The wealth of history, the significant structures of ancient monuments, the variety of savory street foods, mind-boggling temples, stunning wilderness, the hectic pace of life and finally intriguing relics of Vietnam’s history make Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam a paradise for visitors to get a glimpse into Vietnam’s traditions in different districts of the city.
Dine on the wild and wonderful at every corner, pamper yourself with market wares, uncover an evolving arts scene, take a stroll around small aisles then sleep soundly in a little luxury for very little cost. Mingle with the people, delve into the past and witness the awakening of a Hanoi on the move. Enjoy your Hanoi tours with 10 things to see in Hanoi.
Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House located in the heart of the French Quarter One is unquestionably one of the most elegant buildings in all of Hanoi. The history of this site could be traced back to1911. This site features Parisian charm from its ivory-toned columns, ornate balustrades and Gothic domes. Inside, performances range from opera, to dance, drama and international artists from every corner of the world. Large events are well publicized so keep an eye out and you might get lucky and get to see one of the world’s leading performers in one of the most beautiful buildings in Asia.
Temple of Literature
It would be a miss if we don’t mention the Temple of Literature on this list. This charming temple complex in the centre of Hanoi dates back from 1070 and its construction by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong was dedicated to Confucius. Having undergone several times of innovations and upgrades over 1000 years, many more buildings have been added and beautified this large area. This site is now filled with ornate pavilions, shrines, and a rich garden. This well-preserved site of Vietnam’s first university honors Vietnam’s finest scholars and men of literary accomplishment. It has become a rite of passage for graduating doctors to visit The Temple of Literature and the whole place is steeped in Vietnamese history.
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Located in Ba Dinh Districts, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is an intriguing site of Vietnam’s history. This UNESCO World Heritage Site signifis its historical and cultural importance. The most recognizable feature of this site may be the central flag tower which stands 40 metres high and becomes a symbol of Hanoi. This site was once the political centre for eight centuries and was the hub of Vietnamese military power for over 1000 years. Take a visit to this relics and delve into the heroic past of Vietnam with ancient palaces, grandiose pavilions and imperial gates…
Water puppet theature
Watching shows of water puppetry has become an indispensable part of Hanoians and closely associates to the childhood of many individuals. There are several theatres where guests can enjoy this uniquely Vietnamese take on Asia’s puppet tradition. The original – and widely regarded as the best – theatre in town is the Thang Long Puppet Theatre. If you have never enjoy a puppet show before, don’t hesitate to give it a try. Believe me! you will never feel short of your expectations. Puppets dance and slide elegantly over the liquid stage, controlled by a whole troupe of puppet masters hiding behind a screen.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh has left an indelible mark on Vietnamese history and he is revered in Hanoi as the country’s greatest leader. Nicknamed ‘Uncle Ho’ by locals, his preserved body is now laid to rest in a glass case in the Ba Dinh area of Hanoi. This is more than a tourist attraction, it is a part of living history and a visit here stays long in the memory. The sombre building was modeled after Lenin’s mausoleum in Moscow.
The Perfume Pagoda
When mentioning about pagodas in Hanoi, Vietnamese people and even international tourists could normally think of the Perfume Pagoda, a top-visited dramatic temple complex. The construction of the temple is believed to have been first built in the 15th century. This series of Buddhist temples are built into a mountain range in a maze of alleyways carved into the rock with rich forests and flowing streams all around. The journey here will reward your trip in Hanoi and of course offer you a glimpse into Vietnamese culture and ancient architecture. This sacred monument attracts countless number of tourists especially Buddhism followers.
Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple
Hoan Kiem Lake (Sword Lake) is another symbol of Hanoi. Accompanying with Hanoi during the past, Hoan Kiem Lake has seen the significant transformation of Hanoi day by day and has become a central feature of Hanoi. Sword Lake is also a popular hangout spot throughout the day of the locals and tourists. The tranquil beauty of the lake is also adorned by Ngoc Son Temple sitting on a small island in the centre of the lake and linked by a bridge. This attraction is not only a beautiful background for a few photos but also a relaxing place for joggers and couples enjoying the relaxing views across the lake at sunset.
Dong Xuan Market
Being the largest market of its kind in Hanoi, the sprawling complex of Dong Xuan Market features some floors which showcases fashion, apparel and souvenirs at some of the best prices in the city. Even if you have no interested in those stuff, Dong Xuan market is well worth a visit as it is still fascinating to see the comings and goings of throngs of local traders, and there is a wet market on the ground floor where the sights and smells of exotic produce assault the senses.
Hanoi Old Quarter
Your Hanoi tours could be incomplete without going on spree at Hanoi Old Quarter. This fascinating area is where visitors can absorb a number of fine examples of colonial architecture packed along narrow streets. Endless packs of scooters, motorbikes, bicycles and cars weave around traders selling fruit and souvenirs and narrow shop houses sell delicious Vietnamese food for pennies. Take a stroll around the Old Quarter and mingles with stream of people or simply throw yourself in small café shops nestled in the small corner of Hanoi. These are good ways to uncover the Hanoians’ lifestyle and explore Hanoi on the move.
Ba Vi National Park
If you get tired with overloaded working schedules and want to escape from the bustling life, the nature reserve Ba Vi National Park is an ideal escaping sport for you during weekends. Located around two hours (48km) from downtown Hanoi, this spot is well-known for for its three-peaked mountain that juts steeply up into the sky and is often topped by cloud. Stunning beauty, dramatic scenery and a diverse range of jungle plants and animals, you would find a number of things to do and see in Ba Vi National Park. Notably, at the summit of the tallest mountain sits an 11th century temple offering expansive views of the surrounding countryside; and on the forest floor are natural hot springs.
