This morning, meet your guide at hotel lobby, then we will visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (the outside) and his nearby former residence - a traditional stilt house. Then move forwards to One Pillar Pagoda and see its special architecture and belief of local people. After that, you will visit the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu in Vietnamese), situated in the place once known as the first university of Vietnam. Built-in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, the university was first opened for princes and mandarins exclusively. Inside, you will find 82 of the original 116 stelae engraving the names of the winners from doctorate competitions. Outside, with its ancient courtyards, altars and roofs, Van Mieu is a very fine example of Vietnamese architecture.
You will then enjoy your lunch at the special restaurant, a charming and warm place with fantastic food and services.
The afternoon is for visiting Manzi Art Space, situated in a peaceful colonial house. During your visit you will be treated to both a fabulous modern art exhibition and exquisite Hanoian coffee with the chance to meet a modern local artist and converse about all types of art throughout Vietnam and especially in Hanoi.
Return to your hotel by later this afternoon.