Ancient dragon shaped staircase in front of equally ancient temple

Kinh Thien Palace was the place where King Le Thai To proclaimed his enthronement, and later became the place to celebrate the most solemn ceremonies, to welcome foreign envoys, and to celebrate other important events. The Palace has few things remaining until now, as it was destroyed in the war. Vietnamese Government has planned to restore Kinh Thien Palace in recent years. I don't know when it can be completed, but I really hope that I could see it someday.

Location of the imperial palace demolished by the French during the colonial period.

A must visit place in Hanoi to understand the vast culture and history of Vietnam. This place Kinh Thien showcases the military history of Vietnam. There's a basement Bunker which is located 9 meters underground and was the secret meeting place of The Politburo and Central Military Commission. The entry ticket for this place is 30.000 VND for one person

Would prefer to have a tour guide to understand better. Although they have audio but not very informative. Saw cute pigeons hiding at the hole 🕳️ The place is interesting as it consist both Chinese and western buildings.

Been here two times and it’s still amazing

I was a little disappointed; the historic citadel has been demolished several times over time to make way for a different design. What you see now is what the French built and it's not that old or interesting to watch. Some of the buildings house collections of artifacts which have been dug up and give you an impression of the style of the several dynasties that had a palace here but there comes a moment in life that you have seen enough pot and porcelain fragments and I have reached that moment a long time ago. There is, of course, a rich history behind the citadel but I don't feel like you have to be here to get a sense of that because there's little to show for it. The characteristic flag tower looks more interesting but it has been incorporated into the grounds of the War History Museum so you need a ticket for that museum to see it.

Really good condition and great exhibitions site still under minor renovations so would be better in a year or so.

Very interesting and nice place

Quite big area to explore and many buildings to enter. Seems in constant developing.

This was where the most important building of Vietnam once stood in pre-colonial times; the emperor's residential area was located here before the French tore it down for their Artillery Barracks.

Lovely steps. Nice walk to get there as well.

The Kinh Thein is a part of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. The Kinh Thien Palace is the central area among the overall vestiges in Thang Long – Hanoi Imperial Citadel. It used to be a palace of great significance between the 15th to 19th century. The palace was destroyed in 1886 and nothing but the grand dragon entrance remains giving you a glimpse of the grandeur the palace could have been. You can see the two dragons carved in green rock, with raised big heads, round convex eyes, long horns, and mane gliding back. Apart from this you can see the giant turtle which symbolises longevity, strength and intelligence.

One of the remaining structures inside Hanoi's Imperial Citadel, a UNESCO world heritage site. Spend time to read the information showed around the site to appreciate its history.

This place is massive, cheap to get in and very interesting to get into. There's so much history in the whole area it will take you some time to see everything and absorb what's on offer. If you go in the summer remember it's best to go as early as you can, bring plenty of cold water and don't over dress!

Chinese inspired

If you are visiting Hanoi this is a must seen. I liked the bunker with all the old radios and telephones

Interesting historical sight. Worth a look around. Quite a peaceful place to be.

Nice place to have a walk and explore the Hanoi history.