Several administrative offices and private residences along Tran Nguyen Han Street and near the Department of Culture and Sports on Hang Dau Street are set to be relocated as part of Hanoi’s plan to expand public space on the eastern side of Hoan Kiem Lake.

A historic and scenic landmark

Hoan Kiem Lake, one of Hanoi’s most picturesque and historically significant locations, is surrounded by three major streets: Le Thai To, Hang Khay, and Dinh Tien Hoang. The total circumference of the lake measures approximately 1.7 kilometers.

Recently, Hanoi People’s Committee Chairman Tran Sy Thanh approved a proposal to enhance and renovate the eastern area of Hoan Kiem Lake.

The redevelopment plan will focus on the area enclosed by Dinh Tien Hoang, Ly Thai To, Tran Nguyen Han, and Lo Su Streets.

The project aims to increase public spaces, improve accessibility, and strengthen the cultural and historical significance of the Hoan Kiem Lake National Heritage Site and its surroundings.

Key areas of transformation

Dinh Tien Hoang Street stretches approximately 900 meters from the Trang Tien - Hang Khay intersection to Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.

The public space expansion project will cover the section from Tran Nguyen Han Street to the Hang Dau - Lo Su intersection.

While several buildings will be cleared to create new public areas, the headquarters of the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports - located at the junction of Hang Dau and Dinh Tien Hoang - will be preserved and will not be relocated.

In contrast, a Hanoi power company office, which falls within the project’s scope, will be among the structures to be removed.

Preserving cultural landmarks

The planned public space will incorporate several significant historical sites, including the Martyrs’ Monument and Ba Kieu Temple. These cultural landmarks will be preserved and integrated into the newly developed area.

Dinh Tien Hoang Street, lined with lush trees, is a popular spot for locals to exercise in the morning and evening. The area also features numerous cafés and eateries. On weekends, the street transforms into a bustling pedestrian zone, attracting the highest foot traffic of any walking street in Hanoi.

Hang Dau Street, which connects with Dinh Tien Hoang, has long been known for its concentration of shoe shops, making it a commercial hub in the city.

Integration with broader urban redevelopment efforts

This initiative is part of a broader effort by Hanoi authorities to enhance public spaces around Hoan Kiem Lake.

The project will be carried out alongside other urban improvement initiatives, including the planned demolition of the "Shark Jaw" building near Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square.

The city has proposed an underground space beneath the square’s current fountain area, as well as the expansion of the northern section of Hoan Kiem Lake.

The transformation of the square will coincide with the ongoing research and investment into new public spaces surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake, in alignment with directives from the central government, the Hanoi Party Committee, and the city’s People’s Committee.

Hoang Ha - Thach Thao