A faint scent of jasmine hangs in the air. We stand at the beginning of Rue d’Hanoi. This unassuming street in Lyon holds a surprising story.
Rue d’Hanoi is more than just a street. It’s a link to a distant land. It’s a reminder of a forgotten neighborhood. The street itself primarily belongs to Villeurbanne. It begins near Rue de Genève and continues east. It fully enters Villeurbanne after Avenue Dutriévoz. The southern side however belongs to Lyon. You’ll see a mix of older and newer buildings. Some boast five or four floors and charming stone detailing.
The name Hanoi is a significant clue. Hanoi is Vietnam’s capital city. It’s thousands of kilometers east of Lyon. The street’s name reflects a historical connection. A large part of the neighborhood north of Rue d’Hanoi was once known as Tonkin. This area has changed drastically over the years. Much of it was demolished. The remaining streets are now named after famous filmmakers. Rue d’Hanoi is one of the few streets that survived relatively intact.
The neighborhood was developed in the early 20th century. This area was once bustling with life. Imagine the sounds and sights of this once vibrant community. Rue d’Hanoi however provides a glimpse of that past.
There are plans for a new nursery school. This project was discussed in 2008. In 2010 the construction was in progress. The plans included an extension of Rue d’Hanoi. This extension however eventually became part of Rue Barbier.
Today the street has a quieter atmosphere. A local bar sits on Avenue Thiers. Its location indicates how Rue d’Hanoi served as a connecting point. It links the neighborhoods of Lyon and Villeurbanne. The street is a quiet reminder of the past. It speaks to changes in the city and lasting connections to other parts of the world. Rue d’Hanoi silently holds memories. It quietly reflects its rich history.