Do Ha, 30, from Ho Chi Minh City, decided to visit the Quang Tri Citadel after watching "Red Rain" in late August. She was surprised to find the film being shown for free to local residents upon her arrival.
"I hope Vietnam will produce more historical films about other regions so young people like me can better understand our national history," Ha said.
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Tourists take photos on Hien Luong Bridge during a tour to Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Flamingo Redtours |
Tourists take photos on Hien Luong Bridge during a tour to Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Flamingo Redtours
The film also inspired Que Chi from Hanoi to choose Quang Tri as a September destination with three friends. After watching "Red Rain," Chi gained a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by previous generations and felt the need to "live more meaningfully in the present," she shared.
According to Vu Thi Bich Hue, head of communications at Flamingo Redtours, the company has seen a 30% increase in bookings for tours to Quang Tri Citadel following the film's release. The most popular tour currently includes Hien Luong Bridge, Ben Hai River, Vinh Moc Tunnels, Truong Son Cemetery, and Vung Chua, priced from 3.8 million VND for a 4-day, 3-night itinerary.
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Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Dac Thanh |
Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Dac Thanh
Tran Ngoc Nam from Ninh Binh shared his travel plans: "I've watched 'Red Rain' twice, and I cried both times. Quang Tri is my next destination in October." He booked a tour for his parents as well, explaining that the price of over 5 million VND was reasonable for such a meaningful family trip.
During the 4-day holiday, Quang Tri province welcomed 223,000 visitors, a decrease of over 4% compared to the same period last year, according to the provincial Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. The decline was attributed to inclement weather from Typhoon No. 6, which forced the closure of several tourist attractions in the province, especially Phong Nha - Ke Bang.
However, the number of visitors to the Citadel increased. Cap Thi Thien Trang, head of the Management Board of the Le Duan Memorial Site and Quang Tri Citadel, reported 16,875 visitors in August 2025, a 27% increase compared to the same period last year.
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Locals watch "Red Rain" for free on the evening of 4/9 at Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Dac Thanh |
Locals watch "Red Rain" for free on the evening of 4/9 at Quang Tri Citadel. Photo: Dac Thanh
Visitors typically pay their respects at the Citadel in July, with fewer visits during the National Day holiday. This year, however, the "Red Rain" effect led to a surge in visitors. From 30/8 to 2/9, the site welcomed nearly 10,000 visitors, peaking at 3,800 on 2/9. This record number far surpasses previous holiday periods.
"Many people wanted to visit the Citadel to pay their respects after seeing the film. They wanted to light incense for the fallen heroes," Trang explained. The province also noted many repeat visitors returning after watching the movie.
Phuong Anh - Dac Thanh
