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In 1998, Kobayashi photographed a clothing stall on Hang Gai Street, which he remembered as a vibrant hub packed with souvenir shops.
On his social media, Kobayashi frequently shares his vintage photographs of Hanoi, most of which date back to the 1990s, offering viewers a nostalgic glimpse into the capital's rhythm of life three decades ago.
Motorbikes cruised along Le Thai To Street in 1998. Although the traffic appeared relatively dense, Kobayashi noted that it was a Sunday afternoon rather than rush hour, lending the scene a relaxed vibe.
A storefront on Hang Duong Street in 1998.
Throughout the 1990s, Kobayashi relied on a single-lens reflex (SLR) film camera. Two years ago, he began digitizing his film archives, working primarily with his SLR setup alongside a smartphone.
A snapshot of a toy shop in Hanoi's Old Quarter in 1998.
Born in 1967, Kobayashi first arrived in Hanoi in February 1995, spending hours wandering its streets to document daily life. In his recollection, the Old Quarter back then felt remarkably tranquil.
A man takes a quick nap stretched across his motorbike circa 1998. Kobayashi noted that this was a common sight, expressing genuine admiration for anyone who could balance and sleep in such a posture, calling it a master skill.
A sidewalk book stall on Trang Tien Street around 1997.
Kobayashi created an extensive collection of images from Trang Tien Street during both day and night. He also loved strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake, which he regarded as the very heart of Hanoi.
