Vietnam
Hanoi
Welcome to Vietnam! Hanoi is the country's capital, a lively city over a thousand years old where narrow Old Quarter streets, a peaceful lake with its own legend, and ancient temples sit right alongside busy modern life.
Why is it famous?
Hanoi is one of the oldest capital cities in Southeast Asia, founded more than 1,000 years ago.
Its Old Quarter has 36 winding streets, each one traditionally named for the craft once sold there, like Silk Street or Silver Street.
How was it built?
The city grew up along the banks of the Red River, which brought traders, farmers, and fresh soil for growing rice.
In 1070, the Temple of Literature was founded as Vietnam's very first national university, and it's still standing today.
Amazing facts
The Temple of Literature honored Vietnam's top scholars by carving their names onto stone tablets that still stand today.
Hoan Kiem means 'Lake of the Returned Sword,' named after a legend about a magic blade.
Quick facts
- The Temple of Literature honored Vietnam's top scholars by carving their names onto stone tablets that still stand today.
- Hoan Kiem means 'Lake of the Returned Sword,' named after a legend about a magic blade.
- The Old Quarter's streets are so old that some have been selling the same craft for over 500 years.
- Hanoi's night markets fill with sizzling street food stalls selling pho, Vietnam's famous noodle soup, said to have been invented right here.