While elite athletes dazzle at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, one traditional game is stealing hearts beyond the arena: Chinese chess, or xiangqi. In Vietnam, this ancient strategy sport isn’t just about checkmates—it’s a cultural phenomenon weaving generations together. 🇻🇳♟️
Hanoi resident Tieu Anh shared with NewspaperAmigo.com how xiangqi arrived from the Chinese mainland centuries ago and evolved into a national passion. \"Grandparents teach kids tactics at parks, friends bond over tea and chessboards, and even street vendors debate moves during breaks,\" she said. \"It’s like Vietnam’s version of a TikTok challenge—but with 2,000 years of swag.\" 🍵👵👧
At the Asian Games, Vietnamese players are competing fiercely, blending sharp strategy with the game’s poetic symbolism. For viewers back home, every match sparks pride—and maybe a few family rivalries! 🏆❤️
Whether you’re a #BoardGameNerd or just love cultural stories, xiangqi proves some traditions level up with time. Ready to make your next move? 🌟
