According to sector management data, Hanoi currently has more than 780,000 shade trees under its management. Of these, around 380,000 urban trees line streets, parks and squares, while another 400,000 are concentrated plantations of species such as acacia, melaleuca and eucalyptus along ring roads, expressways and traffic islands.
Along the road linking central Hanoi with Noi Bai International Airport, rows of trees on both sides and along the central reservation create a lush, attractive landscape, offering visitors a pleasant first impression as they enter the capital.
Along Buoi Street, evenly spaced tropical almond trees form a soft green corridor amid the heavy flow of traffic.
The trees do more than provide shade. They also help reduce dust, regulate temperatures, improve air quality and soften the urban environment, adding a distinctive green element to one of Hanoi's major traffic arteries.
More than 1.3km long, Hoang Dieu Street is one of the few roads in Hanoi lined with such a large number of mature trees. Three rows of old rain trees stand along the pavements and central reservation.
Rows of dracontomelon, rain trees, rosewood, crape myrtle and flamboyant trees have become familiar sights along streets including Tran Phu, Hoang Dieu, Hung Vuong, Lo Duc, Ly Thuong Kiet and Kim Ma.
A multi-layered canopy along Pham Van Bach Street has also developed strongly and remains healthy.
Maintaining Hanoi's urban trees requires a comprehensive system of regular management, care and protection. Authorities, technical staff and maintenance workers each play a role, from inspecting trees and pruning branches to treating diseases, caring for newly planted trees and remaining on standby during storms and heavy rain.
Lang Street is particularly striking for its tall, mature trees running along the central reservation.
The successive tree canopies along Thanh Nien Street soften the urban landscape, providing a contrast to the surrounding concrete buildings, houses and traffic. Green spaces are regarded as an important part of efforts to build a cleaner, more liveable and civilised city.
Along Thanh Nien Street, the green canopy blends with the waters of West Lake and Truc Bach Lake, creating an open and tranquil space amid one of Hanoi's busiest urban areas.
The road is also popular with residents and visitors for its leafy scenery and poetic atmosphere.
On Pham Van Dong Street, interlocking tree canopies form a natural "green roof", offering valuable shade during the hot summer months.
In summer, the entire 5km-long Pham Van Dong Street can feel like a cool oasis, protected by trees and the elevated road running overhead.
Although Hanoi's green spaces are gradually expanding, the city's tree network remains limited in terms of scale, quality and distribution. Central districts have many mature trees but little available land for further planting, while some newer urban developments and suburban areas still lack sufficient greenery.