Hanoi’s historic sites open free of charge from February 20–22 during the 2026 Lunar New Year

The Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports has issued a document to agencies, units, and the People's Committees of communes and wards managing fee-based tourist attractions, historical sites, and cultural works in the city, instructing them to open free of charge to the public and tourists.

Accordingly, to enhance the spiritual life of the people and serve tourists during the Lunar New Year and early spring days of 2026, the free opening of historical sites and scenic spots will allow the public and tourists to access and enjoy cultural values. This initiative also aims to promote the capital's image, stimulate early-year cultural tourism, enhance traditional education, and spread a joyful and healthy atmosphere within the community.

The Department of Culture and Sports requests that agencies, units, and the People's Committees of communes and wards that manage fee-based tourist attractions, historical sites, and cultural works in the city implement free entry. The period is from February 20, 2026, to February 22, 2026 (equivalent to the 4th to the 6th day of the first lunar month of the Binh Ngo year).

Seventeen fee-based tourist attractions, historical sites, and cultural works managed by the city will be open for free, including: (1) Thang Long Imperial Citadel, (2) Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam; (3) Ngoc Son Temple; (4) Hoa Lo Prison; (5) Co Loa Citadel; (6) Huong Son Scenic Area (Perfume Pagoda); (7) Site No. 22 Hang Buom; (8) Heritage House No. 87 Ma May; (9) Hanoi Museum; (10) Bach Ma Temple (No. 76 Hang Buom); (11) Kim Ngan Communal House (No. 42-44 Hang Bac); (12) Quan De Temple (Site No. 28 Hang Buom); (13) Hanoi Old Quarter Cultural Exchange Center (No. 50 Dao Duy Tu); (14) Quan Thanh Temple; (15) Duong Lam Ancient Village; (16) Thay Pagoda; (17) Tay Phuong Pagoda.

Honoring tradition of making Chung cakes for Lunar New Year Despite the busyness of modern life, making Chung cakes for Tet remains a cherished cultural tradition and a special occasion for family reunions.

Banh Chung: The timeless symbol of Vietnam’s Lunar New Year Among the many symbols of the Vietnamese Lunar New Year (Tet), banh chung (traditional square sticky rice cake) remains one of the most enduring.