Hanoi Must-see Historic Gems: HCM Mausoleum, Hanoi Citadel, Temple of Literature & Hoa Lo Prison

In this video, we take you on a self-guided walking tour through Hanoi’s most iconic historical sites—all within a single day. From ancient dynasties to revolutionary struggles, discover how Vietnam’s capital city is not just rich in history, but alive with meaning. We visit: • Ba Dinh Square & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – Where modern Vietnam was born • Lenin Park – A slice of daily life beneath a symbol of ideology • Thăng Long Imperial Citadel – The ancient seat of power • Temple of Literature – Vietnam’s first national university • Hoa Lo Prison (The "Hanoi Hilton") – A site of suffering, resistance, and resilience This one-day walking route is perfect for travelers who want to explore Vietnam’s past through its most powerful landmarks—without the need for taxis or tours. Plus, we show you where to stop for lunch, where to find halal food, and share important tips about cyclo rides and navigating the city. ________________________________________ ⚠️ Before You Go: Make sure to check the official opening hours and closures, especially for the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, which typically closes for annual maintenance in September to November. It also closes early in the day—so plan ahead! ________________________________________ Video Chapters 00:00 - Intro: A City That Breathes History 00:59 - Ba Dinh Square & Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum 03:25 – Ho Chi Minh Museum 05:26 – One Pillion Pagoda 06:46 – Café 07:04 - Trishaw Ride Tip (What Not to Do) 08:03 - Thăng Long Imperial Citadel 13:59 – Statue of Lenin 14:19 - Temple of Literature 18:19 - Lunch Break + Halal Food Tip 19:16 - Hoa Lo Prison 25:49 - Outro: Hanoi – The Living Museum ________________________________________ A file from the Cục Văn thư và Lưu trữ nhà nước related to the August Revolution at the end of World War II (two). The government of Vietnam., Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Ba Dinh Square September 2nd, 1945 See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Ho Chi Minh City https://pixabay.com/users/viarami-134... Markus Winkler https://pixabay.com//?utm_source=link... Ho Chi Minh House in Hanoi joxeankoret, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons No changes made to the original Stelae of Doctors at the Temple of Literature, Hanoi Gryffindor, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons No changes made to the original French soldiers became prisoners of war Stringer, AFP, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Japanese Imperial Army soldiers advance to Lang Son, in September 1940 in French Indochina. See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Geneva Conference, 21 July 1954 See page for author, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons