CHINESE PEOPLE IN HANOI || HANOI VOICE || #22

In the 15th century, the Chinese community was already present in Hanoi, predominantly on Hàng Ngang Street. By the 17th and 18th centuries, they had spread to the Hà Khẩu ward, which is now Hàng Buồm Street.
In the 19th century, when the Nguyễn dynasty moved the capital to Huế, Hanoi was reduced to a provincial seat, leading to a relaxation of the controls on the Chinese population.
They were free to reside on Hàng Bồ and Mã Mây Streets, among others, and they established a new street extending from Hàng Buồm called Phúc Kiến Street (now Lãn Ông Street).
The Chinese community in Hanoi, although smaller and less historically significant compared to places like Phố Hiến, Hội An, or Ho Chi Minh City, has left a noticeable mark. Despite the historical upheavals and their adaptation to social life, the Chinese cultural imprints have faded but can still be observed in the cultural space of Hanoi's old quarter and in the memories of the older generation of Hanoians. This community was perceived as distinct, somewhat insular, yet deeply intertwined with Hanoi's historical fluctuations.
Today, the Chinese population in Hanoi is much smaller, and those who remain are fully integrated into the Vietnamese community. Therefore, preserving and protecting Chinese cultural imprints has become increasingly important. This effort not only helps future generations of Chinese understand their ancestors' history but also helps the Vietnamese learn more about the Chinese-a component of the diverse ethnic mosaic of Vietnam.