On January 28, or the seventh day of the first lunar month, thousands of local people and tourists flock to the communal house in Vinh Khe village of An Duong district in Hai Phong to witness wrestlers compete in a 700-year-old festival.
The festival aims to commemorate the local tutelary god.
Wrestlers perform a ritual of greetings before the official competition, thereby showing respect for their opponents and for martial spirit.
The wrestling matches follow the village’s own rules, with each match consisting of three sets, and each set lasting for three minutes.
A fighter wins if he is able to wrestle his opponent to the ground.
The festival gathers many participants of various ages from neighbouring localities, as well as other provinces and cities from across the country.
A fierce competition takes place during the event.
The annual festival helps to preserve the sporting traditions of Vinh Khe villagers.
Large crowds gather as they look on and cheer enthusiastically.
The winner will represent wrestlers with the honour of attending the incense offering ceremony which takes place at the communal house.