The site where Hanoi is located has long been inhabited – in fact it’s been in the same location since the Neolithic period. For a bit of history – the Emperor Ly Thai To moved his whole capital here in AD 1010 and named the spot the City of the Soaring Dragon, or Thang Long. This is just one of the names though – and over the centuries of Hanoi being in this spot, it has been known by many different names including Dong Kinh (The Eastern Capital) and was christened Hanoi – which means The City in the Bend of the River – by the Emperor Tu Duc in 1831. After this period of time, Hanoi was the capital of French Indochina from 1902 until 1953. After the happenings of the August Revolution in 1945, Hanoi was the capital of Vietnam. During the American War, the bombings inflicted on the area caused damage to buildings and also killed hundreds of citizens. One of the prime targets for the bombers was the Long Bien Bridge – a stunning structure that was created under the same architect that designed the Eiffel Tower! While the bombers from the United States forces repeatedly attacked the bridge, the Vietnamese were able to fix it to the point where they could resume the service over the bridge. According to history, the attacks only stopped when the Americans realised that United States prisoners of war were being used to repair the bridge. Now the town is a bustling hub, and while the citizens of this city remember their past, they look forward to the future with optimism and pride about their stunning coastal home. You can explore with Travezl Packages for Hanoi, and we’re going to take a look at a few great reasons why you need to add Hanoi to your Vietnam bucket list.
The Thang Long Imperial City
This is a fascinating part of the history of Vietnam and is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And rightfully so! With the stunning central flag tower sitting at an imposing 40 metres high, this is often used as the symbol of Hanoi. You’ll find that the centre of ancient Hanoi also was the political centre for eight centuries.
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
No trip to Hanoi would be complete without a visit to the final resting place of the glorious leader, Ho Chi Minh. The mark that he made on Vietnam is without equal, and now this tourist attraction is a true part of history.
The Hoan Kiem Lake
Enjoy a trip to Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake (which means Turtle Lake) and hang out with the locals (and tourists). There’s a beautiful temple on a small island in the middle of the lake which is linked by a bridge, and around sunset this place really comes into its own. Enjoy the sights, do some exercise, or simply hang out with your partner, family or travelling companions.
The Perfume Pagoda
This dramatic complex was crafted in the 15th century and is around 60km from Hanoi proper. Take the journey by car or bus, and then travel by boat to the foot of the mountains.
Enjoy the Dong Xuan Market
This market is the biggest one of its kind in Hanoi! With floors and floors of every kind of fashion, you’ll enjoy the comings and goings of the traders and be able to see this hub of activity in its natural state.
While these are just five beautiful sights to see, rest assured that there are a whole host of other reasons for you to go and check out Hanoi. Don’t delay – get online and book your tickets now. You’ll love it.
