Published:  08:51 Thursday - May 27, 2010

There is another Hanoi, a quiet life enduring behind the crowds and noise of the city’s main streets. 

A quiet life goes on in small alleys of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, one that retains the character of ancient Hanoi. Dan Tri captures that quiet life:

Along old streets, such alleys are the playgrounds of kids.



A mural bulletin to remind residents about common duties in their alley.



This alley, at 47 Hang Bac Street, has ten families.



A local resident uses this narrow space as a grocery store.



This alley was burnt down last year.



Rare space in alleys is used to dry clothes.



An alley with a strange "gate".


Each alley in Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a “museum”.



Alleys are very small and narrow, but their residents don’t want to move to more spacious locations.



A small altar.







Natural light is a luxury for many alleys.