Modelled after the Palais Garnier in Paris, it is one of the most famous architecture landmark in town. There're always touts selling tickets in front of the door right on the day of the performance.
The temple was first constructed in 1070 and in English, it means the Temple of Literature and considered by many Vietnamese as the first university in Vietnam
One should never miss walking around Hoan Kiem when in Hanoi. you can see old folks doing tai chi & qi gong in the morning and around sunset. the willow and bending trees make for a good background
should go for a walk to experience Hanoian's life: crowded streets, small alleys, taste many kind of foods, cheap "bia hoi" (beer), night market...
A romantic half bridge leading to the temple provides the best picture-perfect background to Hoan Kiem.
Well worth the visit! Quite eerie as this was the place where Vietnamese independence fighters & later US pilots were imprisoned. Even US senator John McCain was confined here.
A beautiful exhibition of the poetry and inspiration of innovation in this mans life. Closed on Monday and Friday
You can visit the pagoda mausoleum & museum in 1 visit as it is in the same compound. This pagoda is famous for people who wish for a baby boy, they'd come put their offerings & touch the stone lotus.
An interesting place to learn about Vietnam's 54 ethnic minority groups. Don't miss the reconstruction of their unique old houses.
A must-try, classic lunch fare in Vietnam. It consists of grilled pork submerged in fish sauce &fresh rice vermicelli.This is the 2nd location of the famous Hàng Mành & is much cleaner & less crowded.
Another vermicelli dish you can only have in Hanoi. Slices of eggs, chicken, & grounded meat a little shredded shrimp in chicken stock make a surprisingly simple meal. Recommended for breakfast/lunch.
Sticky rice restaurant where you can pick what do you want to eat with it like red Chinese sausages, chicken, French pâté. Try the yellow sticky rice with dried onions & any toppings + soy milk.
This street sell a plethora of decorations for every holiday that is coming up and paper offerings & hell money notes. You can see paper houses, cars, horses, even the latest iPad and iPhones...
