Street photography – Roaming the streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter (21 photos)

The Old Quarter is the heart of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It has been a center of commerce for almost a thousand years. It still is a busy place characterized by commerce. You can buy almost anything here. In addition to tasty and cheap street food, historical places you can enjoy colonial architecture from a bygone era. The Old Quarter is easy walkable and for me, it's the best way to soak up the atmosphere of the pulsating life that's going on from dawn to dusk.

The photos have all been taken in the Old Quarter, but on different visits. Each time I have been to Hanoi, I have chosen to stay in one the small hotels here. I love the atmosphere and to use all of my senses when walking the streets.

The fact that Hanoi became the capital in 1010 and still is today, apart from a few interruptions, makes it one of the oldest capitals in Southeast Asia. In the period from 1010 -1802, Hanoi was the most important political center in Vietnam. For a short period the capital was moved further south, to Hue. When it became the capital again (1954) Vietnam was divided into north and south and Hanoi became the capital of North Vietnam. After the Vietnam War ended, Hanoi again became the capital of a united Vietnam. Hanoi has it all: It has a long history, a colonial legacy, but at the same time it also a modern city.

The narrow streets are filled with mopeds and cars which does make it difficult to be a pedestrian at times. One must be ready to jump to the side and constantly look out not to be run over. Still, it is fascinating to watch the commerce going on in the streets. Goods are brought to shops or sold directly in the street.

When it comes to food, there are lots of cheap eateries and not least the street food, literaly cooked right in the street. It is incredibly tasty. There are small temples and museums that are worth a visit.

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the Old Quarter. There is a legend saying that in the 15th century the gods gave emperor Ly Thai To a magical sword. One day he went out in a boat and a turtle came up and took the sword, but it was later returned it to its original owner.

There is a small island in the lake which has a small temple - the Ngoc Son Temple. A lovely place to enjoy the setting sun and get a quiet moment.

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U.J

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All the photoes are mine, Ulla Jensen (flickr, Instagram and facebook)

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