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Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. Photo courtesy of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long's official site |
History and significance
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, known locally as Hoang Thanh Thang Long, was established in the 11th century by Emperor Ly Thai To, serving as the political and cultural heart of Dai Viet -Vietnam's historical name from the 11th to the 18th centuries - under the Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010, the citadel is celebrated for its historical longevity, continuous political significance, and rich cultural layers.
The site also served as the core of the earlier Dai La Citadel (7th–9th centuries) during Chinese rule and later became the headquarters of the North Vietnamese government during the Vietnam War (1954–1975).
Key monuments include the Flag Tower, the South Gate, the Kinh Thien Palace Foundation, the Princess's Pagoda, and the North Gate. Additionally, the archaeological site at 18 Hoang Dieu Street reveals overlapping architectural relics and artifacts from multiple periods, showcasing the site's rich and complex history.
Location and accessibility
The citadel is at 19C Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District, approximately 2 km from Hoan Kiem Lake in central Hanoi.
It spans two main sections: the central axis of the Nguyen Dynasty's Citadel of Hanoi and the archaeological site at 18 Hoang Dieu Street, about 100 meters west of Kinh Thien Palace Foundation.
Visitors can reach the site by various means:
- Walking: A 20-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
- Cyclo: Traditional cyclos are available for hire in Hanoi's Old Quarter.
- Taxi or ride-hailing services: Conveniently accessible throughout Hanoi.
- Public bus: Routes such as 22, 32, and 34 stop near the citadel. An electric bus route starting from Hoan Kiem Lake passes the Old Quarter's key spots and terminates at the Citadel.
Metro: The nearest station is Cat Linh on Line 2A, about 1 km away.
Opening hours and admission fees
The citadel is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Admission fees are:
- Adults: VND70,000 (US$2,75)
- Students above 16 years old: VND35,000
- Children under 16 years old: Free
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The incense offering ceremony held during the 2023 Lunar New Year at Thang Long Imperial Citadel recreates the Tet rituals of Vietnam's ancient royal court. Photo courtesy of Thang Long Imperial Citadel's Facebook |
Visitor guidelines
Visitors to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long are kindly requested to adhere to the following regulations to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience:
- Follow site instructions: Use the provided guide map to navigate the site.
- Prohibited items: Do not bring weapons, explosives, flammable substances, toxic chemicals, or items with strong odors into the site.
- Dress code and behavior: Dress neatly and modestly. Refrain from using vulgar language or engaging in vandalism, such as graffiti on walls or trees. Disorderly conduct is strictly prohibited.
- Preserve the environment: Protect the site and its artifacts by avoiding climbing trees, damaging plants, or walking on the grass. Keep the area clean.
- Tour services: Contact the Guide and Interpretation Department for guided tours. Any visual recordings or filming within the site require prior approval from the management board.
- Drone usage: The use of ultralight flight instruments or drones (flycams) is prohibited within the heritage site.
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long offers a fascinating insight into Vietnam's imperial legacy and cultural evolution. Its structures along with the remains in the 18 Hoang Dieu Archaeological Site embody a distinctive South-East Asian culture rooted in the lower Red River Valley, where northern Chinese influences coming from China intersected with the ancient Kingdom of Champa in the south.
Nostalgia unleashed: Tet celebrations at Hanoi's Thang Long Imperial Citadel. Video by VnExpress/Anh Phu
