Exploring Hanoi - Vietnam's Capital

Originally a small settlement along the banks of the Red River, the city was founded as Thang Long (Rising Dragon), the capital of imperial Vietnam, by King Ly Thai To, the first ruler of the Ly dynasty (1009 – 1225). Thang Long remained the most important political and cultural center of Vietnam until 1802, when the last imperial dynasty of Vietnam, the Nguyen (1802 – 1945) moved it south to Hue. In 1831, King Minh Mang, the second king of the Nguyen dynasty, renamed Thang Long into Hanoi (meaning “inside river”). In 1873, Hanoi was conquered by the French and it again became an important administrative center. In 1902, the city was the capital, not just Vietnam, but of all French Indochina.

From 1940, Hanoi was occupied by the Japanese forces and liberated in 1945. On 2^nd September 1945, President Ho Chi Minh declared the Independence, gave birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam and chose Hanoi as the capital. It was such a momentous event for not only Hanoi but also Vietnamese people after years and years fighting consistently for independence. By 1954, French forces left and North Vietnam was liberated by Viet Minh and Hanoi became the capital of the newly established Communist State of North Vietnam and lasted during the War (1955 – 1975). When North and South Vietnam were re-unified in 1975, Hanoi became the capital of a Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

After reunification of two regions North – South, Vietnam entered subsidy period and adopted a new approach called the socialist-oriented market economy since 1986, which has spurred rapid economic growth. Years by years, Hanoi has changed dramatically in its economic development, appearance and infrastructure, which made it become one of the fastest-growing cities in South East Asia.

In 1999, Hanoi was recognized as the “City for Peace” by UNESCO for its contributions to the struggle for peace as well as its development that meet the organization’s standards of equality in the community, the urban construction, living environment protection, culture and education promotion, and care for young generations. In 2010. the city celebrated the 1000^th anniversary. It was a amazing festival with fireworks and great celebrations

Nowadays, Hanoi is the second most populous city in Vietnam with a large number of immigrants and students from other provinces moving here for better jobs and better education. Though it is chaotic with thousands of loud motorbikes on the streets, commercial bustling street markets and messy traffic every day, the charm of the city is hidden behind. It attracts a lot of both domestic and international tourists visiting each year thanks to its historical sites, peaceful lakes, atmospheric streets lined with traditional buildings as well as a stunning blend of Indochinese and French colonial influences.

One more thing that makes Hanoi special is its people. Hanoians are known for the long-standing tradition of elegance and courtesy. When visiting Hanoi and interacting with the locals, you will find their hospitality, enthusiastic and politeness. Living for a long time in this city, they always maintain their cultural customs, values and beliefs despite of changes and urbanization.