Hanoi Old Quarter
Guides and Tips for Travelers
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Welcome to the vibrant and historic Hanoi Old Quarter, also known as the “36 Streets” With a captivating history spanning over 1,000 years, this iconic area has been the residential, manufacturing, and commercial center of Hanoi. Its origins can be traced back to the 11th century when King Ly Thai To built his palace in the area. Over time, the small workshop villages around the palace walls evolved into craft cooperatives, creating a unique cooperative system for trade. Today, the Old Quarter stands as a testament to Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the city.
The Old Quarter is located in Hoan Kiem district right in the center of Hanoi, nestled between the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake and the bustling commercial area. The small winding streets here are not accessible by car, making the Old Quarter a walker’s paradise. Map of Hanoi Old Quarter:
The area can be easily reached by taxi or local bus from Noi Bai International Airport, which is 45km away. You can also take the metro or a local bus if you are coming from other districts in Hanoi.
Once in the Old Quarter, the best way to explore is on foot or by bicycle. Be sure to bring a map to navigate the myriad of streets spreading out from the heart of the district.
The Old Quarter’s roots can be traced back to the 11th century under the reign of King Ly Thai To. He chose this area to build his palace, which attracted skilled craftsmen from surrounding villages to settle nearby. The small workshop villages eventually formed craft cooperatives or guilds, which became the backbone of the Quarter’s economic structure.
One fascinating aspect of the Old Quarter is the unique and homogeneous look of its streets. Each street in the Quarter was inhabited by people from the same village, creating a sense of close-knit communities within the larger city. As a result, the houses and buildings in each street developed a similar architectural style.
The buildings, commonly called “tube houses,” earned their nickname due to their long and narrow structure. These buildings were typically three meters wide but stretched up to 60 meters in length. The narrowness of the houses was partly influenced by a tax system based on the width of the storefront. Consequently, the houses became elongated to minimize the tax burden on the residents.
Apart from its economic significance, the Old Quarter also holds a rich religious heritage. When craftsmen and traders migrated to the area, they brought with them their temples, pagodas, and communal houses. Each guild had its own religious structures, dedicated to honoring its patron saint or founder.
While many of the old temples have been transformed into shops and living quarters, they still retain the architectural features that showcase their religious roots. The traditional roofs, intricate carvings, and ornate decorations on these structures serve as a reminder of the vibrant cultural and religious history of the Old Quarter.
In 1995, the Vietnamese Ministry of Construction officially recognized the extent of the Hanoi Old Quarter. This recognition solidified the Quarter’s status as a historical and cultural gem within the city. The area is distinguished by its distinct architecture, narrow streets, and bustling markets, making it a vibrant and lively part of Hanoi.
The heart of Hanoi, Vietnam lies within its charming Old Quarter – a historic district bustling with culture, cuisine and sights. This guide will highlight the top attractions in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and provide tips to help you make the most of your visit to this enchanting part of Vietnam’s capital.
No visit to Hanoi is complete without a stroll around scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. Walk along the shores, crossing the iconic Huc Bridge and admire views of Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Islet. Early risers can join locals doing tai chi and aerobics on the shore. At night, the lights from the temple reflect mystically on the water.
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Dedicated wholly to printing and paper products, Hang Ma street is overflowing with paper crafted into every form imaginable – from colorful fans and lanterns to intricate paper flowers. Pop into the small craft stores and workshops producing reams of traditional Vietnamese dó paper and inspired works of art.
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Lose yourself in the finer textiles along Hang Gai street, commonly known as Silk Street. Peruse through mounds of silk in vibrant colors and intricate designs. Have tailored ao dai, Vietnam’s elegant national dress, made within 24 hours in your choice of style and color.
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Once a detention center housing Vietnamese revolutionaries during French colonial rule, Hoa Lo Prison now serves as a museum providing context into Vietnam’s struggle for independence. Most of the complex has been demolished, but remnants of the thought-provoking site remain.
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With towering spires visible from afar, the Gothic-style St. Joseph’s Cathedral stands in stunning contrast to traditional Vietnamese architecture. The Roman Catholic church was built in 1886 with materials imported from France, featuring intricate interior details and stained glass not commonly found elsewhere in Hanoi.
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Escape the bustling Old Quarter streets with a visit to sacred Ngoc Son Temple, located on a little island in scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. The Buddhist temple boasts lovely views of the Jade Isle as well as numerous religious relics, artwork and architecture to admire.
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When the sun goes down, the Old Quarter transforms into a lively street bazaar centered around Hang Dao, Dong Xuan and Hang Ngang streets. Vendors hawk everything from souvenirs to snacks to clothing. Test your bargaining skills while taking in the electric atmosphere.
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The massive Dong Xuan Market has been a trading hub for centuries, now housing mainly wholesalers on the upper floors and retailers on the lower floors. It’s the perfect place to source Vietnamese handicrafts, textiles, homewares and souvenirs at local prices.
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When night falls, Ta Hien comes alive as the place to see and be seen while sipping on bia hoi (fresh beer) that’s cheaper than water. Grab a stool at one of the low plastic tables spilling out from the countless bars and make new friends while taking in the boisterous atmosphere.
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Ask any local for recommendations on the tastiest street food in Hanoi Old Quarter and your mouth will certainly be filled with delicious options. From aromatic pho noodle soup to Vietnamese style baguette sandwiches called banh mi, the streets here are crammed with stalls and stores selling fast bites.
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See a more tranquil side of the Old Quarter with a visit to Nguyen Huu Huan street, lined with charming Vietnamese shophouses now occupied by hip cafes, tea shops and art spaces. Pop into a cafe balcony for views overlooking the street below while sipping ca phe trung (egg coffee) or Vietnamese iced tea.
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No foodie tour of Hanoi is complete without tasting iconic Trang Tien ice cream, sold from a tiny storefront along Trang Tien street. With specialties like coconut and durian ice cream, as well as unique options like tomato and chocolate chili, one serving is never enough!
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For a taste of traditional Vietnamese entertainment, catch a contemporary or traditional water puppet show at acclaimed Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. Marvel at the skillful puppeteers manipulating intricate wooden puppets in a waist-deep pool to bring Vietnamese folk stories and legends to life.
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Here are the Top Hanoi restaurants, spots for delicious and authentic Vietnamese cuisine in Hanoi’s Old Quarter:
Hanoi Old Quarter has accommodation options aplenty. Stay right in the thick of things or just on the fringe for easier access to attractions.
The history of Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a captivating tale that takes us back over 1,000 years. From its humble origins as small workshop villages surrounding the palace walls, it has evolved into a vibrant and bustling center of culture, commerce, and craftsmanship. With its unique architecture, narrow streets, and bustling markets, the Old Quarter offers a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage.
Boasting historical landmarks, vibrant commerce, mouthwatering food and enchanting sights, Hanoi’s atmospheric Old Quarter charms visitors with its heady mix of past and present. Follow this guide to uncover the best attractions in this historic heart of Vietnam’s capital. With endless highlights housed in the winding 36 ancient streets, prepare to lose yourself to the magic of the Old Quarter.