Spring marks the beginning of a new year—a season of aspirations and hope. “New Year. New beginnings. New mindset. New focus. New goals. New results.” As the challenging Year of the Pig drew to a close, the ITC Trade Union organized a Spring Outing on January 30, 2020, for all staff members. The trip to Phat Tich Pagoda and Do Temple in Bac Ninh Province was filled with joy and excitement, ushering in the hopeful spirit of the Lunar New Year—Year of the Rat.
As Tet arrives, spring spreads its vibrant colors and scents across the land. It is the most beautiful time of the year when nature adorns itself in a colorful coat, trees sprout fresh buds, and the warm and cheerful atmosphere stirs deep emotions within us.
On the 6th day of Tet, the ITC family gathered at the company office for a cozy New Year celebration before setting out on their spring journey.
General Director Mr. Nguyen Quang Son delivered heartfelt remarks reflecting on the past year and offered a toast to welcome the new one: 2019 was a year full of difficulties and challenges, but also a valuable opportunity for ITC to reflect and find a more solid path forward. Entering 2020—a milestone year marking the 25th anniversary of ITC’s formation and growth—he expressed strong belief that with the same spirit and enthusiasm, ITC is ready to embrace challenges and achieve remarkable success in the coming year. He wished ITC continued strength and a new year full of faith, health, and happiness.
Employees picked lucky envelopes for good fortune
After the much-anticipated lucky draw and envelope handout, all members enthusiastically set out for Phat Tich Pagoda, located in Phat Tich Commune, Tien Du District, Bac Ninh Province. Amid the tranquil, clean, and historically rich surroundings bearing the architectural essence of the Ly Dynasty, the ITC family enjoyed a refreshing and uplifting experience climbing the hill and admiring the grand statue of Amitabha Buddha.
Up close, one can see the statue of the Buddha seated in meditation, positioned at the highest point in the area—a powerful symbol of moral guidance amid the bustle of daily life in nearby communities.
The 27-meter-tall Amitabha Buddha statue, carved from green stone and seated on a lotus throne atop the mountain, is a remarkable work of Vietnamese sculpture and fine arts.
Behind the temple grounds lie 32 brick and stone stupas that hold the relics of former abbots. The tallest is Pho Quang Tower, standing 5.1 meters high, comprising a base, worship chamber, two tiers of eaves, and a rounded spire.
Phổ Quang Tower
Leaving Phat Tich Pagoda with joy beaming on every face, the group continued their journey to Do Temple, the ancestral shrine of eight kings of the Ly Dynasty. Only upon visiting Do Temple does one truly understand its deep connection to the heroic spirit of Thang Long and the historical significance it holds. Originally built in the 11th century, the temple is now located in Dinh Bang Ward, Tu Son, Bac Ninh. Its architecture harmoniously blends imperial and folk styles, with intricate carvings and a spacious layout that merges seamlessly with nature. The solemn, ancient ambiance, infused with the scent of incense, evokes reflections on a glorious and noble dynasty.
Springtime temple visits have become an essential part of the spiritual life of Vietnamese people during Tet. Each visitor comes with their own wishes—some pray for wealth, others for peace or health for their loved ones—but the shared hope among all ITC staff was clear: “May ITC continue to grow strong, thrive, and stay united.”
Some highlight moments from the ITC Spring Outing:
A commemorative photo of the ITC family
The spring journey concluded with heartfelt wishes and prayers for a prosperous, lucky, and successful new year. Beyond its spiritual significance, the trip also served as a powerful bonding experience, strengthening the unity among ITC staff and creating beautiful, lasting memories.
