HANOI |
A city of lakes, shaded boulevards and verdant public
parks. The capital of the Socialist republic of Vietnam (SRV), is different
things to different people. Most foreigners on a short visit find Hanoi
to be relatively slow paced, pleasant and even charming. |
HO CHI MINH MAUSOLEUM |
In the tradition of Lenin and Stalin
before him and Mao after him, the final resting place of Ho Chi Minh is
a glass sarcophagus set deep in the bowels of a monumental edifice that
has become a site of pilgrimage. (Closed Mondays and Fridays). |
HOAN KIEM LAKE |
Right in the heart of Hanoi, this lake contains an
islet with the tiny Tortoise Pagoda, topped with a red star. |
ONE PILLAR PAGODA |
Built by the Emperor Ly Thai Tong, who ruled from
1028 to 1054. Constructed of wood on a single stone pillar, it is designed
to resemble a lotus blossom. |
OPERA HOUSE |
A magnificent 900-seat opera house built in 1911.
(May be viewed from the outside only). |
ST. JOSEPH CATHEDRAL |
A neo-Gothic cathedral finished in 1886, it is noteworthy
for its square towers, elaborate altar and stained-glass windows. |
TAY PHUONG PAGODA |
Consists of three parallel single-level structures
built on a hillock said to resemble a buffalo. Seventy-six figures carved
from jackfruit wood, many from the 18th century, are the pagoda's most
celebrated feature. |
TEMPLE OF LITERATURE |
Founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, who dedicated
it to Confucius in order to honor scholars and men of literary accomplishment. |
THAY PAGODA |
The Master's Pagoda, also known as Heavenly Blessing,
is dedicated to Thich Ca Buddha. Eighteen arhats appear on the central
altar. Water puppet shows are performed on a small stage, which is raised
on stilts above a pond. |