Too sexy for a sacred site? Foreign tourist told to leave pagoda in Vietnam's Hoi An

The video surfaced on social media on Wednesday, showing a female tour guide approaching the visitor, who was preparing to enter the pagoda while wearing a black outfit featuring a high side slit and sheer fabric that exposed her underwear.

Maintaining a calm and respectful demeanor, the guide explained the local dress regulations in English before denying entry.

“Excuse me. You cannot enter the heritage site in this outfit," the guide told the tourist.

The visitor and her companions listened to the explanation without objection and willingly left the entrance area.

The video quickly attracted thousands of reactions and comments online, with many users praising the guide's professionalism and respectful handling of the situation.

Commenters described her response as an example of courteous but effective enforcement of cultural norms at heritage sites.

Many social media users also emphasized that dressing modestly when visiting temples, pagodas, and other sacred places is a common expectation around the world.

Respecting local customs and regulations reflects good travel etiquette regardless of the destination, a social media user wrote.

The tour guide in the video, Truong Bui Ngoc Khue, told Tuoi Tre (Youth) online newspaper that the incident occurred on Tuesday evening.

She shared that she noticed the tourist's inappropriate attire and explained Hoi An's dress code to ensure the visitor was aware of the regulations.

Pham Phu Ngoc, director of the Hoi An World Cultural Heritage Conservation Center, expressed support for the guide's actions.

He said Hoi An's visitor regulations clearly require guests to dress in a polite and respectful manner when entering historical and religious sites.

“We have instructed staff at all heritage attractions to consistently remind visitors of the dress code," Ngoc said.

“Whether people are coming directly from the street or arriving as part of a tour, our staff will provide guidance.

“It is not appropriate to wear revealing clothing when entering the Cau Pagoda or other solemn communal houses and temples."