Paddle Where It All Began
Train and paddle on historic rivers where dragon boat culture has thrived for centuries. Experience dragon boat drifting, focusing on balance, flow, and teamwork as you navigate natural waterways. As night falls, take part in night-time paddling, gliding across illuminated waters in a uniquely atmospheric session that reflects traditional customs and festival practices.
Discover the History
Off the water, explore the deep cultural roots of dragon boating. Learn about the Dragon Boat Festival, the legacy of Qu Yuan, and the symbolism of the dragon through guided cultural sessions, heritage site visits, and interactive workshops. Every story adds meaning to every stroke.
Learn how ritual, community, and storytelling are woven into every race and celebration. By connecting with artisans, historians, and local cultural leaders, participants discover how dragon boat racing continues to thrive as both a competitive sport and a living cultural tradition.
In the News
Carrying the Legacy Forward
Henry Ha
Founder, Dragon Boat Culture Exchange
My name is Henry Ha, a Vietnamese American community leader born in Ho Chi Minh City and residing in the United States since 1997. For over a decade, I have been deeply committed to community service, with a particular focus on youth development, cultural engagement, and leadership building.
I began dragon boat paddling in 2000 through a local community youth center. What started as a team sport quickly became a lifelong calling. Over the past two decades, dragon boating has shaped my understanding of discipline, resilience, and the power of collective effort.
In 2024, I traveled to China to further study the history, traditions, and cultural significance of dragon boat racing. Immersing myself in its 2,500-year heritage strengthened my conviction that dragon boating is far more than a competitive sport — it is a living cultural bridge that connects generations, communities, and identities.
Through education, training, and cross-cultural exchange, I am dedicated to expanding the reach of dragon boating in the United States. My mission is to preserve its historical roots while empowering future generations to experience the values of teamwork, cultural pride, and community belonging.
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Dragon boat racing is a 2,500 year old tradition rooted in Chinese history and culture. What began as a ceremonial practice honoring the poet Qu Yuan has evolved into a dynamic global sport that embodies teamwork, discipline, and collective strength. Unlike individual competition, dragon boating requires complete synchronization, trust, and unity among paddlers, guided by the rhythm of the drum. Today, it serves not only as a competitive sport but also as a powerful symbol of cultural heritage, community connection, and shared purpose across generations and nations.
