(1)地理と気候 Geography and Climate
ベトナムはインドシナ半島の東側に位置し、南北に細長い「S字型」の国土を持っています。国の広さは日本の九州を除いた規模とほぼ同じで、北部では四季が感じられる一方、南部は一年中温暖な熱帯気候に恵まれています。
Vietnam is located on the eastern side of the Indochina Peninsula, with a long, narrow territory that resembles the shape of an “S.” Its land area is roughly equivalent to Japan minus the Kyushu region. The northern part experiences four distinct seasons, while the southern region enjoys a warm tropical climate throughout the year.
(2)人々と社会 People and Society
人口は1億人を超え、多様な民族が暮らしています。共通語はベトナム語ですが、地域ごとに文化や言葉に違いがあり、多彩な社会が形成されています。
教育は国の重要課題とされ、義務教育制度が整備されています。地域差は残るものの、教育水準向上への取り組みが進められています。英語教育にも力を入れ、国際社会で活躍できる人材育成を目指しています。
With a population exceeding 100 million, Vietnam is home to a diverse range of ethnic groups. Vietnamese is the official language, but cultural and linguistic differences vary by region, creating a richly diverse society.
Education is considered a national priority, and a compulsory education system has been established. Although regional disparities remain, efforts to improve educational standards are ongoing. English education is also emphasized to foster globally competitive talent.
(3)歴史と文化の歩み History and Cultural Development
古代から中国の影響を受け、儒教・道教・仏教が人々の暮らしや価値観に浸透しました。近代にはフランスの植民地となり、教育制度や建築、料理にその影響が残っています。バインミーやカフェ文化はその代表的な例です。1976年の南北統一後は社会主義国家として再出発し、1986年の「ドイモイ（刷新）」政策で急速に経済発展を遂げました。
Ｖetnam has long been influenced by China, with Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism deeply rooted in daily life and values. In the modern era, Vietnam became a French colony, leaving lasting impacts on its education system, architecture, and cuisine. Bánh mì and café culture are notable examples of this influence.
After the reunification of North and South Vietnam in 1976, the country reestablished itself as a socialist republic. The “Đổi Mới” (Renovation) policy introduced in 1986 led to rapid economic development.
(4)宗教と精神性 Religion and Spirituality
無宗教を名乗る人が多いものの、仏教の教えは日常生活に深く根付き、寺院や仏像は各地で見られます。礼儀や人間関係のあり方にも仏教的な価値観が反映されています。
Although many people identify as non-religious, Buddhist teachings are deeply embedded in everyday life. Temples and statues of Buddha can be found throughout the country, and Buddhist values influence etiquette and interpersonal relationships.
(5)伝統衣装アオザイ Traditional Attire: Áo Dài
アオザイは女性の象徴的な民族衣装で、体のラインを美しく見せる優雅なデザインが特徴です。結婚式や公式行事などで着用され、色や模様も多彩です。男性用のアオザイも伝統儀式で用いられています。
The áo dài is a symbolic traditional garment for Vietnamese women, known for its elegant design that accentuates the body’s natural lines. It is worn at weddings, official ceremonies, and festive occasions, with a wide variety of colors and patterns. Men’s áo dài also exist and are worn during traditional rituals.
(6)人間関係と働き方 Social Etiquette and Work Culture
年齢や立場を尊重する文化があり、言葉遣いや態度に細やかな配慮が求められます。仕事においては勤勉さと柔軟さが特徴で、協調性を重んじる姿勢は日本との共通点も多く、相互理解を深めやすいとされています。家族を大切にする価値観が根強く、仕事よりも家庭を優先する考え方も一般的です。
Vietnamese culture places great importance on respecting age and social status. Polite language and considerate behavior are essential in maintaining harmony.In the workplace, diligence and adaptability are key traits. A strong emphasis on teamwork and cooperation—values shared with Japanese culture—helps foster mutual understanding. Family is highly valued, and it is common for people to prioritize family over work.
(7)食文化 Culinary Culture
ベトナム料理は野菜を多く取り入れたヘルシーな内容が特徴です。フォー（米粉の麺料理）は朝食としても人気で、フランス風バゲットをベトナム流にアレンジしたバインミーは手軽なストリートフードとして親しまれています。海鮮や肉類のほか、地域によっては珍しい食材も食卓に並び、多様な食文化を楽しむことができます。
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its healthy use of vegetables. Phở, a rice noodle soup, is a popular breakfast dish, while bánh mì—a French-style baguette filled with Vietnamese ingredients—is a beloved street food.In addition to seafood and common meats, some regions incorporate unique ingredients such as duck, frog, and snails, reflecting the country’s diverse culinary traditions.
Phở
bánh mì
