CHECK-IN AT LANDMARKS FEATURED ON VIETNAM'S POLYMER BANKNOTES

When using Vietnam’s polymer banknotes in daily life, have you ever been curious about the landmarks printed on them? Each banknote is not only a means of exchange for goods and services but also a "postcard" or a "mini travel guide" that showcases Vietnam’s most famous landscapes and historical sites.

Today, let's explore these special locations from North to South through the lens of these familiar banknotes with Easy Peasy Vietnamesy!

10,000 VND 

In 2006, the State Bank of Vietnam issued the 10,000 VND polymer note, replacing the paper version of the same denomination. The reverse side of the banknote features an image of the Bạch Hổ (White Tiger) oil field, known as the "Red Spot" of Vietnam’s petroleum industry.

Bạch Hổ is recognized as the largest oil field on Vietnam’s continental shelf and one of the world’s most unique oil fields, with an enormous reserve of over 500 million tons of crude oil. Located 145 km southeast off the coast of Vũng Tàu, this oil field holds an estimated reserve of about 300 million tons and has been commercially exploited by the Vietsovpetro joint venture since mid-1986, producing approximately 12 million tons per year—accounting for 80% of Vietnam’s crude oil output.

20,000 VND 

The 20,000 VND polymer banknote was issued by the State Bank of Vietnam on May 17, 2006. The reverse side of the note depicts Chùa Cầu (the Japanese Covered Bridge) in Hội An, Quảng Nam, with its ancient and elegant architecture.

This 18-meter-long bridge spans a small canal leading to the Thu Bồn River in the ancient town of Hội An. It was built by Japanese merchants in the early 17th century, which is why locals still refer to it as the "Japanese Bridge." Interestingly, instead of enshrining Buddha, the temple on the bridge is dedicated to Bắc Đế Trấn Võ—the deity of protection, joy, and happiness. This reflects the people's spiritual aspirations for harmony and prosperity.

The entire structure, both the bridge and the temple, is made of elaborately carved lacquered wood, with the temple facing the riverbank. The bridge is not only an iconic symbol of Hội An but also a UNESCO-recognized World Cultural Heritage site.

50,000 VND 

The 50,000 VND banknote was introduced on December 17, 2003, and was the first polymer note in Vietnam. Its reverse side showcases the Nghênh Lương Đình and Phu Văn Lâu complex in Huế.

These two structures, built during the Nguyễn Dynasty, are situated along the central axis of the Imperial City of Huế. They served as resting and leisure spots for the emperor before boarding the royal dragon boat. In the past, access to Nghênh Lương Đình was restricted to prevent commoners from seeing the emperor.

Nghênh Lương Đình was constructed in 1852 (the 5th year of Emperor Tự Đức’s reign) on the northern bank of the Perfume River, directly facing Phu Văn Lâu. This architectural work follows the one-compartment, four-sided pavilion style.

Phu Văn Lâu, built in 1819 under Emperor Gia Long, is a significant historical site. It was used to publicize royal edicts, important government notices, and examination results.

100,000 VND 

The 100,000 VND polymer banknote was issued on September 1, 2004, featuring Khuê Văn Các, the symbol of the Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu - Quốc Tử Giám) in Hanoi.

Khuê Văn Các (meaning "Pavilion of the Beauty of the Khuê Star") is an eight-roofed square pavilion with four upper and four lower roofs, standing nearly nine meters tall. It was built in 1805 by Nguyễn Văn Thành, the then-governor of northern Vietnam during the Nguyễn Dynasty.

The pavilion is set on an elevated square platform paved with Bát Tràng tiles, each side measuring 6.8 meters. Access to the platform is via three stone steps. The lower level consists of four square brick pillars, each one meter wide, adorned with intricate carvings. The upper level is a finely crafted wooden structure with gold lacquer detailing.

Inside, the pavilion features wooden flooring with two openings for stair access, wooden railings, and ornately carved panels. The four walls each have a round window with radiating wooden beams, symbolizing the Khuê Star and its rays of knowledge. Hanging at the entrance is a red and gold plaque inscribed with the characters 奎文閣 (Khuê Văn Các). The pavilion’s walls bear couplets written in Han characters, celebrating the importance of literature and education.

Khuê Văn Các was historically a venue for scholarly gatherings, where distinguished essays from the royal examinations were reviewed. Despite its modest size, its refined architecture and picturesque setting beside the Thiên Quang Well make it a cultural treasure of Vietnam.

200,000 VND 

Hòn Đỉnh Hương (Incense Burner Islet) in Hạ Long Bay is featured on the 200,000 VND polymer note, introduced on August 30, 2006.

Hòn Đỉnh Hương, also known as Hòn Lư Hương, is a small, uniquely shaped limestone islet located 2.5 km from Tuần Châu Port in Hạ Long Bay. It consists of a single massive rock formation with a striking resemblance to a giant incense burner standing on four slender stone pillars.

This natural masterpiece, formed over millions of years, embodies the breathtaking beauty of Hạ Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

500,000 VND 

The 500,000 VND banknote, issued on December 17, 2003, is the highest denomination in circulation in Vietnam. Its reverse side features the serene landscape of Làng Sen (Sen Village) in Nam Đàn District, Nghệ An Province—the birthplace of President Hồ Chí Minh.

This humble thatched-roof house, reflecting the quintessential Vietnamese rural architecture, was built in 1901 to honor Nguyễn Sinh Sắc, Hồ Chí Minh’s father, who had just passed the prestigious Phó bảng examination. The villagers constructed a simple five-room wooden house to celebrate his academic achievement. Hồ Chí Minh’s family moved from Hoàng Trù (his maternal hometown) to Làng Sen, where he spent his childhood from 1901 to 1906 before leaving for Huế with his father.

Over a century later, Làng Sen remains preserved as a cherished historical site, symbolizing Hồ Chí Minh’s legacy and serving as an inspiration for future generations.

Each Vietnamese banknote carries a piece of history and culture. Understanding these stories not only deepens your appreciation of Vietnam but also helps you connect with the language in a meaningful way. At Easy Peasy Vietnamesy, we offer Vietnamese courses that blend language learning with cultural exploration, making your journey both engaging and enriching!

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Ready to dive into the beauty of the Vietnamese language and culture? Join us at Easy Peasy Vietnamesy and start your learning journey today!