Discover Vietnam's Military History at the Newly Military Museum

Are you visiting Hanoi and interested in learning about Vietnam’s rich military history? You’re in luck! As of November 1st, 2024, the Vietnam Military History Museum has officially opened its doors at a new, expansive location. Tourists and history enthusiasts can enjoy free admission until the end of December 2024, making it the perfect time to dive into the nation’s military past.

Located in the Tay Mo and Dai Mo wards of Nam Tu Liem District, this modern museum is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Vietnam’s storied history of resistance and perseverance. Here’s everything you need to know before planning your visit.

A New Home for Vietnam's Military History

The Vietnam Military History Museum, originally located at 28A Dien Bien Phu in Ba Dinh District, has moved to a more expansive site to accommodate visitors better and provide an enhanced experience. The new address is Km 6+500, Thang Long Boulevard, which is easily accessible via multiple bus routes, including 71B, 74, 87, 88, 107, 157, and several Smart City express lines like E05, E07, and E09.

The museum’s relocation was designed to offer a more immersive and interactive experience. Covering over 386,600 square meters, the new facility showcases a wide array of military artifacts, including rare national treasures, and uses cutting-edge technology to bring Vietnam’s military history to life. Whether you’re a casual tourist or a dedicated history buff, the museum promises a memorable and educational experience.

Free Admission Until December 2024

From November 1st to December 31st, 2024, visitors can explore the museum free of charge, making it an unmissable opportunity for anyone in the area. This limited-time offer encourages tourists and locals to explore the museum’s exhibitions and learn about Vietnam’s military heritage.

Registering in advance is recommended to visit the museum, especially during peak tourist seasons. You can contact the museum at 0246.253.1367 to secure your spot.

A State-of-the-Art Museum Experience

Unlike traditional museums, the Vietnam Military History Museum at its new location blends modern technology with historical exhibits. The museum’s architecture is both symbolic and functional, with its centerpiece being the 45-meter-high Victory Tower. The four-story main building and a basement span a total floor area of 64,640 square meters.

Visitors can explore both indoor and outdoor exhibits, with each area focusing on different aspects of Vietnam’s military history. The museum’s design encourages interaction and engagement, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the country’s long struggle for independence.

The museum’s interior boasts interactive 3D mapping models, touchscreen information panels, and automatic audio guides. You’ll also find QR codes alongside artifacts, allowing you to access detailed information via your smartphone. In addition, over 60 video clips provide in-depth insights into significant battles, campaigns, and military figures.

The Museum’s Vast Collection of Military Artifacts

The Vietnam Military History Museum is home to more than 150,000 military artifacts, including four nationally recognized treasures. These artifacts offer a window into Vietnam’s military strategies and the resilience of its people during crucial historical periods.

Here are some of the highlights you can expect to see:

• MiG-21 Fighter Jet ("The Silver Swallow"): One of the most iconic exhibits, this MiG-21 aircraft with the serial number 4324 was used during the Vietnam War. The jet, which hangs dramatically from the ceiling, appears as if it’s in mid-flight, protecting the skies of Vietnam. This particular aircraft has a storied history, with nine pilots flying it on 69 missions and successfully shooting down 14 American aircraft. The jet is a national treasure symbol of the country’s wartime bravery.
• Outdoor Military Equipment Display: The museum’s outdoor spaces are dedicated to showcasing large military equipment used by Vietnamese forces and foreign armies. On the left side of the outdoor area, visitors can see equipment used by the Vietnamese People’s Army during the resistance against French and American invaders, such as the 85mm artillery, PT-67 tanks, and MiG-17 aircraft. On the right side, you’ll find American and French military equipment left behind after the wars, including the formidable 175mm M-107 self-propelled gun, which earned the nickname "King of the Battlefield," as well as A-37 and F-5E fighter jets.
• The Symbol of Peace: As you move through the museum, you’ll come across exhibits that symbolize Vietnam’s aspirations for peace. One particularly sore display features doves soaring from the wreckage of a downed aircraft, symbolizing hope and the pursuit of harmony even in the aftermath of war. This section reflects Vietnam’s commitment to peace on the global stage and the sacrifices made to achieve it.

A Thematic Journey Through Vietnam's Military History

The exhibits are divided into six main thematic sections inside the museum, each focusing on a different era of Vietnam’s military past. These sections are designed to take visitors on a chronological journey through time, highlighting the key moments and battles that shaped the nation.

1. The Early Period of Nation Building and Defense: This section explores Vietnam’s earliest military history, from its formation to the battles that helped establish and defend the nation.
2. Protecting Independence (939 - 1858): Focused on the period when Vietnam defended its sovereignty from external threats, this section covers critical battles and strategies to protect the fledgling nation.
3. The Anti-French Resistance (1858 - 1945): Detailing Vietnam’s struggle against French colonial rule, this section highlights the resistance movements that eventually led to the nation’s independence in 1945.
4. The First Indochina War (1945 - 1954): A key exhibit in this section includes a 105mm artillery piece used by Vietnamese forces during the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, which marked a turning point in the war against French colonialism.
5. The Vietnam War (1954 - 1975): The Vietnam War is perhaps the most well-known chapter in Vietnam’s military history, and this section brings it to life with immersive displays. Visitors can relive the 60-day battle to defend Hanoi, a pivotal moment in the fight against American forces.
6. Post-1975: Nation Building and Defense: This final section focuses on Vietnam’s post-war years, highlighting the rebuilding of the country and the continued efforts to defend its independence.

Each section is thoughtfully curated with artifacts, multimedia displays, and detailed descriptions to provide context and enhance the visitor’s understanding of Vietnam’s military history.

Interactive Displays and Modern Technology

One of the most exciting aspects of the new Vietnam Military History Museum is its use of cutting-edge technology to enhance the visitor experience. In addition to traditional artifact displays, the museum incorporates advanced 3D mapping technology, interactive touchscreens, and immersive audiovisual presentations.

Visitors can explore 1:1 scale models of historical scenes, such as the streets of Hanoi during the 60-day defense campaign in 1946. These lifelike recreations bring history to life, allowing visitors to revisit and experience the events that shaped the nation.

Additionally, the museum’s high-tech projection screens and large LED displays help showcase critical moments in Vietnam’s military history. These presentations are visually stunning and provide a deeper understanding of the strategies and decisions that led to Vietnam’s victories in crucial battles.

Plan Your Visit

The Vietnam Military History Museum’s new location is a must-visit for tourists in Hanoi, offering a unique glimpse into the country’s military history. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a history enthusiast, or a family looking for an educational experience, the museum has something for everyone.

Here’s a quick guide to planning your visit:

• Address: Km 6+500, Thang Long Boulevard, Tay Mo, Dai Mo, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi.
• Contact: 0246.253.1367
• Admission: Free until December 31st, 2024.
• Getting There: Accessible by bus routes 71B, 74, 87, 88, 107, 157, E05, E07, and E09.

With its combination of traditional artifacts and modern technology, the Vietnam Military History Museum offers a fresh, engaging way to explore the country’s storied past. Whether you’re fascinated by military history or simply curious about Vietnam’s journey to independence, this museum will leave a lasting impression.

So, make sure to add the Vietnam Military History Museum to your itinerary when visiting Hanoi—your window into the heroic history of the Vietnamese people awaits

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