A signal of spring and peace
In the ritual life of the Nguyen Dynasty, the Thuong Tieu ceremony served as a vital milestone. Erecting the Neu pole (a tall bamboo pole) was the royal court's way of announcing that the working year had ended and the Tet holiday had begun.
Beyond its role as a calendar marker, the ceremony carries deep spiritual significance:
-
Farewell to the old: Warding off the misfortunes of the past year.
-
Blessings for the new: Praying for national peace, favorable weather, and prosperity for all citizens.
Restoring royal heritage
Since 2015, the Hue Monuments Conservation Center has restored this ceremony based on meticulous historical research. By blending traditional royal rituals with a structured ceremonial script, the event has become a cultural highlight, recreating the joyful and majestic atmosphere of a royal Tet for modern audiences.
The ritual process
The ceremony began at 7:00 AM with a grand procession. Carrying the Neu pole, the ceremonial troupe—accompanied by Dai Nhac (Royal Court Great Music)—started from Hien Nhon Gate, marched into the Imperial City, and proceeded directly to the The Mieu (Ancestral Temple) area.
The pole was erected at the courtyard of Hien Lam Cac (the Pavilion of Splendor). Under the guidance of ritual masters, offerings were presented with solemnity as the bamboo pole was raised toward the spring sky, symbolizing a connection between heaven and earth.
Looking ahead
Following the main event at the Ancestral Temple, simplified versions of the Thuong Tieu ceremony will continue to be held at various other relic sites within the Hue Monuments Complex from the 28th to the 30th day of the lunar month.
Visitors can also look forward to the Ha Tieu Ceremony (Lowering the Neu Pole), scheduled for February 23, 2026 (the 7th day of the first lunar month). This event will include the traditional "Seal Opening" ritual and the gifting of calligraphy, offering New Year blessings and luck to all tourists visiting the heritage site.