[2024 Hanoi Attraction] Travel Guide for Hoa Lo Prison Relic (Updated Nov)

Hoa Lo Prison was dubbed the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs. Today the former guard house remains as a museum with many historical artifacts on display. It provides a fascinating perspective, especially for American tourists who aren’t used to being painted in a negative light. The whole place takes maybe two hours to explore. #mynovgetaway#awesomepic

Hoa Lo Prison offers a fascinating insight into French colonial history, the Vietnamese resistance movement & the prison's place in history as the "Hanoi Hilton" during the American/Vietnam war. Only a small section of the prison remains, & its early history is harrowing, but by the end of your visit it leaves you feeling a little uplifted about the power of international friendship. #hanoi #vietnamwar #happynewyear

Hoa Lo Prison Relic

#vietnamtrip The site is rich in history and provides deep insights into Vietnam's past, particularly during the Vietnam War. The exhibits are well-organized and informative, featuring photographs and artifacts that tell powerful stories. The atmosphere is both somber and reflective, giving visitors a chance to understand the struggles faced by those imprisoned there. The ticket price is reasonable, and the staff were friendly and helpful. I recommend taking your time to read the displays and absorb the history. If you're in Hanoi, Hoa Lo Prison is definitely worth a visit!

Vietnam Hoa Lo Prison Relic

Hoa Lo Prison, often referred to as the “Hanoi Hilton” by American POWs during the Vietnam War, is a historic site located in Hanoi, Vietnam. Originally built by the French colonists in the late 19th century, it was used to imprison Vietnamese political prisoners and revolutionaries fighting for independence. The prison complex was infamous for its harsh conditions and brutal treatment of inmates. During the Vietnam War, it housed American prisoners of war, including notable figures such as Senator John McCain. Despite its grim history, the museum today portrays a narrative of Vietnamese resilience and their struggle for independence. The prison relic consists of exhibitions showcasing the life of prisoners, including cramped cells, torture instruments, and personal belongings of POWs. It also emphasizes the revolutionary spirit of the Vietnamese fighters, while glossing over some of the darker aspects of the POW experience during the Vietnam War.#hanoi

Hoa Lo Prison: Where History Gets Spicy!

Alright, fellow time-travelers, buckle up! We’re diving into the gritty past of Hoa Lo Prison, aka the ‘Hanoi Hilton.’ 🏢 1. Origins and Notoriety: Built by the French in the late 19th century, Hoa Lo was like their twisted version of Airbnb. But instead of cozy beds, it had shackles and despair. Political prisoners—Vietnamese freedom fighters—suffered here. Think tiny cells, flickering lanterns, and whispers of rebellion. 🕯️ 2. Guillotines and Cachots: Picture this: a guillotine towering like a grumpy giraffe. Yep, Hoa Lo had one. It’s like they said, “Hey, let’s add a dash of horror!” And then there’s the Cachot—a dungeon so dark, even bats bring flashlights. It’s where they stashed the feisty ones. 🦇 3. Hanoi Hilton Vibes: Fast-forward to the Vietnam War. American POWs landed here, and they weren’t exactly thrilled. John McCain, future presidential nominee, did a stint. But let’s be real: this wasn’t a Hilton. It was more like a haunted escape room with bad Yelp reviews. 👻 4. Weekly Shows? Sorta. Okay, so no Broadway musicals, but Hoa Lo has something better: history talks! Imagine a guide in a fedora (Indiana Jones vibes) spinning tales of defiance, secret codes, and tunnel escapes. Plus, they reenact prisoner life—minus the torture. 🎭 So, my curious amigos, visit Hoa Lo. Feel the echoes, touch the walls, and salute the brave souls who danced with darkness. And remember, history isn’t always comfy—it’s spicy, like a chili pepper dipped in rebellion sauce! 🌶️✨ #Vietnam #Hanoi #Hoaloprison

Political history of Vietnam

#vietnamtrip The political history of Vietnam is wonderfully retold by Hoa Lo Prison Memorial. I very much recommend visiting if you want to learn more about Vietnam, and get the audio guide!! That way, you can take your time understanding each exhibit. The audio guide here is of good quality, and worth it. It gives a more immersive experience. You can really feel the patriotism of the revolutionists from the prison, who still managed to educate themselves and fight for their rights within the confines of the prison, despite the inhumane treatment. My favorite part was the story of their escape, but you better go visit so you can hear it for yourself. 😉 Note: Lots of walking and some stairs, but there are many seats available where you can rest. There are vending machines inside, but I recommend bringing your own water canteen.

The History Of Hoa Lo Prison

#hiddengems #hanoi #history #vietnamwar #educational #attraction #thingstodo When visiting Hanoi, one of the must do list is to visit the Hoa Lo Prison located near at 1 P. Hoả Lò, Trần Hưng Đạo, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội. Not too far from the old quarters. There is an entrance fee of 50,000 dong per ticket but this is a vast exhibition. This educational exhibition will take you back all the way to 1896 where it was opened and was a living hell and also one of the largest prison ever built for the prisoners. Although the largest but it was build cramp up as many prisoners together in a cell plus the insane hot weather. You will also learn that this prison was built by the French for the detaining political leaders of vietnam. Lastly, you will also learn and understand how later during the war the Vietnamese people cared for the American even though how bad reputation it gained previously. Something not to be missed. A good history lesson.

The dark age~ Hoa Lo Prison

It was a great experience to visit Maison Centrale known as Hoa Lo Prison or the ‘Hanoi Hilton’ housed Vietnamese revolutionaries during the Vietnam War. I tells the spirit of Vietnamese people in fighting against the colonists. Very impressive 👍🏼👏🏻

Excellent museum and historic site. A very meaningful glimpse of colonial persecution of Vietnamese who wanted independence and democracy for their country. This is not just a museum but you enter the cells, touch the walls. Gift shop is very well done. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway