Hanoi’s largest park reopens after major renovation

Built in 1958 on marshland near ancient villages, the park was inaugurated in 1961 and named ‘Thong Nhat’ (Reunification), reflecting the hopes of the Vietnamese capital’s residents for national unity.

Despite being nearly seven decades old, it remains the city's largest green space in both area and tree coverage.

The park's facelift, approved in January 2025 by the Hai Ba Trung District administration, included replacing iron fences with an open design, repaving sidewalks with natural stone, improving lighting and drainage systems, and various new infrastructure enhancements.

Since the recent five-day holiday, Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper observed a noticeable increase in foot traffic compared to the pre-renovation period.

The removal of perimeter fences has made the park more open and accessible to residents.

“I think removing the fence was a great idea—it makes the park feel more spacious and welcoming,” said 68-year-old Pham Thi Hue from Dong Da District. “I hope authorities continue investing in fitness equipment for public use.”

Tran Anh Tu, general director of Thong Nhat Park Co., Ltd., the park operator, told Tuoi Tre on Sunday that the renovation reached completion before the April 30 deadline.

Tu added that both the district’s project management board and the park operator contributed to various upgraded sections, including entranceways and surrounding sidewalks.

While no exact footfall figures are available yet, Tu noted that visitor numbers have significantly increased since entry fees were waived and fences removed.

Meanwhile, other large green spaces like Cau Giay and Nghia Do Parks are also undergoing rushed renovations.

Since early 2024, Hanoi authorities have held regular meetings with district officials to accelerate park improvement projects.

The capital city aims to upgrade 91 percent of parks and flower gardens by 2025.

However, on-the-ground observations by Tuoi Tre show that many of these projects remain behind schedule.