Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square 'transformed' but lacks unique highlights

The renovation of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square (Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi) has created a more open and fresh space, but has not yet met expectations of a cultural center and a destination attracting tourists and residents.

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square after the demolition of the "Shark Jaw" building.

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, located next to Hoan Kiem Lake, is one of the famous places that attracts many people and tourists when coming to the capital. Recently, this area has been renovated and embellished with the goal of creating a more modern, airy and convenient public space. However, the current renovations are only at the basic level, lacking breakthroughs in design, and have not created a distinctive cultural architectural highlight.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Ha (Cau Giay, Hanoi ) said: "After the demolition of the "Shark Jaw" building, the Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc square area also lost its highlight, lacking amenities and services... The large LED screen is now on and off, creating a boring feeling. People just pass by and do not stop to take pictures like before."

The square area is arranged with seats, flower beds... but lacks shade and amenities so it has not attracted many tourists.

Paradox of sun-exposed seats...

...while tourists lack places to stay.

Some items are not completed, causing a mess...

Traffic organization map at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square is of interest.

Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square after expansion is quite deserted, while Dinh Tien Hoang Street often experiences traffic jams due to narrowed lanes.

Some motorbikes weaved into the square to avoid traffic jams.

Many flower pots have not "blossomed" yet...

Some service businesses on Dinh Tien Hoang Street reported a decrease in the number of customers after the square was expanded, due to difficulty for vehicles to access their stores.

According to the leader of the Institute of Urban Planning and Architecture, the renovation and expansion of Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square has just completed phase 1. The agency will collect opinions from the people and experts to adjust and perfect the architectural plan of phase 2; the goal is to ensure harmony, the square becomes a meaningful space, meeting the expectations of the people of the capital in particular and international friends coming to Hanoi in general.

Source: https://baotintuc.vn/xa-hoi/quang-truong-dong-kinh-nghia-thuc-lot-xac-nhung-thieu-diem-nhan-doc-dao-20250917155125153.htm