If you visit the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, especially floating markets like Cái Răng, Cái Bè, or Long Xuyên, you will notice that many boats have large, striking eyes painted on their bows. This is not just a decorative feature but a deeply rooted tradition reflecting the beliefs and cultural heritage of the riverine people.
- Meaning of the Painted Eyes on Boats
• Protection and Guidance: The painted eyes give the boat a “soul,” allowing it to “see” obstacles and navigate safely through rivers and canals.
• Warding Off Evil Spirits: The eyes act as a guardian against bad luck and misfortune.
• Expression of Identity: Different styles of painted eyes reflect the owner’s personality and the boat’s purpose. - Different Types of Boat Eyes
Each type of boat in the Mekong Delta has distinct eye designs based on its function:
• Trading boats (market boats, sampans): Have round, gentle eyes to symbolize friendliness and prosperity.
• Fishing boats: Feature larger, sharper eyes to “frighten away” bad spirits and ensure a good catch.
• Cargo boats (big wooden barges): Have bold, striking eyes to project strength and resilience against waves and currents.
- Origins of This Tradition
• This practice has existed for centuries, influenced by Vietnamese, Cham, and Chinese maritime cultures.
• Some scholars believe it is linked to Buddhism and animist beliefs, where eyes symbolize protection and enlightenment. - Best Places to Experience This Tradition
If you want to see and learn more about this unique boat culture, here are some recommended destinations in the Mekong Delta:
- Cái Răng Floating Market (Cần Thơ)
• The largest floating market in Vietnam, where hundreds of boats display their painted eyes.
• Best experience: Rent a boat in the early morning to see the diversity of boat designs while enjoying a cup of Vietnamese coffee. - Cái Bè Floating Market (Tiền Giang)
• A historic market where you can also visit boat-making workshops and watch artisans paint boat eyes by hand. - Tam Hiệp Boat-Building Village (Bến Tre)
• One of the oldest boat-building villages, specializing in wooden boats for both local use and export.
• Best experience: Observe the craftsmanship behind traditional boat-making and eye-painting. - Long Xuyên Floating Market (An Giang)
• Less crowded than Cái Răng, this market retains its authentic charm with many boats featuring distinct eye designs. - Ngo Boat Festival (Sóc Trăng)
• A spectacular Khmer boat race held during the Ok Om Bok Festival (October-November, lunar calendar).
• The racing boats have elaborate painted eyes and decorations, reflecting Khmer spiritual beliefs.
Conclusion
Painting eyes on boats is a fascinating cultural tradition in the Mekong Delta, blending practical navigation, spiritual beliefs, and artistic expression. If you have the chance to visit this region, take time to admire these “watchful” boats and learn about the soul of the river people through their centuries-old customs.
Would you like help planning a trip to these locations?
