Vietnam Military History Museum: A Fascinating Gateway to the Nation’s Heroic Past

Located in Hanoi, the Vietnam Military History Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the country’s wartime legacy. As one of seven national museums in Vietnam, it preserves and showcases heroic stories through powerful artifacts and displays. Explore its rich history, iconic exhibits, and cultural significance.

1. Important Information about The Vietnam Military History Museum

Before planning your visit to the Vietnam Military History Museum, it’s essential to understand some key details to make the most of your experience. From its central location in Hanoi to practical information like opening hours, ticket prices, and transportation options, this section provides everything you need to know to prepare for an insightful and smooth trip.

1.1. Location

The Vietnam Military Museum (also known as the Vietnam War Museum) is located at Thang Long Boulevard, Tay Mo Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. It occupies a prime spot along one of Hanoi’s major arterial roads, making it highly accessible.

The museum is being developed on a land area of over 74 hectares, with its core exhibition space covering approximately 38.66 hectares, providing ample room for both indoor and outdoor displays of Vietnam’s military legacy. Surrounded by expanding urban infrastructure, the museum is more than just a cultural site, it serves as a significant architectural landmark that bridges past and future.

The Vietnam Military History Museum has recently been constructed with a modern design on a vast area along Thang Long Boulevard (Source: Internet)

1.2. Opening Hours And Entrance Fees

The museum is open from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM and from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM. Please note that the museum is closed on Mondays and Fridays, so visitors should plan accordingly.

It has implemented an entrance fee of 40,000 VND (USD 1.54) per person per visit, with a discounted rate of 20,000 VND (USD 0.77) for students aged 16 and above with a valid student ID. However, specific groups, including children under 16, seniors aged 80 and above, etc., are eligible for either full exemption or a 50% discount on the entrance fee.

The Military Museum is open every day of the week except Monday and Friday (Source: Internet)

1.3. How to Get to The Vietnam Military History Museum?

Visitors can reach the Vietnam Military History Museum through various transportation options, depending on their location and preferences:

• By motorbike: Renting a motorbike typically ranges about 150,000 VND - 250,000 VND (USD 5.78 - USD 9.63) per day; or requesting rides via ride-hailing apps from Hanoi's Old Quarter typically costs between 70,000 VND - 90,000 VND (USD 2.7 - USD 3.5), depending on traffic and time of day.
• By taxi: Local taxis and ride-hailing apps for a distance of 3-5km have fares typically ranging about 70,000 VND - 100,000 VND (USD 2.5 - USD 3.7).
• By bus: Several bus routes serve the museum's vicinity, including numbers 71B, 74, 87, 88, 107, 157, E05, E07, and E09. Bus fares are economical, typically ranging from 8,000 to 9,000 VND/trip (USD 0.31 - USD 0.35).

Each transportation method offers its own advantages, allowing visitors to choose the most suitable option based on their location, budget, and preferences.

Visitors can choose their preferred mode of transportation to reach and explore the museum (Source: Internet)

2. The Establishment And Development of The Vietnam Military Museum

The Vietnam Military History Museum was originally established under the name "Army Museum" at 28A Dien Bien Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, and officially opened on 22 December 1959, marking the 15th anniversary of the Vietnam People's Army. Over the decades, it became a significant cultural and educational site, attracting numerous visitors interested in the nation's wartime legacy.

In response to the growing need for a more expansive and modern facility, construction of a new Vietnam Military History Museum began in 2020 at Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi. It officially opened on 1 November 2024. This relocation marked a significant milestone in preserving and promoting Vietnam's rich military heritage. In the same year, the museum was awarded the Grand Prize at the 16th National Architecture Awards.

The former Vietnam Military History Museum is located in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi (Source: Internet)

The new Vietnam Military Museum was newly built and relocated to Nam Tu Liem District in 2020 (Source: Internet)

3. Highlights of the Vietnam Military History Museum

The Vietnam Military History Museum features over 150,000 artifacts and documents, including four National Treasures. It comprises a four-story main building with a basement and an outdoor exhibition area. The displays focus mainly on the period from the early days of building to defending the country after 1975 to present, vividly showcasing Vietnam’s struggle for independence and national reunification.

3.1. Indoor Display

The indoor exhibition of the Vietnam Military History Museum is organized into six themed galleries, each corresponding to a pivotal era in Vietnam’s military history:

• Gallery 1: The early days of building and defending the country.
• Gallery 2: Protecting national independence from 939 to 1858.
• Gallery 3: Fighting against French colonialism, gaining national independence from 1858 to 1945.
• Gallery 4: The resistance war against France from 1945 to 1954.
• Gallery 5: The resistance war against America from 1954 to 1975.
• Gallery 6: Building and defending the country after 1975 to the present.

The artifacts are clearly organized according to different periods of the country's construction, defense, and development (Source: Internet)

Over 150,000 artifacts and documents serve as living evidence of the courageous resistance era and stand as a source of national pride for Vietnam (Source: Internet)

The Vietnam Military History Museum is one of seven national museums that house a large collection of war artifacts in Vietnam (Source: Internet)

One of the most remarkable highlights of the indoor exhibition is the display of four National Treasures, exceptional artifacts officially recognized for their historical and cultural value. These include:

• The MiG-21 fighter aircraft number 4324: This iconic aircraft shot down 14 enemy planes, contributing to defeating the first "Local War" strategy of raiding the North of Vietnam in the period 1965 - 1968 of the US imperialists.
• The MiG-21 aircraft number 5121: This is the plane piloted by Lieutenant General Pham Tuan, which shot down a US Air Force B-52 on the "Dien Bien Phu in the air" Campaign or Linebacker II Campaign. It is the only fighter plane in the world that has shot down an American B-52.
• The command map of the Ho Chi Minh Campaign: This strategic battle map was used by General Van Tien Dung and Comrade Pham Hung in April 1975. It documents the real-time military decisions that led to the liberation of Saigon and national reunification.
• The T-54B tank number 843: This Soviet-made tank was the tank to crash through the gates of the Independence Palace on April 30, 1975, effectively ending the Vietnam War. Today, it remains a potent symbol of Vietnam’s complete victory and national reunification.

All exhibition themes are advanced technologies such as interactive information screens, life-sized 1:1 combat scene models, 3D mapping sand tables, historical photo archives, automated audio guides, and QR codes for artifact lookup. Over 60 documentary videos vividly recount major military campaigns and heroic individuals, offering a dynamic and immersive journey into Vietnam’s military past.

Four national treasures are associated with the figures and events that created legendary feats during Vietnam’s resistance war against the United States (Source: Internet)

The museum employs modern technology to provide visitors with the most authentic and immersive experience (Source: Internet)

In addition to the permanent exhibition areas, the museum regularly organizes thematic exhibitions and anniversary events to honor important historical events and prominent military figures. These exhibits serve not only as historical documentation but as emotional tributes, inspiring deep respect and patriotism among visitors of all ages.

On both sides of the building, a Peace Monument rises from the wreckage of a B-52 bomber, featuring tree branches, green sprouts, and doves. Above it, a globe and mirrors reflect Vietnam’s journey from the Hung Kings to the 20th century, symbolizing the nation’s message of peace and reconciliation.

The Vietnam Military History Museum organizes art exhibitions featuring the armed forces (Source: Internet)

A unique symbol of peace is placed in the spaces on both sides of the building (Source: Internet)

3.2. Outdoor Exhibition

The Victory Tower is the centerpiece of the building, standing 45 meters tall to mark the year 1945, when Vietnam gained independence. Its top is cut at a 60-degree angle, forming an ascending stack of five pointed stars. The pentagonal base of the tower represents the five socialist social classes: intellectuals, peasants, workers, entrepreneurs, and soldiers, united in the cause of national defense and development.

On the left and right of the museum are outdoor exhibition zones displaying a range of military equipment used during the wars against France and the U.S. These include artillery pieces, tanks, armored vehicles, and aircraft. Notable weapons and equipment include the 85mm artillery gun, the PT-67 tank number 555, and the MiG-17 fighter number 2047. Many were also used in post-war training and national defense readiness.

The exhibition also features equipment used by America in the war. Noteworthy pieces include the M107 self-propelled gun (175mm), dubbed the “King of the Battlefield”, along with dozens of bombs, and U.S. military aircraft such as the A-37, F-5E, CH-47, C-130, etc. Through resilience and creativity, the Vietnamese army and people were able to overcome these modern weapons and ultimately achieve victory.

The architectural lines of the Victory Tower are interconnected and harmoniously aligned, creating a visually striking effect (Source: Internet)

A close-up view of military aircraft used by the Vietnamese Army (Source: Internet)

On the left side is the exhibition area showcasing military weapons used by the U.S army (Source: Internet)

The 175mm self-propelled gun, dubbed the "King of the Battlefield" by the U.S.-backed South Vietnamese forces (Source: Internet)

4. Essential Tips for A Perfect Museum Visit

To make the most of your visit to the Vietnam Military History Museum, here are some helpful tips that will enhance your experience while showing respect for the nation’s heroic past:

• Dress respectfully: As the museum honors national heroes and wartime sacrifices, wearing modest and appropriate clothing helps maintain the solemn and respectful atmosphere.
• Follow photography guidelines: Some exhibits, especially rare or sensitive artifacts, may have restrictions on photography. Pay close attention to signage to avoid disrupting the display or violating museum policies.
• Prepare for the outdoor exhibits: If you’re visiting during midday or summer, bring a personal water bottle, hat, or umbrella. The outdoor areas are expansive and can be hot, so staying hydrated is essential for comfort.
• Consider a local guide: Hiring a local guide or using translation support can provide deeper insights into the exhibits and stories. This helps overcome any language barriers and ensures a richer, more engaging visit.

Pay attention to regulations on attire, photography, and other guidelines at the museum to show respect and maintain proper decorum (Source: Internet)

5. Other Famous Historical Sites to Explore

After visiting the Vietnam Military History Museum, you can explore several other historical landmarks in Hanoi that offer deeper insights into the city's rich cultural and historical heritage.

5.1. Temple of Literature

About 13.2km from the Vietnam Military History Museum, the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university, was founded in 1070. This well-preserved complex honors Confucius and scholars, featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture. Visitors can reach the site by a short taxi or motorbike ride of about 30 - 50 minutes, making it a convenient and enriching addition to your itinerary.

The Temple of Literature is a popular destination for both domestic and international visitors (Source: Internet)

5.2. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is located about 13.6 kilometers from the Military History Museum. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that served as Vietnam's political center for over a millennium.

The citadel showcases ancient palaces, gates, and archaeological sites, reflecting the country's imperial history. Notable features include the Flag Tower and the D67 underground war command bunker. To learn more about the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, visitors can find information here.

The World Cultural Heritage Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a symbol of Dai Viet's history and culture over many centuries (Source: Internet)

5.3. Hoa Lo Prison

Approximately 14.1 kilometers from the Vietnam Military History Museum offers a sobering glimpse into Vietnam's colonial and wartime history. Originally built by the French in the late 19th century to detain political prisoners, it later held American POWs during the Vietnam War.

The museum mainly exhibits original cells, artifacts, and narratives that portray the harsh conditions and resilience of its inmates. For a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s tumultuous past and the enduring spirit of its people, a visit to Hoa Lo Prison is highly recommended.

A visit Hoa Lo Prison provides a profound understanding of the country's struggle for independence (Source: Internet)

A visit to the Vietnam Military History Museum not only offers a powerful journey through the nation's heroic past, but also serves as a gateway to explore Hanoi’s rich cultural and historical landscape.

Don’t miss the chance to discover more about local Vietnamese cuisine, heritage sites, and travel tips curated on Vietnam Airlines’s website.