The Tube Houses of Hanoi's Old Quarter (2024)

August 11, 2020 - 9267 views

The Old Quarter has a rich religious heritage. To fully explore the Old Quarter in Hanoi, prepare your feet for a day of walking. You’ll be rewarded with a glimpse into the daily life of locals amidst these old-style narrow streets and houses.

The Old Quarter is the historic soul of Hanoi and is defined by fascinating labyrinth of ancient streets buzzing with commerce. Hanoi's Old Quarter is one of the last traditional handicraft and trading areas in Southeast Asia. Awalk through the Old Quarterallows one to glimpse Vietnamese life from ages past. Hanoi is legendary for its “tube houses” that trade width for height and depth.Tube houses are so named because they are just that: a long, narrow tube of space that is subdivided into sections that served the family's every need. Buildings perform what would seem to be architectural miracles by heading several stories into the air supported by a narrow base.

The Tube Houses of Hanoi's Old Quarter (1)

Oldtube houses in Hanoi Old Quarter

While space is somewhat at a premium in the Old Quarter, some of these buildings are just amazingly narrow that two people can barely stand next to each other in some of them.Why so narrow? The custom of "tube houses," typical of Hanoi's Old Quarter, began as a tax-saving measure, since property in the nineteenth-century Nguyen Dynasty was taxed only by street frontage.For centuries, governments in Hanoi used a method of determining property taxes based on the width of the property from the street. The wider your house is, the more you paid! Not surprisingly, people responded by building houses asnarrow as possible.The buildings were cleverly built to be thin but deep – a clever way to avoid tax while still allowing plenty of space. Most of these buildings were owned by a single family that operates a small business or shop in the front section and living quarters to the rear – a simple one-storey building.If the business became success, often the buildings would expand the only way it could without paying more in tax – upwards. This has created a series of long, thin, tall buildings.Once multiple floors are built, the family then shares out the building, with parents, grandparents and any married children occupying a floor each.

Between building high and building deep, the tube houses can be relatively spacious by Vietnam standards. Tube houses are divided into sections. Traditionally, the front room of the house facing the street was used for selling goods to the public.While selling is done in the front room, each house has a series of courtyards that go deep into each city block. It is hard to imagine how deep these buildings really go considering how small they look from the front, but many have room after room where families live when they are not up front conducting business.

The Tube Houses of Hanoi's Old Quarter (2)

Internal courtyardsbring light deep into the house through the skylight

These houses are so long and so deep that they typically have internal courtyards to provide natural light and natural ventilation at mid-block locations. Passage through the house is a movement between inside and outside, external space and internal space. As long and narrow house harder managed, characterized by the tube is space per house always caught between two walls, especially to meet the higher side, forming a gas field that style drums called “the regular paint.” This zone should create wind suction phenomenon – quite strong drafts, together with dust, creating turbulence adversely affect occupant health. Therefore, most of the old houses in the Old Quarter always have a lot of skylights to balance yin and yang. On the other hand, although the old pipe high and long but not build the roof structure as well as the location of various roof possibilities inlet created good and bring light deep into the house through the skylight.You can spot traditional houses by their low tile roofs parallel to the street.

While today’s economy has caused multiple families live together in the same tube house, the houses were originally built with a single family in mind.

Xuyen

Image Sources: Internet

The Tube Houses of Hanoi's Old Quarter (2024)

FAQs

Why does the house have a tube shape Why are the houses in the Old Quarter very narrow? ›

Many houses in the Old Quarter are known as “tube houses” since they can be as long as 70 meters and as narrow as two meters–this developed as an attempt to minimize taxes, as each property was taxed according to the width of the street-facing facade.

Why is it called the Old Quarter Hanoi? ›

There's an old Vietnamese saying, “Hanoi has thirty-six streets and guilds – Jam Street, Sugar Street, Salt Street…”. Inside a modern and dynamic city, there appears an antique quarter, the Hanoi's Old Quarter – the represented eternal soul of the city.

What is Hanoi Old Quarter called? ›

The Old Quarter (Vietnamese: Phố cổ Hà Nội) is the name commonly given to the historical civic urban core of Hanoi, located outside the Imperial Citadel of Thăng Long.

What is the history of the Old Quarter? ›

Its history dates back to the 11th-century when, after independence from China, Emperor Ly Thai To decided to move the capital from Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh to Hanoi. Today, the imperial citadel of Thang Long and the O Quan Chuong gate, which are located nearby the Old Quarter, stand as remnants of this storied past.

Why are Hanoi houses so narrow? ›

Getting back to the time of French colonialism in Vietnam, it is rumored that housing taxes were calculated based on the facade's area. Then narrowing the facade turned out to be a good solution to cutting down on the taxes, and that explains this kind of traditional architecture.

What is the reason behind the different shape of house? ›

Answer. Explanation: India has various types of houses, which vary according to the geographical location, the climate of the region, building materials, architectural influence, lifestyle and financial status of the people.

Should you stay in the Old Quarter in Hanoi? ›

The best area to stay in Hanoi for first-time travelers is The Old Quarter, also known as Hoan Kiem. This neighborhood is perfect for those that like to be located in the middle of the action at the heart of the city!

Is the Old Quarter in Hanoi a good place to stay? ›

The Hanoi old quarter is the area surrounding Hoan Kiem lake. We absolutely love the hustle and bustle and good vibe of this area. The Hanoi old quarter is packed with coffee shops, bars and cafes. Locals sit on the streets until late into the night enjoying drinks and desserts together.

Why is Hanoi so important? ›

It was the main capital of Vietnam until 1802, when the Nguyen dynasty transferred the capital south to Hue. Under French rule Hanoi again became an important administrative centre, and in 1902 it was made the capital of French Indochina. It became the capital of North Vietnam after the French defeat in 1954.

Which is the Old Quarter known for today? ›

The preserved Old Quarter today is the remains of Hanoi's 36 streets in the past. Visiting this place, you can imagine the culture, socio-economy and people of the old Thang Long Citadel. The most characteristic feature of Hanoi Old Quarter is the craft streets.

Why is Hanoi called Hanoi? ›

In 1831 the city was renamed Ha Noi (“Between Two Rivers”) by the Nguyen dynasty. Under French rule, Hanoi again became an important administrative centre.

What is Hanoi called now? ›

In modern time, the city is usually referred to as Thăng Long – Hà Nội, when its long history is discussed. During the Hồ dynasty, it was called Đông Đô (東都, "eastern metropolis"). During the Ming occupation, it was called Đông Quan (東關, "eastern gate").

What is the oldest US quarter in the world? ›

The Isabella quarter — the first-ever commemorative U.S. quarter — made to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Christopher Columbus's discovery of the New World. Limited to just one day's minting on June 13, 1893 at the U.S.

Whose face is on the old quarter? ›

The person on the obverse (heads) of the quarter is George Washington, our first president. He's been on the quarter since 1932, the 200th anniversary of his birth.

How do you tell what year a quarter was made? ›

The simplest method to find out if your quarter is silver is to check the date. It will appear on the front (obverse) of the coin. Any quarter with a date earlier than 1965 will be silver.

What is the richest neighborhood in Hanoi? ›

Hang Bac (silver) is considered as the “most expensive” street among 36 well-known old streets in Hanoi. It is also the cradle of the jewelry trade in the city with many interesting historical stories.

What is the biggest problem in Hanoi? ›

Traffic, logistics and congestion are major problems in Hanoi (Minh Quang, 2016).

Are there slums in Hanoi? ›

The neighbourhood is part of Phuc Xa Ward in Hanoi's Ba Dinh District, one of the central districts. It's considered one of the capital's slums.

What is the strongest house to build? ›

Research-wise, concrete foundations, insulated concrete form framing (ICF), and a corrugated galvanised steel roof are the strongest house materials. Foundations are usually constructed from concrete because it is our strongest building material and it's important to have a sturdy house foundation.

What is the strongest shape to build a house? ›

The triangle is the strongest to as it holds it shape and has a base which is very strong a also has a strong support. The triangle is common in all sorts of building supports and trusses.

What are the 4 basic house designs? ›

A residential home designer has four basic designs to choose from when designing homes: the one- story or ranch, the one-and-one-half-story, the two-story, and the split-level.

What not to wear in Hanoi? ›

While linen and cotton are good options, cotton in particular does not dry well in high humidity. Athletic wear designed to absorb sweat and stay dry is a better option for humid days. Remember that short shorts, crop tops and tank tops are not considered appropriate in Vietnam.

When should we avoid Hanoi? ›

With regards to weather, the worst time to visit Hanoi and Halong Bay is during the summer months from May to September. During these months, the weather is usually hot and humid, with daily high temperatures averaging around 35–38°C (95–100°F) and high levels of rainfall.

Can you brush your teeth with tap water in Hanoi? ›

Tap water is usually safe for brushing teeth, but you should not swallow them. If you accidentally drink tap water, you can quickly take a little bit more bottled water to dilute that environment.

Which month is best for Hanoi? ›

The best time to visit is between April and November when sunshine and temperatures are at there best and rainfall is lowest. The hottest month of the year is June with an average daily maximum of 35 C and an average low of 27 C.

Is street food in Hanoi safe? ›

Street Food Vendors

Is it safe to eat? The answer is yes, but only if you use caution and common sense to suss out safe street food vendors. Here are a few things to consider before you decide to eat at a street food stall. The turnover and volume at the street stall is an important consideration.

Is it safe to walk in Hanoi at night? ›

Hanoi is quite safe to walk around at night.

Is it safe to walk in Hanoi? ›

Walking on the streets of Hanoi is generally safe for foreign tourists, but the sidewalks in Hanoi can be crowded with motorbikes, cars, and stalls, making it challenging for pedestrians to walk safely.

Is crime high in Hanoi? ›

In Vietnam, crime is rated HIGH in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Typical of any large metropolitan area, crimes of opportunity involving foreigners are regularly reported. Exercising common sense and a heightened sense of personal protective awareness will prevent you from becoming a criminal target.

How many days do you need in Hanoi? ›

Hanoi is truly a multi-layered city where periods of foreign occupation are apparent on every corner. We recommend spending three days in Hanoi to truly get a good feel for the city, especially if you're a first time visitor.

What is the rarest quarter in the US? ›

1963-D Washington Quarter

The Denver mint struck these Washington quarters. It is one of the rarest versions to find. Uncirculated versions with fewer marks can fetch a great fortune.

What time does Old Quarter in Hanoi close? ›

Hanoi old quarter opening hours are hard to determine. It varies from shop to shop. Most places close down around 6-7 pm, and the restaurants stay open till 10-11 pm. The pubs and nightclubs often stay alive till midnight.

How do you get around Hanoi? ›

A Guide to Getting around in Hanoi
  1. Walking is an amazing way to explore Hanoi in every corner.
  2. Riding a bicycle around West Lake is a brilliant idea.
  3. Cyclos are mainly used for sightseeing.
  4. Motorcycles are the most popular type of transport in Hanoi.
  5. Motorcycle taxis are very flexible.

What does Hanoi mean in English? ›

Hanoi. / (hæˈnɔɪ) / noun. the capital of Vietnam, on the Red River: became capital of Tonkin in 1802, of French Indochina in 1887, of Vietnam in 1945, and of North Vietnam (1954–75); university (1917); industrial centre.

Where is Hanoi red light district? ›

In La Duong village in Duong Noi commune, Ha Dong district, there are many disguised coffee shops. Girls in show-off clothes solicit men. Most men who pass this road cannot ignore these girls. Prostitutes sit in coffee shops along a road in Ha Dong to wait for “clients”.

When did the US leave Hanoi? ›

Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. March 29, 1973: Two months after the signing of the Vietnam peace agreement, the last U.S. combat troops leave South Vietnam as Hanoi frees many of the remaining American prisoners of war held in North Vietnam.

Is Hanoi foreigner friendly? ›

Expat Hangouts in Hanoi. Hanoi, Vietnam's bustling capital city, has long been a favorite destination for foreigners. The eclectic mix of architecture is stunning, the food is healthy and delicious, the cost of living is low, and the surrounding area beckons exploration.

What US city has the largest Vietnamese population? ›

Little Saigon in the City Heights neighborhood. Part of Little Saigon in Orange County, California. City with the most Vietnamese Americans per capita. Its mayor, Chi Charlie Nguyen, is Vietnamese American.

What is the oldest city in Vietnam? ›

Hanoi - the one thousand years old capital city of Vietnam - The ONLY OFFICIAL website for Vietnam Visa in the UK and Ireland.

Why are Vietnamese houses tall and skinny? ›

Narrow homes have become a defining feature of Vietnam's urban landscape thanks to a mix of high population density and expensive land prices. Over the years, people have reduced the width of their houses to take up less street front, choosing to build inwards and upwards instead.

What was the original design of the quarter? ›

The first quarter designs showed a figure symbolizing liberty on the obverse. The reverse included a bald eagle, our national bird. In 1932, George Washington appeared on the obverse for the 200th anniversary of his birth. In the years since 1932, the Mint has used many different reverse designs.

What are the narrow buildings in Hanoi? ›

The streets of Hanoi, Vietnam, are lined with narrow "tube houses" known as nhà ống. The average width of the house is around three to four meters (10 to 13 feet).

What is a tube house in Vietnam? ›

Tube houses (Vietnamese: nhà ống) are a vernacular architectural form of shophouse endemic to Vietnam, characterized by their narrow width and multistory structure.

What is the average height for a Vietnamese girl? ›

Vietnamese men are on average 164.44cm (5 feet 4.74 inches) tall. Vietnamese women are on average 153.59cm 5 feet 0.46 inches) tall.

What is considered most disrespectful in Vietnamese culture? ›

Common taboos in Vietnam

Avoid hugging, holding hands, and especially kissing in public. Even touching a member of the opposite sex is looked down upon. Modesty: It is important to keep your body covered. Avoid overly short shorts and revealing shirts.

Why are Vietnamese people so healthy? ›

The Vietnamese Diet. The traditional Vietnamese diet is healthy. Meals emphasize rice, vegetables and fish, and cooking methods often involve steaming or stir-frying. Rice is the staple of the diet, consumed in some form in almost every meal.

What is the rarest design on a quarter? ›

1937 Washington Quarter: Double Die Error

The 1937 modern quarter bears a visible double die on the obverse. It's a rare coin with the doubling error appearing in words IN GOD WE TRUST and on the date. The error coin struck in the Philadelphia mint is valuable even in the average mint state.

Which quarter is worth $35000? ›

The Most Valuable 1970 Washington Quarter: The $35,000 Quarter. The most famous and most expensive 1970 quarter is the 1970-S quarter struck on an 80% silver 1941 Canadian quarter. This unique coin has been appraised at a whopping $35,000!

What is the oldest quarter in the United States? ›

The first quarter made by the U.S. Mint in 1796 was silver. The designs from 1796 to 1930 showed Liberty on the obverse and an eagle on the reverse. From 1916 to 1930, the Mint produced the “Standing Liberty” quarter designed by Hermon A.

Why is it called Hanoi? ›

During the French colonial period (1883–1945) the name Tonkin was used to refer to the entire region. In 1831 the city was renamed Ha Noi (“Between Two Rivers”) by the Nguyen dynasty.

Can anyone buy a house in Vietnam? ›

Two groups of foreign buyers can buy and own properties in Vietnam. First are legal entities, such as foreign investment funds and banks, branches and representative offices of overseas companies established in Vietnam. The second group includes foreigners or overseas nationals with an appropriate entry visa.

Why are houses in Vietnam built on stilts? ›

Many Vietnamese citizen live in the flood-prone plains. They take every measure they can to avoid the damagers to floods, so they build their homes on stilts.

What are toilets like in Vietnam? ›

Most budget lodgings in Vietnam will have squat (Turkish) toilets. These are basically porcelain or plastic holes in the ground with a flat place on each side to plant your feet. They may seem awful at first but they are considerably more hygienic than the western style and are a lot less complicated to install.

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