In particular, the folk games held in this place have been attracting both lots of people, both locals and tourists. Next to Hoàn Kiếm Lake, opposite Ngọc Sơn Temple, a space dedicated to Vietnamese folk games has been created. There, games such as rope-skipping, tug-of-war, or making tò he are organized for everyone, both young and old to participate. The most popular game here seems to be Ô ăn quan, or Mandarin square capturing.
Nguyen Thuc Hung, student of Hoang Van Thu Secondary School said: "Every game here is interesting and helpful. But for me, it is "ô ăn quan" that got me excited the most, because it's like a thinking exercise. It helps me a lot in my studying".
This folk games space not only attracts young people but also those of the older generation.
Vu Thi Lan Huong, Hanoi said: "My childhood was spent mostly at the evacuation areas, so these games are very familiar to me. Playing this game with my grandson makes me feel like I'm travelling back to that time. Personally, I think spaces like this are very necessary for children as it'll help them develop some life skills".
These youngsters are learning how to make tò he, a type of toy figurines made from rice flour, glutinous rice flour, and plant-derived food colouring. Making tò he is both a game and a folk culture of the northern countryside region of Vietnam. Players can knead the flour mixture into animals, fruits and fairytale characters.
Cam Ly, Graduate from Hanoi University of Business and Technology said: "I take part in these lessons to prepare for the Ship for Southeast Asian Youth Programme, as I'm part of the Vietnam delegation. I want to introduce Vietnamese folk games and cultural activities to international friends".
These games have managed to bring nuances of Vietnamese folk culture to the neighbourhood in the pedestrian streets around Hoàn Kiếm Lake, attracting both Vietnamese and foreign tourists. Despite being newly opened, this place has become an attractive visiting address on weekends.
