Hue:The ancient art of crafting 'long' (ceremonial parasol) continues to survive in the city of Hue, though it is now practiced by only a handful of households and workshops. These parasols, which once played a significant role beyond their practical uses, are a symbol of Hue's rich cultural heritage.
According to Vietnam News Agency, the ceremonial parasols are deeply embedded in the cultural life of Hue's imperial court. Historically, they were used to signify solemnity and nobility during the rituals of the Nguyen Dynasty and various sacrificial rites rooted in folk beliefs.
Today, these parasols serve a primarily decorative function, adorning sacred spaces such as historical monuments, pagodas, village communal houses, and ancestral clan halls. They are also a part of wedding ceremonies throughout Hue, reflecting the city's enduring connection to its cultural past.