Nestled within Vietnam's bustling capital, Hanoi, lies a network of historic waterways weaving through the city's cultural fabric. These rivers in Hanoi not only sustain the daily rhythms of local life but also invite travelers to explore the city's essence. Serving as essential arteries of transportation, they are witnesses to centuries of history, profoundly influencing the evolution of Vietnam's capital.
1. How many rivers are there in Hanoi?
Hanoi is also known by the nicknames "the city of rivers and lakes" and "the city within rivers". As reported by Hanoi's official portal, the capital is traversed by nine rivers in Hanoi: the iconic Red River, the Duong River, Da River, Nhue River, Cau River, Day River, Ca Lo River, Tich River, and To Lich River. While the To Lich River flows within the urban confines, the remaining eight rivers meander through various other provinces and cities.
Many consider Hanoi to have a 10th river - the Kim Nguu River. Others consider it just a part of the To Lich River. While this is a matter of much debate, official records often merge them together, counting only the To Lich River.
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2. Things you may not know about each river in Hanoi
2.1. Red River in Hanoi
The Red River serves as a nurturing source, enriching the vibrant cultural landscape of Hanoi with its fertile silt. Originating in Yen Bai and flowing through Phu Tho, Hanoi, Hung Yen, and Thai Binh before reaching the South China Sea, it offers immense potential for tourism development with its scenic landscapes intertwined with cultural heritage sites. Visitors can explore renowned attractions along the shore such as Bat Trang Pottery Village and Long Bien Bridge to witness the river's enduring beauty.
2.2. Duong River
The Duong River, a tributary of the Red River, diverges in the northwest of Hanoi, meandering eastward through Bac Ninh before merging with the Thai Binh River. This famous river is a crucial aquatic thoroughfare linking Hanoi and Bac Ninh. It winds through picturesque natural scenery and echoes with the storied passages of history, weaving a tapestry of legendary tales and cultural traditions spanning millennia of the nation’s development.
2.3. Da River
The Da River, a symbol of the majestic northwestern region among the rivers in Vietnam, originates from China and flows through Son La, Hoa Binh, and Hanoi, before reaching Phu Tho. With its formidable rapids and substantial water flow, it contributes over 30% of the Red River's volume. Spanning 1,366 kilometers, its steep gradients and abundant hydrological resources make it Vietnam's prime candidate for hydroelectricity, offering a blend of adventure and potential amidst its wild rapids.
2.4. Nhue River in Hanoi
The Nhue River, another tributary of the Red River in Hanoi Vietnam, spans 62 kilometers through Hanoi, from Bac Tu Liem District to Ha Nam Province. It not only supplies water for agriculture in southwestern Hanoi but also serves as a drainage channel during floods. The river has brought prosperity to the areas it flows through and has enriched the local folk culture. Nowadays, to mitigate pollution, certain dams are constructed to regulate water levels, ensuring a continuous flow and preserving the river's aquatic ecosystem.
2.5. Cau River
The Cau River, spanning 288 kilometers, flows approximately 23 kilometers through Hanoi. It has shaped the unique cultural identity of both the midland mountainous region and the North Delta region, serving as a crucial waterway connecting economic and cultural ties between various localities. As one of the largest rivers in Hanoi, it holds a special geographical position and a rich history of development within the capital city.
2.6. Day River
The Day River originates from the western part of Hanoi, flows through Ha Nam, and serves as the boundary between Ninh Binh and Nam Dinh before reaching the South China Sea. It bears immense historical significance, with Hai Ba Trung Temple standing along the shore believed to be the execution site of the Trung Sisters. The river also supports various agricultural activities like mulberry cultivation and silk production. Similar to the Nhue River, the city is also seeking solutions to save the river from pollution.
2.7. To Lich River in Hanoi
The To Lich River, nestled within Hanoi's urban landscape, holds historical significance as one of the moats surrounding Thang Long Citadel (ancient Hanoi). Once teeming with bustling trade activities, its banks were vibrant marketplaces where goods flowed freely between regions. However, with urbanization came changes. The river, once a symbol of prosperity, became a neglected drainage channel, burdened with pollution. Recently, the authorities of Hanoi have been working on initiatives to revitalize the river.
2.8. Ca Lo River
The Ca Lo River, branching off from the Red River, meanders through three cities and provinces: Hanoi, Vinh Phuc, and Bac Ninh. Originating in Me Linh District in Hanoi, its waters predominantly stem from streams cascading down the Tam Dao and Soc Son mountain ranges. Despite its modest size, the Ca Lo River holds a profound place in the memories of locals dwelling along its verdant banks. Renowned for its idyllic charm, it annually enriches its surroundings with fertile sediment, providing the water essential for both livelihoods and production activities.
2.9. Tich River
The Tich River originates from the northeastern slope of Ba Vi Mountain, flowing down between the two communes of Cam Linh and Thuy An. It is known in the legend of Son Tinh - Thuy Tinh as the gateway of Dam Thuong. Following the Ba Vi and Vien Nam mountains, the Tich River joins the Day River. On its right bank, many streams like Ba Vi and Vien Nam pour into it, forming Ben Tam, Cau Tan, Hang River, Gieng River, Vai Ca Stream, etc. On its left bank, there is the Cuu Khe River flowing from the pond in Phuong Khe Village.
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Discovering the rivers in Hanoi unveils not just geographical marvels but also the cultural tapestry that defines the essence of Vietnam's capital. From the iconic Red River to the lesser-known Tich River, each waterway tells a story of resilience, adaptation, and the enduring bond between the city's past and present.
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