Vietnam’s ambitious drive to cultivate a thriving night-time economy through expanded Hanoi pedestrian zones is currently facing considerable scrutiny, as several newly introduced areas, particularly Ngoc Ngu Xa, exhibit persistent struggles with poor foot traffic, early business closures, and a notable absence of engaging cultural activities. This initiative, crucial for Vietnam tourism, aims to boost the capital’s appeal after dark.
While iconic locations such as Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter continue to flourish as vibrant public spaces teeming with tourists, lively performances, and bustling street food vendors, other designated Hanoi cultural spaces reveal signs of stagnation and underutilization. This disparity raises significant questions about the planning, sustainability, and long-term efficacy of Vietnam’s walking street model.
A stark illustration of these inconsistencies can be observed in the Ngoc Ngu Xa pedestrian zone, an area where recent observations indicate a significant decline in visitor activity, even during what are traditionally considered peak hours. This zone, intended as a key component of the city’s Vietnam night economy strategy, struggles to draw crowds.
Around 9 p.m. on a typical Saturday, a time when most walking streets should be at their busiest, Ngoc Ngu Xa often remains unusually quiet, with many shops and private residences already closed and streetlights frequently unlit, casting an eerie, desolate atmosphere over sections of the route. This points to fundamental urban planning challenges that extend beyond mere aesthetics.
The concept of walking streets in Hanoi, first introduced over two decades ago with success in the historic core, was initially celebrated as a symbol of innovation and cultural vibrancy, designed to energize the local tourism sector and bolster the Hanoi night economy. However, as the model expanded into new districts, the outcomes have proven widely inconsistent.
While core zones around Hoan Kiem Lake and the extended pedestrian corridors in the Old Quarter remain consistently successful, characterized by dense crowds, street performances, and bustling dining options, the struggles of areas like Ngoc Ngu Xa highlight critical gaps in support infrastructure, event programming, and effective promotion for newly established Hanoi pedestrian zones.
The problem extends beyond superficial issues like business hours or lighting; it encompasses broader questions of comprehensive Hanoi urban development and seamless integration. For walking streets to truly thrive and contribute to the Vietnam night economy, they require more than just physical redesign; they necessitate a holistic urban experience that offers diverse cultural activities, enhanced safety, accessibility, and consistent community engagement.
Experts advocate for a reevaluation of Hanoi’s expansion strategy, suggesting a shift from merely increasing locations to deepening the quality and sustainability of existing zones. This approach would involve more proactive coordination with local vendors, cultural organizations, and district authorities, ensuring these spaces remain vibrant and inviting long after their initial launch, addressing the core urban planning challenges.
Ultimately, while Hanoi cultural spaces like its pedestrian streets will continue to be a vital element of its urban fabric and global tourism appeal, their future success hinges on the city’s ability to learn from past experiences. A more targeted, people-centered model, prioritizing robust cultural programming, dedicated business support, and an exceptional visitor experience, will be crucial for sustainable growth in Southeast Asia tourism.
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