Top 10 Best Explanations of Traditional Folk Games

In ancient times, when the spiritual life of the people was not as developed as it is today, with no TV, laptops, or video games, children in rural communities invented various folk games to play together during pleasant evenings. One of these games is Hide and Seek, a game full of creativity and childhood spirit.

The game of Hide and Seek has been a part of Vietnamese life for a long time. It is also known by other names in different regions: 'Ú tim' in the central area and 'Năm mươi năm mươi' in the southern part of the country. In rural areas, children from the same village or region would gather to play together during the evenings or nights. Popular gathering places were often near the communal halls or under the old banyan trees, where cultural activities were held.

The game typically involves large groups, ranging from six to more players. One player who loses a game of rock-paper-scissors will have their eyes blindfolded with a cloth or scarf, ensuring they cannot see the others. While the blindfolded player counts for fifty seconds, the others run and find a hiding spot.

After thirty seconds, the seeker begins looking around the area to find the hidden players. Anyone found will be out of the game, and if all players are found, the seeker survives, and the first person found becomes the next seeker. If the seeker is unable to find anyone, they may shout 'free the chicken' and become the seeker again until a new person is found.

According to the rules, the first person found becomes the seeker. If no one rescues them, they continue as the seeker until someone successfully escapes their detection. The game continues until players either stay hidden or are found. The game is more thrilling when the seeker struggles to find where others are hiding.

People enjoy the excitement of being the last person found, which allows them to save others and win. Hide and Seek is a game that not only fosters creativity but also creates suspense, making it especially loved by children, who are energetic and lively. For them, this game becomes a cherished childhood memory.

Hide and Seek is a well-known tradition in rural areas, though today, with the advancement of technology, children rarely play such physical games. They are often engrossed in digital games instead. It's unfortunate if today's children never experience the joy and excitement of playing Hide and Seek, a fascinating traditional game.

We believe that no matter how many digital games, laptops, or tablets come into play, they will never diminish the value and beauty of Hide and Seek, a beloved game deeply embedded in Vietnamese cultural life.

For centuries, folk literature has deeply permeated the lives of the Vietnamese people, and folk games have become widespread and well-known, especially in rural areas. One such traditional game is Ô ăn quan.

The exact origin is unclear, but Ô ăn quan has long been a popular game, particularly among young girls. It is not just a recreational activity but also a game that requires strategic thinking. Many believe this game originated from the mancala game in Arabia (around 1580 - 1150 BCE) and spread to Vietnam.

To play this game, you need to prepare a few items: "Quan" and "dân" are the two types of game pieces, and the materials used should be stable, of appropriate size to be held in one hand, and weighted sufficiently to resist wind. Common choices include pebbles, small bricks, seeds, or wood chips. The "quan" pieces should be larger or differently shaped than the "dân" pieces for easy distinction.

The number of "quan" pieces is always two, while the number of "dân" pieces depends on the rules but typically totals fifty. After preparing the pieces, place the "quan" pieces in two crescent or arc-shaped sections, each holding one piece, and distribute the "dân" pieces evenly in square sections, with five pieces per section.

Usually, two players participate, sitting on opposite longer sides of a rectangular layout. The sections on each player's side are controlled by them. The objective is to collect more "dân" pieces than your opponent by the end of the game.

The rules are simple: each player, on their turn, moves the pieces in a way that allows them to capture as many pieces as possible. When it's their turn, the player selects a section with pieces and distributes them one by one into adjacent sections, either clockwise or counterclockwise. If the final piece lands in a section containing pieces, the player continues by distributing those. If a section is empty, but the next one contains pieces, the player captures those pieces.

Players can continue capturing until a section containing a "quan" or two empty sections appear, or after a capture, the turn ends, and the opponent gets their turn.

If, on a player's turn, all five sections under their control are empty, they must use five of their captured pieces to distribute in the sections and continue playing. If they do not have enough, they can borrow from the opponent and repay during scoring.

The game ends when all the "dân" and "quan" pieces in both sections of the "quan" are captured. If one section of the "quan" has fewer than five pieces, it is called a "non" and may be excluded from capture to prolong the game. This adds an interesting challenge to the game.

This game is highly strategic, resembling a real chess game, and with just a small area, young girls can enjoy it comfortably. Many traditional rhymes are associated with the game, one of which is:

Hàng trầu hàng cau

Là hàng con gái

Hàng bánh hàng trái

Là hàng bà già

Hàng hương hàng hoa

Là hàng cúng Phật.

In ancient society, when living conditions and entertainment were not yet developed, children came up with many folk games to play together in their spare time. These games, although simple, were full of creativity and, above all, pure in nature, reflecting the innocent souls of children from that time. Furthermore, in certain aspects, these traditional games also showcased distinctive cultural traits and customs of the past. One of the unique folk games that children enjoyed was the game of 'blind man's bluff.'

The game of blind man's bluff appeared early in the life of Vietnamese people. It is also known by other names such as 'hide and seek' (in the northern regions) or 'fifty-fifty' (in the southern regions). In rural areas, children from the same village or town often gathered together to play in the evenings. Popular spots were usually places like the village gate, the banyan tree, or other community gathering spots.

In this game, players formed groups, and one person was blindfolded with a cloth or scarf, ensuring they couldn’t see the others. During a set period, usually around fifty seconds, the blindfolded person could remove the cloth, and in that time, the others would hide.

After fifty seconds, the blindfolded person would search around the play area to find the others. Those who were found were eliminated from the game. If everyone was found, the seeker survived, and the first person caught would take the role of the next seeker.

According to the rules, the first person caught has a chance to become the next seeker, unless someone else frees them. If the first person is caught, their attempt at 'blind man’s bluff' is ineffective. It’s only when the second or third person runs out to distract the seeker that the first person gets freed. The seeker then resumes the search, starting again from the beginning.

The game is often played in the evening and in large spaces, where there are plenty of hiding spots. At night, the darkness makes it harder for the seeker to find players, making the game even more thrilling. Players enjoy hiding and avoiding detection, hoping to be the last one found, as there’s a higher chance of reversing the situation. When the bluff is successfully executed, the seeker is considered defeated in the game.

The children who play this game are usually from the same neighborhood or age group, playing freely and happily. Evenings offer a special time for these kids, as it’s when they’re not under strict supervision from adults, and they aren’t burdened by homework or chores. They play joyfully, and although there’s a winner and a loser, there’s never any conflict, because children view it as a game, and only by playing wholeheartedly does it truly have meaning.

Though this folk game of blind man’s bluff has existed for a long time, it remains popular today. While its content has remained largely the same, its form has evolved to better suit the current generation. For example, during the waiting period when the blindfolded person counts, they sing the song 'ten, twenty, thirty...up to one hundred.' After finishing, they sing another verse, 'The heavens have eyes, they catch children three steps apart, and the whole group will be caught,' before beginning the search.

However, this game of blind man’s bluff is still mostly passed down in rural, poorer areas where children have fewer material possessions compared to their urban peers. This is particularly evident in today’s cities, where technology has become prevalent. These children, exposed to modern technology at an early age, tend to grow up faster than their years, losing some of the innocence of childhood. Sadly, many of them are unaware of traditional games like blind man’s bluff, thinking such games are only for rural children. Hopefully, folk games like this will become more widely known, so they can help preserve the childhoods of today’s tech-savvy children.

Blindfold tag is a popular traditional game, primarily enjoyed by children aged 6 to 15. The name and rules are simple, though they may vary slightly depending on the region. This is not just a game for two players, but one meant for groups. In addition to fun and physical exercise, it reflects the hidden desire for victory in every child.

The game takes place on a grassy field where players form a circle. One volunteer wears a blindfold, while others circle around them. When the blindfolded player says 'start' or 'stop,' everyone must freeze.

The blindfolded player then tries to catch someone, while others attempt to avoid being caught, creating distractions with noise. If the blindfolded player catches someone and correctly guesses their name, that person must take their place. If the guess is wrong, the game continues. Those who wish to join can do so, with a new player stepping in while the blindfolded player exits or a game of chance determines who stays. Each game ends with a lively atmosphere filled with excitement and laughter.

Blindfold tag embodies safety, closeness to Vietnamese culture, and benefits for both physical and intellectual development. Players not only build strength but also improve their ability to judge and orient themselves accurately, responding swiftly and agilely in each round.

This game is not just for children; many adults join in during Vietnamese holidays and festivals. Its success lies in the vibrant, competitive spirit that excites participants and brings joy when the game ends.

Besides showcasing regional cultural and spiritual elements, blindfold tag also helps players strengthen their health and resilience. It paints a vibrant picture of life, with graceful dances, agile movements, and cheerful laughter as the cultural spirit of Vietnam spreads across the country.

In today's society, with advancing technology, traditional games like blindfold tag are slowly fading away. Children in the modern industrialized world, accustomed to machines and electronics, miss out on these traditional childhood games. As a result, blindfold tag is no longer as well-known as it once was.

Blindfold tag is more than just a children's game—it's a unique and rich part of Vietnamese culture. It nurtures children's imagination, creativity, agility, and helps them understand friendship, family love, and national pride.

The origins of the game 'Throwing the Con' are unclear, but it is known to be one of the most beloved folk games of the Thai ethnic group. Typically played during festivals and New Year's celebrations, it is enjoyed in a lively and joyful atmosphere.

Throwing the Con is a traditional folk game of the Thai people, dating back many generations. Thai women craft the 'con' (a small woven ball) from scraps of fabric, cutting them into square shapes of around 18cm per side. The corners are folded towards the center, filled with cotton or rice to symbolize the wish for fertility and abundance. A fabric string is sewn to one point of the con, creating a tail with colorful tassels to resemble a flying dragon, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Most 'cons' are made with 4 to 8 segments, but skillful artisans can make them with up to 12 segments, each in a different color.

There are two ways to play the game. The first is called the 'courtship game' where unmarried men and women participate during the spring festivals. Men and women stand opposite each other, and the women toss the con to the men. Gradually, the game turns into a way for couples to connect, and many end up getting married after playing. The second version, known as 'Tossing the Con into the Ring,' involves tossing the con towards a large ring suspended from a tall bamboo pole. This version is open to all age groups, and whoever lands the con inside the ring wins a prize, usually a pair of drinking cups. The game tests both physical skill and dexterity, and the colorful flying con creates a beautiful and festive display.

According to Mrs. Lo Thi Banh, a local from Tong Khao, in Thanh Nua Commune, Dien Bien Province: 'The con thrown into the air symbolizes the removal of pain and misfortune, bringing in prosperity and happiness. If the con lands in the ring, it foretells a good harvest and abundant crops.'

Today, this game is not only associated with the Thai people but has spread to other ethnic communities in Dien Bien Province. Various ethnic groups, including the Thai, Muong, and Tay, share similar rules for playing. For the Thai, the game represents the harmony of yin and yang, and it is common for those who are childless to participate in hopes of fertility. The con is often tossed in the direction of the river or the village, symbolizing good fortune for the community.

The Tay people consider the game a ritual for a bountiful harvest. Before concluding the festival, the ritual leader will cut open the con to extract seeds, which are then thrown into the air, symbolizing the hope for a prosperous crop. The Muong people, on the other hand, see the game as an opportunity for young men and women to meet and form connections. The losing side usually leaves behind a token, often a man, who later returns to retrieve it, thus continuing the courtship.

Throwing the con is a game that blends both culture and sport, requiring both precision and physical skill. It brings people together for fun, fostering community spirit, and is enjoyed by all ages. The lively atmosphere of cheering spectators only adds to the excitement of the game, making it a favorite of both the young and the old.

Traditional games are receiving significant attention today. These games are often played in group settings, especially in schools. One simple game that requires no preparation is the 'Cat and Mouse' game. It is a fun and beneficial activity. Let's take a closer look at this game.

No one is certain about the exact origin of the 'Cat and Mouse' game, but it has been present in Vietnam for a long time. It is widely played in all three regions: North, Central, and South. The main difference between the regions lies in the rhyme sung during the game. How to play:

Number of participants: Around 10 or more people. The group plays a game of 'Rock, Paper, Scissors' to determine who will be the cat and who will be the mouse. The cat and the mouse stand apart. The rest of the players hold hands and form a circle. Then, the cat and the mouse sit with their backs to each other in the center of the circle. At the signal, the mouse has to run quickly while the cat tries to catch it. When the mouse reaches the circle, the two people standing at the circle's edge must raise their hands to let the mouse pass. If the cat reaches the circle, the two standing there move closer together to block the cat from escaping. The cat must find another exit. If the cat catches the mouse, the cat wins, and the mouse loses. The game ends, and a new round begins with different players as the cat and mouse. Players sing a rhyme while playing:

'Come out here, hold hands tight, Stand in a wide circle, The mouse squeezes through the hole. Run quickly, The cat chases behind, Run away if you can. The mouse turns into a cat, With paws chasing, Catch the cat, turn it into a mouse.'

The game is very exciting and creates a lively atmosphere, promoting agility, dexterity, and endurance.

This simple yet exciting traditional game is gradually fading from society. Let's revisit a childhood game: Dragon and Snake Ascend to the Clouds.

To play Dragon and Snake Ascend to the Clouds, you need at least five players (the more, the merrier). One person plays the role of the doctor, while the others form a line, with each person holding onto the shirt or shoulder of the person in front. The group moves in a snake-like fashion while singing:

'The dragon and snake ascend to the clouds, The tree shakes, Ask the doctor, Is there a house or not?' The doctor answers:

'The doctor is out!' (or can create other responses like 'went shopping,' 'fishing,' etc.). The group continues moving and singing until the doctor answers:

'Yes!'

Then a dialogue begins:

The doctor asks:

'Where are the dragon and snake going?' The head of the dragon and snake responds:

'We're going to get medicine for the sick.'

'How many are you?' The response:

'One.'

'No medicine here.'

'Two.'

'Still no medicine.'

And so on, until:

'Ten.'

'Medicine is here.'

At this point, the doctor asks:

'Give me the head.'

'The bones are all old.'

'Give me the middle.'

'The blood is all used.'

'Give me the tail.'

'Run away now.'

The doctor must then try to catch the last person in the line. Meanwhile, the head of the dragon and snake must stop the doctor from catching the tail, while the tail tries to avoid the doctor. If the doctor catches the tail, that player must take the role of the doctor. If the game is interrupted, the players pause and reconnect to continue playing.

Vietnam is a country rich in cultural traditions with diverse and vibrant spiritual life values. Among these, folk games are considered cultural gems that contribute to the identity of the Vietnamese people. One of the most interesting and widely played games is Tug of War.

It is unclear exactly when Tug of War became popular, but it has naturally woven itself into the cultural and entertainment life of the Vietnamese people. This game dates back to ancient times. Images carved on the walls of ancient Egyptian tombs indicate that ancient Egyptians held Tug of War competitions as early as 2500 BC. Over time, Tug of War became a familiar pastime for children in rural Vietnam.

Tug of War is a team sport that requires strength. It is not only a game for physical exercise but also a game that fosters team spirit, providing joy and relaxation for participants during festivals and holidays. In Vietnam, Tug of War is a traditional folk game. At outdoor festivals and gatherings, this game is always a crowd favorite. During Tet holidays and other festive occasions, Tug of War is a key component of traditional celebrations.

To play, all you need is a sturdy rope, around 10 meters long, though it can be longer depending on the number of players. The game typically involves two teams pulling the rope, and the team that pulls the marked portion of the rope past the designated line first wins. The rules of the game may vary by location, but they all share the same core concept.

Anyone, regardless of gender, can play Tug of War as long as they have good physical strength. In some places, players simply hold hands and pull the rope, with the first person on each side grasping the hands of the person next to them. The game may consist of three rounds, and the first team to win two rounds is declared the victor. If a rope breaks during the game, the team on the broken side loses.

During competitions, a referee is appointed to ensure the game is fair. When the whistle blows or a signal is given, both teams must exert all their strength to pull the rope towards their side. A match may last only a few seconds, but sometimes it can stretch into several minutes of intense action. Strategy, enthusiasm, and strength are essential throughout the game.

Tug of War also demands a high level of teamwork. Players may experience discomfort, such as sore hands or blisters, but they push through the pain and continue to compete with determination. Spectators enthusiastically cheer, waving drums and cymbals to encourage the players. Sometimes, the cheering can even help a team win the match faster.

Tug of War brings immense joy, laughter, and teaches participants about teamwork and camaraderie. However, as society evolves and technology becomes more dominant, many young people have shifted to modern games, neglecting traditional folk games. Nevertheless, Tug of War continues to be a symbol of Vietnam's cultural heritage and remains an important tradition that embodies the spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Tug of War will always be a beloved activity for children. Whenever I watch this game, it brings back cherished memories of my childhood. Hopefully, everyone will work together to preserve and cherish this traditional beauty.

“The kite sails through the wind
Its sound echoes in the air
The kite is a betel nut
Drying on the sky's cloth” ("Kite Flying" - Trần Đăng Khoa)

The image of a kite soaring in the sky has become an endearing and poetic part of the Vietnamese countryside. Kite flying has long been a traditional folk game that has connected generations of Vietnamese people.

The game of kite flying first originated in China. The first kite was crafted by a man named Lu Ban, made from wood and flew across the land of China, becoming a significant cultural tradition. Over time, the Vietnamese people adopted the art of kite flying, which has now become a cherished part of their culture. The image of a young boy lying across a buffalo with a kite flying in the sky was even depicted by artisans of Dong Ho paintings, capturing a moment of childhood in the countryside.

A kite is a type of instrument that uses the wind and air's buoyant force to lift off the ground. It typically consists of a frame made from bamboo or wood, which is shaped into various forms. The frame should not be too soft, as it would easily break in strong winds, nor too rigid or heavy, as it would be difficult for the kite to catch the wind.

Attached to the frame are colorful sheets of paper or plastic that are glued into place. Kites often feature a long tail with fringed ends as a decorative element. When the kite soars, the tail flutters, adding to the visual appeal of the kite against the blue sky.

Nowadays, kites come in many different materials, sizes, colors, and designs, making them incredibly diverse and unique. The kite is connected to a string to help it gain altitude and prevent it from flying away.

It is common to fly kites on windy days, as it helps the kite soar higher. However, players must be cautious and choose a day with just the right amount of wind, as too much wind could make the kite fly away. In rural areas, especially at dusk when the sun sets and the air becomes cooler, it is a familiar sight to see people flying kites. Children running barefoot across the ground, guiding their kites into the sky, is an everyday image of rural life.

“The kite fills with wind
Music echoes in the sky
The kite's sound is like the wind
Curved bamboo sways”

The sound of the kite is distinct, with the addition of a flute attached to the kite that plays melodies when the wind carries it into the air. This type of kite is particularly popular in the northern regions of Vietnam.

To successfully fly a kite, the player must understand how to read the wind and choose the right direction. On windy days, a player can simply pull the string to help the kite rise. When there is no wind, they need to run to help the kite gain enough height to catch the breeze. With smaller kites, players often gather in rural areas to enjoy the game.

For larger kites, people tend to visit the coastal areas where strong winds blow from the sea. When flying a kite, players must remain focused and avoid distractions, as letting the kite fall or get tangled in others' lines can be problematic. The game requires patience and careful attention—those who are easily frustrated will find it difficult to make their kites soar.

As a folk game and traditional pastime, kite flying remains a favorite activity in the summer months. It offers an escape from daily stress, allowing people to enjoy watching their kites glide gracefully in the sky, and to relax after a day of hard work.

As life continues to modernize, kites have become even more diverse. People have also organized kite festivals, where enthusiasts showcase their skills in kite-making, all while enjoying the festive atmosphere. These festivals are commonly held in coastal towns such as Vung Tau and Phan Thiet.

As these kites soar into the sky, they carry with them a rich cultural heritage, symbolizing the dreams of children from rural villages. The kites continue to peacefully glide, serving as a serene and poetic representation of Vietnam's tranquil countryside.