The Vietnam Military History Museum in central Hanoi presents a perspective on the wars that raged in Vietnam, and it’s a perspective that Westerners rarely get to see. The museum contains a remarkable collection of war relics and photographs from Vietnam’s long struggles for freedom. Learn about guerrilla and communist troops and the history of the present Vietnam People’s Army.
The main building in this museum was opened in 1959 and is dedicated to Vietnamese conflicts up until World War II. Find out about Vietnam under Chinese and French colonization and occupation by the Japanese. Learn about the rise of the Viet Minh in North Vietnam and how they declared independence in 1945.
Many tourists head straight to the museum’s newer building, which is dedicated to Vietnam’s battles against American troops. Learn about the tactics the Viet Cong used in what the Vietnamese call the American War and most Americans call the Vietnam War. Whatever your perspective, the conflict in the 1960s and ’70s left permanent marks on the country and this museum tells the Vietnamese side of the story.
See photographs from the battlefields and the simple uniforms of the Vietnamese troops. There are also bamboo spikes, homemade firearms and other weapons that helped the under-equipped Vietnamese Army defeat its opponents.
Venture outside to the spacious courtyard where there is a large collection of preserved military wreckage. Climb through the machinery to feel what it was like to be behind the wheel of these colossal vehicles. Damaged tanks, shot down B-52 airplanes and army vehicles are strewn throughout the grounds.
For panoramic city views, climb to the top of the Hanoi Flag Tower. This observation tower, built in the 19th century, is one of only a few old Vietnamese buildings that was not destroyed during the French occupation.
The Vietnam Military History Museum is opposite Lenin Park, southeast of the Ho Chi Minh complex. The museum is closed Sundays and Mondays and during lunchtime hours. A small admission fee applies and you pay a little extra to bring in a camera
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Reviews of Hanoi War Museum
3/5 - Okay
Interesting version of events from their perspective.
3/5 - Okay
This can be pretty sad, so make sure you do some wellness stuff afterwards.
5/5 - Excellent
Check the open times before. There is a break between 11:30 and 13:00.
5/5 - Excellent
Easy to miss all the US warplanes at the back
Popular places to visit

Flag Tower of Hanoi
This early 19th-century tower is one of the region’s only remaining pre-war landmarks. It remains a symbol of Hanoi’s military history.

Vietnam Military History Museum
You can study the exhibits at Vietnam Military History Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Hanoi. Discover the fascinating museums and shops in this walkable area.

Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
For over a thousand years, from Chinese and French colonialism to the war with America, this citadel has been key to the country's political and military history.
Historical Military Museum
You can browse the exhibits at Historical Military Museum, a museum with a story of its own, during your travels to Hanoi. Discover the fascinating museums in this walkable area, or seek out the local tours.
Lenin Park
Find out about the history of Hanoi when you spend time at Lenin Park. Discover the top-notch restaurants and fascinating museums in this culturally rich area.
Embassy of China
After visiting Embassy of China, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Hanoi. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.
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