The hotel’s name, “Tonkin,” refers to the historical term used by the French to describe Northern Vietnam during their protectorate period from 1884 to 1945. The word itself is a Western adaptation of “Đông Kinh,” the former name of Hanoi when it served as the Eastern Capital under the Later Lê dynasty. While its name nods to this layered history, Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa draws its true inspiration from the refined aesthetic and lifestyle of the French-influenced era — reinterpreted with a distinctly modern Vietnamese sensibility.
Design & Atmosphere
The hotel’s architecture is a thoughtful blend of early 20th-century French design and traditional Vietnamese materials, creating a space that feels both timeless and rooted. Flowing archways, louvered shutters, and warm color palettes invite a sense of calm, while textures such as ironwood, ebony, natural stone, and Bát Tràng handcrafted mosaic tiles bring depth and authenticity to every surface. Each design choice reflects quiet sophistication and historical reverence — a curated homage to Hanoi’s storied past.
Attire & Identity
To deepen the immersive experience, the essence of old Hanoi is subtly reflected in our staff attire. Traditional garments such as the áo dài ngũ thân, yếm đào, and nón quai thao are reimagined with contemporary elegance, blending heritage with refinement. These sartorial choices contribute to a living ambiance where every interaction feels graceful, attentive, and warmly personal.
The Guest Experience
Tonkin features 36 tastefully appointed rooms, across 6 distinctive categories, from the 2nd to the 8th floor. Each space is a harmonious composition of graceful Asian aesthetics and French-inspired architecture, softened by natural materials and curated details. The result is a tranquil, character-rich atmosphere — ideal for travelers seeking authenticity, comfort, and culture in equal measure.
Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is more than a destination — it is a cultural sanctuary. Here, the elegance of French-era Hanoi is respectfully revived through thoughtful design, attentive service, and a celebration of Vietnamese identity. It is a place where the spirit of old Hanoi is not preserved in stillness, but brought gently and gracefully into the present — a space Where Time Gently Pauses by the Poetic West Lake
