|
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.
|
