Imagine stepping into a world where motorbikes weave through bustling streets, voices rise and fall in lively chatter, and the air hums with the scent of delicious street food. Kingos, welcome to Hanoi! As the vibrant capital of Vietnam, Hanoi blends its rich history with modern energy and reveals layers of culture at every turn. This April, the Sungkyun Times (SKT) sets out to uncover the charm within Hanoi’s chaos — one street, one story at a time.
Xin Chao, Hanoi!
-The Land Between Rivers
Bordered by the Red River and the Black River in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is the nation’s capital and its second-largest city after Ho Chi Minh. The city’s rich history dates back more than 2,000 years, way before it was officially named Hanoi in 1831. Today, with a population exceeding 8.5 million, it serves as Vietnam’s political, cultural, and economic center, housing government institutions, major businesses, and prestigious universities. Notably, its economy has been expanding rapidly since the 21st century, driven by manufacturing, trade, and finance. Hanoi’s unique blend of tradition and modernity makes it one of Southeast Asia’s most popular travel destinations and attracts millions of visitors each year. As it continues to evolve today, Hanoi blends the old and new, staying true to its history while forging ahead into the future.
-A First-Timer’s Guide to the City
Hanoi is a highly accessible destination, especially for Korean travelers, who can visit visa-free for up to 45 days with an approximately five-hour direct flight. The following are some tips that will help Kingos make the most out of their trip to Hanoi. First, keep in mind that Hanoi has a subtropical climate with mild, dry winters and hot, humid summers. To avoid the heavy monsoon rains of summer, the best time to visit is from October to January, when temperatures hover around 25 degrees Celsius. Next, get ready to navigate the city’s streets. The sheer number of motorbikes that create an endless flow of traffic makes crossing the streets seem daunting, but the trick is to walk slowly and steadily — hesitating or stopping abruptly can be riskier. Lastly, choosing the right hotel location can greatly enhance Kingos’ travel experience. The bustling downtown area called the Old Quarter is ideal for those who prefer a lively atmosphere and easy access to attractions, while the West Lake or the Ba Dinh District offers a quieter, more scenic stay. With these tips in mind, Kingos are set to dive into the energy of Hanoi, embrace its charm, and create unforgettable memories.
Bridging Centuries, Blending Worlds
-Ancient Foundations
Hanoi’s long and complex history has been shaped by centuries of cultural influence, with Chinese rule leaving one of the deepest imprints. From around 111 BC to 938 AD, Vietnam was under Chinese domination, which is why it is a part of the Sinosphere today. For example, a significant portion of Vietnamese vocabulary originates from Chinese, while the country’s traditions are deeply embedded in Buddhism and Confucianism. A visit to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first university, reveals this heritage in its purest form. Stroll through the temple’s ancient courtyards, vast and timeless, to step into the past where generations of scholars once devoted themselves to Confucian teachings.
From there, hop into a taxi and weave through the city’s winding streets to Hoan Kiem Lake, which offers another glimpse into the city’s Chinese legacy. Crossing the bright red Huc Bridge, the Ngoc Son Temple emerges with its incense-filled halls and intricate wood carvings that reflect ancient spiritual beliefs. At the temple’s edge, gaze out upon the tranquil waters of the lake to sense the seamless blend of history, legend, and daily life in Hanoi.
-East Meets West
Between the 1850s and the 1950s, Hanoi was dramatically transformed by the influences of French colonial rule, resulting in new architectural styles and even culinary influences. One of the most striking symbols of this era is St. Joseph’s Cathedral near Hoan Kiem Lake, a grand neo-Gothic structure completed in 1886. Its majestic facade, with two towers and stained-glass windows, resembles the Notre Dame in Paris, yet it stands firmly in the heart of a bustling Vietnamese city. Stepping inside, the atmosphere feels calm and quiet, contrasting the lively streets outside.
Just a 15-minute walk away, the Hanoi Opera House stands as another testament to French colonial ambition. Inspired by the Garnier Palace in Paris, its ornate columns and elegant walls exude an air of sophistication. Kingos who wish to explore the interior can book the Hanoi Opera House Tour & Art Show, a 90-minute tour and performance available on Mondays and Thursdays.
Beyond architecture, the French influence lingers in Hanoi’s cuisine, ready to satisfy any appetite after a stroll through the city’s colonial landmarks. Stop by a local café to grab a banh mi, a crisp baguette sandwich packed with savory meat, fresh vegetables, and a cilantro kick. Then, for a uniquely indulgent treat, sip on Hanoi’s signature egg coffee, where velvety whipped egg cream meets aromatic coffee. This unmistakable blend of cultures will surely turn every bite or sip into a story of the past for Kingos.
-Legacy of Unity
After the fall of French rule and the division of Vietnam, Hanoi became the capital of North Vietnam, a communist state led by the ruler Ho Chi Minh. Following decades of war, Hanoi emerged as the political and ideological heart of a reunified Vietnam under communist leadership. Today, Ho Chi Minh is one of the most respected figures in the nation’s history, and his image appears everywhere, from street murals to currency. At the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum near West Lake, his preserved body rests in a solemn, imposing structure. The atmosphere inside is one of profound reverence, as visitors move in silence through the dimly lit hall.
A short walk away, the Ho Chi Minh Museum offers a deeper exploration of his life and ideals, blending historical artifacts with bold, symbolic installations. Here, Kingos can truly understand how deeply the country cherishes him, affectionately known as “Uncle Ho” by the people. Even today, Uncle Ho lives on in the hearts of Hanoi’s people, and his legacy continues to guide the city’s spirit and identity.
Where the City Ends, Nature Begins
Just a few hours south of Hanoi, the breathtaking sights of Ninh Binh Province offer a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. Often called the “Ha Long Bay on Land,” this region captivates visitors with its stunning limestone pinnacle formations that pierce the sky. A day trip to Ninh Binh is best started with a three-hour traditional rowboat tour through the Trang An Landscape Complex, where the gentle rhythm of the paddle and the towering cliffs create a movie-like atmosphere. As the boat glides through emerald-green waters, hidden caves and ancient temples come into view, each stop revealing a new layer of the area’s natural beauty.
After the boat ride, head to Hang Mua and prepare for a thrilling, adventurous climb up the steep, uneven stone steps that lead to the viewpoint. At the summit, an incredible panoramic view unfolds with vast rice fields, winding rivers, and limestone peaks that stretch into the horizon. Taking in the fresh air and the stunning scenery makes the journey feel complete — a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and nature’s grandeur.
As the semester picks up pace and everything blends into a blur of deadlines, life may feel like a tangled mix of layers. In these moments, take a step back and appreciate Hanoi, a city that thrives in its own beautiful chaos of overlapping currents. Even in the frenzy, Hanoi continues to shine — a reminder for Kingos that no matter how overwhelming life feels, every layer has its place.