In November 2025, I spent a week in Hanoi. Before I went, I, of course, looked online to see if there were any urbex spots to check out. I didn’t find much, but one place that kept coming up was Lideco Bac 32.
The neighborhood isn’t really near where I was staying, so I wasn’t sure if I was going to go. My trip was mostly focused on street life in the old town of Hanoi, war museums, and, of course, some time to relax.
On my second-to-last day, I visited my last war museum and noticed that I was somewhat close to the neighborhood. I talked to a taxi driver and showed him where I wanted to go. He said, “No problem,” and off we went. I wasn’t sure how I would return to central Hanoi. Luckily, with the help of Google translate the taxi driver agreed to wait for me for an hour.
I don’t really know much about the history of this place. I guess it was a ‘build it, and they will come’ idea. Build a charming European-style town, and rich Vietnamese will flock here.
As you can see, not that many people came, so the money ran out. I think that maybe it didn’t work out as well as the developers thought could be because it’s too a far from the more happening areas of Hanoi.
Inside an unfinished house.
I was surprised by the absence of graffiti and dogs in this place. I believe the local security and the people who live here keep a pretty good eye on things.
A quick video.
Another quick video.
I wouldn’t specifically suggest visiting this place, even if you’re interested in urban exploration. It’s quite a distance from the city, and there are better things to do in Hanoi. However, if you find yourself in Hanoi, have some spare time, and are seeking something a little different to do. Head over to Lideco Bac 32 and say hi!
Formosa>Ex 