Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square
Welcome to Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, the hippest spot in the Northeast of Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi!
Back in the day, this place was so chill that coconut trees threw shade all over what locals affectionately called the Coconut Garden.
Then the French strolled in, decided they needed a piece of the action, and rebranded it as Place Négrier. It wasn’t all fun and games, though.
This square witnessed more beheadings than a royal drama.
Fast forward to today, and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square has traded its dark past for a vibrant present.
It’s the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake’s catwalk, where the city’s cultural and artistic scene struts its stuff.
The only heads rolling now are the ones nodding in approval at the extraordinary events that attract Hanoi’s cool cats and curious tourists.
Join the party and leave the history lessons at home!
Location & Architecture
Picture this: Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, the cool kid hanging out across from the Ham Ca Map building (Toa nha Ham Ca Map), the ultimate entrance to the ancient streets of Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Hang Duong, and Dong Xuan.
It’s not just a square; it’s the traffic cop for Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Luong Van Can, Hang Gai, Le Thai To, and Dinh Tien Hoang streets.
However, the Vietnam Association of Architects thinks our beloved square and its pals suffer from a case of “square monotony syndrome,” with a lack of spatial pizzazz.
But fear not, because Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square decided to ditch the old-school vibe and got a modern makeover with fancy water sprayers and LED bling.
The square went from black and white to technicolor, especially during big Vietnamese shindigs when it gets all dolled up with flowers and extra decorative flair.
| Location | Opposite Ham Ca Map building, gateway to ancient streets |
|---|---|
| Traffic Control | Regulates traffic on Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Luong Van Can, Hang Gai, Le Thai To, and Dinh Tien Hoang streets |
| Architectural Critique | Noted for “lack of diversity in spatial form and monotony in function of the square.” |
| Fountain | Modern design with water spraying equipment and LED lighting; decorated during events |
| Events | Gathering places for New Year’s Eve and fireworks attract youth during central Hanoi and Vietnam festivals. |
| Living Heritage | Identified as part of “living heritage,” open space for people’s lives and cultural activities |
