PRESERVING AND PROMOTING DAO RITUALS IN VIETNAM’S NORTHWESTERN REGION THROUGH COMMUNITY-BASED TOURISM ACTIVITIES AT THE LOCAL LEVEL

Abstract

The rituals of the Dao people in the Northwest region of Vietnam constitute a distinctive system of cultural - spiritual practices that reflects their relationships with ancestors, deities, and the supernatural world. These rituals form a rich repository of cultural heritage that plays an essential role in shaping the community’s spiritual life and identity, while also serving as a unique resource for tourism development. In the context of industrialization and modernization, this cultural heritage is facing the risk of degradation and loss. This article proposes an approach to safeguarding and promoting Dao ritual heritage in Northwest Vietnam through the development of community-based tourism - a model that not only contributes to the preservation of cultural values but also creates sustainable livelihoods for local residents. Using methods such as literature review, ethnographic fieldwork, in-depth interviews, analysis–synthesis, and SWOT analysis, the study identifies the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats related to the Dao ritual system. It also recommends solutions to effectively preserve and promote these rituals, aiming toward sustainable community-based tourism development in the localities where Dao communities reside.