Hanoi is the capital of Vietnam and it is a place that every traveler should not miss when traveling to Vietnam. There are 6 unusual things to do in Hanoi to be far away from the touristy places. 

Salute The Flag At Ba Dinh Square And Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Profound Meaning Behind The Flag-Raising Ceremony

The flag-saluting ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is a somber ceremony honoring President Ho Chi Minh and also a sacred moment expressing the people's absolute trust in the Party and the State, uniting one heart and arousing national pride.

The Proceeding Process Of The Flag-Raising Ceremony

The flag-hoisting ceremony takes place daily at 6 AM in the hot season (from 1/4 to 31/10) and starts at 6:30 AM in the cold season (from 1/11 to 31/3). 

The flag delegation emerged from behind President Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, led by the military flag of the PAVN and a 34-squadron representing the first soldiers of the Vietnam Liberation Propaganda Team. Marching to the song “Advance Under the Banner of the Army,” they reached the foot of the flagpole.

Three soldiers then prepared for the flag-raising ceremony as the mausoleum doors opened. Upon receiving the signal, the flag was hoisted atop the 29-meter-high flagpole to the sound of the National Anthem. Following the ceremony, the squad walked around the mausoleum’s entrance, concluding the event. A similar flag-lowering ceremony occurs daily at 9:00 PM.

Sidenotes Tourists Should Know Before Attending The Ceremony

Costumes: Costumes at Uncle Ho's mausoleum should be discreet clothes and polite, elegant colors; two-string shirts, open-back, shoulder-length shirts, or shorts are considered inappropriate.

Vehicle parking: If commuting by motorbike, you can easily park the vehicle outside at Ong Ich Khiem Street, opposite the Lang Command, or at No. 19 Ngoc Ha Street.

Time: Because the flag ceremony takes place at 6 AM (in the summer) and 6:30 AM (in the winter), regardless of the weather, you need to be there at this exact time to admire this solemn ceremony!

Respect the atmosphere:The flag-hoisting ritual of Uncle Ho is extremely sacred, so visitors need to keep order and not make noise that affects those around them or the ceremony.

Strolling On The Most Poetic Street In Hanoi, Phan Dinh Phung Street.

What Is Special About This Street?

Phan Dinh Phung Street is located in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. The street has a total length of about 1.5 km, starting from Mai Xuan Thuong to Hang Cot Street, and is the intersection of many other key routes in Hanoi. Phan Dinh Phung Street has a row of hundred-year-old dracontomelon trees and milkwood pine flower trees. The road is saturated with greenery and cool breezes. 

In addition to the stunning natural setting, the sets of images from Phan Dinh Phung Street that were shared on social media attracted much attention because of the charming flower automobile. It may be a car filled with vibrant peach blossoms in the spring, delicate lilies in April, the national symbol—lotus blossoms—in late summer, yellow chrysanthemums during the fall, or East Asian chrysanthemums at the beginning of winter.

The Ideal Hour To Visit Phan Dinh Phung Street

The perfect hour to capture the essence of Phan Dinh Phung Street is in the early morning, from 6 AM to 7:30 AM. 

The usual noise and commotion of the city are absent, allowing the gentle sounds of nature and the occasional hum of early risers to take center stage. The street is bathed in the soft, golden light of the rising sun, creating long and graceful shadows and highlighting the intricate details of French colonial architecture, lush greenery, and ancient trees that line the street.

Explore The Gastrology At Dong Xuan market

Ever Heard Of Dong Xuan Market?

Dong Xuan Market, in the eyes of Hanoi residents, is the focal point of Vietnamese cuisine. Nestled in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that offers a rich tapestry of flavors and culinary experiences. For food enthusiasts, this market can be compared to a paradisiac buffet full of Vietnamese street food and local delicacies from multiple regions across the country. 

Indulge In Local Delicacies

As you wander through the narrow aisles, you will be tempted by the aromas of an extensive array of street food vendors. Besides the iconic dishes, namely Pho, Bun Cha, and Banh Mi, Dong Xuan Market offers a plethora of lesser-known but equally delectable dishes. Vietnamese have been hiding their gems well, all of which can be discovered within only one afternoon at Dong Xuan Market.

Visit 48 Hang Ngang

The Historical Significance Of 48 Hang Ngang

48 Hang Ngang is most famously known as the location where President Ho Chi Minh wrote the Declaration of Independence of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. This pivotal document marked the birth of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, and visiting this house offers a profound glimpse into the nation’s journey to independence.

What To Expect At 48 Hang Ngang

To this day, 48 Hang Ngang is a well-preserved museum, allowing tourists and visitors to step back in time. As you walk through the house, you can see the room where Ho Chi Minh lived and worked during those critical days. The interior remains largely intact, featuring the original furniture and personal items of the revolutionary leader, providing a tangible connection to the past.

Watch The Sunset By The West Lake

Why Is West Lake A Must-visit In Hanoi?

West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, covers an area of about 500 hectares and has a shoreline of 17 kilometers. It’s a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The lake’s scenic beauty and serene ambiance make it an ideal place to relax, take a leisurely stroll, or enjoy a bike ride.

The Best Spots To Watch The Sunset By West Lake

Thanh Nien Road

This tree-lined boulevard offers stunning views of the lake and is one of the best places to watch the sunset. The reflections on the water and the silhouette of Tran Quoc Pagoda create a picturesque scene that is perfect for photography.

Waterfront Cafes And Restaurants

Several cafes and restaurants along the lake’s edge offer outdoor seating with unobstructed views of the sunset. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee or a delicious meal while watching the sky shift in hues.

Lotus Pond Area

Near the northern part of the lake, the lotus pond area is a peaceful spot to witness the sunset. The blooming lotus flowers add to the scenic beauty, making it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Attend A Water Puppet Show

A Cultural Experience You Can't Miss

Among Hanoi’s most captivating attractions is the traditional water puppet show. This ancient art form, with roots dating back over a thousand years, offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into Vietnamese folklore and culture. 

Originating in the Red River Delta, water puppetry (Múa rối nước) dates back to the 11th century. Villagers initially performed these shows in rice paddies and flooded fields to entertain and celebrate. Over the centuries, this distinctive art form has evolved, preserving its charm and cultural significance.

Where To Watch A Water Puppet Show In Hanoi

Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, this theatre is the most popular venue for water puppet shows in Hanoi. With performances held multiple times daily, it’s a convenient and accessible choice for tourists.

Vietnam Museum Of Ethnology

Occasionally, this museum offers water puppet performances as part of its cultural exhibitions. It’s a great option if you want to combine the show with an educational visit to the museum.

Lotus Water Puppet Theatre

Another excellent venue in the Old Quarter of Hanoi offers authentic performances that showcase the skill and artistry of water puppetry.

What To Expect At A Water Puppet Show

A typical water puppet show lasts about 45 to 60 minutes and features a series of short sketches depicting Vietnamese rural life, historical legends, and folklore. The puppets are controlled by skilled puppeteers using long rods hidden beneath the water, creating the illusion that the puppets are moving on the water’s surface. Accompanied by traditional Vietnamese music played on instruments like the Dan Bau and the Dan Tranh, the performances are both visually and aurally captivating.

Conclusion

Hanoi, besides its antique appearance and bustling streets, offers an array of activities that cater to every traveler. Whether you are a history buff, a foodie, or simply someone looking to soak up the local culture, Hanoi’s top six must-do activities provide a perfect blend of excitement and relaxation. Each experience instills a different perspective on this enchanting city, making your trip truly unforgettable. As you plan your trip, make sure to check out our locally personalized handbook!

Top 10 best places to visit in Hanoi