1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is located at the heart of Hanoi. The name literally means 'The Lake of the Restored Sword'. The name refers to the 15th-century legend in which the nobleman Le Loi, who fought for the Vietnamese against Ming China, received a sword from a magic turtle living in the lake. The nobleman defeated the Ming and returned home in victory. One day, the emperor was boating in the lake when the turtle appeared asking for the sword to restore it to its heavenly owner.
Enormous turtles still live in the lake today. When they are spotted, it is supposed to foreshadow the death of one of the country's leaders. Large soft-shell turtles, either of the species Rafetus swinhoei or a separate species named Rafetus leloii in honor of the emperor, have been sighted in the lake. The species is critically endangered and the number of individuals in the lake is unclear.
In memory of this event, the emperor built the Tortoise Tower on an island at the south end of the lake, Ngoc Son Temple (Jade Mountain Temple) stands. The temple was erected in the 18th century. It honors the 13-century military leader Tran Hung Dao who distinguished himself in the fight against the Yuan Dynasty, Van Xuong, a scholar, and Nguyen Van Sieu, a Confucian master and famous writer in charge of repairs made to the temple in 1864. Jade Island is connected to the shore by the wooden red-painted The Huc Bridge (The Huc, meaning Morning Sunlight Bridge).
2. The Old Quarter in Hanoi
Located between the Lake of the Restored Sword, the Long Bien Bridge, a former city rampart, and a citadel wall, the Old Quarter (consisting of 36 old streets inside) started as a snake and alligator-infested swamp. It later evolved into a cluster of villages made up of houses on stilts, and was unified by Chinese administrators who built ramparts around their headquarters. The area was named "Dominated Annam" or "Protected South" by the Chinese.
Hanoi's Old Quarter came into being at the time King Ly Thai To selected Thang Long as the country’s capital in 1010, that is, the streets have a nearly 1,000-year old history and became crowded & lively in 15th century. What makes them unique is that many of them remain in their very ancient architecture of the 15th century. Up to now, it has been the oldest continuously developed area of Vietnam.
Due to their long-lasting age, they are called “Old Quarter” or “36 Old Streets” (as consisting of 36 member streets). Similarly to the Guilded age of Europe, “Ha Noi's 36 districts” is Vietnam's version of the guild concept. In the past, as artisans moved to the capital city to do business, they gathered together in this area to share the resources. As a result, many of the streets were named after the crafts sold at that individual street. Pho Hang Bun (Vermicelli), Pho Hang Ma (Paper Product), Pho Hang Bac (Silver), etc. are examples of the streets carrying the name of the products sold there.
The phrase “pho phuong” is a combination word; “Phố” means a street or a place for merchants to gather to do business, while “Phường”, a district or a guild of artisans specializing in a particular trade (phuong cheo, phuong tho, etc.). Yet, in any case, both are right to some extent.
Specialized craft streets and guilds: Most tourists are eager for exploring the old streets well-known for each one’s specialized industry. Hang Gai Street offers silk clothing ready-made and tailored, embroidery, and silver products. Hang Quat, the street that formerly sold silk and feather fans, now stuns the visitor by its brilliantly colored funeral and festival flags and religious objects and clothing. To Tich Street connects the above two and is still the wood turner's street. Hang Ma glimmers with shiny paper products, such as gift wrappings, wedding decorations and miniature paper objects to burn for the dead. Lan Ong Street is a sensual delight of textures and smells emanating from the sacks of herbal medicinal products: leaves, roots, barks, and powders, etc. Coming here, you may feel as if you were in a classical-styled area in terms of both architecture and product types!
Although the old section of Hanoi is often called the "36 Old Streets", there are more than 36 actual streets. Some researchers believe that the number 36 came from the 15th century when there might have been 36 guild locations, which were workshop areas, not streets. When streets were later developed, the guild names were applied to the streets. Others attribute the 36 to a more abstract concept. The number nine in Asia represents the concept of "plenty" . Nine times the four directions makes 36, which simply means "many". In fact, there are now more than 70 streets in the area.
Although many of the streets no longer sell the products after which they were named, some still do. Today, the Old Quarter has become the unique classical feature of Hanoi, and the inspiration of numerous writers, poets, and painters, and one of the desired tourist destinations in Hanoi.
3. Hanoi Cathedral
Hanoi Cathedral is at No. 40 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. It was built on the site of the former Bao Thien Tower, which was famous in the ancient capital of Thang Long under the Ly Dynasty (the 11th and 12th centuries).
Hanoi Cathedral, also known as Saint Joseph's Cathedral, was inaugurated on Christmas Day 1886, two years after its construction. Its design is similar to the architecture of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Many catholic rituals have been held there. A ritual ceremony dedicated to Jesus Christ is held in this cathedral every year on March 19.
The special thing is that space around Hanoi Cathedral is an ideal meeting place for local residents in Hanoi, especially youngsters, to get away from the bustle and noise of the city. When it gets darker, groups of friends flock to the space to enjoy themselves. To enjoy this kind of entertainment, you can feast and drink with your friends in this open space. The bell striking from the church at meditative moments sways your mind. That is a great and romantic feeling. Young people have flocked to the cathedral because the church view and tranquil street corners will fuel their romantic liaison. Couples hand in hand show their love. Others regard it as a playground for chatting or a stage for music performances.
Many famous artists and movie stars can be seen in this special place. Pianist Pho An My has the habit of sitting in the church yard to enjoy a cup of tea with ice and play her favorite pieces. “It is not necessary to go to the theatre to enjoy a music concert; a pageant show will undoubtedly bring a wind of change to the audience”, said the famous artist.
4. Hanoi Opera House
Amid the flow of history, The Hanoi Opera House stands as the architectural, cultural and political symbol of the 1000 year old Capital.
Hanoi Opera House is located on the August Revolution Square, the center of Hanoi, near Hoan Kiem Lake and the Vietnam History Museum. The theatre, designed and overseen by the French, was constructed from 1901 and was finished in 1911. Its design is influenced by the European architectural style under the Renaissance period.
At first, the theater was reserved solely for the Western artists coming every year to perform for French officials and wealthy Vietnamese. Later, the Opera House started to hold public performance organized by Vietnamese for charity (aid for flood victims or old folks’ homes). Since 1940, many of the Vietnam performance group could rent the “Western theatre” to host their performances.
Since the Independence the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Hanoi Opera House is always the places where important meetings and conferences are held as well as the hosting place for spectacular art performances of both national and international performing art groups.
Hanoi Opera House is of great architectural value, it marks a significant period in the history of architectural development in Vietnam under the French at the end of nineteenth century to early twentieth century. It is a historical witness of the Revolution of Hanoi. Hanoi Opera House saw the beginning of the revolution in Hanoi in 1945. The National Assembly of Vietnam Democratic Republic held their first key meeting here on 3/5/1946 and on 28/10/1946, the 2nd session of the first National Assembly passed the first Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, also under her roof.
With great significance in terms of architecture and history as such, in 1995 the Hanoi Opera House was restored by the government in preparation for the Summit of Francophone to be held in Vietnam in 1998. The restoration was carried out with great commitment, making the Opera House into a cultural center of the country and a cultural landmark in Southeast Asia.
Now, the Hanoi Opera House is not only a venue for art performances, but also a place for visitors to enjoy an almost 100 year old historical architecture. Hanoi Opera House has its special place in history and in the heart of every Vietnamese.
5. West Lake
West Lake, also called Ho Tay, is the biggest lake in central Hanoi, covering 500ha and about 13km in circumference.
In the past, West Lake used to be part of the Red River. West Lake, a beautiful spot in Hanoi, was once a resort for mandarins and kings.
Two legends explain the origins of Ho Tay (West Lake), also known as the Lake of Mist and the Big Lake. According to one legend, Ho Tay was created when the Dragon King drowned an evil nine-tailed fox in his lair, which was in a forest on this site. Another legend relates that in the 11th century, a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, Khong Lo, rendered a great service to the emperor of China, who rewarded him with a vast quantity of bronze from which he cast a huge bell. The sound of the bell could be heard all the way to China, where the Golden Buffalo Calf: mistaking the ringing for its mother's call, ran southward, trampling on the site of Ho Tay and turning it into a lake.
In reality, the lake was created when the Song Hong (Red River) overflowed its banks. Indeed, Song Hong has changed its course numerous times; alternately flooding some lands and creating new ones though silt build lip. The flood problem has been partially controlled by building dikes. The highway along the east side of Ho Tay is built upon one.
The lake was once ringed with magnificent palaces and pavilions. Tran Quoc Pagoda, oldest pagoda in Vietnam, was built in 6th century by Lý Nam Đế and now locates on a small island in the middle of the lake. Near Tran Quoc Pagoda is Quan Thanh Temple, one of the Four Sacred Temples of ancient Hanoi (Vietnamese: Tứ trấn Thăng Long). Chu Van An High School, one of the oldest high school in Vietnam, also locates close to the lake. These were destroyed in the course of various feudal wars.
On the south side of the lake is a popular strip of outdoor seafood restaurants (see Places to Eat later in this chapter) while the north side has been ear-marked for the development of luxurious villas and hotels.
6. Quan Thanh (Holy Mandarin) temple
Quan Thanh Temple, also named Tran Vu Temple, was built at the beginning of the Ly Dynasty when King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long, in honor of Tran Vu, the deity who guards the north of Thang Long citadel. It was renovated in 1618, 1768, 1836, 1843, 1893 and 1941. In 1677, during the reign of King Le Hy Tong, a major renovation was carried out by Lord Trinh Tac. The statue of Tran Vu was cast at this time, which is nearly 4 tons weight and 3.7m height. It is a black bronze statue of a Taoist hermit in a neat costume with his hair loose and bare feet. His left hand makes a gesture of exorcism; his right hand holds a sword. The 1.5-meter high bronze bell hanging at the three-gate entrance was also cast at this time. The sound of the bell was described in a Vietnamese folk song: “The bamboo branches are swaying lightly in the wind. The sound of the bell in Tran Vu Temple harmonizes with the cock-crow in Tho Xuong village.” Tran Vu Temple is divided into four parts with separated roofs decorated with patterns of dragons, clouds, flowers and leaves.
There are horizontal lacquered boards carved with Chinese characters and poems by such famous poets as Nguyen Thuong Hien and Vu Pham Ham. Besides, Tran Vu Temple is also regarded as a museum of sacred bronze objects. All the statues, lamps, bell and musical instrument were mainly made of bronze. The bronze khanh instrument was cast in 1794 during the Tay Son Dynasty with money donated by Admiral Le Van Ngu. During the Nguyen Dynasty, King Minh Mang had the temple restored and named it Chan Vu Quan. In 1842, King Thieu Tri donated money to make a golden ring and a silver ring for the statue of Tran Vu. Tran Vu Temple, a site of both historical significance and natural beauty, contributes to the misty beauty of West Lake.
7. Tran Quoc Pagoda
This pagoda may be one of the oldest in Vietnam. According to legend, it was built during the Nam De Dynasty (544-548). Originally, the pagoda had been built adjacent to the Cai River and called Khai Quoc (Founding of the Nation).
Its name was changed to An Quoc Pagoda. Then in the reign of King Le Kinh Tong (1600-18), the river bank broke, the people removed the pagoda and rebuilt it on Ca Vang Island in the middle of West Lake (its current location) where the Ly Kings had built Thuy Hoa Hall and the Tran Dynasty had constructed Ham Nguyen Palace. King Le Hy Tong (16680-1705) changed its name to Tran Quoc.
The present pagoda still maintains a unique architecture so different from other pagodas. At the front, there is a visitor’s hall before entering the interior of the pagoda. At the rear there are two corridors and a bell tower. Inside the pagoda are various beautiful statues, the most notable of which is the wooden gilded statue of Shakyamuni Buddha. There are also stone slab steles, the oldest of which was built in 1639 on which Dr. Nguyen Xuan Chinh wrote the history of the major repair to this pagoda in that very year. There is a luxuriant Bo tree in the pagoda's current playground that was a monument presented by the President of India who paid a visit to the pagoda in 1959.
8. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
President Ho Chi Minh is a Vietnamese hero of national liberation and great man of culture. He devoted his whole life to the national of the Vietnamese people, contributing to the common struggle of peoples for peace, national independence, democracy and social progress.
After he passed away on September 2nd 1969, in compliance with the Vietnamese people's aspiration, the Communist Party of Vietnam's Politburo decided to build the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
In his will, the President stated his wish to be cremated, and to have his ash buried on the hills of the North, the Center, and the South of Vietnam. Yet, in honor of his huge dedication for the country and for the love of all Vietnamese for him, the successor Communist Government decided to keep his body so that he can see the whole country’s reunion, and the following generations can come and visit him. Accordingly, on September 2nd, 1973, his mausoleum started to be built in Ba Dinh Square, where he read the Independence Declaration on September 2nd, 1945, and was completed on August 22nd, 1975, with the Soviet Union’s help.
The Mausoleum, which was made of marble and granite, features a three-stored structure. In the second store places the famous President’s body, lying as if he were sleeping in the simple clothes worn when he was alive. Outside, visitors can see his popular quote “Khong co gi quy hon doc lap tu do” (translated as “Nothing is more precious than independence and freedom”) on the top face of the mausoleum. In front of the mausoleum is the 79 cycad trees, symbolizing Uncle Ho’s 79 springs of life. The two bamboo ranges on the two sides whistle in the wind to commemorate the President!
Note: No camera, cell phone, bare-shoulder T-shirts, or miniskirts are allowed inside
- Opening time: 5 days per week, except Monday and Friday
- Cold seasons (from November to March): 8:00 am - 11:00 am
- Hot seasons (from April to October): 7:30 am - 10:30 am
- Closed once per year in October/ November/ or December for the body maintenance
9. Ho Chi Minh Museum
President Ho Chi Minh is Vietnamese hero of national liberation and great man of culture. He devoted his whole life to the national of the Vietnamese people, contributing to the common struggle of peoples for peace, national independence, democracy and social progress.
After he passed away on September 2nd 1969, in compliance with the Vietnamese people's aspiration, the Communist Party of Vietnam's Politburo decided to build the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Ho Chi Minh Museum.
On November 25th 1970, the Board in charge of building the Ho Chi Minh Museum was set up in order to prepare comprehensively for the construction. After 20 years of preparing and building, the Ho Chi Minh Museum was inaugurated on September 2nd 1990, on the occasion of the 100th birthday of the President.
The museum was built in the shape of a white lotus flower, which is nearly 20m high, including 3 floors. In the centre of the ground floor, there is a hall with 400 seats, which can host domestic and international meetings, conferences and scientific seminars. The main exhibition area of the museum is on the second floor covering an area of nearly 4,000 square meters. More than 2,000 documents and show-pieces are displayed, systematically reflecting President Ho Chi Minh’s life and revolution cause since late 19th century. Coming here, tourists can share a part of Ho Chi Minh’s tough life.
With more than 120,000 documents, objects and films about President Ho Chi Minh's life and revolutionary work, it is invaluable asset of the Vietnamese people in educating patriotism, studying and following Ho Chi Minh's thought and moral qualities; and encouraging the Vietnamese generations to succeed faithfully and excellently his great revolutionary work.
10. Ho Chi Minh’s Residence
After 1954 Ho Chi Minh had the run of the Presidential Palace, but the ostentation was too much for the ascetic president, who openly shunned luxury and preferred the humble former home of the palace's electrician, where he lived for four years. Then, the story goes, in 1958 Ho Chi Minh moved to this simple but tasteful wooden house on stilts, which served as his living quarters and work space until his death in 1969. An elegant but spare study -- some books, his small typewriter, a few newspapers, and an electric fan presented to him by a group of Japanese Communists are visible -- adjoins his equally spare bedroom. Downstairs he received his guests: foreign dignitaries, Politburo members, army cadres, and schoolchildren. Surrounding the house are well-tended gardens with flame trees, willows, mango trees, and aromatic frangipani. Cyprus trees thrive on the edge of the pond, which Ho had stocked with carp. A crisp clap of the hands apparently still brings the fish to the surface.
Regardless of Ho Chi Minh's faith in the accuracy of the city's antiaircraft gunners, some doubt must be thrown on the claim that Ho Chi Minh spent so much time in this open-air sanctum, with only the trees, his wooden house, and a trusty old war helmet as protection. American bombers targeted Hanoi during the war, and they surely would have emptied their loads on Ba Dinh District had they known their archenemy was feeding fish and conferring with his generals in the unprotected confines of his stilt house. Indeed, Ho's Politburo ordered the construction of a nearby bomb shelter, later dubbed House No. 67. Legend holds that Uncle Ho refused to use the shelter as a home, preferring to confer with the Politburo in this fortified bunker but to sleep in his stilt house.
11. One pillar pagoda
The One-pillar pagoda or Dien Huu pagoda has one of the most special architectures in Vietnam. The pagoda is situated next to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, right in the center of Hanoi.
According to one legend of Emperor Ly Thai To in the Ly dynasty, who had no children, used to go to pagodas praying to Buddha for a son. One night, he dreamt that he was granted a private audience to the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, who was seated on a great lotus flower in a square-shaped lotus pond on the western side of Thang Long Citadel, gave the King a baby boy. Months later, when the Queen gave birth to a male child, the Emperor ordered the construction of a pagoda supported by only one pillar to resemble the lotus seat of his dream in the honour of the Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara. According to a theory, the pagoda was built in a style of a lotus emerging out of the water.
In 1105, King Ly Nhan Tong extended the pagoda and added Linh Chieu bond. However, time has erased everything but the limited area like what we see now. Near the pagoda there’s a bodhi tree. This is the gift from Rajendra Prasad- Indian presidents to Ho Chi Minh President.
The pagoda now became one of the most meaningful symbols of Hanoi.
Note: Should wear full-length clothes as you visit the One-Pillar Pagoda as well as other pagodas in the nation.
12. Temple of literature
The Temple of Literature is about 10 minutes away from Hoan Kiem Lake. It was constructed in 1070 under Ly Thanh Tong’s dynasty, first to honor Confucius and nowadays to celebrate the doctorates and high rank scholars of Vietnam. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong continued the work and built Quoc Tu Giam as the first university of Vietnam.
The temple is divided into five court yard, each with its own significance and history. The first courtyard stretches from the main gate to Dai Trung gate; the second stands out with Khue Van Cac pavilion. If you notice well, you will find the pavilion symbol on every street signs of Hanoi.
The third courtyard is where doctor names were listed on a tombstone above tortoise backs. There are a total of 82 tombstones, with names and origins of 1307 doctors, corresponding to 82 examination courses from 1442 to 1779. At the beginning of the year or in May when many important examinations take place, numerous students come and rub the tortoise head. Such an act is believed to bring them luck to pass the test.
The fourth courtyard is dedicated for Confucius and his 72 honored students, as well as Chu Van An- a famous teachers known for his devotion to teaching. This is also where local authorities choose to cherish brilliant students in Hanoi, like those with top entrance results to university or top graduation outcomes.
The last and also furthest courtyard is Thai Hoc house, which used to be Quoc Tu Giam- the first university of Vietnam. Thai Hoc house holds a small collection of old time costumes for students and mandarins, as well as explaining the process of taking and passing the national examination.
Temple of literature has one of the most typical architecture styles for centuries in Vietnam, composed of wood and tiles. Along the pass way is hundred-year-old trees that have witnessed ups and downs of history.
13. Army Museum
The Army Museum is one of six national museums. It was established Dec, 22nd 1959 in the center of Hanoi, near V.L Lenin’s statue, some 600 meters from President Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum to the East, in 10.000 square meters area.
A well – known ancient monument on the grounds of the museum in Hanoi flag Tower, classified as a national historic cultural monument. The construction of the Tower started in 1805 and was completed in 1812, with a height of nearly 31 meters and a circumstance of 180 meters.
The Army Museum offers a lively and attractive history of the Vietnamese people’s armed forces under the leadership of Vietnam’s communist party and of President Ho Chi Minh.
Thousands of exhibits, photographs, maps, scale models… are in the museum. This’ll give visitors a good general knowledge of the process of the birth, growth and victories of the Vietnamese people’s armed forces for the cause of peace, independence and freedom.
14. History Museum
Just behind the Opera House, Hanoi’s History Museum offers a good overview of Vietnam’s history from prehistoric times to the end of the Second World War. Although the arrangement of the exhibits follows the usual chronological sequence, many of the individual artifacts are good quality.
However, in common with most museums in Vietnam, the History Museum falls down on interpretation. Most of the labels are in Vietnamese only, and do little more than identify the objects to which they refer. There are few attempts to place the articles in their context or to show their significance. Some showcases are packed with almost identical exhibits.
Built in 1931 as a French cultural research and conservation institution, the present-day museum carries on that tradition. The architecture is typical of the of the later French Colonial period that incorporated Vietnamese elements to create a unique and impressive style.
15. The Ethnology Museum
Vietnam is a multi-ethnic country, which is composed of 54 ethnic groups. With a view to preserving and presenting the cultural heritages of these ethnic groups, the Vietnamese Government decided to establish a museum of ethnology in Hanoi. Hence, the today's Vietnam Museum of Ethnology was constructed on the land of 9,500 square meters on Nguyen Van Huyen Street, Cau Giay District, around 8 kilometers from the city centre. The construction started at the end of 1987 and was completed in 1997.
The mission of the Museum is to collect, document, research, preserve and exhibit the cultural and historic patrimony of the nation's different ethnic groups. In its future planning, the Museum intends to present the cultures and civilization of other countries in South-East Asia and in the region as well.
Since the opening day, the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology has attracted a huge number of visitors as well as ethnographers and researchers from all over the world. To date, the Museum has collected 15,000 artifacts, 2,190 slides, 42,000 photographs, 237 audiotapes, 373 videotapes and 25 CD-ROMs, to be displayed for all visitors. Besides a tourism spot, it is also a centre for ethnographic research employing many experts on the different ethnic groups. Coming here, visitors may find out that the Museum has successfully recreated the daily life together with the religious rituals and the symbolic festivals of each ethnic group in Vietnam. All displayed objects mingle and supplement one another to create a colorful and diversified picture of Vietnamese culture.
The indoor permanent collection occupies the majority of the exhibition space. However, there is a separate area for the temporary exhibits. The permanent collection is divided into 9 main sections, each of which includes objects displayed in glass cases and dioramas.
16. Bat Trang ceramics
Vietnamese ceramic craft has a long history dating back thousands of years. Archeological findings at Vinh Phu province indicates pottery turning wheels existed in Viet Nam about 5,000 years ago. During the Ly's (11-13th century), the Tran's (13-15th century), the Le's (15-16th century) and the Mac's (16th century), Viet Nam produced large amount of ceramic wares for its domestic consumption and trade to many East and South East Asian countries and as far as to the Middle East. Of the many ceramic-producing villages in Viet Nam, Bat Trang village was the most famous.
Bat Trang is generally referred to a commune of two villages, Bat Trang and Giang Cao, situated in the outskirts of Hanoi along the bank of Hong (Red) river. According to Vietnamese annals, migrant potters from Thanh Hoa province established Bat Trang village in the mid-14th century. Being conveniently located near the capital city, and with readily access of river transportation, Bat Trang soon became an important industrial and commercial center. At the time, the area had numerous deposits of white clay necessary for production of ceramic wares. These factors helped the Bat Trang ceramic craft to flourish and its products were widely circulated to other regions of the country.
In the late 15th century, Bat Trang had been well known for producing the best quality ceramics in the country. Many of these ceramic pieces were customized for aristocratic families and religious needs. These pieces included inscription of the year of production, the name of the patron and the potter's name. Vietnamese annals also recorded in the 16th century, Bat Trang ceramics were offered as tribute to China in numerous occasions. Following terrestrial discoveries in Asia in the early 17th century, many European countries rushed to the Far East to set up bases for commerce trading. Vietnamese ceramic industry continued to prosper, especially during the Mac's reign. Multiple shipments of ceramics were exported to Japan where the Bat Trang style was enthusiastically adapted by local kilns as "Kochi (Giao Chi) ware". Dutch, English and Portuguese merchants purchased Vietnamese ceramics in hundreds of thousands to resell in Malaya, Sumatra and Bangal.
From the end of 17th, particularly in the 18th century, Vietnamese ceramics exported to South East Asian countries declined rapidly when the Chinese resumed its ceramic exports. Bat Trang ceramics were no longer exported and its products served mainly the domestic market.
Today, Bat Trang still turns out large quantity of ceramic wares for both domestic and export markets. New designs and models as well as reproductions of ancient styles and glazes are very well received by art connoisseurs everywhere.
17. Co Loa citadel
Dating from the 3rd century BC, Co Loa Citadel (Co Loa Thanh) was the first fortified citadel in Vietnamese history and became the national capital during the reign of Ngo Quyen (AD 939-4-1). Only vestiges of the ancient ramparts, which enclosed an area of about 5 sq km, remain. In the centre of the citadel are temples dedicated to the rule of King An Duong Vuong (257-208 BC), who founded the legendary Thuc dynasty, and his daughter My Nuong (Mi Chau). Legend tells that My Nuong showed her father's magic crossbow trigger, which made him invincible in battle, to her husband, the son of a Chinese general. He stole it and gave it to his father. With this not-so-secret weapon, the Chinese defeated An Duong Vuong, beginning a thousand years of Chinese occupation.
Co Loa Citadel is 16km north of central Hanoi in Dong Anh district, and can be visited as a short detour while on the way to or from Tam Dao Hill Station. The site consists of two outer sets of ramparts and a citadel on the inside, of rectangular shape.
The outer rampart comprises a perimeter of 8 km and is lined with guard towers. The ramparts still stand up to 12 m high and are 25 m in width at their base. Archaeologists have estimated that over two million cubic meters of material were moved in order to construct the entire fortress, including moats that were fed by the Hoang River.
Excavations made by archaeologists have revealed Dong Son style pottery that had stratified over time under the walls, while a drum was found by chance by Nguyen Giang Hai and Nguyen Van Hung. The drum included a hoard of bronze objects. The rarity of such objects in Southeast Asia and the range found at Co Loa is believed to possibly be unique.
The drum itself is one of the largest Bronze Age drums to have been recovered from the Red River Delta, standing 57 cm high and boasting a tympanum with a diameter of 73.6 cm. The drum itself weighs 72 kg and contains around 200 pieces of bronze, including 20 kg of scrap pieces from a range of artifacts. These include socketed hoes and ploughshares, socketed axes, and spearheads.
The artifacts are numerically dominated by the ploughshares, of which there are 96. Six hoes and a chisel were in the set. There were 32 socketed axes of various shapes, including a boat shaped axe head. This was almost a replica to a clay mound found in the grave of the bronze metalworker at Lang Ca.
Sixteen spearheads, a dagger and eight arrowheads were also found. One spearhead generated special interest because it was bimetallic, with an iron blade fitting into a bronze socket.
18. Maison Centrale (Nha Tu Hoa Lo)
Maison Centrale, or Hoa Lo Prison, is often called the Hanoi Hilton by American prisoners of war, in sarcastic reference to the upmarket hotel chain. The name Hoa Lo means "fiery furnace" in Vietnamese. The prison's most famous inmate was probably Douglas Pete Peterson, the first US ambassador to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and John McCain, the US pilot who later became a senator. The name Maison Centrale comes from the French, where the term Maison Centrale usually refers to a prison back in France.
Maison Centrale in Hanoi comprises of tiny, damp and dark cells that evoke eerie claustrophobia, which would be multiplied by the use of manacles and the presence of rats. More recently, American prisoners of war were kept here, including the first ambassador to Vietnam, Pete Peterson.
Today, only a small section remains and it is preserved as a museum. Most of it was demolished during the construction of a high rise that now occupies most of the site. The interrogation room where many newly captured Americans were interrogated and tortured, notorious among former prisoners as the "blue room," is now made up to look like a very comfortable, if Spartan, barracks-style room.
Displays in the room claim that Americans were treated well and not tortured contradicted to the many claims of former prisoners that the room was the site of numerous acts of torture. The visitor can see a guillotine on which several of the members of the Vietnamese resistance were executed at Maison Centrale in Hanoi. The cells where prisoners were shackled to their concrete cots are a terrible reminder of the cruelties of colonialism.
Also found in this museum is the flight suit, parachute, and other items which once belonged to John McCain and were confiscated when he was captured. A guillotine, a reminder of how the French dealt with their most serious "criminals "still stands in the center of a large room at Maison Centrale in Hanoi. The Maison Centrale in Hanoi or Hanoi Hilton was depicted in the eponymous 1987 Hollywood movie Hanoi Hilton.
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1. Vietnamese culture
The following is some interesting information about Vietnamese culture that offers for you a basic knowledge of country as well as Vietnamese people.
Official Name: Socialist Republic of Vietnam
Population: 90.5 million
Capital City: Hanoi, population 6.5 million
People: Viet (Kinh), 53 ethnic minorities including Muong, Tay, Khmer, Mong, Dao, Kadai, Han, Tang
Language: Vietnamese
Currency: Vietnam Dong (VND)
Time Zone: GMT +7 Hours
International Dialing Code: +84
People:
• The Vietnamese have a great sense of humor and the ability to joke about almost anything
• Be prepared for all types of personal questions - this type of questioning is not considered rude - just gathering of the facts
• Don't be surprised if the Vietnamese are intrigued by your size, particularly if you are tall or well-rounded
• In Vietnam the people have different attitudes to time-keeping, public cleanliness, privacy and service. If you are able to travel with patience and a sense of humor then you will love it.
• Buddhism is the main religion with influences from Taoism and Confucianism.
Dress:
• Vietnamese people in general adopt modest dress
• For travelers, modest clothing goes a long way towards making a good impression with the Vietnamese people and they will be more willing to approach you if you dress as they do
• Try to keep shoulders covered and do not expose too much leg.
Toilets:
• Toilets are mostly squat style
• Carry paper and hand sanitizer with you as it is not usually provided
Smoking:
• Smoking is banned on public transport nationwide
• It is still permitted in restaurants, bars and clubs
2. Visa to Vietnam
No matter which way of access you choose, a Vietnamese entry visa is required for all foreigners, except for citizens of countries having bilateral agreements on visa exemption with Vietnam.
Types of visa to Vietnam
• Diplomatic and official visa:
No fees unless otherwise agreed upon between Vietnam and applicant’s country. On applying this visa, you must submit an official letter from the concerned agencies of local government, foreign embassies or consulates accredited to the country, international organizations, or other accredited organizations based in that country.
• Business visa:
On applying this visa, you should obtain an approval through your sponsor in Vietnam. It’s generally much easier to apply once in Vietnam. Multiple entry and stay of three-month or six-month is possible.
• Tourist visa: (short staying time) It's what you need to enter Vietnam!
Available one-month single-entry visa (maximum stay in Vietnam of one month). Tourist visa may be extended one time for 30 days after your arrival in Vietnam.
If you plan to spend more than a month in Vietnam, or if you plan to exit Vietnam and re-enter from Cambodia, Laos or China, you will need a three-month multiple-entry visa with the approval from local agents.
How to apply visa to Vietnam
You can either apply yourself at Vietnamese embassies or consulates in your country or have a local travel agent (your sponsor) to do a part or full its procedure.
By yourself
• Required documentations:
you have to submit: passport of six months’ validity, visa application forms, and probably some others required by Vietnamese embassy or consulates in your country. Visa forms are available by getting directly or by mail with a stamped, self-addressed envelope addressed to their Visa section. Request by email is perhaps acceptable (in some cases).
See Visa application form and list of Vietnamese Embassies and Consulates abroad (also available Foreign Embassies and Consulates in Vietnam).
• Time
processing tourist visa application typically takes four or five working days.
• Cost
fees vary from embassy to embassy; about $50 in Bangkok and $85 in Washington, for example.
By local agent:
Please click in to the link below to fill in your personal information that all you need to do relax and sit back!
Our Travel Advisors will contact you shortly for further details if needed
1. Visa authorization service:
- 1 month single = $15
- 3 month single = $25
- 3 month multiple = $45
Single Entrance: Pay extra $25 at the airport for Visa stamp
Multiple visa multiple, Pay extra $25 at the airport for Visa stamp
2. Visa Extension & Re New Visa, (Passport will be handed over Vietnam Authorization for 7 days or 5 working day.
- 1 Month single = $25
- 3 Month single = $45
- 1 month New Single = $55
- 3 Month New single = $65
- 3 Month multiple = $99
For visa 3 month multiple, when expired we can have new one, so call as NEW visa.
Note: There are some countries which could not get visa upon arrival; you need to contact Vietnam Embassy right in your country or region.
- Pakistan, Afghanistan, Srilanka...Middle East Countries.
- Africa countries such as: Nigeria, Marok, Algerine, South Africa
Need help?
Email: sales@asianatravelmate.com
3. Safety & security
In general, Vietnam is one of the safest countries in Asia, and probably in the world for travelers and tourists. Violent attacks rarely happen, but heist is a problem in Vietnam, just like what is happening in most part of this world. Don't worry about it; here are some tips for you to take some precautions while travelling in Vietnam
• Secure your valuable possessions in the hotel safe, if there isn't one in your hotel room, the hotel front desk can provide the same service.
• If you use traveler’s cheque, the suggestion is to write down the cheque numbers on a piece of paper, cross out the one after you use it to make your own record.
• Take pictures of the information of the credit cards you are going to use while travelling, leave the ones that you don't need at home; print the pictures and bring them in your luggage.
• Use the same common sense travelling in Vietnam that you would at home, don't use shortcuts and try not to walk alone at night. If you have to go out after dark, let somebody know when you are expected to come back to hotel.
• Don't put your wallet or mobile phone in the back pocket of your pants or anywhere else that is easily reached, thieves can reach them easily too. Be vigilant in markets and crowded places.
• Wear the shoulder strap of your bag across your chest, and walk with the bag away from the curb to avoid drive-by purse-snatchers. It is more of a problem in big cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.
• Don't discuss your personal matters and travel plans with strangers while traveling in Indochina area.
• Traffic is especially chaotic in Vietnam. It's illegal to ride on a motorcycle without wearing a helmet, it's not only required according to the local law system, but also made for your personal safety.
• When crossing the street on foot, walk at a slow and steady pace, looking up and meeting the driver's eyes, the traffic will flow around you.
• Monitor the media for information about possible safety and security risks.
Special tip in Vietnam:
The Government of Vietnam may not allow or authorize you to travel to certain areas of Vietnam deemed sensitive. These travel limitations may also hinder the ability of the U.S. Government to provide assistance to you in those areas. U.S. citizens have been detained after traveling in areas close to the Vietnamese borders with China, Cambodia, and Laos. These areas are not always marked, and there are no warnings about prohibited travel. You should avoid such areas unless you obtain written permission in advance from local authorities.
You should avoid large gatherings, such as those forming at the scene of traffic accidents, which can become violent with little or no warning.
There is nobody better at protecting you than yourself. Take some time before you travel to improve your personal security.
4. Where to get help
Visit Tourist Information Center follows the address for free information, maps, travel advisor...
HA NOI:
Hanoi Tourist Information Center: 7 Dinh Tien Hoang Str.,
Tel: + 84 – 43 926 3370
Fax: + 84 – 43 926 3367
Hanoi Sales Office: 21 Luong Ngoc Quyen Str.,
Tel: + 84 – 43 926 3449
Fax: + 84 – 43 926 3367
HUE:
Hue Tourist Information Center: 45 – 47 Le Loi Str.,
Tel: + 84 – 543 941 133
Fax: + 84 – 543 846 886
SAIGON:
Saigon Sales Office: Ground Floor, 113C Bui Vien Str., Dist 1
Tel: + 84 – 83 838 6678
Fax: + 84 – 83 836 6676
Saigon Head Office: 1st Floor, 113C Bui Vien Str., Dist 1
Tel: + 84 – 83 508 7984
Fax: + 84 – 83 836 0735
Saigon Tourist Information Center: 92 – 96 Nguyen Hue Str., Dist 1
Tel: + 84 – 83 825 0615
Fax: + 84 – 83 825 1358
Here are some embassies of foreign countries in Vietnam where you can contact for help:
Country Foreign Embassy in Vietnam
Albania 49 Dien Bien Phu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84-4-8253865
Algeria 12 Phan Chu Trinh, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 -4 - 8253865
Fax : 84 -4 -8260830
Website: http://www.ambalgvn.org.vn
Australia 66 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8252763
Web: http://www.ausinvn.com
Fax 864534
Belgium B3 Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 252263
Bulgaria 2 Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 252908
Cambodia Hanoi: 4 Thuyen Quang,
Tel 8264816
Ho Chi Minh City: 41 Phung Khac Khoan, Tel: 84 - 8 - 8292751
Canada 39 Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8265840
China 46 Hoang Dieu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8253736, 253737
Cuba 65 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 825477
http://www.vietnamembassy.cu
Czech 13 Chu Van An, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8254131
Denmark 19 Dien Bien Phu, Ha Noi
Tel: +84 (4) 8 231 888
Web: http://www.dk-vn.dk
Finland Suite 603, Central Building, 31 Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi.
Tel: 84 - 4 - 826 6788
Web: www.finland.org.vn
France Hanoi: 49 Ba Trieu, Tel: 84 - - 252719, 254367, 254368
Ho Chi Minh City: Consulate 102 Hai Ba Trung, Dist 1, Tel. 8-8297231
http://www.ambafrance-vn.org
Germany 29 Tran Phu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8253836
http://www.germanembhanoi.org.vn
Hungary 43-47 Dien Bien Phu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8252748
India 58 Tran Hung Dao, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8253409
Indonesia 50 Ngo Quyen, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8256316
Italy 9 Le Phung Hieu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 825624
http://www.embitalyvietnam.org
Japan 49 Nguyen Du, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8257902
Korea, (People's Dem. Rep.) 25 Cao Ba Quat, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8266621
Korea (Republic of Korea) 4th floor, 360 Kim Ma, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8315111
http://www.hanquoc-emb.net
Laos Hanoi: 22 Tran Binh Trong, Tel: 84 - 4 - 8254576
Ho Chi Minh City: Consulate 43 Phung Khac Hoan, District 1, Tel: 84 - 8 - 8292751, 8292744
Malaysia A3 Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8253371
Netherlands Daeha Office Tower, 360 Kim Ma, Hanoi. Tel. 84 4 8315650
http://www.netherlands-embassy.org.vn
Myanmar Building A-3, Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 253369, Fax: 84 - 4 - 252404
Philippines E1 Trung Tu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8257948
Poland 3 Chua Mot Cot, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8252027
Romania 5 Le Hong Phong, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 4 8252014
Russian Federation 58 Tran Phu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 825463
Singapore B4 Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8233966
Slovakia 13 Chu Van An, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 4 8254131
Sweden 2 Van Phuc, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8254824
http://www.hanoi.embassy.ud.se
Switzerland 77b Kim Ma, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8232019, Fax: 84 - 4 - 232045
Thailand 63-65 Hoang Dieu, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 235092, 256053, 262644
United Kingdom 116 Ly Thuong Kiet, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8252510
http://www.uk-vietnam.org
USA 7 Lang Ha, Ha Noi
Tel: 84 - 4 - 8431500
Web: http://www.usembassy.state.gov/
4 Le Duan Blvd, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City; Tel 84-8-82209433
5. Health care
There are several fine medical establishments in Vietnam which is said to have above average treatment for major conditions to help you when you are injured. Anyways, please be aware that not much can be done for your health if you don't take care of yourself first!
HANOI
• Hanoi French Hospital
1 Phuong Mai Str.
Tel: 577-1100, emergency: 574-1111
• Family Medical Practice
Unit 109-112, Van Phuc, Blog A1, Kim Ma Str.
Tel: 843-0748 (24hours))
• International SOS
31 Hai Ba Trung Str.
Tel: 934-0666, emergency: 934-0555
• Vietnam-Korea Friendship Hospital
12 Chu Van An Str.
Tel: 843-7231
HUE
• Hue central Hospital
16 Le Loi Str, Hue
Tel 054 3822 325
• Hue university Hospital
06 Ngo Quyen Str., Hue
Tel 054 3822 173
HO CHI MINH
• International SOS
65, Nguyen Du Str.
Tel: 829-8520, emergency: 829-8424
• Saigon International Clinic
8 Alexandre de Rhodes Str., District 1
Tel: 823-8888
• Gia Dinh International Hospital
1 Trang Long Str., Bin Thanh District
Tel: 803-0678
• Franco Vietnamese Hospital
6 Nguyen Luong Bang Str., District 7
Tel: 411-3333
6. Food & Drinks
Like so much else in Vietnam, the cuisine reflects long years of cultural exchange with China, Cambodia and, more recently, France. As elsewhere in Southeast Asia, rice is the main staple, though bread--especially baguettes introduced by the French--is ubiquitous and usually very good. Dishes are generally served at the same time rather than by course, and eaten with long-grain rice, nuoc mam or fish sauce, and a wide range of fresh herbs and vegetables. Meals are generally eaten with chopsticks or, if European food, with knife and fork.
The most typical Vietnamese food is Pho, the noodle soup with meat in it. It is very cheap at around 10,000d per bowl and usually well spiced. The main types are: Pho Bo with beef, Pho Bo Tai with rare beef fillets and Pho Ga with chicken. Com – steamed white rice is eaten for lunch and dinner. Nuoc Mam is the fermented fish sauce used to spice absolutely everything in Vietnam.
Some of the more popular Vietnamese dishes include Cha gio (known as nem Saigon in the north): small--spring rolls' of minced pork, prawn, crabmeat, fragrant mushrooms and vegetables wrapped in thin rice paper and then deep fried. Cha gio is rolled in a lettuce leaf with fresh mint and other herbs, then dipped in a sweet sauce. Chao tom is a northern delicacy: Ground up shrimp is baked on a stick of sugar cane, then eaten with lettuce, cucumber, coriander (cilantro) and mint, and dipped in fish sauce.
Another dish eaten in a similar fashion is cuon diep, or shrimp, noodles, mint, coriander and pork wrapped in lettuce leaves. Hue, a city associated with Buddhism, is famous for its vegetarian cuisine and for its banh khoai, or 'Hue pancake'. A batter of rice flour and corn is fried with egg to make a pancake, then wrapped around pork or shrimp, onion, bean sprouts and mushrooms. Another Hue speciality is bun bo, or fried beef and noodles served with coriander, onion, garlic, cucumber, chilli peppers and tomato paste.
Soups are popular, and generally served with almost every meal. Mien ga is a noodle soup, most popular in the south, blending chicken, coriander, fish sauce and scallions. Hu tieu is chicken, beef, pork and shrimp served with a broth over rice noodles mixed with crabmeat, peanuts, onion and garlic. Canh chua, a sour soup served with shrimp or fish head, is a fragrant blend of tomato, pineapple, star fruit, bean sprouts, fried onion, bamboo shoots, coriander and cinnamon. Perhaps the best known of all Vietnamese soup dishes, often eaten for breakfast or as a late night snack, is pho, a broth of rice noodles topped with beef or chicken, fresh herbs and onion. Egg yolk is often added, as may be lime juice, chili peppers or vinegar. Pho is generally served with quay--a fried piece of flour dough.
A wide range of fruit is available, including many lush tropical fruits such as mango, custard apple, sapodilla, durian, pineapple, star fruit, and rambutan. More temperate fruits such as apples, cherries and strawberries can be found in the north.
Drinking water or ice is generally not recommended, even in the cities. Bottled water is cheap and readily available, so we recommend you don't take the risk.
Vietnam is a beer culture and Hanoi is the “bia hoi” capital of Vietnam. Bia hoi (draught beer) is one of things you should not be missed. It’s the most popular beverage throughout the country and the cheapest beer in the world, 7.000d a glass. For the higher quality, there are plenty of local as well as imported brands, such as 333, Huda, Festival, Carlsberg, Hanoi, Tiger, Saigon, LaRue, San Miguel and Heineken.
Beside beer, Vietnam is also a place to enjoy tea (Thai Nguyen tea or “Thai tea”), coffee (“Trung Nguyen coffee”) or something heavier, wine (“Nep Moi” – the Vietnamese whisky).
French and Australian wines are increasingly popular, especially at French restaurants. Local rice liquors are cheap and fierce; as a legacy of Vietnam's recent history Stolichnaya and other Russian vodkas may be found on some shelves.
7. Transportation
Airports in Vietnam
• For both International and Domestic flights: Noi Bai (35km northwest of Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (in Ho Chi Minh City), Danang (in Danang city), Phu Bai (Hue City).
• For Domestic flights only (North to South): Muong Thanh (in Dien Bien), Son La (in Son La), Cat Bi (in Hai Phong), Vinh (in Nghe An), Phu Bai (in Hue), Pleiku (in Pleiku), Buon Ma Thuot (in Buon Ma Thuot), Cam Ranh (in Nha Trang), Dalat (in Dalat), Can Tho (in Can Tho) and Phu Quoc (in Phu Quoc island).
Domestic flights are operated by Pacific Airlines (airline code: BL- www.pacificairlines.com.vn) and Vietnam Airlines (mostly), the state-owned flag carrier with modern fleet of Airbuses and Boeings. They offer a lot of daily flights and give many options for air travel throughout the country. But due to the low infrastructure, flights are always overbooked and cannot be reserved overseas. Cancellation and late flight are common.
As they’re our only choices in Vietnam, you’d better have a travel agent to book and secure domestic flights and keep informed on its status. Check the domestic flights here ……….
Other means for domestic transfer
Trains:
• On the Reunification Express we travel in soft sleeper cabins with 4 berths; luggage is stowed safely under our bunks.
• For some journeys we use local trains. This means the soft sleeper option is not available; however an overnight journey with the locals in hard sleeper can be loads of fun.
Buses:
• Vietnam has an enormous amount of local bus transport, but in many areas we find this is unsafe and not as versatile for all the stops we like to do along the way. We therefore charter mini buses for our longer journeys.
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