Have you ever tried waking up before dawn... just to watch Hanoi wake up?

There is something magical about Hanoi before dawn...

Four in the morning, the city is still wrapped in darkness. The streets are quiet, with only the occasional motorbike or car rushing to pick up goods for the day. A few elderly people are already awake, gently stretching on the quiet sidewalks. Most shops are still asleep, shutters closed, lights dim.

Then, very slowly, the sky softens. A pale blue slips in. More people appear: uncles and aunties walking, cycling, tiny speakers tied to their bikes playing old songs that somehow make the morning feel warmer. A dog trotting beside its owner, or sitting proudly in a bicycle basket like it owns the whole world. Groups of women gather to dance, to exercise, laughing, greeting each other like it’s their favorite moment of the day.

Traffic begins to hum. Some rush to work while others pedal slowly to the morning market. Food vendors hurry back from the wholesale market with baskets full of fresh ingredients, ready to open their tiny stalls for breakfast.

The streets brighten, layer by layer. Some hurry. Some wander. Some linger.

And just like that, almost without noticing, Hanoi before dawn transforms into the Hanoi we all know.

Lively, busy, warm, chaotic and gentle all at once. All at once.

Join us for local experiences that capture the charm of Hanoi — from its hidden cafés to poetic autumn corners.

Dung (Emma)

Beyond Vietnam