A peaceful Hanoi on first morning of Lunar New Year

In sharp contrast to the bustle of a normal day, Hanoi became perfectly tranquil on the first morning of the Year of the Buffalo.

With no noisy honks, no streams of busy people and no dusty air, Hanoi seems to have transformed into an entirely different city, peaceful but still full of spring colours.

National flags have been hung across the city, from main streets to small alleys.

A normally busy street is totally deserted.

Like a low note in a colourful symphony of life, the first morning of the Lunar New Year offers Hanoi residents a completely different feeling.

Many young people go for a run to enjoy the fresh air on the first morning of the Lunar New Year.

An artist makes a sketch of Hanoi on the first day of the Lunar New Year.

A woman poses for a photo on a quiet street in Hanoi.

A young couple kiss on Phung Hung Street, known for its wall paintings.

Many people visit temples and shrines on the first day of the Lunar New Year to pray for peace and good health.

Temple-goers wear masks in line with guidelines to prevent the spread of Covid-19.