Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House is one of the most significant historical relics in Hanoi, offering a profound glimpse into the austere and simple life led by President Ho Chi Minh, affectionately known as “Uncle Ho,” during his final years from until his death in . It is located in a tranquil garden setting on the grounds of the Presidential Palace complex.
I. History & Symbolism
A Choice of Humility: Despite being offered the luxurious former French Governor-General’s Palace (now the Presidential Palace), Ho Chi Minh chose instead to live in this traditional, modest wooden stilt house, reflecting his solidarity with the ethnic groups of Vietnam and his commitment to a simple, unpretentious lifestyle.
Architecture: The house is built in the style of traditional stilt houses common among Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. It is constructed from wood and features two small rooms: a ground floor used as a meeting and study area, and an upper floor with a bedroom and office.
The Setting: The house is surrounded by a peaceful, lush garden known as the “Mango Alley” (Đường Xoài), which features an ornamental fish pond where Uncle Ho often fed the fish—a detail that emphasizes his closeness to nature and his simple daily routine.
II. Visitor Experience
The Stilt House: Visitors can observe the house’s preserved interior from the outside. Personal artifacts, including his simple furniture, books, and clothing, are on display, carefully preserved exactly as he left them.
The Pond & Gardens: Strolling through the peaceful gardens and seeing the fish pond are key parts of the experience, offering a contrast to the bustling city outside.
The Complex: The Stilt House is part of the larger Ho Chi Minh Complex, which also includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace (viewed from outside), and the One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột). Most visitors combine these sites for a full historical tour.
Dress Code: Due to its significance, visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
III. Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 1 Hùng Vương Street, Ba Đình District, Hanoi (Located within the grounds of the Presidential Palace/Ho Chi Minh Complex). |
| Entrance Fee | VND 40,000 per foreign visitor (this ticket usually grants access to the entire complex, including the Stilt House, Museum, and One Pillar Pagoda). |
| Opening Hours | Generally: 7:30 AM – 11:30 AM and 1:30 PM – 4:00 PM daily. NOTE: The complex closes for a long lunch break. It's best to visit early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. |
| Closing Days | The entire complex is sometimes closed on Mondays and Fridays afternoons for maintenance. Always check current schedules before visiting. |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning (around 7:30 AM – 9:00 AM) to beat the heat and large tour groups. |
| General Phone | For complex inquiries (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Management): +84 804 4287 or +84 24 3845 5128. |
IV. Travel Tips
Security: Be prepared for security checks upon entering the complex. Bags may be scanned.
Photography: Photography is generally allowed in the garden area and of the stilt house exterior, but may be restricted inside some other buildings in the complex (e.g., the Mausoleum).
Guided Tours: Consider hiring a local guide at the complex entrance or joining a tour group to gain deeper insights into the life and legacy of President Ho Chi Minh.
