Night-time tourism offers up new engaging initiatives

The Truc Bach Night event, jointly organised by the Hanoi Department of Tourism and Ba Dinh People’s Committee, ran from November 29 to December 1 on Truc Bach pedestrian street in the capital’s Ba Dinh district. Designed to showcase Hanoi’s multifaceted charm, the initiative highlighted its natural landscapes, cuisine, cultural traditions, lifestyle, and historical narratives, all while recreating the spirit of the subsidised period.

Night-time tourism offers up new engaging initiatives

The term is generally used to refer to Vietnam’s economy between 1976 and 1986, before major reforms transformed the nation.

Drawing inspiration from this distinctive era, the event recreated daily life through features such as tramcars, vintage shops, and lively streetscapes. A standout attraction was the Hanoi Street Museum tour, where four tramcars were themed to celebrate Hanoi’s culinary traditions and traditional kitchen practices.

Throughout the event, visitors could immerse themselves in activities that reflected the cultural essence of the era. Highlights included roasting coffee over a wood fire, crafting scented coffee bags, and making traditional Vietnamese figurines. Additional elements such as vintage rationing stamps and themed photoshoots featuring traditional costumes offered unique glimpses into the daily lives of past generations.

Cultural and culinary expertise was also woven into the programme, with guidance from renowned artisans, researchers, and industry experts. Adding to the vibrant atmosphere, the main stage hosted performances that reflected the social and cultural fabric of the period.

The event is part of Hanoi’s broader strategy to expand its nighttime tourism offerings and develop new attractions. Plans include programmes such as Quang An flower market in Tay Ho district, late-night dining in Dong Xuan commune, culinary experiences at Van Dinh, and exploring the Quang Phu Cau incense-making craft village.

These initiatives complement the 15 night tours launched by Hanoi’s Department of Tourism in 2023. Popular offerings include visits to historical sites like Hoa Lo Prison and the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, as well as cultural experiences at the Vietnam Literature Museum. Food streets such as Tong Duy Tan and Ta Hien continue to be key attractions for culinary tourism, while expanding pedestrian zones around landmarks such as Ngoc Khanh lake and the Temple of Literature is expected to enhance Hanoi’s appeal further.

Other cities across Vietnam are also stepping up their nighttime economy initiatives. Quang Ninh province debuted the Vietcharm Show earlier in November, blending cultural performances with economic goals. Designed to draw in tourists and support the cultural industries, the show underscored Quang Ninh’s ambition to become a model for sustainable nighttime economy development.

Hanoi's culture shines bright through night activities Hanoi officially launched its “Truc Bach Night” tourism programme on November 29, offering opportunities to explore the city's vibrant nightlife and cultural heritage.