If you are an avid traveler with an interest in culturally and historically significant destinations, then the Vietnam Museum of Revolution deserves a notable spot on your Hanoi travel itinerary. Within its walls, you will find numerous artifacts from various battles that showcase Vietnam’s rich and complex history of struggle and liberation.
1. Overview of Vietnam Museum of Revolution
1.1. Establishment of Vietnam Museum of Revolution
The Vietnam Museum of Revolution was established on January 6, 1959, a significant milestone coinciding with the Indochinese Communist Party's founding celebration. Its purpose is to pay tribute to the sacrifices and achievements of the Vietnamese people in their fight against foreign domination and for national independence.
During its early days, the museum faced a shortage of historical materials and artifacts portraying the revolutionary movements. However, thanks to the dedication of party members and citizens and the generous assistance of nations such as the Soviet Union, China, and Germany, significant progress was made. From approximately mid-1956 to the end of 1957, the museum underwent rapid growth, boasting an extensive collection of thousands of artifacts, documents, and displays that vividly showcase the courage, unity, and determination that have shaped Vietnam's revolutionary journey.
Over the years, this Vietnamese museum has evolved into a leading cultural establishment, actively immersing visitors in a profound exploration of the nation's past.
1.2. Where is the Vietnam Museum of Revolution? How to get there?
The Vietnam Museum of Revolution is located at 1 Trang Tien Street and 216 Tran Quang Khai Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District,Hanoi. Getting to the museum is easy and accessible through various means of transportation:
- By personal vehicle: If you are in the Old Quarter area, simply follow Hang Thung Street and then make a right turn onto Tran Quang Dieu Street. Continue until you reach the intersection, where you will then turn right onto Trang Tien Street. The museum will be awaiting your arrival.
- By bus: For those preferring public transportation, there are several bus routes that pass near the Vietnam Museum of Revolution. Bus numbers 02, 34, 44, 49, and 51 conveniently stop at Tran Khanh Du Street, Trang Tien Street, or Tran Hung Dao Street, providing easy access to the museum.
1.3. Opening hours and Entrance fees
The Vietnam Museum of Revolution welcomes visitors throughout the week, except for Mondays. Here are the specific opening hours to plan your visit accordingly:
- Morning: From 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: From 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM
As for the ticket prices, they are as follows:
- Adults: 40,000 VND per person
- Students: 20,000 VND per person
- Schoolchildren: 10,000 VND per person
- Children under 6 years old and individuals with severe disabilities: Free of charge
2. Highlights of Museum of Vietnamese Revolution
The Vietnam Museum of Revolution is constructed in a French architectural style, covering an area of about 1,500 square meters and housing 29 exhibition rooms. Widely regarded as the best war museum in Vietnam, it has amassed over 2,100 artifacts, images, and documents. The exhibition content is divided into three periods:
- Phase 1 from 1858 to 1945: The period of struggle for Vietnam's independence.
- Phase 2 from 1945 to 1975: The resistance against invading forces to protect the nation's independence and unity.
- Phase 3 from 1975 to the present: Vietnam's path towards building a prosperous nation with social justice, democracy, and civilization.
As you explore the museum's displays, you can see many artifacts like machetes, shackles, and chains. These are clear proofs of a cruel colonial regime that caused scenes of hunger, forced labor, and suffering. You will also find other objects that vividly express the unwavering spirit of communist soldiers during their time in prison, such as shirts stained with blood.
The exhibits also feature plenty of essential items used during the resistance, including rice storage containers, makeshift bicycles, traditional leaf hats, rubber sandals, notebooks made from thin strips of bamboo, etc. All of these pieces reflect the courageous, determined, and creative mindset of the Vietnamese people during their challenging struggles.
3. Must-see attractions near Vietnam Museum of Revolution
During your trip to explore the Vietnam Museum of Revolution, you should visit other nearby attractions to have a more comprehensive travel experience. Here are some must-visits:
- Hoan Kiem Lake: Hoan Kiem Lake has been a popular spot for both locals and tourists for many years, thanks to its peaceful beauty and cultural and historical values.
- Ngoc Son Temple: Its intricate architecture and spiritual significance make it an unmissable spot when coming to Hanoi. This temple also offers stunning views for visitors to enjoy, owing to its unique position on a small island within Hoan Kiem Lake.
- St. Joseph's Cathedral: Boasting French Gothic architecture, St. Joseph's Cathedral stands as a symbol of Hanoi's colonial past. Together with its grandeur and special design, this cathedral attracts numerous visitors and worshippers who come to admire its timeless beauty.
- Hanoi Old Quarter: This site is absolutely a highlight in your Hanoi itinerary, where the local life and culture are clearly showcased. Here, you will be captivated by its narrow streets lined with colorful shops, bustling markets, and an array of traditional crafts.
- Vietnam National Museum of History: This is another museum that complements the picture of Vietnam’s past, with an impressive collection of artifacts and exhibits spanning from ancient civilizations to modern times.
- Hoa Lo Prison: This prison will take you on a somber chapter of Vietnam's history, unveiling the hardships endured by Vietnamese revolutionaries.
During your trip to explore the capital city of Hanoi, you should not also miss out on the entertainment chain of VinWonders, which includes VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium Times City, VinWonders Ha Noi Wave Park, and VinWonders Ha Noi Water Park.
At VinKe and Vinpearl Aquarium Times City, you and your loved ones get the chance to create beautiful moments together, either by discovering the colorful underwater world or engaging in an array of fascinating games. Meanwhile, VinWonders Hanoi Wave Park and VinWonders Hanoi Water Park feature exhilarating water slides, wave pools, and a range of water-based attractions, guaranteeing you a fun-filled adventure.
Apart from Hanoi, Vietnam has a lot of other amazing places that await your exploration. Be prepared to be mesmerized by the stunning beaches of Phu Quoc and Nha Trang, the historical charm of Hoi An, the energetic city of Da Nang, and the magnificent landscapes of Ha Long. Each destination in the S-shaped country embraces its own unique appeal that is well worth your visit.
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Additionally, while you are staying at Vinpearl, be sure to check out VinWonders, an incredible entertainment complex. With exciting games and captivating shows, VinWonders adds more enjoyment to your trip and leaves you with unforgettable memories.
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Whether you are a history enthusiast, a cultural explorer, or simply curious about Vietnam’s remarkable journey, the Vietnam Museum of Revolution promises to give you a fulfilling experience. So, as you plan your upcoming trip to Vietnam, don’t forget to include this destination in your itinerary to gain a deeper understanding of what has shaped this nation as it is today!
