Every city has its own trademark that distinguishes it from others and gives it a special charm. Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is most recognizable by the sea of motorcycles, mopeds, and scooters that overflows its streets. These vehicles are the most popular means of transport in the area because they allow the locals to drive safely through the city’s narrow alleys and passageways and what’s incredibly important, it’s always easy to find a parking spot.
The people in Hanoi are not only using scooters for personal transport but they easily transform them into cargo vehicles as well! You’d be surprised how much load one of these relatively small motorcycles can carry.
But it looks like the end for the beloved scooter is near. In 2017, the Vietnamese government announced a ban on all types of motorcycles by 2030. This is one of the government’s measures to prevent air pollution, which has been a major problem in the country in recent decades, and motorbikes play a significant part in it.
Jon Enoch is a London–based photographer who perfectly captures the simple beauty of the scooter culture in Vietnam. His first visit was 15 years ago and he has been enchanted by these simple transport vehicles and their many uses ever since.
Enjoy his photos in the gallery below!
You can see more images by Enoch in his beautiful site here.
