Yen So Park Hanoi – The Best Outdoor Escape for Nature & Fun

How to Explore & Enjoy a Dayout at Yen So Park in Hanoi

Hanoi may be famous for its bustling streets and historic sites, but did you know it also has a massive green oasis perfect for relaxation? Yen So Park, the largest urban park in Hanoi, offers a refreshing escape from the city’s noise.

About Yen So Park

Yen So Park is the largest urban park in Hanoi, covering over 323 hectares of lush green space. Located in Hoang Mai District, this park is a peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle and bustle, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts. The park features vast lakes, scenic cycling paths, picnic areas, walking trails, and cultural art spaces, offering visitors a perfect place to relax, exercise, or explore.

Unlike many other parks in Hanoi, Yen So Park is free to enter, making it a budget-friendly yet beautiful location to enjoy nature. Whether you’re looking to have a picnic, rent a bike, go boating, or take stunning photos, Yen So Park provides a refreshing escape for both locals and tourists. With its tranquil atmosphere and diverse recreational activities, this tourism site is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience a different side of Hanoi.

Best Things to Do at Yen So Park

Have a Picnic and Enjoy Outdoor Dining

Yen So Park offers vast green fields perfect for a relaxing picnic with family and friends. Bring your own food, drinks, and picnic blankets to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. If you prefer, you can rent a BBQ grill and have a fun outdoor cooking experience.

Go Cycling on Scenic Paths

The park has long, well-paved cycling paths that wind through trees and lakes, making it ideal for cycling. Visitors can rent single or tandem bicycles and explore the vast grounds while enjoying fresh air and beautiful scenery.

Take a Boat Ride on the Lake

One of the most peaceful experiences at Yen So Park is boating on the lake. Paddle boats and rowboats are available for rent, allowing you to admire the serene water, spot local wildlife, and enjoy a unique perspective of the park.

Capture Stunning Photos

Yen So Park is a paradise for photography lovers. The park’s tranquil lakes, tree-lined walkways, and artistic sculptures create perfect backdrops for photos. Many couples also choose this location for wedding photoshoots.

Explore the Art and Cultural Exhibits

The park features modern sculptures and architectural structures that add an artistic touch to the landscape. The unique Vietnamese-style bridges and art houses make this a great place to explore for those interested in culture and creativity.

Relax and Meditate in Nature

For those seeking peace and relaxation, Yen So Park provides a calm environment away from the city’s noise. You can practice yoga, read a book, or simply enjoy a quiet walk along the lakeside.

Jog or Exercise in Open Spaces

With its wide-open spaces and fresh air, Yen So Park is an excellent place for morning jogs, outdoor workouts, or stretching exercises. Many locals visit the park early in the morning to run, do tai chi, or practice group exercises.

Entrance Fee & Opening Hours

Entrance Fee

Yen So Park is completely free to enter, making it one of the best budget-friendly outdoor destinations in Hanoi. Visitors can explore the park, enjoy nature, and participate in various activities without any admission cost.

However, some optional activities within the park may have rental fees:

• Bicycle rental: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per hour
• Boat rental: 100,000 VND per hour
• BBQ grill rental: 200,000 – 500,000 VND per day

Opening Hours

• Open 24/7 – The park does not have a closing time, making it an excellent spot for early morning walks, afternoon picnics, and even evening strolls.
• While the park is open all day, the best times to visit are:
  • Morning (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM): Ideal for jogging, cycling, and enjoying fresh air.
  • Afternoon (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM): Best for picnics, photography, and sunset views.

How to Get to Yen So Park?

Location: Yen So Park, Hoang Mai District, Hano

Yen So Park is located about 10 km from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, making it an easily accessible destination for both locals and tourists.

By Taxi/Grab

• The fastest and most convenient way to reach Yen So Park is by taking a taxi or booking a Grab ride.
• Estimated travel time: 20 – 30 minutes from central Hanoi.
• Approximate cost: 100,000 – 150,000 VND (~$4 – $6) depending on traffic.

By Bus

For budget travelers, taking a public bus is a cheap and reliable option. The following bus routes stop near Yen So Park:

• Bus 04 – From Long Bien Bus Station
• Bus 06A – From Giap Bat Bus Station
• Bus 21A – From My Dinh Bus Station
• Bus 60 – From Nam Thang Long Bus Station

By Private Car or Motorbike

• Visitors can drive their own motorbike or car to Yen So Park.
• The park offers ample parking space for both motorbikes and cars.
• Parking fees: 5,000 – 10,000 VND for motorbikes, 20,000 – 30,000 VND for cars.

Best Time to Visit Yen So Park

Yen So Park is open 24/7, allowing visitors to enjoy its scenic beauty at any time of the day. However, certain times offer a better experience depending on your preferred activities.

Morning (5:00 AM – 9:00 AM) – Best for Exercise & Fresh Air

• Ideal for jogging, cycling, yoga, or meditation in a peaceful environment.
• The air is cooler and fresher, making it the perfect time for outdoor workouts.
• Fewer crowds, allowing for a quiet and relaxing experience.

Afternoon (4:00 PM – 7:00 PM) – Best for Picnics & Photography

• The temperature is cooler than midday, making it a great time for picnics and leisure activities.
• Sunset views over the lake create a stunning backdrop for photography.
• Popular time for families and groups of friends to gather and enjoy the park.

Weekends & Public Holidays – Best for Social Activities

• The park becomes livelier with families, groups of friends, and cultural events.
• More chances to meet locals and experience Hanoi’s outdoor culture.
• Great for group picnics, BBQ gatherings, and photography sessions.

Midday (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) – Avoid If Possible

• The sun is at its peak, making it hot and uncomfortable during summer months.
• Limited shaded areas, so it’s not the best time for outdoor activities.

Tips for Visiting Yen So Park

– Bring Your Own Food and Drinks

Unlike other parks in Hanoi, Yen So Park has very few food stalls or restaurants inside. If you plan to spend a few hours here, especially for a picnic, it’s best to bring your own food, snacks, and beverages.

• Pack sandwiches, fresh fruits, chips, and bottled water for convenience.
• If you’re planning a BBQ, bring marinated meat, vegetables, disposable plates, and utensils.
• Remember to bring a picnic mat or foldable chairs to sit comfortably.

Tip: There are some convenience stores near the entrance where you can buy extra snacks or drinks if needed.

– Rent a Bicycle for Easy Exploration

Yen So Park is vast, and walking the entire area can be tiring. Renting a bicycle is a great way to explore the scenic routes, especially along the lakeside and tree-lined paths.

• Bike rental price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND per hour.
• Tandem bikes are available if you want to ride with a friend or partner.
• The best time to cycle is early morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler.

Tip: If you prefer walking, wear comfortable shoes as the park’s walking paths are long.

– Arrive Early to Secure the Best Picnic Spots

If you’re visiting on a weekend or public holiday, the park can get quite busy. Arriving early ensures you get a shaded, peaceful spot for your picnic or gathering.

• The best areas for picnics are near the lakes and open green fields.
• Morning (before 9:00 AM) is the most peaceful time for those who prefer a quieter setting.
• Afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) is ideal for sunset views and cooler temperatures.

Tip: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses if visiting during midday, as some picnic areas lack shade.

– Try Boating for a Unique Experience

One of the best activities at Yen So Park is renting a boat to enjoy the calm waters of the lake.

• Boat rental price: Around 100,000 VND per hour.
• Options include paddle boats and rowboats.
• Perfect for couples looking for a romantic experience or families wanting to entertain kids.
• Best time for boating: Late afternoon when the weather is cooler and the sunset reflects beautifully on the water.

Tip: Wear light clothing and a hat for sun protection while boating.

– Keep the Park Clean and Respect the Environment

Yen So Park is one of Hanoi’s most beautiful and well-maintained parks, so it’s important to keep it clean.

• Dispose of trash properly in the provided bins.
• If having a picnic or BBQ, bring garbage bags to collect your waste.
• Avoid damaging plants, trees, and sculptures inside the park.

Tip: Bring reusable water bottles and eco-friendly utensils to reduce waste.

– Wear Comfortable Clothes and Shoes

Since most activities at Yen So Park involve walking, cycling, or outdoor relaxation, it’s best to dress comfortably.

• Wear lightweight, breathable clothing if visiting in summer.
• In cooler months, bring a light jacket for early morning or evening visits.
• If you plan to cycle or walk long distances, wear sports shoes or comfortable sneakers.

Tip: Bring extra clothes if you plan to row a boat, as you might get splashed by water.

– Capture Beautiful Moments with Your Camera

Yen So Park is a photographer’s dream, offering stunning natural scenery, modern sculptures, and serene lakes.

• Best photo spots: The lakeside, stone bridges, tree-lined walkways, and artistic sculptures.
• Best time for photography: Early morning for soft sunlight or late afternoon for golden-hour lighting.
• If you have a drone, Yen So Park is one of the few parks in Hanoi where you can capture aerial views of its massive green space.

Conclusion

Yen So Park is the ultimate nature escape in Hanoi, offering a peaceful retreat from the city’s busy streets. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing picnic, an active cycling route, a scenic boat ride, or simply a quiet place to enjoy nature, this tourism site is a must-visit for anyone exploring Hanoi. With free entry, beautiful landscapes, and plenty of outdoor activities, Yen So Park is a hidden gem that travelers, families, and locals alike can enjoy. If you’re planning a trip to Hanoi and want to experience both the cultural richness and natural beauty of Vietnam, this park should definitely be on your itinerary!

Looking for the perfect outdoor adventure in Hanoi? Pack your picnic basket, rent a bicycle, or enjoy a peaceful boat ride in the city’s largest green space! Have you been to Yen So Park? Share your favorite experiences in the comments below!