The recognition was announced at the opening of the 2026 Hanoi Lotus Festival, held from June 26 to 28 around West Lake under the theme Colours of Hanoi Lotus.
The annual festival showcases Hanoi's lotus heritage, particularly the famed Bach Diep lotus of West Lake, through cultural performances, exhibitions and tourism activities.
A highlight of the opening ceremony was the presentation of the national intangible cultural heritage certificate to the traditional lotus tea scenting craft in Quang An Ward.
The recognition honours the cultural values, traditional knowledge and craftsmanship that have been passed down through generations of local artisans.
The festival also marked the official recognition of the West Lake tourism area and features displays of rare lotus varieties, traditional handicrafts, lotus silk weaving, lotus tea culture and lotus-inspired cuisine.
One of the main attractions is the Lotus Takes to the Streets parade on June 27, expected to draw around 2,000 participants in lotus-themed ao dai along roads surrounding West Lake.
Organisers expect the three-day festival to attract tens of thousands of visitors and support Hanoi's goal of welcoming around five million visitors annually to the West Lake area.
