Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Museum
★ 4.9 (51K+ reviews) • 491K+ booked
Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Hanoi by visiting the Hoa Lo Prison Museum. This unique destination offers a glimpse into Vietnam's colonial past, showcasing the contrasting lives of prisoners during different eras. Explore the haunting history of Hỏa Lò Prison Museum in Hanoi, a site with a unique appeal that draws visitors in to uncover its dark past and cultural significance. Immerse yourself in the dark history and cultural significance of Hoa Lo Prison Museum in Hanoi, Vietnam. This historical relic offers a unique insight into the lives of Vietnamese revolutionaries during the First Indochina War, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and travelers seeking a deeper understanding of Vietnam's past.
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Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Why people love Hoa Lo Prison Museum

4.9 /5
51K+ reviews
Read all reviews
Stacy *********
5 days ago
highly recommended trip to Ninh Binh. plus, our tour guide is very kind and funny.
2+
oishi *******
5 days ago
It was a very enjoyable day, with kind and polite people. The guide was also very sincere and cordial. I walked a lot that day, which was good exercise. I was also comfortable on the bus. The amount of lunch was also good, so I was satisfied.
Wee ********
5 days ago
very entertaining and amusing. not sure how they gave life to these puppets but definitely worth a visit
2+
LAU *****
5 days ago
It was perfect. Manager ( the owner ) she is caring about my trip and she deployed the best driver for my round trip. Nice.
YesaIvy ******
5 days ago
we are very comfortable in our cabin, they provided bottled water for each passenger. we had 2 stop overs. the driver is very good and very safe in driving. it is very sad that the wifi is not working on both our ways to Sapa and coming back to Hanoi. maybe the bus company must take a look at it because 6 hour travel is very boring when you don’t have wifi nowadays.
YesaIvy ******
5 days ago
the driver is very good. we felt very comfortable and safe while he’s driving. i suggest to have 1 person in 1 cabin for comfortability especially in zigzag roads
Lu *******
5 days ago
I like the service of Tom and Tony very much. Although my English is not good, they are still dedicated to guiding and taking care of every tourist. Thank you.
Jessica **
5 days ago
very good. I forgot I had a massage but they waited for me and reminded mez gave me the whole 1 hour. washed my feet and gave me tea before and after

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Remarkable Landmarks and Must-Visit Sights

Hoa Lo Prison Museum

Discover the historical significance of the prison, known as Maison Centrale, and learn about the contrasting experiences of political prisoners during the French colonial era and the Vietnam War. Explore the haunting exhibits that showcase the prison's history from the French colonial era to the Vietnamese government's use during the Second Indochina War. Witness the brutal conditions faced by prisoners, including torture instruments, iron shackles, and the infamous French guillotine.

French Colonial Architecture

Discover the remnants of the French colonial era at Hỏa Lò Prison, where the original walls and structures offer a glimpse into the past.

Guillotine Room

Visit the guillotine room, complete with original equipment, to learn about the harsh realities faced by prisoners during the colonial period.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Hoa Lo Prison holds deep cultural and historical significance, serving as a symbol of resistance against colonialism and a reminder of the Vietnam War era. Hoa Lo Prison was initially built by the French in 1896 to incarcerate political prisoners fighting for independence. Over the years, it housed thousands of inmates, including American pilots during the war. The prison's structure and exhibits offer a glimpse into the harsh realities faced by prisoners and the resilience of the Vietnamese people.

Museum Exhibits

Explore the museum exhibits that showcase the prison's past, from the French colonial period to its role during the Vietnam War, offering insights into the struggles faced by prisoners.

Memorial and Remembrance

Pay tribute to the inmates who suffered at Hỏa Lò Prison, reflecting on their resilience and the enduring impact of their experiences on Vietnamese history.

Local Cuisine

While visiting Hoa Lo Prison, don't miss the opportunity to explore the local cuisine in Hanoi. Indulge in traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho, banh mi, and bun cha, offering unique flavors and culinary experiences that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.