According to records, from about 4:30 PM, the number of people gathering in the West Lake area and Thanh Nien street increased sharply. Many people said they actively went to the festival late to avoid morning crowds, but in fact this area was crowded almost all day.
In the Quan Thanh temple area, although parking spots are arranged in many places around the temple, many people still have to wait to find parking spaces.
Inside the temple grounds, the flow of people offering incense took place continuously, the atmosphere was solemn but quite crowded.
Ms. Vu Anh Thu (resident in Lang ward) shared that this year her family chose to go to worship in the late afternoon at Quan Thanh Temple and Tran Quoc Pagoda with the hope of being quieter. However, the number of people flocking in is still more than expected.
Although a bit tired from having to find a parking spot and moving slowly, going to the festival to pray for peace at the beginning of the year is something my family values very much. The atmosphere is still very cheerful and meaningful," Ms. Thu said.
Similarly, Mr. Bui Chi Linh (resident in Cau Giay ward) said that he took advantage of taking his parents to the temple late because the elderly are afraid of crowding in the morning.
"I think it will be less crowded in the afternoon, but in reality it is still quite crowded.However, compared to the peak days of March 1st, it is still more comfortable, without having to queue for long lines," Mr. Linh said.
According to many people, going to temples at the beginning of the year is not only a traditional cultural feature but also carries spiritual meaning, praying for a new year of prosperity and peace. Therefore, no matter what time of day you choose, famous spiritual sites in the Capital always attract a large number of people and tourists.
Local functional forces are also regularly present to divert traffic, remind people to park in the right places, contributing to limiting congestion and ensuring security and order in the area.
