A complicated city torn between old and new, and an inimitable mix of ancient culture, colonial charm and modern-day luxury, Hanoi is in a constant state of flux and defies anyone who tries to box it in. It is, though, noticeably less frenzied than Ho Chi Minh City, and the picturesque old centre has retained its appeal.
Here is our selection of the best things to see in Hanoi...
Hoan Kiem Lake
At the heart of old Hanoi is Hoan Kiem Lake (Lake of the Restored Sword), named after the sacred weapon that helped repel a Chinese attack in the 15th century. Ngoc Son Pagoda sits on a small island linked to the shore by a photogenic wooden bridge. The lake supports a large population of turtles.
Old Quarter
Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter is also known as Ba Muoi Sau Pho Phuong, ‘The 36 Streets’. This area, which is almost entirely devoted to commerce, dates back seven centuries to the time when a group of 36 guilds established themselves in the area, each on a particular street. Today many of the original street names survive. Examples include Hang Ma (Paper Street), Hang Bac (Silver Street), Hang Thiec (Tin Street) and Hang Chieu (Mat Street) – of these only Hang Bac still continues in its original craft, specialising in the sale of jewellery. The best way to see the old quarters is on foot, seeking out the most interesting sights, one of which is the lively Dong Xuan Market.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
A visit to the ho chi minh mausoleum hanoi(Lang Chu Tich Ho Chi Minh) is a good starting point for anyone interested in understanding the Vietnam of today. The national hero died in 1969 and was embalmed by Soviet experts. More detail on the great man is provided at the nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum, while Ho Chi Minh’s house, also nearby, is one of the most peaceful places in modern Hanoi.
One Pillar Pagoda
The One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot) dates from 1049 and is one of the few surviving structures from the original city (although the central shrine was rebuilt in 1955). It is said to have miraculous healing powers.
Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution
The struggle for independence from foreign powers has been a persistent theme in Vietnam’s history, and is detailed at the Museum of the Vietnamese Revolution (Bao Tang Cach Mang Vietnam).
Opera House
Fully restored in 1997 at a cost of US$15 million, the Opera House (Nha Hat Lon) is one of the best examples of French colonial architecture in ha noi vietnam. The interior is magnificent; try to catch a performance if you can.
Temple of Literature
Hanoi’s largest temple complex is the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu Pagoda), with five interconnecting courtyards. Van Mieu was a centre of learning for centuries, and it was here that the Confucian examinations took place.
Fine Arts Museum
Hanoi’s Fine Arts Museum (Bao Tang My Thuat) occupies a beautiful building and is packed with fascinating artefacts. Fine Nguyen dynasty sculpture and paintings, beautiful woodblock prints from the mountain peoples, and esteemed contemporary works are all on display.
Museum of Vietnamese History
Housed in a fine colonial edifice, the Museum of Vietnamese History (Bao Tang Lich Su) details the story of the region from neolithic times. The comprehensive collection includes Bronze Age implements, Cham relics, and an ornate throne from the Nguyen dynasty.
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