Hanoi, Vietnam: Everything You Need to Know
Hanoi is a vibrant, fascinating and culturally diverse capital city, combining history with modernity. You will find an eclectic mix of colonial European buildings, Buddhist temples and Chinese-style pagodas here. If you’re a traveler looking for a place with delicious food combined with a lively modern life experience, then this city is a must-visit for you.
Links Travel and Tours will share everything you need to know about the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi and some popular sites to visit.
HISTORY
Founded in 1009 by the Ly dynasty, the city of Thang Long became the capital of Vietnam. From there, it became an important administrative and cultural center for Vietnam until 1802 when it was moved south to Hue. Initially known as Thang Long (meaning “the river where there is a bridge to heaven”), Hanoi was officially founded in 1831 by the Nguyen dynasty.
After the Vietnam War (1959 – 1975), Hanoi became the capital of a Socialist Republic of Vietnam and lasted during the War (1955 – 1975). When North and South Vietnam were reunified in 1975, Hanoi became the capital of a Socialist Republic of Vietnam. From 1975-2002, there was a period of violent conflict known as The First Indochina War (1946 – 1954).
The success of Hanoi in overcoming the socio-economic problems and adapting to the market economy is due to four major factors. Firstly, Hanoi has an infrastructure system with five main transport routes, including bridges, airports and railways which all help facilitate transportation and trade. Secondly, the city has a highly developed land supply system which includes a variety of housing types from low-rent subsidized and subsidized apartments to high-income houses which encourage people to move into the city. Thirdly, it has an efficient civil administration system with highly trained cadres that can provide for public needs. Lastly, it has a strong cultural background as a great national and regional capital city.
POPULATION
The city of Hanoi is one of the fastest-growing cities in Asia, with an estimated population of 6.5 million for the year 2022. The city is experiencing significant growth due to economic growth, international investment, and domestic migration.
CULTURE
The culture of Vietnam is one of the oldest in the world and has changed considerably over the past nearly 4,000 years. Trieu, Dinh, Ly, Tran, and Le Dynasties are included in the history of Vietnam. about at the same time as the Chinese dynasties of the Han, Duong, Tong, and Nguyen. Some people claim that Chinese culture has influenced Vietnamese culture, yet a study demonstrates that Vietnamese culture has its own distinctive characteristics and has developed in a manner that is similar to that of China.
Vietnamese culture received European influences, such as Catholicism and architecture, during the French colonial period in the middle of the 19th century. Four holy animals, including dragons, turtles, phoenixes, unicorns, and lotuses, are significant cultural symbols.
Just like other countries, there are several beliefs and traditions that are unique on their own. Links Travel and Tours is going to give you three important Vietnamese cultures to keep in mind before setting your foot on Vietnam.
1. Social Beliefs and Custom
Family is very important in Vietnam. Members of a family often live together and members of the same clan are related by blood. They will name their villages based on the clan names. They hold death commemorations for clan members and almost everyone participates in these ceremonies.
Vietnamese people cherish their family and culture deeply. They believe in the goodness and worth of life and take good care of their elderly parents. Food is their first priority and they will always celebrate if they have food to offer guests. If they go to a wedding of a neighbor, they probably knew someone in the family or knew more than one family member. Chinese culture is important for Vietnamese people and no matter what the occasion, people will wear a traditional costume sold in Chinatowns or at local markets.
2. Religion and Philosophy
In Vietnam, Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist practices coexist in the culture. Buddhism is the religion of most Vietnamese, but even non-Buddhists pray to their ancestors and honor them through temple worship.
3. Cuisine
The ingredients in Vietnamese food vary regionally. Some dishes contain no meat or poultry at all and the use of spices is pronounced. Tomato, green chilies and salted fish are products of the central-eastern coastal areas and are served with rice; bamboo shoots come from the southern mountains and vinegar and pineapple are consumed by those in the north. The flavors of Vietnamese food range from spicy and sour to sweet.
Vietnam’s most famous dish is pho, a beef noodle soup that originated from northern China in the early days of Vietnam. The dish is often called “the mother of all soups” for good reason: It features a perfect balance of broth, noodles and meat. For tips on how to make the perfect pho, check out our classic recipe below.
If you want to explore more about Vietnamese culture, Links Travel and Tours has tours and packages that ensure you will be immersed in their culture.
POPULAR SITES TO VISIT
Links Travel and Tours have chosen a handful of the attractions and activities that you absolutely must take part in while visiting Hanoi. Take a look at the list below.
1. Explore the Old Quarter
The Old Quarter is the heart and soul of old Hanoi. It’s here where you’ll find a slice of authentic Hanoi life told through its historical architecture, exploring Vietnamese culture and traditions such as music, dance and cuisine. Our tours to Vietnam at Links Travel and Tours include this wonderful place in the itinerary.
2. Walk Around the Hoan Kiem Lake
Taking a leisurely stroll across the Hoan Kiem Lake is a perfect way to explore Hanoi. Locals will tell you that the mythological turtle still swims here, although you can also spot real-life turtles here when you visit. The views across the lake are worth a visit too – it’s one of the most stunning spots in Hanoi.
3. Visit the Museum of Ethnology
(Photo by: Rungbachduong)
The Museum of Ethnology has an impressive collection of art and artifacts that reflect the lives of ordinary people in Vietnam. If you’re interested in history and culture, this is your place to be.
4. See a Water Puppet Theater Show
Hanoi’s water puppet show is a unique Vietnamese art form. The puppets elegantly glide over the liquid stage, controlled by an ingenious troupe of puppet masters hiding behind a screen. These shows are simply amazing and you will want to see every show!
5. Discover the Temple of Literature
The Temple of Literature in Hanoi is a stunning example of ancient architecture and an absolutely must-see for tourists. The temple was originally built in dedication to Confucius, but now numerous chapels and annexes have been added over the centuries. It’s located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and makes an excellent travel destination for anyone wanting to experience some history with their sightseeing.
NEARBY PLACES TO VISIT
If you have more time and want to explore other places, Links Travel and Tours would recommend these three places close to Hanoi that are worth visiting.
1. Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh was once a wilderness setting known only to locals but has now become one of the most visited spots in Vietnam. The area is filled with gorgeous scenery and is an ideal location if you’re looking for somewhere to get off the beaten track and away from the crowds. If you haven’t discovered Ninh Binh yet, then it’s time to head down south and take a look at the wonderland that lies hidden away in the mountains!
2. Pu Luong
To people who appreciate nature and tranquility, Pu Luong is a hidden paradise. Its lush forests, crystal-clear streams and little-known ethnic Thai villages are the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.
3. Mu Cang Chai
Visit Mu Cang Chai for an unforgettable experience of Vietnam that would make you fall in love with this country even more. This beautiful province is known to have the most breath-taking rice paddies in Asia, and a few places around Hanoi can give you beautiful views of them. The beauty of these rice fields is well worth a visit!
We hope this helps you know more about the capital city of Vietnam, Hanoi. When you travel to Vietnam, don’t miss out on experiencing all that the capital has to offer! If you have more time, then do visit suggested places by Links Travel and Tours that are just a few hours away from the capital.
If you’re planning to visit Vietnam in the future and looking for an itinerary that includes several of our recommended attractions, we at Links Travel and Tours are happy to help. Reach out to us through this email: info@linkstravelandtours.co.uk. We want you to have an amazing time on your trip!