(VOVworld) - Hanoi People`s Committee held a ceremony on Thursday to pilot more walking areas around Hoan Kiem Lake and its surrounding streets.

Chairman of Hanoi People's Committee Nguyen Duc Chung walks on pedestrian streets around Hoan Kiem Lake (Photo: hanoitimes.com.vn)

Together with the first pedestrian streets at downtown, Hanoi now has a total of 26 walking streets.

Nguyen Thi Kim Tuyen, a long-time resident at the downtown, said: “The program has been strongly responded by the people. Such walking streets which are shut to traffic for pedestrians at weekends will help to create healthy recreation places in Hanoi. Tourists who visit Hoan Kiem Lake, a national historical relic, can explore more about our culture and daily activities.”

Visitors see the art show on walking street. (Photo: hanoitimes.com.vn)

Pedestrians will be able to enjoy public performances and shows of traditional art forms around the King Ly Thai To Statue.

The parking lots are available (Photo: hanoitimes.com.vn)

The new walking route in Hanoi now includes Dinh Tien Hoang, Le Lai, Le Thach, Dinh Le, Nguyen Xi, Trang Tien (from Ngo Quyen to Dinh Tien Hoang), Hang Khay, Le Thai To, Hang Trong (from St. Joseph’s Cathedral to Le Thai To), Nha Tho and the Cathedral square. The piloted walking area will be open until the Lunar New Year (Tet) Holiday 2017.