In recent days, the central streets of Hanoi have been filled with the red flags with yellow stars, an exciting atmosphere towards the 80th anniversary of National Day September 2. Standing out in that brilliant space is the “Shark Jaw” building by Hoan Kiem Lake.
Appearing in the late 1990s, the building once caused controversy because of its modern architecture in the middle of the old quarter but gradually became a familiar visual symbol of the capital. Locals called it “Shark Jaw” because of its protruding shape resembling a fish’s jaw.

Although under renovation, the "Shark Jaw" building still wears the "coat" of the red flag with yellow star, becoming an unmissable check-in spot in Hanoi (Photo: Tran Van Chung).
The building is in the process of renovation and demolition but is still covered with dozens of red flags with yellow stars. The bright red color stands out in the middle of the old town, not only creating a strong visual highlight, but also turning this place into an impressive check-in spot, attracting a large number of locals and tourists.
Below, a large-sized billboard with the words "Welcome to the 80th Anniversary of Vietnam National Day - National Pride" brightens the space, recalling the historic day of September 2, 1945, when at Ba Dinh Square, President Ho Chi Minh read the Declaration of Independence, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam.

The flags are arranged in straight rows to highlight the building (Photo: Tran Van Chung).
The image is not only decorative, but also conveys a message of solidarity, pride and aspiration for national development. The flags are arranged in straight rows as a strong affirmation of the will for independence, peace and the spirit of constant progress of the Vietnamese people.
Many people in the capital and passersby stopped to capture the moment.
Ms. Ngoc Lam (born in 1988, working in Hanoi) said: “Taking advantage of getting off work early today, I went to the old town to drink coffee and take photos. When I passed by "Shark Jaws", I saw the building decorated with red flags and yellow stars, so I immediately stopped to check in. Although the project is under construction, the decoration is very beautiful, creating a new photo angle for everyone.”
Many young people shared that checking in at this area is not only to have unique photos, but also has a special meaning on the occasion of National Day. For them, the bright red flag printed on the photo is a way to express love and national pride.
Tran Van Chung - a photography enthusiast - said: "The familiar "Shark Jaw" building is now covered with dozens of red flags, so it is very special.
When taking pictures, I often choose an angle from the lake to capture the whole scene, seeing both the flag flying and the people passing by. For me, this is one of the most interesting shooting spots on National Day.”

Young people excitedly pose in front of the "Shark Jaws" area (Photo: Tran Van Chung).
Not only Vietnamese people, many international tourists also expressed their interest.
Mr. Michael Smith (an American tourist) excitedly shared: “I have been to Hanoi several times but this is the first time I have seen a building under repair decorated with so many flags. It gives a feeling of both tradition and creativity. I think this is a great way to tell historical stories to tourists.”
However, the area around the building was crowded with people and tourists checking in, causing traffic to be somewhat affected. People kept moving and taking pictures on the streets, making the roads busy.
If you want to take photos comfortably, visitors should come on weekends when the walking street is open, both convenient and without worrying about traffic.
In particular, when coming to the Hoan Kiem Lake area, many people are not only impressed by the brilliant red color of the "Shark Jaw" building, but are also attracted by the revolutionary music echoing throughout the streets.
The Hanoi People's Committee has installed more than 284 large screens and nearly 600 loudspeakers to serve the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2. This system ensures technical standards, operational safety, and the broadcast content is carefully selected to suit the solemn atmosphere.
On streets like Nguyen Thai Hoc, Dinh Tien Hoang, Ba Trieu..., the familiar melodies of Tien Quan Ca, Bai Ca Nguoi Linh... or the resounding sound of drums resounded, making many people emotional.
For the elderly, each note and each command brings them back to the glorious years of history. For the young, it is a sacred and new experience when revolutionary music blends with the rhythm of urban life today.
Sharing with Dan Tri reporter, Ms. Ban Lan Anh - a resident near Hoan Kiem Lake - could not help but be moved: "Every time I go out on the street during the holiday, I feel proud. The red flag flies, the music plays, everything blends into the rhythm of the city, both sacred and bustling. Many young people and tourists also stop to take pictures, creating a very exciting atmosphere."

The red color of flags and flowers along with music from loudspeakers echoing throughout the streets, becoming a special cultural highlight during the great festival (Photo: Tran Van Chung).
For the elderly, music takes them back to the glorious years of history. For the young, this is a new experience and a sense of national pride.
The red flag of “Shark Jaws” combined with the revolutionary sounds made the whole area a special check-in point, connecting locals and tourists in the joyful atmosphere of a big holiday.
Source: https://dantri.com.vn/du-lich/toa-ham-ca-map-ruc-ro-co-do-sao-vang-thanh-diem-check-in-gay-sot-dip-29-20250823075345719.htm
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