Hanoi is not only the capital of Vietnam; it is the political and cultural center of the country. Hanoi Overview tells us that it is a city begat by mythology and inspired by legends. It has been a survivor of countless violent struggles and political intrigues, sustained on patriotism, ideology and the willful independence of its people. This is a city that has experienced an eventful millennium.

Located on the banks of the Red River with tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake at its heart, Hanoi is the capital of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. North of the lake are the bustling streets of the Old Quarter, each street named after the trade that used to take place there. Hanoi Overview relates the tale about its history when Ho Chi Minh established the Viet Minh during the Second World War in order to gain independence.

History of Hanoi

Hanoi became a French protectorate in the 1880s. There are wide boulevards and large colonial buildings which have now been taken over by government departments and foreign embassies. Vietnam was reunited under Hanoi and communist rule in the year 1974.

The residents of Hanoi faced a hard time reconstructing the austere city. Hanoi had been continuously bombed by the Americans throughout the Vietnam War. Rampant inflation, poverty and repression followed it. The government introduced economic reform or doi moi in 1986, allowing people to own their own businesses. Now Hanoi has been totally transformed and visitors are entranced by the city and its residents.

Geography of Hanoi

Hanoi Overview includes the geography of Hanoi. Hanoi, the capital of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, is a pleasant and even charming city. It has famous lakes, shaded boulevards and verdant public parks. You can also witness architectural museum piece. In a nutshell, the city of Hanoi is replete with interesting natural attractions.

Demography of Hanoi

The city of Hanoi has a land area of 2, 139 sq.km and a population of about 3, 000, 000. In the past, Hanoi was first chosen by King Ly Thai To as the capital of the country and was named Thang Long (Descending Dragon) in 1010.

Tourist attractions in Hanoi

Hanoi has undergone many dramatic changes resulting in buildings being razed and rebuilt or replaced by structures of different regimes. The result is a mix of ancient Chinese-influenced Vietnamese, neo-Parisian, Edwardian, French, neo-Vietnamese-French fusion and Soviet-era Russian architectural styles. Despite its turbulent past, Hanoi today is a modernizing city that retains much of its romantic Old World charm. In Hanoi, fall and spring are splendid for discovering this city's many sites-the serene, tree-lined lakes and the many museums, pagodas and tourist attractions that are a testament to its interesting, varied history. Also see the many crafts that began with the 36 original guilds of the Old Quarter.

If you have already been to Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi is a city with seasons and moods, two lovely, one too hot, one a bit dreary; a downtown that sleeps at night; a more polite, conservative citizenry; and a long established artistic and intellectual tradition. Hanoi Tourist Information Center caters you with all the necessary information. You can take your pick from the ample accommodation facilities available here