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Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square: Location, History & Things To Do
Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is the vibrant, beating heart of Hanoi, a historical roundabout where culture, history, and modern city life collide. More than just a traffic circle, it serves as the main gateway to the ancient streets of the Old Quarter and the scenic Hoan Kiem Lake. This GTrip guide is your key to unlocking everything this iconic landmark has to offer, from its revolutionary past to its lively present as the center of weekend activities in the capital. We will cover its precise location, fascinating history, the best things to do in Hanoi, and practical tips to make your visit unforgettable.
Where is Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square?
Location: In the northeast of Hoan Kiem, at the intersection of five famous Old Quarter streets - Le Thai To, Hang Dao, Hang Gai, Dinh Tien Hoang, and Cau Go
The square used to be opposite the Ham Ca Map building (known as the Shark Jaw building due to its distinctive design), which was a prominent modern landmark in the historic city center. However, the Ham Ca Map building was dismantled on April 30, 2025, following government directives to restore open space and enhance the cultural and historical value of the area.
Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is now an important open space in the city center, near Hoan Kiem Lake, becoming an architectural and cultural highlight beside this famous lake. It is a venue for many cultural activities, art performances, festivals, and outdoor events, as well as a gathering place for the local community and visitors.
Besides its central location, the square serves as a gateway to the bustling streets of the Old Quarter and is a key attraction within the walking area around Hoan Kiem Lake. The dismantling of the Ham Ca Map building will make the square more open and spacious, supporting community activities and preserving the area’s cultural and historical values. This place is seen as a vibrant symbol of Hanoi’s dynamic development while maintaining its traditional identity.
Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is near Hoan Kiem lake, this is the intersection of five famous streets of the Old Quarter
History of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
The square's history reflects Hanoi's transformative journey through the centuries. Its evolution from a simple market area to a symbol of patriotic education and a modern cultural hub is a fascinating story.
- 19th-century origins: Originally, the area was known as "Coconut Garden", a small market space located outside the eastern gate of the old citadel.
- The French colonial era: Under French rule, the area was cleared and developed into a formal roundabout named Place Negrier. It became a key junction connecting the Hanoi French Quarter, which was the colonial administrative center, with the commercial streets of the Old Quarter.
- Renaming in 1945: The square was officially named Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc in 1945 to honor the patriotic Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc School. This short-lived but influential school, founded in 1907, promoted modern education and nationalist ideals to resist French colonialism.
- A modern cultural landmark: Since then, the square has been a witness to many of Hanoi's most important historical events. It has also solidified its role as the city's primary gathering place for cultural celebrations, public announcements, and festive occasions.
Things to do when visiting Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
Lively public festivals, historical architecture, delicious street food and vibrant nightlife, the square offers a dynamic slice of Hanoi life for every visitor.
Join public events
The square is Hanoi's primary venue for major public gatherings and celebrations. It hosts numerous exciting events, especially on weekends, such as the city's official New Year's countdown, live music festivals, and traditional folk games for children and families. The energy during these events is infectious, offering a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and experience the city's collective spirit.
The square is Hanoi’s central hub for festivals and celebrations, where locals and visitors come together to share the city’s vibrant spirit
Take photos with French colonial architecture
The area around the square is a photographer's dream, presenting a beautiful blend of architectural styles. Capture the unique aesthetic of the charming French-era buildings with their yellow facades and green shutters that surround the roundabout. This French colonial architecture stands in photogenic contrast to the bustling, traditional shophouses of the Old Quarter, offering a snapshot of Hanoi's layered history.
Enjoy Hanoi street food
The streets branching off from the square are a paradise for food lovers. This area is one of the best places to explore Hanoi's street food. You can easily find famous local dishes, like bun dau mam tom (tofu and noodles with shrimp paste), crispy fried spring rolls, fragrant grilled pork skewers, and the iconic egg coffee. Just a short walk down any of the connecting streets will lead you to countless vendors and small eateries serving authentic local delicacies.
The streets around the square are a street food paradise, offering everything from bun dau mam tom to egg coffee for an authentic taste of Hanoi
Soak up the lively nightlife
As night falls, the square and its surroundings come alive with a different kind of energy. The area becomes a hub of nightlife in the Hanoi Old Quarter. It's the perfect starting point for a relaxing stroll around the illuminated Hoan Kiem Lake. You can also dive into the vibrant scene of nearby Ta Hien "Beer Street", where you can enjoy a cold drink and soak up the bustling atmosphere.
How to get to Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square?
Thanks to its central location, getting to the square is extremely easy from anywhere in Hanoi.
- By bus: The square is served by numerous public bus routes, including lines 04, 08, 09, 14, and 36. The Hoan Kiem Lake bus station is a one-minute walk away, making it a very convenient and affordable option.
- By motorbike/on foot: If you are staying in the Hanoi Old Quarter, the square is easily reachable on foot. Walking allows you to explore the charming side streets along the way. A motorbike ride from other parts of the city is also a quick and common way to get there.
- By ride-hailing app: Apps like Grab, Be, Xanh SM are widely available. The best address for ride-hailing apps is "7 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem". A trip from most central locations will typically cost between 30,000 and 60,000 VND.
- By taxi: Taxis are a convenient option, especially for groups. Simply tell the driver "Quang truong Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc" or "Bo Ho Hoan Kiem" (Hoan Kiem Lake), and they will know exactly where to go.
Thanks to its prime location, the square is easily accessible by bus, motorbike, taxi, ride-hailing apps, or simply on foot from the Old Quarter
Tips when visiting Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
To make the most of your visit to this bustling hub, here are a few friendly tips to keep in mind.
- Best time to visit: The square is interesting at any time, but it truly comes alive on weekends when the walking street is active. Plan your visit from Friday evening through Sunday to experience the full range of activities, from street performances to folk games.
- Safety and valuables: The square can get extremely crowded, especially during events and on weekend evenings. It is wise to keep a close eye on your personal belongings like phones, wallets, and cameras to avoid pickpocketing.
- Traffic restrictions: Remember that all motorized vehicles are banned from the walking street area from around 7 PM on Friday until midnight on Sunday. If you are arriving by motorbike or car during these hours, you will need to find parking in the designated areas on the outskirts of the zone.
- Footwear: You will be doing a lot of walking, so wear comfortable shoes. The area is large, and exploring the surrounding streets, the lake, and the Old Quarter is best done on foot.
- Try the balcony cafes: For a fantastic view of the entire square, head to one of the cafes in the surrounding buildings. Ordering a coffee and sitting on a balcony on the second or third floor provides a perfect vantage point for people-watching and taking amazing photos of the bustling scene below.
Plan your visit wisely with tips on timing, safety, traffic, comfortable footwear, and the best balcony cafes for stunning square views
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Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is one of Hanoi’s most vibrant public spaces, a place where history, culture, and modern life seamlessly converge. Located at the gateway to the Old Quarter, it has long been a cultural and historical crossroads, welcoming both locals and travelers from around the world. By day, the square bustles with daily activities and commerce, while at night it transforms into a lively hub illuminated by the glow of Hoan Kiem Lake and the energy of surrounding streets. Loved by both Hanoians and international visitors, it offers a rare glimpse into the city’s dynamic soul. Book your Vietnam journey with GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency, and let us guide you through the fascinating stories and timeless charm of Hanoi’s most iconic square.
