Book excerpt: Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is known for its bustling street life. Public spaces, such as streets and sidewalks, are appropriated by citizens mostly for small-scale economic activities. Green parks are privatized in order to cater to the growing demand for leisure space. At the same time, official spaces like Ba Dinh Square or Ly Thai To Square are occupied by Hanoi's residents for sports and gatherings. This dissertation takes a close look at the practices and the meaning of public spaces and the development of public spheres in Hanoi. Dissertation. (Series: Southeast Asian Modernities - Vol. 13)