Vietnam is divided into 58 provinces and 5 centrally-controlled cities, which are major urban areas. Each province is further divided into districts, towns, and cities, allowing for local governance and administration. The provinces are grouped into eight regions: Northern Midlands and Mountains, Northeast, Northwest, Red River Delta, South Central Coast, Central Highlands, Southeast, and Mekong River Delta. The centrally-controlled cities, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, have a status similar to provinces but are directly governed by the central government. Each province has its own unique culture, economy, and geography, contributing to the rich diversity of Vietnam.