A Stroll through Hanoi's Time Capsule: Tale of the Hanoi Ancient House
The Ancient House frontage at 87 Ma May St.
Welcome to the Hanoi Ancient House, a time capsule of Hanoi life on Ma May Street. Step inside and get ready to be whisked away to a bygone era before the concrete jungle took over.
This place is a hidden gem where you can truly immerse yourself in the ancient Hanoian way of life. It's like a crash course in history and we think a visit is a must-do when exploring the lively Hanoi Old Quarter.
This architectural marvel has witnessed it all since its construction in the 19th century. From prosperous rice-selling shopkeepers to herbal medicine vendors, this house has undergone more transformations than a chameleon. A living relic, it’s been standing proud for over 100 years.
Today, the house is beautifully restored and ready to impress. It's one of the fortunate few houses in Hanoi that have been preserved and transformed into fabulous attractions and exhibitions.
In typical Hanoi style the house has a narrow front concealing the intricacy behind. Restored in the late '90s with the help of French funding, every corner of this place exudes authenticity. The original architecture, building materials (mostly wood and brick), and furniture have all been lovingly preserved, providing a genuine blast from the past.
The narrow facade leads to interconnected buildings and courtyards, with a unique tubular shape adding a touch of elegance. The central yard invites in fresh air and sunshine, while the balcony on the second floor offers a lovely spot to relax with a small garden.
As you explore further, you'll stumble upon the family's shop, nestled by the street, where you can imagine the bustling trade of ancient times. Upstairs, the living room and the ancestors' altar await, offering a sacred space cherished by the family for generations.
Venture into the second building, the heart of the living area. Wondering where the kitchen and bathroom are? They've found their place at the far end of the house, enjoying direct sunlight without any roof in sight.
Prepare to encounter rusty and time-worn artifacts as you wander through the rooms. These treasures will transport you back to the daily lives of Hanoians from years gone by. And if you'd like a memento to cherish, don't miss the front building, brimming with traditional Vietnamese decorations and trinkets just waiting to be discovered.
Here comes the grand finale: for those who appreciate folk music, you're in for a treat! Every evening at 7 p.m., you can indulge in the soulful melodies of Ca Trù, a traditional Vietnamese music performance that lasts a delightful 60 minutes. It's the perfect way to conclude your visit on a high note!
The Hanoi Ancient House is a stop on our Free DIY Hanoi Old Quarter Walking Tour. Get off the busy streets for a little bit of quiet time and experience a little bit of what life was like it days past.
Map • Also called ‘Heritage House’ or ‘Ngoi Nha Di San’
Open daily 8am-5pm and 7:30am-10pm Fri-Sun. 10,000VND.
We have seen comments that the Ancient House is closed at lunchtimes and are confirming this.
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