Hanoi, Vietnam is an energetic city, with ancient pagodas, tree lined lakes and fascinating blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences,. Lots to see and do from visiting the Old Quarter to experiencing the Opera House. I will only have two days here but will see what I can fit in – Halong Bay is top of my list! 1. Temple of Literature 2km west of Hoan Kiem Lake, the Temple of Literature is rare example of well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture. Founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong Temple is dedicated to Confucius (Khong Tu) and pays homage to Vietnam’s finest scholars Vietnam’s first university was established here in 1076. Entrance was only granted to men of noble birth, then 1442 an egalitarian granted gifted students went to study the principles of Confucianism, literature and poetry. A tiered gateway (on P Quoc Tu Giam) forms the main entrance is preceded by a curious plaque, whose inscription requests that visitors dismount their horses before entering. Paths lead through formal gardens to the Khue Van pavilion and to a large square pond known …