Thang Long Imperial Citadel in Hanoi: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Ancient Capital

Located in the heart of Hanoi, Thang Long Imperial Citadel (Hoàng Thành Thăng Long) is one of the city’s most important historical landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With a history spanning more than 1,000 years, the citadel reflects the cultural, political, and architectural legacy of Vietnam’s dynasties.

For travelers, it offers a fascinating journey through time, from ancient royal palaces to archaeological discoveries that reveal layers of Vietnamese history.

1. Where is Thang Long Imperial Citadel?

Address: 19C Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
Opening hours: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays)
Entry fee: 30,000 VND for adults; 15,000 VND for students; free for children under 15
Services: Guided tours available, souvenir shop, and temporary exhibitions

The citadel is located near Ba Dinh Square, just a short walk from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and other attractions. Its central location makes it easy to include in a Hanoi city tour.

2. The History and Culture of Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Regarding historical values, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long relics and artifacts depict a consistent history of governance, economy, and culture through successive dynasties. This history spans from the ancient capital Dai La of An Nam in the 7th to 9th centuries, under the domination of the Chinese Tang Dynasty. It continues through the transformation into Thang Long Forbidden City during the Ly, Tran, Early Le, Mac, and Late Le dynasties, followed by the establishment of Thang Long - Hanoi in the 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty. This historical significance persisted through the French colonial era and up to the present day.

In discussions of cultural value, the artifacts found at the heart of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long in Hanoi are remarkable proof of enduring cultural exchange. This site has absorbed cultural influences from China, Champa, and France. The creation of landscapes, the layout of palace areas, architectural art, and court decoration showcase diverse cultural developments across different historical eras.

3. Highlights of Visiting Thang Long Imperial Citadel

With its vast area and unique monuments, the citadel offers visitors many fascinating stops:

3.1 The main gate (Doan Mon)

Doan Mon is positioned to the south of Kinh Thien Palace, aligned with the Hanoi Flag Tower on the same axis. Constructed with stones and bricks, the main gate has a U-shaped structure, featuring five gates symmetrically placed along a central axis, often referred to as the "righteousness axis" of the Imperial Citadel. The primary architectural element of Doan Mon follows a watchtower gazebo design with three rolling arches. The use of rolling arch architecture not only bestowed elegance but also provided exceptional load-bearing capabilities. In contemporary times, Doan Mon, with its impressive and intricate architectural design, has become an ideal location for numerous tourists exploring the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long to capture memorable moments.

3.2 Northern gate (Cua Bac)

Chinh Bac Mon, also known as Cua Bac, stands on Phan Dinh Phung Street. It is the sole surviving entrance to the Hanoi Citadel under the Nguyen Dynasty, which was reconstructed in 1805 atop the Le Dynasty's Northern Gate foundation.

Perched atop the gate is a watch tower gazebo where the imperial troops had a clear view of both the citadel's surroundings and its interior, allowing them to monitor the enemy's movements.

Today, partial restoration is ongoing to honor Hanoi Citadel's history and figures like Nguyen Tri Phuong and Hoang Dieu, who heroically sacrificed during the defense of Thang Long Royal Citadel against the French.

3.3 Hanoi Flag Tower

Located on Dien Bien Phu Street, the Hanoi Flag Tower was constructed in 1812 under the rule of King Gia Long in the Nguyen Dynasty. This is one of the few architectural structures in Hanoi that was fortunate enough to escape destruction by the French colonial rule during the years 1894-1897.

On October 10th, 1954, the red flag with a yellow star, the National Flag, was hoisted atop the Hanoi Flag Tower for the first time. This event marked a historic moment of significance: the day Hanoi was entirely liberated. The tower itself was recognized as a historical monument in 1989.

3.4 Kinh Thien Palace

The Kinh Thien Palace, where King Le Thai To ascended to the throne in 1428, later served as the venue for significant court ceremonies, reception of foreign dignitaries, and vital national affairs discussions.

Throughout its history, Kinh Thien Palace has consistently held a central role within the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. The foundation and threshold that still exist today are modest remnants of the palace architecture from the Le Dynasty, offering partial insights into the grandeur of the Kinh Thien Palace in the past.

3.5 Lady Pavilion

Hau Lau, formerly known as Tinh Bac Lau (meaning the palace that keeps the North at peace), spans about 2,392 square meters. It emerged after the Later Le dynasty and served as the living and daily activity quarters for queens and princesses.

The palace was constructed using bricks, and its roofs were designed in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style, featuring multi-level roofs adorned with crescent-shaped blades.

The French often referred to Hau Lau as the "Pagoda des Dames" (pagoda of women). In the late 19th century, Hau Lau suffered severe damage. However, it was later restored and rebuilt by the French, retaining its current appearance.

3.6 Revolutionary House

D67 Revolutionary House was constructed on the northern grounds of Kinh Thien Palace, also known as the General Headquarters. This was where vital and strategic plans were formulated, providing opportunities for the nation to undertake the resistance war against the United States.

D67 Revolutionary House is currently preserved and utilized to contribute effectively to the construction and development of Vietnam's revolutionary heritage.

3.7 Archaeological sites

Within this region, archaeologists have uncovered diverse architectural structures and artifacts spanning a timeline of over 1300 years. These layers of relics accumulated quite continuously over time, beginning with the Dai La Dynasty (7th - 9th century) and ending with the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945). This remarkable feature greatly contributes to the exceptional value and distinctiveness of these relics.

4. Tips for Enjoying Your Trip to Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Plan your time: Set aside at least 1.5–2 hours to explore the citadel and the archaeological site.
Wear comfortable shoes: The complex is large, and you’ll do plenty of walking.
Join a guided tour: Local guides can bring the citadel’s history to life with fascinating stories.
Combine attractions: The citadel is close to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the One Pillar Pagoda, and the Vietnam Military History Museum.

Thang Long Imperial Citadel is more than just an ancient ruin - it’s a living symbol of Vietnam’s enduring culture and history. From its majestic gates and palace foundations to archaeological treasures, every corner tells a story of Hanoi’s past as the “City of the Rising Dragon.”

Whether you are a history lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply curious about Vietnam’s heritage, Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a must-visit destination on your Hanoi journey.

For travelers who want both comfort and convenience, Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, this boutique hotel offers elegant rooms, modern facilities, and a relaxing spa-perfect after a day of exploring Hanoi’s historical sites.

Tonkin Luxury Boutique Hotel & Spa

From the hotel, it’s just a short ride to Thang Long Imperial Citadel, and you’ll also be within walking distance of other major attractions such as Hoàn Kiếm Lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, Dong Xuan Market, and the Hanoi Opera House. Staying here allows you to easily combine your citadel visit with a broader cultural exploration of Hanoi.

👉 You might also like:

More information

Dong Xuan market Hanoi: Complete guide to Hanoi’s Old Quarter bazaar, food, and souvenirs
Ho Chi Minh Museum Hanoi – Explore a remarkable historical and cultural landmark in the capital
One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi – Explore the iconic single-pillar temple in the heart of the city
Exploring Quoc Tu Giam Temple: Hanoi’s historic Temple of Literature
St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi - History, architecture, mass schedule & travel guide
View All