Museum of Armored Forces – Discover Vietnam’s Tank Legends in Hanoi

Explore Museum of Armored Forces in Hanoi – Tanks, Heroes, and History

If you’re exploring Hanoi and want to dive into a piece of Vietnam’s military history,  Museum of Armored Forces is a hidden gem you shouldn’t miss. With real battle tanks, historic war stories, and heroic exhibits, this tourism site offers more than just a look at machines — it brings to life the bravery and spirit of Vietnam’s armored troops.

About Museum of Armored Forces

Museum of Armored Forces is a military history museum located at 108 Hoang Quoc Viet Street in Cau Giay District, Hanoi. Opened on September 12, 1995, the museum was established to honor the Tank and Armored Units of the Vietnam People’s Army. It showcases over 7,000 original artifacts, including real battle tanks, weapons, uniforms, documents, and personal belongings of tank crew members.

 The museum’s most famous exhibits are Tank No. 843 and Tank No. 390, which played a critical role in the 1975 Liberation of Saigon, marking the end of the Vietnam War. With both indoor galleries and a large outdoor tank display, this museum offers visitors a unique chance to explore Vietnam’s wartime history through powerful stories and legendary armored vehicles.

Highlights of the Museum 

1. Historic Tanks and National Treasures

• Tank No. 843 and Tank No. 390: These are two of Vietnam’s most iconic tanks. They were the first to crash through the gates of the Independence Palace in Saigon on April 30, 1975, leading to the end of the Vietnam War. Both are recognized as national treasures and displayed proudly in the museum yard.
• Tank PT-76 No. 555: Vietnam’s first amphibious tank, used in training and early battles during the anti-American resistance period.

2. Outdoor Military Vehicle Yard

• A large open-air space where visitors can walk among real armored vehicles used in combat.
• Includes tanks, anti-aircraft vehicles, self-propelled guns, transport trucks, and armored cars.
• Vehicles are positioned in realistic battlefield formations to help visitors visualize wartime operations.

3. Indoor Exhibition Hall

• Chronological gallery of the Tank and Armored Forces from 1959 to present.
• Displays of photos, maps, medals, documents, diaries, and personal effects from soldiers and officers.
• Exhibits tell stories of major campaigns like the Ho Chi Minh Campaign, Battle of Quang Tri, and Border Defense Wars.

4. Command & Communication Display

• Replica battlefield command posts, complete with old communication radios, tactical maps, and uniforms.
• Shows how battlefield decisions were made and how orders were delivered under wartime conditions.

5. Diorama and Model Room

• Realistic miniature models of major battles involving tank units.
• Used as educational tools for students and military trainees.
• Offers a creative, visual way to understand Vietnam’s war strategies and tank formations.

6. Multimedia & Documentary Screening Zone

• Screening area for short films and documentaries about Vietnam’s armored warfare history.
• Films cover heroic individuals, battlefield victories, and tank development across decades.
• Some videos are subtitled in English, making them accessible for international visitors.

7. Memorial and Honors Wall

• A solemn area dedicated to fallen tank crew members and war heroes.
• Engraved plaques, photos, and a quiet space for reflection remind visitors of the sacrifices made for peace and independence.

8. Educational Value

• Popular destination for military school visits, veterans’ groups, and history students.
• Frequently used for patriotism education programs and national pride campaigns.

Visitor Information

– Address: 108 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Nghia Tan Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam​

– Opening Hours

• Monday to Thursday & Saturday to Sunday:
  • Morning: 08:00 – 11:00
  • Afternoon: 14:00 – 16:00
• Closed on Fridays​

– Admission: Free of charge for all visitors​

– How to Get There

• By Bus: Take bus numbers 13, 14, 28, 33, or 38. The nearest stop is at 90 Hoang Quoc Viet – Nguyen Van Huyen intersection.
• By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services: Easily accessible via local taxi services or apps like Grab.
• By Motorbike or Bicycle: Parking is available near the museum entrance.

Combine with Other Nearby Attractions

1. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Approx. 10 minutes away)

• One of Hanoi’s most popular museums, showcasing the culture, life, and traditions of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups.
• Features both indoor galleries and an outdoor display of traditional houses from across the country.
• Why go: It gives a perfect cultural contrast to the military-focused content of the Armored Forces Museum.

2. Thu Le Park & Zoo (Approx. 12 minutes away)

• A family-friendly park with a small zoo, green walking paths, and a peaceful lake.
• Great for travelers with children or anyone looking to relax after a museum-heavy morning.
• Why go: A perfect spot to rest, enjoy nature, or have a picnic nearby.

3. Vietnam People’s Army Museum (Approx. 20 minutes by car)

• Offers a broader view of the military history of Vietnam, including weapons, uniforms, planes, and war timelines.
• Complements your understanding of armored forces within the larger context of the Vietnam People’s Army.

4. Ho Chi Minh Museum & Mausoleum Complex (Approx. 25 minutes away)

• A must-see for those interested in Vietnam’s modern history.
• Includes the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and the House on Stilts.
• Why go: Deepens your knowledge of Vietnam’s revolutionary history and national leadership.

5. Nghia Tan Food Street (Walking distance)

• After your museum visit, enjoy a snack or meal at this bustling local food street known for bun cha, banh mi, pho, and grilled skewers.
• Why go: It’s an authentic Hanoi experience that lets you unwind and recharge.

Conclusion

Museum of Armored Forces in Hanoi is a rare destination where history becomes real — not through textbooks, but through battle-worn tanks, heroic stories, and immersive exhibits. It’s a place that honors the courage of Vietnam’s armored troops and helps visitors of all ages understand how these steel machines helped shape the nation’s independence. Whether you’re a military enthusiast, a curious traveler, or a student learning about Vietnam’s history, this tourism site offers a powerful and unforgettable experience.

Ready to witness Vietnam’s armored legends up close? Make time to visit Museum of Armored Forces during your Hanoi journey — and experience the strength, pride, and legacy that tanks once carried into battle. Follow VNITourist for more historical and cultural travel insights across Vietnam.