Vietnam’s First Floating Mall Will Be Hanoi’s ‘Little Venice’, With Ferry Rides, Sakura Trees & Onsens

Ecopark unveils Vietnam’s first floating mall in Hanoi

Located in Hanoi’s outskirts, just 13KM from the city’s center, Ecopark is a massive complex of residential houses, expansive parks, malls, restaurants, and entertainment facilities that aim to provide the best living conditions for its residents.

And now, those living in the area have another treat to look forward to. Plans to build a floating mall in the complex were announced by Ecopark’s management in Apr 2021.

This massive project is currently touted as Vietnam’s very first shopping mall built on water. We’ve scoured the Internet for more info to give you a sneak peek at what to expect.

Vietnam’s “Little Venice” to grace Hanoi’s shores

A digitally generated picture showcasing what the mall will look like
Image credit: ecopark.com.vn

From what’s been revealed, once completed, the floating shopping mall will consist of a main square surrounded by three towers. Here, over 100 clothing brands, reputable restaurants, and entertainment service providers will set up shop – including Starbucks, Paris Baguette, G2000 & ZARA by the look of preview pictures.

Image credit: ecopark.com.vn

Expect ferry rides, a Japan area with Sakura trees, and onsens

The buildings are connected to each other and to Ecopark’s other facilities by bridges. Visitors will reportedly be able to take ferry rides to visit the shops as well. As you can expect, the designs are inspired by Venice.

Image credit: ecopark.com.vn

Between all the shops, bars, and cafes, we can expect gardens featuring artificial waterfalls and streams as well – promising plenty of places to relax at. A section will be reserved for Japanese-style structures, with some highlights revealed to be a road lined with sakura trees and onsens – aka hot springs – that customers can take a dip in.

Image credit: ecopark.com.vn

The mall is expected to attract 5 million visitors a year when it comes into operation.

That said, the announcement from Ecopark doesn’t reveal any time frame for the construction project, only that “it will take place in the next few years.”

Ecopark may become an iconic Hanoi landmark in a matter of years

If the upcoming floating mall can live up to everything that’s been touted, it has the potential to become a major landmark not only of Ecopark, but of Hanoi as a whole.

We’ll be keeping an eye on any new information regarding the project, so stay tuned to The Smart Local Vietnam for more updates.

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Cover image adapted from ecopark.com.vn

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