Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House

Historic Building in Hanoi

Ho Chi Minhs Stilt House
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Grossbildjaeger

Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, located within the Presidential Palace complex in Hanoi, is a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the simple yet impactful life of Vietnam’s revered leader, Ho Chi Minh. This humble abode, where Ho Chi Minh lived from 1958 until his death in 1969, reflects his modest lifestyle and dedication to the Vietnamese people.

Historical Background

The Stilt House was constructed in 1958, modeled after the traditional stilt houses of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities, which Ho Chi Minh admired for their practicality and simplicity. Despite his position as President, he chose to live in this modest structure rather than the grand Presidential Palace, symbolizing his connection to the common people and his commitment to a frugal, ascetic lifestyle.

Architectural Features

The house is a two-story wooden structure raised on stilts. The lower level is an open area used for meetings and receiving guests, with simple wooden furniture and a few basic amenities. The upper level consists of two small rooms: a bedroom and a study. The bedroom contains a narrow bed, a wooden wardrobe, and a mosquito net, while the study is furnished with a desk, chairs, and bookshelves, showcasing Ho Chi Minh’s intellectual pursuits and dedication to his work.

The surrounding gardens are meticulously maintained, featuring a carp pond, fruit trees, and various flowering plants. These gardens reflect Ho Chi Minh’s love for nature and provide a tranquil setting that contrasts with the bustling city of Hanoi.

Significance

Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House is more than just a residence; it is a symbol of his leadership style and philosophy. His choice to live in such a simple dwelling despite his powerful position exemplifies his humility, dedication to simplicity, and his desire to lead by example. The house has been preserved as a museum, allowing visitors to step back in time and gain insight into the life and values of one of Vietnam’s most influential figures.

The Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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Visiting Ho Chi Minh's Stilt House

Hours:

It is open every day except on Monday and Friday, from 7.30 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 4 pm.


Price:

25,000 VND.

Address: Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House, Đường Hoàng Hoa Thám, Ngọc Hà, Ba Đình, Hanoi, Vietnam

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