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 Vietnam's
capital lies on the banks of the Red River, some 100 kilometres
from its mouth. Human settlements here date back as far as the 3rd
century BC. Previously known as Thang Long, it was renamed Hanoi
in 1831 at a time when Hue was the capital. Large areas of present-day
Hanoi were built during the French occupation, reflected in its
broad boulevards and French-inspired architecture, which give the
city a definite charm.
The French abandoned Hanoi after their defeat at Dien Bien Phu.
Ho Chi Minh declared Hanoi the capital of North Vietnam and concentrated
on the expansion of the city's industries. During the US bombardments
from March 1965 to October 1968, 75% of Hanoi's population was evacuated.
The population today exceeds 3 million, but with its spacious layout,
it seems less crowded than Ho Chi Minh City. There are numerous
places in interest to visit including :
 One
Pillar Pagoda - Constructed in 1049 and built on a single stone
pillar just over a metre in diameter, this wooden structure was
destroyed by the French after their defeat in 1954, and rebuilt
by the new government
Temple of Literature - Dating back to 1070, and considered
one of the best preserved and typical examples of traditional Vietnamese
architecture, this was the site of Vietnam's first national university,
before it was moved to Hue in 1802.
Hoan Kiem Lake - Located in the centre of the city, with
a small pagoda in the middle of the lake. It is enjoyed by residents
and tourists alike, as a place for relaxation and recreation.
Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum - The final resting-place of the
great leader, enclosed in a glass sarcophagus. A fascinating place
to ponder his life, as well as observe the reactions of the local
people to his embalmed body. Very strict rules on dress and behavior
apply, and photography is forbidden. The mausoleum is closed for
3 months of the year, normally from September onwards.
Museum of Ho Chiminh - Built in 1990 to commemorate his
100th birthday, the museum is dedicated to his life and his legacy.
Exhibits are not always easy to understand, and a tour with a competent
guide is recommended.
History Museum - Houses articles dating from pre-historic
periods up to 1945. The Imperial days of the Nguyen Dynasty are
particularly well represented.
Art Museum - A compact collection of paintings, sculptures,
ceramics, and hilltribe articles.
Military Museum - Displays and memorabilia of the wars against
France and the USA. There is an interesting model of the President's
house at the time of the fall of Saigon. Adequate explanations in
English.
Maison Central - Once the site of a huge prison nicknamed
the "Hanoi Hilton" by US POWs, the remaining small museum
contains numerous objects reflecting the anti-French movement, including
torture instruments and a guillotine.
Revolutionary Museum - Documents the wars against French
& American forces. Small, but with many original and interesting
exhibits.
 Water
Puppet Theatre - Authentic renditions of traditional performances
held in Vietnamese villages since the tenth century. The puppets
dive and swim in water, accompanied by music & songs with stories
based on folk tales. Very entertaining. Puppets are small, so it's
better to buy first-class tickets from guesthouses or tourist cafes
(same price), but you have to go to the theatre to reserve your
seat (if possible a few days in advance)
The Old Quarter - A giant maze of narrow streets, and bustling
centre of individual shops and traders, selling anything and everything.
If you like soaking up local atmosphere, a whole day here is hardy
enough.
Hanoi Opera House - Recently renovated, this splendid 900-seat
structure was built in 1911, and features regular performances.
St.Joseph's Cathedral - Imposing neo-Gothic building dating
back to 1886, with superb stained glass windows and elaborate altar.
Hanoi Zoo - In addition to the animals, it is also a relaxing
park, with ponds, verdant grassy stretches, and cool shaded areas.
Excursions outside Hanoi
The Perfume Pagoda - some 60 km. southwest of Hanoi, and
reached by road and scenic boat ride, this complex of pagodas built
into limestone cliffs and inside caves, is considered one of the
most beautiful sites in the country, and should not be missed.
Museum of Ethnology - considered a must for anybody interested
in the country's rich heritage, this impressive and well-arranged
display of some 15,000 exhibits collected from all over the country
reflects the myriad facets of Vietnamese culture. It also serves
as a centre for ethnological research.
Handicraft Villages - There are several handicraft villages
worth visiting around Hanoi, including the silk weaving village
of Van Phuc, the ceramic centre at Bat Trang, and the furniture
making village of Dong Ky. Of culinary interest is the snake-breeding
village of Le Mat, with several restaurants cooking the serpents
to order.
Ba Vi National Park - Located about 65 km. west of Hanoi,
this centre contains numerous species of rare plants, and offers
trekking opportunities up to the 1287-metre summit, which provides
superb panoramic views of the Red River Valley. A guesthouse is
available for overnight stays.
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