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On the third day of the Lunar New Year, known as the Year of the Snake (At Ty), Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam in Hanoi buzzed with excitement as crowds gathered to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere and partake in a beloved tradition: calligraphy. A long queue of visitors eagerly waiting at Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam. Photo: Duy Minh/ Kinh te & Do thi Newspaper People from all over Vietnam, along with international tourists, converged at this historic site to seek blessings for a successful, prosperous, and wise year ahead. Many arrived early, eager to explore the ancient architecture and soak in the vibrant energy of Tet, the most significant holiday in Vietnamese culture. Beyond the festive atmosphere, visitors sought the expertise of calligraphers, asking for the word of the year to be inscribed as a symbol of good fortune and prosperity. A highlight of the day was the traditional calligraphy display, where skilled “ong do” (calligraphy masters) sh...

The Management Board of Hoan Kiem Lake and the Hanoi Old Quarter has announced an entrance fee for two of its historic sites: the Ancient House on Ma May Street and the Cantonese Assembly Hall on Hang Buom Street. For just VND20,000 [~US$0.86], visitors can step back in time and explore these hidden gems, which offer a fascinating glimpse into Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage. The Cantonese Assembly Hall, located at 22 Hang Buom Street, is a hidden gem in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. The Cantonese Assembly Hall, established nearly 400 years ago, showcases a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French architectural influences. Spanning 1,800 square meters, this spacious and well-preserved building once served as a religious center and a hub for trade and arbitration among the Chinese expatriate community. Today, it stands as a testament to the vibrant history of the region. The Ancient House on Ma May Street is one of only 14 preserved ancient houses from the late ...