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The Popular Calligraphy Styles of Hoi An: A Blend of Tradition and Modernity

Hoi An, Vietnam’s ancient town, is famous for its well-preserved architecture, glowing lanterns, and vibrant artistic traditions. Among its cultural treasures, calligraphy holds a special place, weaving together history, philosophy, and aesthetics. Various forms of calligraphy thrive in Hoi An, each with its unique essence and purpose. Let’s explore the most popular styles: Hán-Nôm calligraphy, Quốc Ngữ calligraphy, and modern calligraphy.

 See more details >>> The calligraphy class in Hoi An attracts international tourists.

Hán-Nôm Calligraphy: The Classical Elegance

Hán-Nôm calligraphy is the most traditional form, deeply rooted in Vietnam’s history. It consists of two writing systems:

• Hán Tự (Classical Chinese Characters): Historically used by scholars, mandarins, and poets, Hán Tự calligraphy embodies Confucian values and ancient wisdom.

• Nôm (Vietnamese Script): A uniquely Vietnamese adaptation of Chinese characters, Nôm allowed local writers to express themselves in their native language while preserving the elegant brushwork of classical calligraphy.

This style is often seen in temples, ancestral houses, and heritage sites in Hoi An, where it conveys blessings, teachings, and poetry in gracefully flowing strokes.

Quốc Ngữ Calligraphy: The National Script

With the introduction of the Latin-based Vietnamese writing system, Quốc Ngữ calligraphy emerged as a modern yet equally expressive form. Unlike the intricate strokes of Hán-Nôm, Quốc Ngữ calligraphy focuses on fluidity and artistic freedom while using familiar Vietnamese characters.

Popular phrases such as “Phúc” (Blessing), “Lộc” (Prosperity), and “Thọ” (Longevity) are often written in Quốc Ngữ calligraphy, making it a favored choice for gifts, home decor, and festival decorations in Hoi An. Its accessibility allows more people to appreciate and practice this art form without requiring knowledge of classical scripts.

Modern Calligraphy: A Contemporary Twist

In recent years, modern calligraphy has gained popularity, blending traditional techniques with contemporary styles. Artists experiment with:

• Brush Lettering: A playful, cursive approach that combines Western typography with Asian brush strokes.

• Minimalist Designs: Simple, elegant strokes that focus on aesthetics and meaning rather than complexity.

• Fusion of Media: Calligraphy is now applied to lanterns, ceramics, and digital art, expanding its presence beyond paper and scrolls.

This evolution makes calligraphy more versatile and appealing to younger generations, ensuring its continued relevance in Hoi An’s artistic landscape.

Experiencing Calligraphy in Hoi An

See moredetailsl >>> Hoi An calligraphy class daily tour by master Dong Huy.nh

Visitors can witness and even try their hand at calligraphy in various settings:

• Cultural Workshops: Learn from master calligraphers who teach both traditional and modern techniques.

• Calligraphy Stalls: Local artisans create personalized calligraphy pieces on rice paper, silk, and bamboo.

• Festivals & Events: Special occasions, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), often feature live calligraphy demonstrations, where words of prosperity and good fortune are shared with visitors.

Hoi An’s calligraphy scene is a harmonious blend of past and present. Whether it’s the timeless grace of Hán-Nôm, the accessible beauty of Quốc Ngữ, or the dynamic flair of modern calligraphy, each style contributes to the town’s rich artistic heritage. For those seeking a deeper connection with Vietnam’s cultural soul, exploring Hoi An’s calligraphy is an experience not to be missed.