THE HANOI TIMES — As the clock struck midnight, Hanoi awoke to a serene New Year’s Day, a stark contrast to its usual bustling energy. The city, known for its vibrant chaos, embraced a rare tranquility on January 1st, 2026.
The streets, typically buzzing with motorbikes, were instead graced by a gentle flow of pedestrians, bathed in the soft glow of morning light.
New Year’s Day 2026 brings an unprecedented calm to Hanoi’s streets. Photos: Duy Khanh/The Hanoi Times
Free from traffic jams and street vendors, Hanoi’s streets exude a minimalist, almost zen-like atmosphere.
Vibrant red and yellow flags adorn empty boulevards, transforming familiar intersections into serene, artistic vistas.
Residents stroll through the city at a leisurely pace, capturing moments with their cameras or simply savoring the tranquility.
Some seize the opportunity to exercise on major roads, usually congested, now unusually clear.
Others pause to capture decorative displays welcoming the upcoming Lunar Year of the Horse.
Daily life unfolds against an uncommon backdrop, a rare sight in the bustling capital.
Hanoi’s Party Secretary Unveils Key Priorities for Sustainable Growth in 2026
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi Party Committee Secretary Nguyen Duy Ngoc has unveiled 12 critical initiatives to drive the city’s 2026 agenda: “Discipline and Professionalism – Breakthrough and Innovation – Efficiency and Sustainability.” Aerial view of Hanoi’s Thang Long Boulevard, linking central districts to the capital’s western region. Photo: Pham Hung/The Hanoi Times Addressing Hanoi’s […]
Hanoi Unveils 73 New Local Specialties in Expanded OCOP Initiative
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi has bolstered its One Commune One Product (OCOP) Program for 2025 by certifying 73 new products, further solidifying the city’s commitment to promoting local specialties, preserving traditional crafts, and expanding market opportunities for premium rural goods. Hanoi’s OCOP products showcased at a local trade fair. Photo: Tung Nguyen/The Hanoi Times […]
Securing Hanoi’s School Entrances: A Response to Escalating Traffic Challenges
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi is intensifying its efforts to enhance safety at school gates, addressing the escalating traffic congestion around educational institutions. Authorities are urging students and parents to adhere strictly to traffic regulations, safeguarding both themselves and others on the road. This critical message was delivered by Nguyen Thi Thanh Thuy, Chief of […]
Enchanting Lights Illuminate Hoan Kiem Lake as Hanoi Celebrates Christmas and New Year
THE HANOI TIMES — On December 24, the captivating illumination of Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower marked the beginning of Hanoi’s cultural and artistic festivities, welcoming Christmas and the 2026 New Year. The mesmerizing light display transforms the lake into a nocturnal cultural haven during the festive season, fostering a warm, serene, and contemplative […]
Hanoi: The Global Gateway for Vietnam’s OCOP Products
THE HANOI TIMES — Hanoi is solidifying its position as the premier gateway for Vietnam’s One Commune-One Product (OCOP) goods to access global markets, according to Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee. Quyen emphasized Hanoi’s leadership role during the ongoing national OCOP promotion festival, held at the UNESCO-recognized Thang Long Imperial […]
