Vietnamese Pride Reflected in the Flag-Raising Ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
When visiting Hanoi, many travellers look forward to witnessing the flag-raising ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This solemn ritual allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture, patriotism, and the profound respect the Vietnamese people hold for President Ho Chi Minh.
The meaning behind the Flag-Raising Ceremony
The flag-raising ritual is not only a national-level ceremony but also a sacred moment that evokes pride and unity among the Vietnamese people.
As the national flag ascends to stirring melody of the National Anthem, the scene becomes a symbol of gratitude and respect for President Ho Chi Minh and the generations of ancestors who sacrificed for independence and freedom.
This ceremony is deeply connected with the capital city of Hanoi, but more importantly, it is a source of national pride for every Vietnamese citizien – a reflection of patriotism, unity, and the enduring resilience of the nation on its path toward development and international integration.
Location and schedule of the Flag-Raising Ceremony
The ceremony takes place at Ba Dinh square, in front of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, located at 2 Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh District, Honoi.
The full ceremony consists of two main parts:
- Flag-Raising Ceremony
- Flag-Lowering Ceremony
Official timings
- Flag-Raising:
- 6:00 AM in summer
- 6:30 PM in winter
- Flag-Lowering:
- 9:00 PM daily
The Flag-Raising ceremony in held every Sunday and on major national holidays such as National Day (September 2) and President Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday (May 19).
How the Flag-Raising Ceremony is conducted
The daily flag-raising ritual at Ba Dinh Square is performed by the Honor Guard Unit of the Command for the Protection of Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. The guard unit consists of highly disciplined soldiers with standard height, posture, and ceremonial expertise.
To the powerful melody of “Tiến bước dưới quân kỳ” (“Marching Under the Military Flag”), the honor guard marches with strength and precision, escorting the national flag to the top of the 29-meter flagpole.
This moment not only shows respect for President Ho Chi Minh but also stirs patriotic pride in everyone present.
The ceremony is both solemn and inspiring, offering locals and visitors a chance to feel the unity and resilience of the Vietnamese spirit. It is a must-see experience when exploring Hanoi, especially during major national celebrations.
Guidelines for Attending the Flag-Raising Ceremony
To ensure a respectful and meaningful experience, visitors should follow these guidelines:
Dress Code
- Wear modest and appropriate clothing
- Avoid overly short or revealing outfits
Behavior
- Walk softly, speak quietly, and maintain a serious and respectful attitude
- Do not push, shove, or entre restricted areas
Etiquette
- Turn off or silence mobile phones
- Do not record or take photos in prohibited zones
- Keep the area clean and dispose of trash properly
Timing
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to find a proper viewing spot without disturbing the ceremony.
By respecting these rules, you help preserve the solemnity and significance of this important cultural ritual.
What Makes the Ceremony So Appealing to Visitors?
Attending the ceremony is an opportunity to experience meaningful aspects of Vietnamese culture.
Capture beautiful photos at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
The ceremony takes place right in front of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, one of Hanoi’s most iconic photography spots. You can join the ceremony and take memorable photos here.
For the best lighting and atmosphere, it’s recommended to attend the morning flag-raising ceremony.
The evening flag-lowering ceremony is more crowded, and artificial lighting is less ideal for photos.
Watch the honor guard perform the Ceremony
Patriotism is felt deeply when witnessing the Honor Guard Unit conduct the Ceremony with dignity and precision.
Leading the procession is the Victory Flag Guard followed by 34 soliders, symbolizing the first 34 members of the Vietnamese People’s Army. Together, they perform the sacred Flag-raising ritual with utmost respect.
Salute the Flag & Sing the National Anthem with Locals
After the flag reaches the top, the salute command echoes through Ba Dinh Square, and the crowd sings the National Anthem together.
“Tiến Quân ca” resonates with pride, love for the nation, and emotional unity — creating a powerful and unforgettable atmosphere.
Visit the Revered Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
After the ceremony, visitors can enter the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, where the body of Vietnam’s beloved leader is preserved.
Nearby, you can also explore historical landmarks such as:
Opening Hours
Summer (April–October):
- Tuesday – Thursday: 7:30 AM – 10:30 AM
- Saturday & Sunday: Open 30 minutes earlier and close 30 minutes later
- Closed on Monday & Friday for maintenance
Winter (November–March):
- Open from 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Weekend hours extended by 30 minutes
Visitors should dress respectfully when entering the Mausoleum.
Conclusion
The flag-raising ceremony at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is more than a daily ritual — it is a powerful reflection of Vietnam’s national pride, historical legacy, and enduring unity. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, witnessing the ceremony offers a rare opportunity to feel the heartbeat of the nation at its most sacred place.
From the disciplined march of the Honor Guard to the stirring anthem sung in unison, every moment captures the spirit, gratitude, and resilience of the Vietnamese people.
For anyone exploring Hanoi, attending this ceremony is an experience not to be missed. It is a reminder of Vietnam’s past, a celebration of its present, and an inspiration for its future — leaving every visitor with a deeper appreciation of the country’s rich culture and unwavering national pride.
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Saigon Taste Tours team
Welcome to SAIGON TASTE Tours!We’re a team of passionate local guides dedicated to sharing the real Saigon and Vietnam through food, culture, and hidden gems. From bustling street food stalls and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and peaceful nature escapes, our tours are designed to be authentic and unforgettable. Every experience is private and tailored to you, guided by knowledgeable locals who go above and beyond to make you feel like you’re exploring with a friend. With us, you won’t just visit Vietnam — you’ll truly experience it.We can’t wait to welcome you! Best regards, Ben and the SAIGON TASTE Tours
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