Vietnam - Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Northern Thailand - page 339

Religion
Over the centuries, Confucianism, Taoism and Buddhism have fused with popular
Chinese beliefs and ancient Vietnamese animism to form what's collectively known as the
Triple Religion (Tam Giao). Most Vietnamese people identify with this belief system but,
if asked, they'll usually say they're Buddhist. Vietnam also has a significant percentage of
Catholics (8% to 10% of the total population).
The unique and colourful Vietnamese sect Cao Daism was founded in the 1920s. It
combines secular and religious philosophies of the East and West, and is based on seance
messages revealed to the group's founder, Ngo Minh Chieu.
There are also small numbers of Muslims (around 60,000) and Hindus (50,000).
Arts
CONTEMPORARY ART
It is possible to catch modern dance, classical ballet and stage plays in Hanoi and Ho Chi
Minh City (HCMC).
The work of contemporary painters and photographers covers a wide swath of styles
and gives a glimpse into the modern Vietnamese psyche.
Youth culture is most vibrant in HCMC where there is more freedom for musicians and
artists. There are small hip-hop, rock, punk, reggae and DJ scenes. Hot bands include rock
band Microwave, metal merchants Black Infinity, the punk band Giao Chi and alt-roots
band 6789. Skank The Tank and Sub Elements are two leading reggae sound systems
based in Hanoi.
ARCHITECTURE
The Vietnamese were not great builders like their neighbours the Khmer. Most early Viet-
namese buildings were made of wood and other materials that proved highly vulnerable in
the tropical climate. The grand exceptions are the stunning towers built by Vietnam's an-
cient Cham culture. These are most numerous in central Vietnam. The Cham ruins at My
Son are a major draw.