Hanoi’s historical landmarks and relics are embracing digital transformation, offering visitors enhanced experiences with advanced technologies.
A notable example is the Huong Son Special Relic Complex (Huong Pagoda), where The Hanoi Times reporter, Nguyen Huy Tien, witnessed a significant shift. “No more crowds or chaos at the annual Huong Pagoda Festival. The digitalization of services has streamlined festival-going, combining entrance, boat, and ferry fees into a single electronic ticket sold via QR codes,” Tien shared.
“The digital tickets make my family feel safer and more comfortable, eliminating worries about being overcharged,” he added.
Located 60 kilometers southwest of Hanoi’s center, the Huong Son Special Relic Complex, a national relics site since 2017, has undergone a remarkable transformation. The longest festival in Vietnam, the Huong Pagoda Festival, spans three vibrant months, from early February to May 1, captivating visitors with its unique traditions.
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Visitors scanning electronic tickets at the entrance of the Huong Pagoda Festival 2025. Photo: The Management of the Huong Son Special Relic Complex |
Dang Van Canh, Vice Chairman of My Duc District People’s Committee and head of the festival’s organizing committee, highlighted the convenience of the new system: “For the 2025 festival, we’ve combined entrance and boat fees into a single ticket. We have 4,000 boats equipped with life jackets, garbage bins, umbrellas, and free drinking water. Each boatman has a QR code for easy feedback on their service.”
The festival also prioritizes visitor safety with first aid stations in high-traffic areas and visibly displayed ticket prices. A mobile application enriches the experience, offering a schedule, map, F&B details, and weather forecast. The virtual tour guide function reduces pressure on staff while enhancing the visitor experience.
“Our focus is on providing a safe, enjoyable experience for all, creating a joyful atmosphere for spring revelers,” emphasized Canh.
Digital technology has also enhanced festival logistics and performances. The 236th anniversary of the Ngoc Hoi Victory in Dong Da District featured a semi-realistic art program with 3D lighting technology, captivating audiences with a modern twist. Nguyen Thanh Tung, Vice Chairman of the Dong Da District People’s Committee, noted the impact of technology: “Visitor numbers doubled this year due to our modern approach.”
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A semi-realistic art program with 3D lighting technology captivates audiences at the Ngoc Hoi Victory Festival in Dong Da District, Hanoi. Photo: Pham Hung/The Hanoi Times |
The Tay Ho District People’s Committee has implemented digital technology for vehicle parking at Tay Ho Palace, moving towards cashless payments. Visitors scan QR codes to pay entrance fees and learn about the site’s history. This approach has improved visitor management and price control.
At the Ha Communal House – Pagoda Spiritual Relic Site in Cau Giay District, QR codes at the entrance provide convenient access to festival information. Mai Luong, a first-time visitor from Ha Long City, shared, “Despite the crowds, the visit was orderly. The QR code made it easy to find information.”
Hanoi’s festival season showcases over 1,500 festivals, most occurring early in the year. Pham Xuan Tai, Deputy Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports, noted, “Localities are enhancing communication on civilized festival rules, hygiene, food safety, fire prevention, security, and technology integration to attract tourists.”
Technology has proven essential in reducing organizer pressure, improving visitor experiences, and preserving cultural values. Vu Thu Ha, Deputy Chairwoman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, emphasized the city’s commitment to smart tourism: “We aim to develop smart tourism with digital transformation, gaining a competitive edge nationally and regionally.”
“Hanoi is focused on creating a sustainable tourism environment, ensuring infrastructure and hygiene at scenic spots,” Ha added. “In 2024, the city hosted over 3,000 cultural, artistic, and sports events, including the Hanoi Creative Design Festival, which attracted experts, young designers, and 300,000 visitors. We’ve also established a Coordination Center for Creative Spaces to cultivate creativity.”
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International visitors explore creative designs at the Hanoi Creative Design Festival 2024. Photo: Lai Tan/The Hanoi Times |
Hanoi’s tourism sector thrived in 2024, welcoming 27 million visitors, a 12% increase. International visits surged by over 34%, with revenue exceeding VND110 trillion (US$4.32 billion). The city has been recognized as a leading global and Asian destination by the World Tourism Organization since 2022 and was named Vietnam’s top cultural destination in 2024.
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