Thirty years ago, the chief modes of transport in Hanoi were electric streetcars along with human powered bicycles and rickshaws. Traffic congestion, air and noise pollution had yet to become a problem.


looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 1

Pictured are two electric trolleys that ran on tracks laid in the middle of the streets that are typical of the decade.





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 2

Hoan Kiem Lake as seen from overhead. 




looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 3

View of the Huc Bridge leading to the Ngoc Son Temple.





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 4

Soldiers parade on Trang Tien Street marching towards the Opera Hanoi on National Reunification Day in 1985.






looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 5

View of Hang Ngang St crowded with many people during a festival.





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 6

Poster welcomes the fifth National Congress in 1981.




looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 7

View of what is now Trang Tien Plaza. 





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 8

Pictured is Dong Xuan Street market on a typical crowded day.





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 9

Residents ride bicycles at the crossroads of on National University and Ly Thuong Kiet streets.





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 10

Woodworkers on To Tich Street. 





looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 11

View of two banyan trees in front of Thanh Ha Communal House on Ngo Gach Street.




looking back at hanoi city streets in the 1980s hinh 12

Vendors hand carry their wares in baskets and on their shoulders using bamboo frames, a common image in the capital city 30 years ago.

VOV/Hanoimoi