THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam’s Hung Kings Day, an important cultural event honoring the country’s founders, was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the nation. With the holiday falling on a Monday this year, many locals and travelers took advantage of the long weekend, combining traditional activities with short trips abroad.
Hanoi’s Thang Long Imperial Citadel, dating back to the 11th century. Photo: Chuyen cua Ha Noi Page
According to Booking.com, Hanoi ranks 6th among the top 10 domestic destinations for Vietnamese travelers over the holiday period of April 4-7, 2025.
Elaine Cheung, an Australian expat based in Hanoi, shared her love for the city’s rich cultural depth with The Hanoi Times. She noted, “Hanoi is dotted with pagodas, big and small, hidden in quiet corners,” emphasizing the sense of tranquility evoked by these spiritual landmarks. Hanoi’s impressive collection of over 130 Buddhist temples, surviving through various historical eras, offers a unique insight into the city’s past.
Iconic pagodas such as the Tran Quoc Pagoda on the shores of the legendary West Lake and the nearby Tay Ho Palace provide a glimpse into Hanoi’s spiritual heritage. Other landmarks like the Thien Nien Pagoda and Lien Phai Pagoda further enhance the city’s allure.
A flower vendor adds a pop of color to Hanoi’s streets. Photo: Chuyen cua Ha Noi Page
Renowned urban planning expert and architect, Pham Thuy Loan, expressed her admiration for Hanoi’s unique beauty and livability. She highlighted the city’s diverse range of free arts and cultural offerings, including movies, music, lectures, and exhibitions at various cultural centers such as the Vincom Center for Contemporary Art and the Vietnam Fine Art Museum.
For those seeking a more vibrant experience, Hanoi’s bustling nightlife and lively Hoan Kiem Lake Pedestrian area offer a range of options. The historic Old Quarter, with its vibrant bars, and the captivating street art performances across the city cater to a variety of tastes and interests.
Recently, the area around Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square on Hoan Kiem Lake has become a popular spot for tourists eager to capture photos of the iconic Shark Jaw building before its scheduled demolition to make way for a new, greener public space.
As Vietnam’s cultural and educational hub, Hanoi also presents abundant opportunities for learning, research, and personal growth. The city’s diverse social fabric ensures an inclusive environment, welcoming people from all walks of life.
Tran Quoc Pagoda, set against the serene backdrop of West Lake. Photo: Chuyen cua Ha Noi Page
In addition to its cultural wealth, Hanoi boasts stunning natural beauty. The city is surrounded by lush greenery, peaceful rivers, and tranquil lakes, providing a refreshing escape from urban life. Hanoi’s iconic tree-lined streets further enhance its picturesque charm.
No visit to Hanoi is complete without exploring its renowned cuisine. Street food enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of options, from the famous Pho bo (beef noodle soup) and Bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli) to the classic Banh mi (Vietnamese-style baguette). Hanoi’s culinary scene offers an authentic taste of Vietnam, and starting the day with a cup of iced coffee or the unique egg coffee is a local favorite.
Hanoi, with its rich cultural and historical offerings, is part of a growing trend in Vietnam’s tourism industry. Other popular destinations for the Hung Kings Commemoration Day include Danang, Dalat, Vung Tau, Hue, Phu Quoc, Hoi An, and Mui Ne, each offering its unique coastal charm, historical significance, or natural beauty.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking new experiences, Hanoi promises an unforgettable journey that captures the essence of Vietnam.
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