Hanoi last month resumed its night tour of Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a complex of buildings first constructed in 1011 under the reign of King Ly Thai To.

It was constructed on the remains of a Chinese fortress dating from the seventh century, on drained land reclaimed from Red River Delta in Hanoi.

It was the center of regional political power for almost 13 centuries, from the Ly, Tran to Le dynasties.

The tour that lasts an hour and a half starts from Doan Mon, the main gate of the imperial citadel at 18 Hoang Dieu Street, Ba Dinh District.

From the gate tourists commence along roads paved with lemon flower bricks built under Tran Dynasty to Thien An Palace.

A royal court ceremony and ancient dance performance called "Thang Long Palace" is staged on top of the archaeological remains.

Tourists can learn more about the history of the citadel while admiring artifacts associated with Vietnam's feudal dynasties.

Tourists join an incense burning ceremony in memory of the 52 former kings at Kinh Thien Palace.

The last stop on the takes in an array of artifacts dating back to 1,300 years ago.

The tour costs VND300,000 ($12.96).

On the occasion of the 31st SEA Games, which is being held in Hanoi and several northern provinces, authorities are offering a preferential price of VND200,000 for athletes attending Southeast Asia's largest sports event.