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HANOI


The capital city of Vietnam, is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 8 million people. Situated on the right bank of the Red River, Hanoi offers a tropical monsoon climate with distinct seasons. The city’s rich history, influenced by various cultures, is evident in its architecture, cuisine, and traditions.

Hanoi serves as an economic center, boasting a thriving business sector and a rapidly growing economy. The city is known for its industries in manufacturing, services, and tourism. With an international airport and a well-developed transportation network, Hanoi is a major hub for both domestic and international travelers.

Tourism in Hanoi is vibrant, attracting visitors who are captivated by the city’s historical landmarks, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Must-visit attractions include Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the charming Old Quarter, and the grand Hanoi Opera House. With its diverse offerings, Hanoi promises a memorable experience for those seeking to explore its ancient temples, indulge in its delectable cuisine, and immerse themselves in its vibrant streets.

IMPERIAL CITADEL OF THANG LONG
HO CHI MINH’S MAUSOLEUM
HOÀN KIÊM LAKE
TRAIN STREET
LONG BIEN BRIDGE
TEMPLE OF LITERATURE
TÂY HÒ LAKE
OLD QUARTER
ST JOSEPH’S CATHEDRAL
NHÀ SÁCH MÃO
IMPERIAL CITADEL OF THAN LONG

Is a complex of historic imperial buildings. Its construction began in 1010 and was completed in early 1011 under the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tổ of the Lý dynasty. The citadel was the political center of Vietnam for 13 centuries and served as the capital city of Vietnam for eight centuries. The citadel was also the center of military power, housing the headquarters of the Vietnamese army. The citadel is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the most important historical sites in Vietnam.

The citadel is divided into three parts: the Forbidden City, the Imperial Enclosure, and the Outer Enclosure. The Forbidden City was reserved for the Emperor and his family, while the Imperial Enclosure was used for state affairs and official ceremonies. The Outer Enclosure was used for military purposes and housed soldiers and their families.

The citadel has undergone several renovations over time, with some parts being destroyed during wars and natural disasters. However, many structures have been restored to their original state. The citadel is open to you from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM every day.

Was the main palace of the imperial citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was built in the 15th century by King Lý Thái To and served as the center of political and ceremonial activities for the Lý dynasty and later rulers. The palace was destroyed by the French colonialists in the late 19th century and replaced by a military headquarters.

The palace had a rectangular shape with three main halls and four gates. It was influenced by the architecture of the Lý and Tran dynasties, which also built palaces on the same site before. The palace was decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, and statues of dragons and phoenixes, which symbolized the power and prosperity of the king.

Kinh Thien Palace is a symbol of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and national pride. It reflects the artistic achievements, political aspirations, and historical struggles of the Vietnamese people over centuries. It is also a place of learning and research for scholars and tourists who want to explore Vietnam’s past.

Is the main gate to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a historical site in Hanoi, Vietnam. It was originally built in the Ly dynasty, but the current gate dates back to the early Le dynasty (15th century) and was renovated under the Nguyen dynasty (19th century).

The gate has a U-shaped structure made of stone, with a width of about 46 meters and five arches. The largest arch in the middle was reserved for the king, while the two arches on the sides were for the royal family and court officials. Its name, Doan Mon, means “the gate of alignment,” referring to the alignment of heaven, earth, and humanity. It holds great significance in Vietnamese history and culture.

Doan Mon is one of the five remaining structures of Thang Long, along with the Hanoi Flag Tower, Cua Bac (North Gate), Dien Kinh Thien (Kinh Thien Palace), and Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam (Temple of Literature – National University). These structures are important historical landmarks and represent the rich heritage of Vietnam.

Throughout its existence, Doan Mon has witnessed numerous historical events. It has been the venue for coronation ceremonies of kings and the declaration of independence by President Ho Chi Minh in 1945. It also played a significant role in the victory parade of the Vietnamese army in 1954. These events showcase the gate’s historical and cultural importance to Vietnam.

Was the main entrance for the kings and royal family members to enter the Forbidden City, where they lived and worked. The gate was also used for welcoming foreign envoys and holding ceremonies.

Bac Mon has a unique architectural style that combines Vietnamese and Chinese elements. The gate is decorated with dragon and phoenix motifs, which symbolize the power and prosperity of the dynasty.

Bac Mon is also a sacred place where people worship two national heroes: Nguyen Tri Phuong and Hoang Dieu. They were the governors of Hanoi who fought bravely against the French invasion in 1882. They died defending the citadel and their tombs are located inside the gate.

Also known as the Princess Palace or the Pagoda of Women. It was built after the Later Lý dynasty as a residence for the queen and the princesses. Under the Nguyen dynasty, it was used as a resting place for the imperial concubines and followers who accompanied the king to Bac Ha. It was severely damaged at the end of the 19th century and later renovated by the French colonialists.

Hau Lau is about 2,392 square meters in size and consists of a basement and three floors above. It has a brick structure with a multi-level roof and crescent blades. The roof resembles the traditional Vietnamese architecture style. The French called Hau Lau “Pagode des Dames” which means “Pagoda of Women” in French.

Are historical relics in the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. They were used as the headquarters of the Vietnamese People’s Army during the war against the US from 1954 to 1975. The house and tunnel were built in 1967 with modern architecture and soundproofing system. The house was used as the meeting room of the Politburo and the Central Military Commission, the highest decision-making bodies of Vietnam during the war.

The house had a secret trapdoor that led to the tunnel, which was 68 meters long and 9 meters deep, made of reinforced concrete and steel. The tunnel had three rooms for duty, shifting, and machinery. It also had a secret passage connecting to the Dragon House, the main palace of the citadel. The Dragon House was built in the 15th century by Emperor Lý Thái Tổ and was considered a sacred place.

According to legend, the Dragon House was where Emperor Lý Thái Tổ saw a golden dragon ascending from the Red River when he moved the capital to Thăng Long in 1010. The dragon symbolized the power and prosperity of the nation.

HO CHI MINH’S MAUSOLEUM

In the heart of Hanoi, Vietnam, a monumental structure stands as a testament to the indomitable spirit of a revolutionary leader. Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, a towering edifice of gray granite, emerged from the ground in 1973, rising to its full height of 21.6 meters by 1975. Inspired by the grandeur of Lenin’s mausoleum in Moscow, it serves as the eternal resting place of the revered Ho Chi Minh, the first President of Vietnam. The mausoleum is a symbol of the nation’s struggle for independence and the unwavering spirit of its people.

Approaching the mausoleum, visitors are greeted by a grand entrance guarded by soldiers. Inside, they encounter a solemn atmosphere filled with hushed whispers and reverent footsteps. Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body rests in a glass display, dressed in a simple suit, preserved for eternity. As visitors pass by in single file, they catch a glimpse of the iconic leader, symbolizing strength and determination.

Born on May 19, 1890, in Nghe An province, Vietnam, emerged as a towering figure in the history of Vietnam. He is affectionately known as Uncle Ho, a name that reflects his revered status as the father of modern Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh dedicated his life to the fight for Vietnam’s independence, self-determination, and social justice.

With a deep-rooted sense of patriotism and a burning desire for freedom, Ho Chi Minh played a crucial role in leading the Vietnamese people against French colonial rule. He founded the Vietnamese Communist Party in 1930 and became its central figure, advocating for the liberation of Vietnam from foreign domination.

Ho Chi Minh’s leadership during the Vietnam War was marked by his unwavering determination and resilience. He inspired the Vietnamese people to stand united against the forces of imperialism, forging a path towards national reunification and an independent socialist Vietnam.

Beyond his role as a revolutionary leader, Ho Chi Minh was also a prolific writer, poet, and philosopher. His writings, including the famous “Declaration of Independence” in 1945, demonstrated his deep commitment to social equality, justice, and the well-being of the Vietnamese people.

Ho Chi Minh’s indomitable spirit and dedication to his nation continue to resonate today. His legacy lives on through the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Ho Chi Minh passed away on September 2, 1969, but his impact on Vietnam and the world remains immeasurable. His leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to the people of Vietnam continue to inspire generations, shaping the nation’s history and serving as a beacon of hope for those who strive for freedom and justice.

HOÀN KIÊM LAKE

Also known as Sword Lake and is famous for its picturesque and peaceful beauty, cultural and historical significance, and unique characteristics. The lake is surrounded by many beautiful landmarks, including Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, and Turtle Tower.

The name Hoàn Kiếm means “returned sword” and is derived from a legend about a giant turtle who took back a sword that was given to a Vietnamese king to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. The legend goes that the king was given a magical sword by the gods to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty. After the war, the king was boating on the lake when a giant turtle emerged from the water and asked for the sword. The king realized that the turtle was sent by the gods to take back the sword and returned it to the turtle. Since then, the lake has been called Hoàn Kiếm Lake, which means “Lake of the Returned Sword”.

The lake is home to many tortoises, which are considered sacred animals in Vietnamese culture. The water of the lake has different colors depending on the reflection of the sky, and it could be green, dark, or light.

The temple was built in the 19th century and dedicated to several revered figures in Vietnamese history and culture, such as Tran Hung Dao, the national hero who defeated the Mongol invaders, and Wenchang Dijun, the Taoist god of literature and arts.

The temple is also a symbol of the harmony between nature and human, as it is surrounded by the tranquil water of the lake and the lush greenery of the island. Inside the temple, there are many statues, altars, and relics that showcase the rich heritage and spirituality of the country. One of the most notable attractions is the preserved specimen of a giant turtle, which is believed to be the legendary creature that helped King Le Loi defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty in the 15th century.

The temple is open daily from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the entrance fee is 30,000 VND (about 1.3 USD) per person.

It connects the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake to the Ngoc Son Temple. The bridge was built in 1865 by scholar Nguyen Van Sieu, who named it “The Huc”, meaning “the place where the light is stored” or “the place where aura condenses”.

The bridge has a curved shape like a shrimp, and is painted in a bright red color that symbolizes life, happiness, and luck. The bridge has 15 spans and 32 round wooden pillars that support the wooden deck. The bridge is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, who enjoy the scenic views of the lake and the temple.

The bridge is also a cultural symbol of Hanoi, as it has witnessed many historical events and changes in the city. The bridge has also been set on fire in 1887 in an act of arson by two students who wanted to drive away the French from the temple.

The tower was built in 1886 by a musician who worked for the French colonialists. He wanted to bury his father’s remains inside the tower and name it after him. However, his plan was discovered and foiled by the locals, who removed his father’s body and renamed the tower after the legendary turtle that lived in the lake. The turtle was said to be connected to the story of Le Loi, a hero who returned a magic sword to the lake after defeating the Chinese invaders.

The tower has three floors, each smaller than the one below. The first two floors have ten doors each, while the third floor has only one circular door. The tower has a mixture of French and Vietnamese architectural styles, with a square gazebo on top. The tower is not open to the public, but it can be admired from the shore or from a boat.

TRAIN STREET

The street is a narrow alley located between Le Duan and Kham Thien streets . The tracks were originally laid in 1902 during French colonial rule, and were built remote from the bustle of the city.

As the city grew, residents built homes and shops closer and closer to the tracks. The street became a tourist attraction as large trains navigated a small street with a series of shops and residences.

The timetable may vary, however you will find several informations once you are there, come in advance as authorities will close the street before the arrival of the train. Get comfortable and grab a Vietnamese coffee while waiting for it. 

Monday to Friday: 7:00 PM, 7:45 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:00 PM

Saturday and Sunday: 6:00 AM, 9:00 AM, 11:20 AM, 3:20 PM, 5:30 PM, 6:00 PM, 7:00 PM, 7:45 PM, 8:30 PM, 9:00 PM, 11:00 PM

LONG BIEN BRIDGE

Built between 1899 and 1902 by the French architects Daydé & Pillé, Long Bien Bridge stands as a testament to Vietnam’s tumultuous past. Originally named after Paul Doumer, the Governor-General of French Indochina, the bridge was a marvel of engineering and one of the longest in Asia at the time. It has witnessed the rise and fall of empires, survived numerous bombings during the Vietnam War, and has been a silent observer to the relentless march of progress.

Spanning 2.4 kilometers across the Red River, Long Bien Bridge was the first steel bridge in Hanoi and a critical link between the capital and the port city of Haiphong. Today, it serves as a vital artery for trains, motorbikes, bicycles, and pedestrians, carrying the pulse of the city on its storied tracks.

For the intrepid traveler, a motorbike journey across Long Bien Bridge is a must. Stay on the left side of the roadway, and take a moment to pause and appreciate the bridge’s role in Vietnam’s history. Whether you’re capturing the perfect sunrise shot or simply soaking in the vibrant energy of Hanoi’s daily commute, Long Bien Bridge provides a dramatic backdrop for an unforgettable experience.

TEMPLE OF LITERATURE

It is a well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture that is dedicated to Confucius and honors Vietnam’s finest scholars.

The temple was originally founded under Ly Thanh Tong’s dynasty in 1070 to honor Confucius, known as Văn Miếu (“Văn” means Literature, “Miếu” means Temple). Six years later, in 1076, Quoc Tu Giam was built behind the Temple of Literature and became Vietnam’s Imperial Academy, a prestigious school for top academics shortly after, under the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong.

At first, the Imperial Academy as a royal school was opened for only members of the elite such as princes, nobles, and bureaucrats. Later on, in 1253, under Tran Thai Tong’s dynasty, Imperial Academy was expanded as National Academy to accept the civilians’ children who had excellent academic abilities. Under the reign of King Tran Minh Tong, Chu Van An was appointed Quoc Tu Giam’s mandarin, as today’s principal, who directly taught the princes.

In late Le dynasty, Confucianism became very popular. In 1484, According to the legend, the Emperor Le Thanh Tong was looking for a way to honor the scholars who had passed the royal exams.

He decided to erect a series of stone tablets on the backs of giant turtles, which would be inscribed with the names of the successful candidates. The turtles were chosen because they were believed to be a symbol of longevity and wisdom.

The steles were placed on top of stone tortoises, which were carved with intricate designs and placed on stone pedestals.

According to the legend, the well was dug by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong himself. The water in the well was believed to be so pure that it could reflect the sky above. The well was used by the scholars to wash their faces before taking the exams, as it was believed that this would bring them good luck.

TÂY HÒ LAKE

Is surrounded by lush greenery, charming gardens, and pagodas, making it one of the most scenic spots in the city.

The lake has a long and fascinating history, dating back over a thousand years. It was a popular spot for fishing and recreation among the locals, and it was also used for irrigation and transportation . During the Ly dynasty, the lake was renamed “West Lake” to distinguish it from another lake in the east of the city. The Ly dynasty also built several temples and pagodas around the lake, including Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is considered one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam . During the subsequent dynasties, the lake became a popular destination for leisure activities among the royal court and the wealthy citizens of Hanoi. Many elegant villas, gardens, and palaces were built around the lake, and it became a symbol of Hanoi’s beauty and culture.

However, the lake was also the site of several battles and conflicts throughout history. During the French colonial period, the French built several military installations around the lake, including a prison and a fort, which were later used by the Vietnamese army during the Vietnam War.

Is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi. According to historical records, the Pagoda was built in 541 AD on the bank of the Red River, outside of the Yen Phu Dyke and completed in 545 AD under the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De.

The pagoda was initially named Khai Quoc Pagoda (National Founder Pagoda) and became the Buddhist Center of the Thang Long Citadel during the Ly Dynasty. The pagoda was later relocated to Kim Ngu (Golden Fish) islet of the West Lake due to river encroachment in 1961. The pagoda’s actual name, Tran Quoc, means “protecting the country”.

According to legend, West Lake was formed when a dragon princess named Au Co fell in love with a Vietnamese king named Lac Long Quan. The couple had 100 children, and each of them was given a piece of land to rule over. Au Co took her children to the area that is now West Lake, where she created a beautiful kingdom. The lake was formed from the tears of the dragon princess as she left her children behind.

In reality, West Lake was formed naturally from the Red River, which flows through Hanoi. Over time, sedimentation caused the river to widen and create the lake.

OLD QUARTER

Also known as the Old Town, it is a reflection of Vietnam’s storied past, with a history dating back to the 11th century when Emperor Ly Thai To decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu (Ninh Binh) to Hanoi. The Old Quarter soon established itself as a center of arts and crafts, attracting skilled craftspeople to live and work in the area. Migrants often came from the same village and operated in guilds, often settling in one street and specializing in one particular good or service.

The Nguyen dynasty tax on the street frontage, which is maintained today, led people to build ‘tube houses’ – a narrow architectural style common across the Old Quarter and Vietnam. These traditional streets garnered the Old Quarter the nickname ‘36 Old Streets’, and many are still named after the product they specialized in, reflecting the craft traditions and history of the area.

Nowadays, you’ll also notice the 19th and 20th-century French influence, particularly in the yellow-colored exteriors of the old villas, houses, and buildings, as well as the wide tree-lined boulevards heading into the Old Quarter.

is a historic market. The market was originally built by the French administration in 1889 as one of the principal new architectures of Hanoi, together with Long Biên Bridge. The covered area of the market was about 6,500 square meters with a large roof of corrugated galvanized iron supplied by the French contractor Poinsard Veyret. The most recognizable feature of the market was the 5-arch entrance corresponding to Dong Xuan Market’s five domes, each dome was measured 19 meters in height and 25 meters in width.

The market has been renovated several times with the latest being in 1994 after a fire that almost destroyed the market. Nowadays, Dong Xuan Market is the largest covered market of Hanoi where the wholesale traders sell everything from clothes and household goods to foodstuffs.

It is the oldest building in Hanoi. It was built in the 9th century and is one of the Four Guarding Temples established to form an enclosing boundary of strongholds around the city. The temple is regarded as a remarkable construction associated with the event of King Ly Thai To’s capital relocation.

Bach Ma Temple was initially named Lon Do, acting as a place for the worship of Long Do – the ancient god of Hanoi. Legend has it that Long Do deserved great credit for prevailing over the practice of witchcraft by Cao Bien, General of China’s Tang Empire. The temple was later renamed Bach Ma to tell the story of King Ly Thai To’s relocating the imperial capital from to Thang Long (Hanoi nowadays) in 1010 AD. Historical records suggest that the King kept failing in his attempt to build the new citadel without any clear explanations. Only when he got his courtier to pray did he notice a white horse coming out of the Lon Do temple, wandering and leaving tracks on the ground before vanishing. From that moment, Ly Thai To ordered to build the citadel walls alongside of the marked tracks and succeeded in moving forward till completion. Since then, he decided to change the name of Lon Do Temple to Bach Ma (meaning “white horse”).

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It is one of the 14 traditional houses in the area and was built in the 19th century for the purpose of living and running business. The house has been preserved to introduce Hanoi’s ancient architecture and way of living, and to suggest the idea of protecting the history and cultural value.

The house owners have changed many times since construction day, but with the owners and the government’s great effort, the house still maintains its original structure. The house was granted a National Heritage certification in 2004.

Was built in 1749, during the tenth year of Canh Hung, and reconstructed in 1804, during the third year of Gia Long. The gate has remained intact since 1804 and is one of the 21 gates of the old Thang Long Citadel, a national relic recognized in 1995.

The gate is located on O Quan Chuong Street, at the beginning of Hang Chieu Street. At night, the soldiers closed the gates and opened it early morning for people to travel and trade.

On the left of the main door is a stone stele engraved in 1882 with the order of Governor Hoang Dieu prohibiting soldiers from harassing funerals going through the gate for bribes. The gate was called O Quan Chuong to commemorate the merit and sacrifice of a general from Bac Ninh. He joined about 100 soldiers of the Nguyen Dynasty to fight French troops when they attacked Hanoi citadel for the first time in 1873 through the gate of Dong Ha.

The gate is a typical architecture of the Nguyen dynasty and was built with large-sized bricks and stones, which are similar to materials used to build the Temple of Literature. Today, Quan Chuong Gate has remained the main door and two side doors. On top of the main entrance is a guarding gazebo (vong lau).

It is a relatively small street packed with outdoor bars and restaurants, creating a lively atmosphere in the crowded streets. Ta Hien Street is a cultural symbol of modern Hanoi, serving as a gathering point for both locals and visitors for decades.

The street was originally called Géraud during the French colonial time. It is a two-hundred-meter street that has become a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Hanoi.

Ta Hien Street is also known as Ta Hien Beer Street, and it is a good place to indulge in the best of Vietnamese street food. Visitors can enjoy local and international beers while sitting on tiny plastic stools, surrounded by locals and other visitors. Street performers, vendors and live music add to the atmosphere, making Ta Hien Beer Street a fun and exciting place to explore.

ST JOSPEH’S CATHEDRAL

Also known as Nhà thờ Lớn Hà Nội or Cathédrale Saint-Joseph d’Hanoï, is a Catholic church located on Nhà Chung Street in the Hoàn Kiếm District of Hanoi. It is the oldest church in Hanoi and serves as the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi.

The cathedral was constructed in the late 19th century in the Gothic Revival style, resembling the Notre Dame de Paris. It was built by the French colonial government in French Indochina and opened in December 1886. The church was named after Joseph, the patron saint of Vietnam.

The cathedral conducts Mass several times during the day, and for Sunday evening mass at 6:00 PM, large crowds spill out into the streets. The prayer hymns are broadcast, and Catholics who are unable to enter the cathedral congregate in the street and listen to hymns.

The cathedral is situated west of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, in a small square where you can enjoy a vietnamese coffee or local food in traditional restaurants. 

NHÀ SÁCH MÃO

If you are looking for a hidden gem in Hanoi, you might want to visit Nhà sách Mão, a bookstore that is tucked away in a small alley on Đinh Lễ street. Nhà sách Mão is the oldest bookstore on the street, and it has been a sanctuary for book lovers for many years.

Here, you can find a variety of books, both old and new, from Vietnamese literature to foreign languages, from life skills to comics, and many more. You can also enjoy the cozy and nostalgic atmosphere of the bookstore, which is filled with wooden shelves, vintage posters, and antique furniture.

Nhà sách Mão is not easy to find, as it is located on the second floor of a residential building. You have to walk through a narrow corridor and climb up a steep staircase to reach the bookstore. But once you get there, you will be rewarded with a treasure trove of books and a friendly staff who are always ready to help you.