keo Pagoda Festival in Thai Binh, Het Temple Festival, Ball wrestling festival, Ba thon temple festival, etc. However, in coastal festivals of Quang Ninh, villagers serve Gods, but not only one God but a group of Gods (Tien Cong Festival -17 Immortals, Quan Lan Festival- 6 Gods) ... Through these spiritual rituals, in addition to the meaning of serving the God to pray for water, harvest, rituals in coastal and island festivals of Quang Ninh are a performance as predecessors of a family, had the merit of reclaiming the land and building the island (Tien Cong Festival with wrestling, dyke embankment for symbolization purpose). Thus, Tien Cong Festival is also an occasion to review the tradition, to follow great example of predecessors in early stage of building myogram with lots of challenges. Besides, Bach Dang boat-race festival and Quang Lan boat-race are re- performed to commemorate the Herao Tran Khanh Du and Bach Dang victory in previous years. In the northern coastal region, in festivals, there are boat race custom, for example in Bach Dang festival (Quang Ninh province), Cua Ong Temple Festival (Quang Ninh) Quan Lan Festival (Quang Ninh province), Tra Co Festival (Quang Ninh province), Cau ngu (Praying-for-Fish) Festival (Hai Phong), Praying-for-rain Festival in Bi temple, Tien Lang district (Hai Phong), Ngoc Chan Village Festival (Nam Dinh), Keo Pagoda festival (Thai Binh), Co Le pagoda (Nam Dinh) ... Many researchers also believe that boat racing is a popular water festival of agricultural residents of Southeast Asia, carrying the meaning associated with worship of God of water, praying-for- water and lingaism. " However, northern coastal festivals including those in Quang Ninh does not carry the above implications through boat racing but aim to re-present historic events for example in "River war" boat race to commemorate General Dang Dung and his comrades, soldiers of Ngoc Chan villages for their fighting against Minh invaders (Nam Dinh); Bach Dang Festival (Quang Ninh province) re-presenting Bach Dang victory, Quan Lan Festival (Van Don Festival) describing 3 times of defeat Mongolian Invaders of General Tran Khanh Du... What is the most special thing in swimming festival in the northern coastal region is three forms of swimming: shallow swimming, standing

17 swimming in Keo Pagoda festival (Xuan Hong commune, Xuan Truong district, Nam Dinh), sitting swimming in Co Le festival (Co Le Town, Truc Ninh district, Nam Dinh). It can be said that this is the most distinct feature of the northern coastal region in comparison with other coastal cultural zone. It can be seen that this is the most distinct feature of Northern coast area in comparison with other coastal cultural regions. Unlike Thai Binh, Nam Dinh, Hai Phong, festivals of Quang Ninh sea island perform customs and games which cannot be found elsewhere such as: groundbreaking ceremony, wrestling symbolizes the process of sea to dyke of Tien Cong (in Tien Cong Festival); the game like "blindfolded guillotine eels", the contest and raise Mr. Elephant dance, cotton tree dancing (Tra Co Festival); sword-dragon dancing (Quna Lan Festival) which express dexterity, dread of Tran troops... Tien Cong Festival has a procession of alive people (Long-lived great grandparents at Ha Nam Island) to Tien Cong temple to shrine glasses and honor of the clan as well when there are long-live people. It is a beautiful and rare custom that are hardly to be found elsewhere. In term of performance art in festivals of Northern coast, it can be found that this is the most special and abundant cultural region. If Thai Binh, Nam Dinh have " morning with puppet, evening with traditional operetta" in festival days, Hai Phong, Quang Ninh perform “Dum” singing “Dum” singing festival in Haiphong is to sing on land but in Quang Ninh, it can be sung on land and under the boat. 4.3.2. Culture of Quang Ninh Sea Island has similarities and differences with other islands in Central Region 4.3.2.1. Similarities and differences in worship belief Central Coast residents today still retain many cultural activities and beliefs. In addition to ancestor worship in association with career belief, this region has worship activities of founder, job ancestor, God of wealth, whale...; associated with worship belief of God, saint, whale, tutelary, Holy Mother, goddess, ... Therefore, Central region has some typical festivals of coastal dwellers such as: Festival to worship whale; rituals to worship Holy Mother; Hoang Sa soldier feast and commemoration festival; boat racing Festival; vegetarian festival, 'festival of the fish... For fishermen of Central region, whale worship belief is the most sacred and steadfast belief their spiritual life. The fact that Northern residents do not worship whales solemnly as people of Central region, particularly Quang Ninh does not originate from the reason that they are near China where inhabitants specialize in whaling but the whale is not possible to become the Gospel spirit at sea for fishermen at the region with less storms. In fact, with giant body and the fearture of living in a school of whales, the whale does not prefer the sea with dense floating rock and sunk rock islands like Ha Long Bay.

18 Being a fencing zone of our country, the worship belief of Holy mother in Quang Ninh Sea Island is often associated with historic mission of fighting and defending the homeland. The worship belief of Holy mother in Central region has a cultural interference with Champa people but the worship belief in Quang Ninh has still remained original and primitive features. 4.3.2.2. Similarities and differences in festival If Quang Ninh sea island is famous for Van Don boat racing festival, Bach Dang festival, Ba Men festival ... then Hoang Sa soldier feast and commemoration festival, ans festival for the fish ... have made cultural identity of Central sea region It can be said that boat racing festival atCentral Coastal has a large scale and stature. Meaning of the boat racing on the nationwide is praying for timely rains and favorable weather; whereas the festival in Central region also has the same meaning together with a little change: For farmer, it expresses the meaning of praying for rain, but fishermen will pray for sunshine. Because only sunshine will give them the hope to fish. Boat Racing Festival in Central region mainly professional festival. In Quang Ninh, boat racing reproduces historical events (Van Don Festival, Bạch Dang festival, Cua Ong temple festival ...). In addition, there are a number of traditional festival restored such as Giang Vong temple festival (now under directly Khanh Ha Ward, Ha Long City) which is a traditional festival of fishing village residents with the procession of water. Folk music performance is also one of factors making up special feature for festivals of Central Coast and Quang Ninh Sea Island. Festivals of Central Coast often have Sac bua singing (hát Sắc bùa) while festivals in Quang Ninh sea island have "Dum singing" (hát Đúm). 4.4 Cultural fusion in the culture of Quang Ninh Sea Island 4.4.1. Fusion between marine cultures with mountainous culture. Coastal Quang Ninh worships mountain god, this is totally different from other maritime areas. The custom of mountain god worship in Quang Ninh coastal villages is quite common, such as: Cao Son god, Quy Minh god, Dong Phong Chi god, Duong canh Chu Son Dai Vuong (Đương cảnh Chủ Sơn Đại Vương) are worshiped in Khoai lac commune, in particular Cao Son gos is worshiped in La Khe commune (Yen hung district). Important role of mountain god and sea god plays in the life of residents in Quang Ninh coastal is probably the biggest difference in the culture of Quang Ninh sea without being found in anywhere. Geographical and cultural and human ecology factors have made human to self - reproduce and create their own culture. This is a typical example of rebirth, a striking characteristic of Quang Ninh Sea Island’s culture through festival.

19 4.4.2. Fusion between Quang Ninh Sea Island’s cultures with the culture of other regions Making comparison between Tra Co festival and Van Vi temple (Dongxing-China) will give us many similarities and differences. More particularly, during festivals of Dao people in Mong CAI, there is a funeral oration called “Qua hai" which narrates a voyage to search new land for making a living of Dao residents in Giang To (China). In the festivals of Quảng Ninh Sea Island, there is a strong cultural interaction with Hai Phong residents. Tra Co festival has the custom of sailing boat to Do Son to perform the procession of incense for each time of opening the festival. Ban Men temple festival is the solidarity of fishermen in two villages: Ha Nam fishing village (on Ha Long Bay) and Cao Minh the fishing village of Cat Ba (Hai Phong). Sailing Competition in Ba Men festival always witness the participation of fishing villages: Cong Dam-Vung Vien, Cua Van, Ha Nam(Ba Ham Lake) and Cao Minh the fishing village of Cat Ba (Hai Phong). Sailing festival in Bach Dang has the participation of teams from Thuy Nguyen district (Hai Phong). Quang Ninh province also has village festival at Cam Hai-Cam Pha which is similar to Tra Co festival. The festival is held from May 29 to June 2 in annual lunar calendar. Village hall was built in 1980 by Tra Co inhabitants(Mong Cai) migrating Cam Hai commune and the festival is annually held in honor and in memory of merit of 6 tutelaries who established Tra Co (Mong Cai city). However these coastal residents have not stopped at fusion aspect, exchanges with other cultural regions but they have also accepted cultural influences of surrounding regions. Strong cultural influence of Hai Phong sea waters such as Doc Cuoc god (thần Độc Cước) worship with tutelaries (who first explored), Dao Vu ceremony (lễ cầu Đảo vũ)... also represents social and cultural variables always taking palce between cultural regions. Sub-Conclusion: In every cultural belief phenomenon and festival, it can be seen that multiple cultural layers are integrated: cultural layer of internal field residents, cultural layer of sea, cultural layer of rural dwellers from plains interlace with cultural layer of sea; cultural layers of Viet people with Chinese culture ... Therefore, in order to research, decode a cultural phenomenon of a territory, the researcher should analyze, compare to separate culture layer in such cultural phenomenon which contain multiple value and symbols.

20 CONCLUSION

1. Pursuant to Law of the Sea of Viet Nam in 2012, Quang Ninh sea island includes: estuaries, bays, water front and sea water inside the baseline and adjacent to the coast. Culture of Quang Ninh Sea Island has a long history with similarities in terms of demographics, level of socio-economic development and cultural exchange. Experienced labor and creation process, residents of Quang Ninh sea island have creates typical cultural characteristics (including: charming internal field factors, charming history, insipid sea elements ...). Such characteristics have been expressed through material and spiritual cultural activities (especially through the traditional festivals), which can be distinguished from island culture of other regions. 2. Quang Ninh province has many traditional festivals: which are abundant in number, various in types and forms of organization. In particular, the island waters has 46 annual traditional festival held in shrines, temple, communal house in the village, pagoda. Traditional festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island are classified according to criterion of space. Classification results are divided into three groups of festival: Island festival group accounts for 43%, coastal festival group accounts for 17% and internal field festival group makes up 20%. This result is only relative in nature. 3. Internal field factors are expressed in traditional festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island through the god worshiped, rituals and festival activities. Typical gods worshiped by agricultural residents of Quang Ninh Sea Island include: God of agriculture, village tutelary and Tien Conng (vị Tiên Công). Agricultural rituals aare also appeared in festivals such as: water procession ceremony, Dao Vu festival (lễ Đảo Vũ), "xuong dong "festival (lễ xuống đồng, Tien Cong festival (lễ Tiên Công), “dong cay cai dam” festival (lễ đóng cây cai đám), and " goi so bia xanh" festival (gọi sổ bìa xanh) in Tra Co festivals. Activities in the festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island have also attracted the largest number of participants. They mainly focus on competitions such as: Ong Voi competition in Tra Co festival, transplanting and "trai" swimming (bơi trải) competitions in the "xuong dong "festival. 4. Like interior filed elements, marine elements are shown in festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island through the god worshiped, rituals and festival activities. In the festival of Quang Ninh Sea Island, the sea gods hold an important position for residents. Quang Ninh is a fencing zone land of our country which lays both on land and at sea; therefore many sea gods are worshiped. Typical sea gods in this region are: Four Princess Saints, Lieu Hanh holy

21 mother, Bạch Diem Tuoc Dai Vuong (Bạch Điểm Tước Đại Vương), Khong Lo Giac Hai Dai Vuong (Khổng Lộ Giác Hải Đại Vương), Whale, Horse Dragon (Long mã)... Sea elements are expressed through rituals of the festivals but not as much as joss paper burning ceremony and farewell festival and marine god ritual. Sailing competition in Ba Men temple festival, sailing festival in Ginag Vong temple festival, blindfolded guillotine eels in Tra Co festival are long-standing activities and passed until present. 5. Relationship between internal field factors and marine factors in the festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island is shown through survey and analysis process. Results have shown that internal field factors are more charming than marine factors. Quang Ninh Sea Island has large area but the marine factors in culture are quite faint. In festivals, marine factors are specifically expressed in sea gods’ worship, but mostly on worship coordination. Vestiges of island also have a modest scale. Some rituals in the festival have marine nature but sacrifice offering is still products of agriculture. Even Horse dragon God is the sea god, but the residents use fruits of agriculture in Horse dragon God contest. Sailing festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island hardly express the nature of fisheries which reproduce historical properties of the island. 6. Historyical features is an important characteristic in the traditional festival of Quang Ninh Sea Island. This is demonstrated through events and historical figures such as: Tran Khanh Du fought the aggressors on Mang River, Tran Hung Dao fought fought the aggressors on Bach Dang River, Tran Quoc Tuan fought the aggressors of Mong - Nguyen for the second time... In monuments and festivals, historic characters have been expressed into the sea gods. Such gods are not native to the sea god, but after layer of culture they have brought a new meaning which is identical or nearly identical with the sea God. in which the majority are generals of Tran dynasty 7. Compared to other islands in North Sea, the festivals of Quang Ninh Sea Island also have similarities and differences in belief and worship and during the festival. In religious worship, residents of Quang Ninh sea island along with Northern residents still worship popular gods in folk but they differ in ritual and forms of worship through worship of Tien Cong and Four Princess Saint ... Long lived great grandparents in Tien Cong festival is in procession. Most rituals of festival for Northern Islands are spiritual in nature and worships a God but Quang Ninh Sea Island are pagan (Immortals). Boat racing is a ritual to pray for rain of Northern residents but the festival in Quang Ninh Sea Island will express historic events again. If Hai Phong has Dum singing on land then Quang Ninh have Dum singing on land and under the boat in the traditional festival.

22 8. Compared with island in Central island, the festivals in Quang Ninh province also have many similarities, such as: the same whale worship, Holy mother worship; boat racing festival which have attracted large people involved. But the biggest difference between Quảng Ninh Sea Island and the central island lies in the scale and nature of activities. 9. Coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh has cultural fusion between regions, which is manifested in cultural exchange between mountainous and plain area, between Chinese and Vietnamese people. In relics of Quang Ninh's coastal and island area, there are not only worship of Sea Gods, Gods of plain but also Gods of mountain, such as: Cao Son God, Quy Minh God... Perhaps it is because of terrain of Quang Ninh with both sea and mountain areas (Ha Long Bay has rock mountain on the sea), from the inner soul of local people, they wish to be protect by God of mountain. Quang Ninh's coastal and island area largely border China. Therefore, in traditional festivals, there are cultural exchange Chinese people, for example in festival of Dao ethnic people in Mong Cai with the sacrifice writing "Pass over", Tra Co Communal House Festival and Van Vi Communal House Festival (Giang Binh, Dong Hung, Quang Tay, China) have a lot of common features. Besides, coastal and island zones of Quang Ninh also have cultural interference with Hai Phong and other marine, coastal and island zone in the region. 10. Traditional festivals of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh is a complex cultural aspect. This thesis just recognized elements and basic characteristics of traditional festivals in marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh. In-depth analysis of interaction between the elements and cultural exchange among regions in traditional festivals of marine, coastal and island zone of Quang Ninh is still a open issue, awaiting for further study in the fulture.