Hanoi turns into a world-class arts hub through Image Hanoi 25 – a must-see cultural event for travelers and photographers in Vietnam

Posted on November 3, 2025

Hanoi has officially launched Photo Hanoi ’25, an exciting month-long photography biennale aimed at establishing the city as a vibrant global hub for the art of photography. From November 1 to 30, 2025, visitors are invited to experience more than 50 exhibitions, interactive events and thought-provoking talks that transform Hanoi’s streets and cultural landmarks into a giant open-air exhibition.

Uniting artists from all over the world

This year, the Biennale brought together 170 artists, photographers and curators from 21 countries, showcasing the diversity of global photography. With 22 main exhibitions and 28 side events such as film screenings and art talks, Photo Hanoi ’25 provides a unique opportunity for tourists to experience contemporary art while discovering Hanoi’s rich cultural tapestry. Visitors can see the creative works of more than 25 professional organizations, covering 20 cultural venues across the capital.

A City Transformed: Hanoi’s Streets as Art Galleries

The Biennale goes beyond traditional exhibition spaces by incorporating Hanoi’s iconic public spaces into the artistic experience. Visitors will see photography installations in the heart of Hanoi’s busy streets, ancient temples and heritage sites, all designed to reflect the city’s vibrant culture and urban identity. This transformation provides tourists with a unique opportunity to treat the city not only as a destination, but also as a canvas full of stories and emotions captured through the art of photography.

One special exhibition, “Longing for cities”Curated by artist Nguyen The Son, it brings together 30 artists from 19 global cities. By focusing on urban memory, the exhibition explores how cities are shaped by photography. The installation of collage clocks, each representing a different city and running in real time, serves as a metaphor for the rhythm of urban life.

Cultural tourism: where art meets exploration

For travelers looking for an immersive cultural experience, Photo Hanoi ’25 offers more than just visual art – it offers opportunities to engage with the city through interactive workshops, photography tours and public discussions. These events aim to make contemporary photography accessible to everyone, especially young visitors who are eager to explore new creative forms.

Hanoi’s role as a creative city is growing, as these biennials provide a platform for cultural exchange and the flourishing of creative industries. The city is not just a backdrop for art but a place where local and international communities come together to experience photography from new perspectives.

Enriching the local economy and cultural scene

Photo Hanoi ’25 is an integral part of the city’s cultural tourism strategy, which seeks to diversify Hanoi’s appeal to international tourists. Because creative industries play a crucial role in economic growth, the Biennale helps attract visitors not only interested in historical sites but also in contemporary cultural expressions.

Hanoi’s commitment to becoming a UNESCO City of Design is reinforced by its role in hosting this international event, which aims to increase cultural dialogue and build stronger relationships with global creative communities. The city’s growing reputation as a destination for creative tourism offers a new angle for travelers looking to explore beyond traditional attractions.

Public access and interactive art experiences

Photo Hanoi ’25 runs until November 30, 2025, and visitors can access the majority of exhibitions and side events for free. Various venues, including famous cultural sites such as the Exhibition House at 45 Trang Tien and the French Institute, will host a range of public art installations. The Biennale is particularly aimed at younger audiences and art lovers looking for new experiences in photography and cultural exploration.

This event is designed to make contemporary art accessible by offering workshops, public tours, and interactive events. These activities help bridge the gap between professional photographers and the general public, inviting tourists to delve deeper into the world of visual storytelling.

Why is the image of Hanoi 25 important to tourists?

For tourists visiting Hanoi in November, Photo Hanoi ’25 offers an engaging, educational and artistic lens through which to explore the capital. This biennale is not just about viewing art; It’s about experiencing Hanoi in a new way – through the eyes of world-class photographers.

The Biennale offers tourists an opportunity to connect with the city’s rich history while experiencing modern expressions of cultural identity through photography. For photography enthusiasts and ordinary visitors, this event is an unforgettable opportunity to see Hanoi in a new light, combining history, art and urban culture.

Conclusion: A cultural landmark of Hanoi

As Hanoi continues to establish itself as a major player in global cultural tourism, the image of Hanoi 25 stands as a testament to the city’s growing role in the international creative scene. With diverse exhibitions and city-wide participation, the biennale offers a rich experience for tourists and art lovers alike.

This event not only elevates Hanoi as a cultural destination, but also fosters international cooperation, transforming the city into a living canvas that celebrates photography, creativity and cultural exchange. For travelers to Hanoi in November, Photo Hanoi ’25 is a must-see event that promises to deliver a unique and immersive experience.