A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

By Ngoc Thanh, Vo Hai   September 7, 2025 | 12:28 am PT
After the demolition of the “Shark Jaw” building, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square by Hoan Kiem Lake in central Hanoi has been expanded, its ground level raised, and surrounding buildings refreshed with new facades.
A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

Urban furniture, planters, and lighting systems have also been rearranged.

A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

At the former Shark Jaw site, four “no car” signs have been installed to create public space.

A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

Benches have been added around planters, positioned close to building facades along Dinh Tien Hoang Street.

A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

A dedicated pedestrian traffic light has been installed, enabling people to press a button to activate the green signal and cross the street.

A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

In addition to planters dividing traffic lanes, bold white and yellow markings have been painted on the newly paved road surface.

A glimpse into Hanoi's Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square after renovation

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square now covers nearly 1.4 hectares. Its asphalt surface provides a smooth platform sloping toward Hoan Kiem Lake. The reorganization of traffic and greenery is designed to maximize space for community activities while creating a cultural and historical landscape axis.

Photos by Ngoc Thanh, Giang Huy, Pham Chieu, and Thanh Hai

 
 
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