Young people return to their roots at historical sites

In the days leading up to Lunar New Year 2026, instead of focusing solely on shopping or leisure travel, many young people in Dong Nai and nearby provinces and cities are choosing trips to visit and reconnect with historical and cultural sites such as Tran Bien Temple of Literature and Nguyen Huu Canh Temple. Beyond spring outings or taking commemorative photos, these journeys offer young people a chance to pause and explore the culture and history of the Bien Hoa - Dong Nai region.

Groups of students visit the Tran Bien Temple of Literature to learn about its historical sites. Photo: Le Duy

A journey to the roots amid modern life

In the period leading up to Lunar New Year and the early days of spring, the number of pupils, students, and groups of young people visiting historical sites in Dong Nai tends to rise. Many proactively choose destinations tied to the history of the southern region's formation and development as a way to "slow down," connect with tradition, and mentally prepare for a new year full of hopes and expectations.

Many young people believe that visiting historical sites during Tet evokes emotions very different from those of typical entertainment trips. The quiet, sacred atmosphere of these sites offers moments of reflection and a deeper understanding of the contributions of their predecessors in the exploration and development of Dong Nai and the former Gia Dinh land (the entire southern region).

Dinh Nguyen Huy Hoang, a student at Tran Bien High School (Dong Nai province), said he and his friends visited Nguyen Huu Canh Temple not only to complete a History assignment but also because Tet is approaching. At the same time, they want to learn more about the merits of the general who played a special role in establishing sovereignty and expanding the southern land.

"Previously, I only knew about Marquis Nguyen Huu Canh through textbooks. When I came directly to the temple, listened to the explanations, and observed the documents and artifacts, I could more clearly feel his historical stature. Visiting places like this during Tet makes me appreciate history more and gives me extra motivation to study," Huy Hoang shared.

Meanwhile, Nguyen Minh Tri, a student at Go Xoai Secondary School (in Binh Loi commune, Ho Chi Minh City), said he and his friends visited Tran Bien Temple of Literature during this time with the desire to learn more about talented scholars and historical figures, while also praying for good results in the new school year.

Spreading love for culture and history

In reality, young people proactively visiting historical sites during Tet is no longer a temporary movement, but is gradually becoming a positive trend. In addition to spontaneous trips with family and friends, many schools organize and integrate site visits into traditional education programs, helping students engage with history in a more personal and effective way.

Young people exchange ideas and discuss after learning about the history of the formation of Dong Nai land at Nguyen Huu Canh Temple

Phan Thi Tam, a teacher at Dien Hong Primary School (in Binh Minh commune, Dong Nai province), shared: “Taking students to visit and learn about historical sites near Tet holds great educational significance. Through hands-on trips, students not only learn history more visually and engagingly but also develop a profound sense of appreciation for tradition and gratitude toward previous generations who built and defended the country. This endeavor is also a way to help them nurture good values and build a foundation of character from the primary school level.”

School efforts are considered highly positive. However, what is especially notable is that many students are also proactively seeking out and participating in historical site visits outside of school hours.

Nguyen Thi Minh Thu, a student at Tran Bien High School, believes that for the trend of young people seeking out historical sites to develop sustainably, there must be greater investment in the preservation and promotion of these sites' value. Key factors include updating presentation methods, adopting digital technologies, and organizing experiential activities that align with young people's interests and mindsets. In this way, history moves beyond mere memorization and is truly “lived with” by young people in their contemporary lives.

The growing number of pupils and students proactively visiting historical sites during Tet not only adds depth to spring travel experiences but also offers young people a more vivid and intuitive way to engage with history. This reality is seen as a positive sign for traditional education, contributing to the cultivation of national pride and a sense of responsibility in preserving cultural values in modern life.

By Le Duy - Translated by Diec Quyen, Minho