The old garden house located at 115 Hang Bac (with rear access from Alley 6, Dinh Liet St.) is one of the few remaining jewels from the past nestled in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter.

The anniversary that marks the 1000th birthday of Hanoi (Thang Long) is just a few months away. Numerous activities celebrating Hanoi's unique character and past have already been organised in preparation for the event.

Conserving old relics is one of these activities. Hoan Kiem District's People's Committee was recently assigned the task of ensuring that building repairs be carried out in the proper manner, as well as that of finding ways to turn this old garden house into a charming site that will attract visits from Hanoi's tourists.

Access to the house from Alley 6, Dinh Liet Street.

Pathway leading to the house.

Small islet in the middle of the front courtyard.

Mrs. Te, the owner of the house, lives on the 2nd floor.

Illegal construction of a new toilet area by a neighbouring household has affected the natural beauty of the spot.

Century-old lock still used today.

Staircase to the 2nd floor.

Mrs. Te, almost 100, is the owner of this beautiful garden house.

The house's style of decoration calls up recollections of the past.

Reminiscent of Hanoi's interior design of 50 years ago.

Wooden furniture that was popular in former times.

The window looking out from Mrs. Te's kitchen.

A flower pot adorning the balcony.

Entrance to the 3rd floor with its antique design doors.

Unique design detail on the stairs.

Tucked-away corner of the 3rd floor garden.

New surrounding houses block much of the sunlight from this garden.

Plants requiring little sun are grown instead.

Tile roof of the house.

Distinctive roof-top design details.

Details on the gable of the ancient house.