🌍 Explore Hanoi (City Guide)
Welcome to Hanoi! It is a great honor to have you here for the 10th International Conference on Green Energy and Applications (ICGEA 2026). While you are here to discuss the future of sustainability and green technology, we invite you to experience the timeless charm of Vietnam’s capital. Hanoi is a city that beautifully balances its thousand-year-old heritage with a vision for a greener, more modern future. To help you make the most of your stay, here are some signature spots that truly capture the spirit of ouour city:
1. Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is widely regarded as the spiritual and cultural heart of Hanoi. Situated in the city center, the lake is deeply connected to Vietnamese history through the legend of King Le Loi and the Returned Sword, symbolizing peace and national identity. Surrounded by tree-lined walkways and public spaces, the lake serves as a popular gathering place for both locals and visitors. Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in the lake and accessed via the iconic red The Huc Bridge, reflects traditional Vietnamese architecture and cultural values, offering a calm and reflective atmosphere amidst the busy urban environment.
2. Hanoi Old Quarter
The Hanoi Old Quarter is one of the most distinctive and lively areas of the city, representing over a thousand years of urban history. Traditionally known for its “36 streets”, each street was once specialized in a particular craft or trade, such as silk, silver, or herbal medicine. Today, the Old Quarter remains a vibrant mix of tradition and modern life, with narrow streets, historic tube houses, bustling markets, and a rich street food culture. Visitors can explore local shops, enjoy famous dishes such as Pho and Bun Cha, and experience the daily rhythm of Hanoi’s residents in an authentic setting.
3. Ba Dinh Square
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is one of the most important political and historical landmarks in Vietnam. Ba Dinh Square holds special national significance as the site where President Ho Chi Minh proclaimed Vietnam’s independence in 1945. The Mausoleum itself is a place of deep respect, where visitors can learn about the life and legacy of Ho Chi Minh, our prestigious president. Surrounding attractions, including the Presidential Palace, the Ho Chi Minh Museum, and the traditional stilt house where he once lived, together provide a comprehensive insight into Vietnam’s modern history and leadership.
4. Temple of Literature
Established in 1070, the Temple of Literature is recognized as Vietnam’s first national university. This historic site reflects the long-standing Vietnamese tradition of valuing education, scholarship, and intellectual achievement. The complex features elegant courtyards, ancient trees, ponds, and stone steles engraved with the names of successful scholars from ancient royal examinations. Visiting the Temple of Literature offers a peaceful escape from the city’s bustle and a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s academic and cultural heritage.
5. West Lake (Tay Ho)
West Lake is the largest natural lake in Hanoi and a favored destination for relaxation and recreation. The area surrounding the lake offers scenic views, tree-shaded paths, lakeside cafés, and a calm atmosphere distinct from the busy city center. It is particularly popular at sunrise and sunset, when visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the water and skyline. Key cultural sites around West Lake include Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of the oldest Buddhist pagodas in Vietnam, which stands as a symbol of Hanoi’s long spiritual history.
6. Water Puppet Theater
For a truly unique cultural experience, a visit to the Water Puppet Theater is essential. This art form originated in the rice paddies of the Red River Delta in the 11th century, where villagers performed for one another during floods. Today, skilled puppeteers stand waist-deep in water behind a screen, controlling intricate wooden puppets that "dance" across the surface. Accompanied by a live traditional orchestra, the performances tell charming folk tales and depict the rural harmony of ancient Vietnamese life.
7. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology
The Vietnam Museum of Ethnology is one of the most informative and well-regarded museums in the country, offering a comprehensive introduction to the cultural diversity of Vietnam. The museum showcases the traditions, lifestyles, languages, and beliefs of Vietnam’s 54 recognized ethnic groups through a wide range of artifacts, photographs, videos, and interactive displays. In addition to its indoor exhibitions, the museum features an open-air area with full-scale traditional houses from different regions of Vietnam, allowing visitors to experience ethnic architecture in an immersive way. This museum provides valuable insights into Vietnam’s multicultural identity and is highly recommended for visitors seeking a deeper cultural understanding.
8. Vietnam Military History Museum
The Vietnam Military History Museum presents an in-depth overview of Vietnam’s long history of resistance, independence, and national defense. The museum displays a rich collection of military equipment, weapons, documents, and historical photographs from different periods. One of its most notable landmarks is the Hanoi Flag Tower, a national heritage site located within the museum complex and regarded as a symbol of resilience and sovereignty. Through its exhibitions, the museum helps visitors better understand Vietnam’s historical struggles and the values of patriotism and peace that shape the nation today.
"We hope these landmarks provide a memorable and inspiring cultural backdrop to your participation in ICGEA 2026!"