A digitizing program is under way at many cultural and historical relics in Hanoi, which allows tourists to access full, detailed, and visual information of the sites, just by scanning a QR code with their smart devices.
Instructions on how to use QR code to get information about the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long are available in both Vietnamese and English.
QR code and 360 virtual reality technology has been applied by local Youth Unions to introduce architectural works and historical sites such as the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, One Pillar Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, the Vietnam Military History Museum, and the Vietnam National Fine Arts Museum.
The QR codes, designed in anime chibi style, are promoted by Youth Union members at hotels, restaurants, eateries, and cafes.
"The project was launched post COVID-19 and has met growing tourism demand. I hope that more creative projects like this will be developed in the coming time to boost Hanoi’s tourism," said Doan Kim Thanh, Vice Chairwoman of Quan Thanh ward’s People’s Committee.
A QR code is placed in front of an exhibition space of Nam Huong communal house in Hang Trong ward.
Hang Trong ward has introduced a QR code app that provides detailed information about popular local temples.
"The app is really effective as Hang Trong is major tourist hub in Hanoi with many historical and cultural relics," resident Chu Diep said.
In addition to the app, Hang Trong ward Youth Union members have been deployed at tourist sites, according to Nguyen My Hanh, the Union’s Secretary.
"We have maintained communication teams at relic sites in Hang Trong ward on weekends to introduce these sites and the history and culture of Thang Long, now Hanoi," she added.
Chairman of the Hanoi Youth Association Nguyen Duc Tien said, "we plan to digitize 322 more places of interest to preserve and promote the capital city’s culture and history and build a common database for local relic sites.”
Hanoi is home to more than 5,900 cultural and historical sites. Digitizing these heritage locations will help promote the city’s tourism and improve public awareness of its traditions.