HANOI MOVES FORWARD WITH THREE PROPOSED NATIONAL TOURISM AREAS

Throughout July 2026, Center for Nature Conservation and Development (CCD) partnered with Hanoi Department of Tourism to assess three candidate sites for national tourism area recognition: Ba Vi tourism area, Huong Son Special National Monument Complex (Huong Pagoda), and Hoan Kiem tourism area in Hanoi.

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Figure 1: The Da River viewed from Ba Vi National Park

Figure 2: Huong Son Special National Monument Complex (Huong Pagoda)

Figure 3: Landscape of Thien Son - Suoi Nga Ecotourism Area, Yen Bai commune

The assessment examined six key areas: tourism resources, planning, infrastructure, technical facilities and services, natural resource and environmental protection, and capacity to meet visitor needs. The findings will inform the preparation of recognition dossiers for the three sites.

Tourism development at these destinations forms part of CCD’s broader efforts to link biodiversity conservation with sustainable tourism in Hanoi. National recognition could provide a stronger platform for coordinating the protection of nature, cultural heritage, landscapes, architectural spaces, festivals, and historical, cultural, and spiritual values while promoting the sustainable use of tourism resources. Interpretation and public outreach could also improve understanding of wildlife, natural ecosystems, and relevant conservation regulations.

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Figure 4: The survey team at Cot 600 Historical Site in Ba Vi National Park. Across the wider area, the team also assessed tourist attractions, services, and tourism infrastructure in Yen Bai, Suoi Hai, and Ba Vi communes.

Figure 5: The survey team at Hanoi Old Quarter Cultural Exchange Center, 50 Dao Duy Tu street. The team also assessed tourist attractions managed by Hoan Kiem Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter Management Board, as well as local tourism businesses.

Figure 6: The survey team at a food and beverage establishment within Huong Son Special National Monument Complex (Huong Pagoda).

National recognition could further create opportunities for local communities to participate in tourism, promote locally made products, and diversify their livelihoods through guiding, accommodation, food services, and other visitor experiences. Greater community participation would help ensure that local people share in the benefits generated by tourism.

CCD will continue working with Hanoi Department of Tourism to support the implementation of the Tourism System Master Plan for 2021–2030, with a vision to 2045, approved under Decision No. 509/QD-TTg dated 13 June 2024. These efforts are expected to strengthen Hanoi’s tourism profile while promoting a closer connection between tourism development and the conservation of the capital’s natural and cultural heritage.