Thu Le Park, also known as Hanoi Zoo, is one of the capital’s oldest and best-known attractions. Built in 1975-76, it has deteriorated after decades of operation.
The park features more than 8.7 hectares of lake water and mature trees of ecological value. It is also home to Voi Phuc Temple, a special national historical relic.
Shaded by a canopy of green trees, the park offers visitors a welcome respite from the city.
However, many of its facilities have become rusty or damaged over the years. Some walkways appear to have been patched up, while cracks have formed in sections of brick paving.
Nguyen Tri Dung, a visitor, said the animal enclosures were too cramped.
“The site currently meets children’s needs to explore the animal world, but it has yet to become an attractive destination for international tourists like zoos in many other countries,” he said.
At one corner of the lake, a layer of scum has formed on the water, accompanied by a fishy smell.
A section of wall beside the elephant enclosure is visibly leaning, while a bench for visitors has two broken wooden slats.
Thu Huong, a resident of Cau Giay Ward, said she and her husband occasionally took their children to Thu Le Park to see the animals. Over the years, however, she had noticed few new features to keep visitors interested.
“The enclosures were built in an old-fashioned style. I hope the park’s management will invest in a comprehensive redevelopment with a more modern design, or carry out regular maintenance and repairs,” she said.
Many animal enclosures were built years ago and now have peeling paint and other signs of wear. Visitors passing some of them can also notice unpleasant smells.
The park currently houses and conserves nearly 600 animals belonging to 88 species, including 32 endemic and rare species.
Hanoi is studying a comprehensive revision of Thu Le Park’s detailed masterplan, with the aim of developing it into a themed park combining ecological and landscape values with cultural and historical heritage, recreation and conservation education.
The proposed design seeks to create a modern, welcoming park with a distinct identity while strengthening its links with surrounding urban spaces.
