Discover the Most Famous Sightseeing Attractions of Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, pulsates with energy and culture, with countless historical, cultural, and culinary landmarks to visit. The city is a blend of traditional and modern, with a rich history and stunning architecture. There is no better way to immerse yourself in the charm and bustling atmosphere of Hanoi than by visiting its most famous sightseeing attractions. In this blog post, we highlight the must-visit places that give a glimpse into Hanoi’s culture, history, and way of life.

Hoan Kiem Lake and Ngoc Son Temple

A visit to Hanoi is incomplete without visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, which means “Lake of the Returned Sword” in Vietnamese. According to legend, the Emperor of Jade gave Emperor Ly the magic sword to fight the Chinese invaders in the 15th century. After winning the battle, the Golden Turtle God took away the sword to the lake’s depths. Today, the lake symbolizes peace, and locals come here to relax, exercise or watch street performances.On the lake, there is a tiny island connected by a red wooden bridge called The Huc Bridge. That bridge leads to Ngoc Son Temple, which was built in the 18th century to honor a military leader and scholar. The temple houses several artifacts of Vietnam’s past, including a giant turtle shell, a mummified giant fish, and ancient Buddhist statues. Visitors can also climb the temple’s five-story wooden tower for an incredible view of the lake.

Hanoi Old Quarter

The Hanoi Old Quarter, known as the 36 streets, is the heart and soul of the city. It dates back to the 13th century and is a maze of narrow streets, traditional buildings, small shops, and tasty street food. While strolling around the quarter, visitors can see the daily life of locals, artisans crafting their goods, and temples and pagodas charmingly hidden in the back streets. Some of the most famous streets are Hang Bac (silverware), Hang Gai (silk), and Hang Ma (paper goods), selling specialized items for many generations.One of the best ways to explore the Old Quarter is by biking or taking a cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle taxi). Visitors can also buy handmade souvenirs such as lacquerware, embroidery, and bamboo products.

Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, was founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. It is dedicated to Confucius, scholars, and literary achievements. The temple has five courtyards, beautiful gardens, and pavilions for studying and relaxing. Visitors can see the massive stone turtle steles engraved with names of graduates, as well as statues of Confucius, his four disciples, and his ten best students.The Temple of Literature is also surrounded by streets selling calligraphy and souvenirs, making it a great destination for those who want to get a better understanding of Vietnamese culture.

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a massive granite building located in the Ba Dinh Square, where President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence on September 2nd, 1945. The building houses the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh, the father of modern Vietnam. Visitors can see Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body lying in a glass case and pay respect to the man who led the country to independence.Depending on the season, the line to enter can be long, so visitors should wear conservative clothing and be respectful. There are strict regulations in place, including no photography, talking, or pointing.

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is an iconic Hanoi attraction and one of Vietnam’s oldest art forms. It dates back to the 11th century in the Red River Delta as a tradition of the wet rice civilization. The puppet show depicts rural life, folklore, and legend, accompanied by live traditional music.Each puppet is made from wood and lacquered, and performances take place in a shallow pool. Visitors can see puppets dancing and interacting with each other, dragons breathing fire, and farmers harvesting rice. The show is a lovely way to learn about local traditions and immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.

Conclusion

Hanoi is a vibrant and bustling city with a long history and a multitude of cultural landmarks that will catch your eyes and your heart. The attractions listed in this blog post provide a glimpse into the city’s culture, traditions, and way of life. Visitors can admire picturesque landscapes, learn about the country’s history and enjoy delicious traditional dishes. To make the most of your trip to Hanoi, explore these famous landmarks off the beaten track, embrace the local culture, and create unforgettable memories.