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The thrill and excitement of sipping coffee while watching trains pass just inches away is a unique experience many visitors enjoy in Hanoi Train Street. Wondering where this fascinating spot is located and what activities you can experience there? Read on for all the details in the article below.
Hanoi Train Street winds its way through several bustling streets, including Phung Hung, Dien Bien Phu, and Le Duan. For an authentic experience, visitors should begin their journey at Alley 224 on Le Duan Street or Alley 5 on Tran Phu Street. However, the stretch through Phung Hung Street is undoubtedly the most vibrant, drawing visitors with its lively atmosphere and the thrilling spectacle.
Train Street's location can easily be found on Google Maps (Source: Internet)
Taxis offer a direct, comfortable route with door-to-door service, ideal for those avoiding long walks. However, it can be more expensive and may be delayed due to traffic. The cost ranges from 50,000 - 100,000 VND, with drop-off at 224 Le Duan or Tran Phu Streets.
Walking allows an intimate, immersive experience of Train Street, offering close-up views of the vibrant surroundings. However, it can be time-consuming and challenging in rainy or hot weather. It takes about 15 minutes to walk from Hanoi’s Old Quarter to Le Duan or Tran Phu Streets.
Walk along Train Street to experience the vibrant life of the area (Source: Internet)
Public buses offer an affordable and scenic way to reach Train Street, with routes 19, 36, 38, and 39 taking you to Phung Hung Station or the Hanoi Opera House. The fare is only 8,000 - 12,000 VND (USD 0.30 - USD 0.50) per ride, and it’s just a short walk from Phung Hung Train Street.
Bus route 36 stops opposite 16 Phung Hung, near the train street (Source: Internet)
Motorbikes offer a quick, flexible way to avoid traffic and explore Hanoi at your own pace. However, chaotic traffic can make it challenging, especially for unfamiliar riders. The cost is around 30,000 - 200,000 VND/day, with rentals available at nearby shops or via the Grab app.
Tip: Park at a trackside café for around 10,000 VND (USD 0.50) to secure your spot.
You can rent a motorbike for easy access to Train Street and other tourist destinations around Hanoi (Source: Internet)
The Birth of the Tracks: A Colonial Legacy
Hanoi Train Street was born during the French colonial era when the French established the railway system to connect Hanoi with other parts of Vietnam. In the late 19th century, the French engineers laid down tracks through the heart of the city, with homes and businesses built right alongside them.
Hanoi's Train Street was born during the French colonial era when the French established the railway system to connect Hanoi with other parts of Vietnam (Source: Internet)
Wartime Tales: Resilience Amidst the Rails
Amidst the turmoil of the Vietnam War, Hanoi Train Street became more than just a passage for trains, it became a symbol of unwavering resilience. As bombs rained down and the city trembled with the weight of conflict, the tracks remained constant. Life here carried on, with the rhythmic hum of the trains offering both comfort and a sense of continuity.
In the face of destruction, this narrow alleyway became a quiet testament to the strength of the people who called it home (Source: Internet)
Hanoi Train Street is a captivating blend of old-world charm and vibrant modern life. The colorful homes and cozy cafes line the narrow alley, offering a front-row seat to the thrilling spectacle of trains passing just inches away. Here, tradition and innovation collide, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of bustling energy and serene beauty. It’s a place where the soul of Hanoi thrives, framed by the hum of trains and the warmth of local life.
The narrow street is just wide enough for the train to pass through (Source: Internet)
It attracts many tourists who enjoy taking photos with the train tracks (Source: Internet)
Every day, trains pass through this small street on a regular basis (Source: Internet)
Hanoi Train Street stands out with its colourfully decorated cafés (Source: Internet)
Tourists love capturing the scenery and checking in at Hanoi Train Street (Source: Internet)
If you want to catch the moment the train passes by to take beautiful pictures, you can refer to the train schedule below to plan your trip.
Note: Train schedules may change without prior notice. It’s recommended to arrive 30 minutes before the scheduled train time or ask the café owner for specific details. Or you can visit the Fanpage of Vietnam Railways for the latest information.
There’s nothing quite like sipping a strong Vietnamese coffee while the train barrels past just inches away. Settle into one of the cozy cafés along Phung Hung Street, where locals serve aromatic drip coffee or creamy egg coffee, allowing the rich flavors to blend seamlessly with the energy of the passing train. Expect to pay around 25,000 - 60,000 VND (USD 1 - USD 3) for your cup.
Visitors can enjoy aromatic coffee while waiting for the train to pass (Source: Internet)
Tip: Arrive early to experience a quieter atmosphere before the crowds begin to gather. And remember to visit one of this coffee shop: 30 Train Coffee (30 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); San Ga 62 (62 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); MER café (48 Duong Tau, Phung Hung); Hao Hao Coffee (80 Chan 5, Tran Phu).
Hanoi Train Street is a photographer’s paradise, offering countless opportunities to capture the essence of the city. From the vibrant cafés lining the tracks to the raw beauty of crumbling facades adorned with hanging lanterns, every corner presents a frame-worthy shot.
Hanoi train street photos (Source: Internet)
Be creative and capture unique photos at Hanoi Train Street (Source: Internet)
The train street nightlife (Source: Internet)
For dynamic action shots, capture the train rounding the corner, with locals quickly pulling in tables and chairs just in time. Don’t miss candid moments, such as street vendors, residents, and children playing near the tracks.
Tip: A wide-angle lens will allow you to capture both the fast-moving train and the narrow alleyway in a single shot, creating a wonderful image of this bustling street.
Watching the train race through Hanoi Train Street is an exhilarating experience, as the rumbling train speeds by just inches away from you. Simply find a spot along Phung Hung Street or Tran Phu Street, purchase a drink from one of the local cafés nearby.
Numerous tourists love capturing the moment the train passes by (Source: Internet)
Tip: Stand safely behind the barricades or in a café for the best view and to ensure your safety as the train passes.
Along Phung Hung Street, at the base of Tau Street, you’ll find vibrant murals that beautifully capture the everyday life of Hanoians. The murals vividly depict scenes from the past, such as Hanoi trams (which ran from 1901 to 1991), bustling streets, street vendors, festivals, and old houses, all brought to life in bright, vivid colours.
The mural paintings along the street reflect the simple, rustic life of old Hanoi (Source: Internet)
Tip: For the best photos, visit early in the morning on a sunny day. During holidays like the Mid-Autumn Festival and Lunar New Year, the street is adorned with flags and colourful lanterns, making it a perfect spot for photos both during the day and in the evening.
As you walk along Train Street, in addition to the rich aroma of coffee, you’ll also catch the enticing scents of traditional pho and grilled meat from roadside stalls. Savoring a hot bowl of beef pho or gathering with friends around a table of fragrant grilled dishes offers a unique culinary experience that’s a must-try when visiting Hanoi’s Train Street.
You can fill your stomach with a hot bowl of beef noodle soup at one of the shops along the street (Source: Internet)
You can refer to some delicious restaurants around the Train Street area below:
Mien - Banh da cua (vermicelli, crab noodles) 6a Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi - 07:30 AM - 10:00 PM.
Pho bo Duc Khoi - 77 Phung Hung, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi - 06:30AM - 10:00PM.
Cha ca ngon (Fish cake) 3B - 115B Phung Hung, Hang Bo, Hoan Kiem, Ha Noi - 09:30 AM – 14:00 PM | 17:00 PM - 22:00 PM.
Tip: Each meal costs from 20,000 - 325,000 VND (USD 1 – USD 13).
As you stroll along Phung Hung Street, take the opportunity to chat with the locals and hear fascinating stories about life and culture here. During holidays and anniversaries, the street often hosts cultural events, offering a chance to dive deeper into traditional Vietnamese culture, the old ways of Hanoi, and the heroic history of the capital’s people.
Tip: Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation – many residents can speak English for simple exchanges.
Visitors can chat with locals to hear fascinating stories about the area (Source: Internet)
Along the streets near the railway, you’ll find numerous souvenir shops lining both sides of the road. These shops offer a range of traditional local handicrafts, such as railway paintings, conical hats, embroidered wallets, and ceramic teapots – all perfect keepsakes to remember your trip to Vietnam.
Tip: While the seller may initially offer a higher price, don’t hesitate to gently negotiate for a better deal.
Souvenirs with Vietnamese identity are sold at many shops along the street (Source: Internet)
Yes, it will be a safe experience if you follow these safety guidelines:
Always adhere to the safety instructions from railway staff and café owners.
Move to the designated areas to maintain a safe distance when the train passes.
Never stay on the tracks when you hear the train whistle, signal horn, or see the train approaching.
Keep a close watch on children and prevent them from running into dangerous areas.
Avoid placing tables and chairs too close to the train tracks.
Here are the answers to some common questions about visiting and exploring Hanoi Train Street:
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Hanoi Train Street. However, to fully experience the charm of the area, it’s recommended to stop by one of the cafés along the street. Enjoy a drink, watch the locals, and wait for the train to pass. Drink prices typically range from 30,000 to 60,000 VND (or USD 1.50 - USD 2.50 USD).
Visitors do not need to pay an entrance fee to visit Hanoi's Train Street (Source: Internet)
Yes, there are a few regulations you need to follow:
Do not use a drone (flycam) without permission.
Follow the safety instructions provided by railway staff and café owners when the train is approaching.
Avoid placing cameras or tripods on the tracks, as this could obstruct your ability to move to a safe position when the train is near.
Safety is important – keep a safe distance when the train passes (Source: Internet)
The railway street remains open, but the local government has issued a directive prohibiting tourists from filming, taking photos, or entering the railway safety zone, and has banned travel agencies from bringing visitors here. However, you can still visit the cafés along the street, following the café owners' instructions, where you can sit inside and watch the trains pass.
This overview covers the location, history, how to get there, unique experiences, safety regulations, and answers to common questions about Hanoi Train Street. Watching the trains pass just in front of you in this lively, local setting, strolling around, and sampling railway-inspired cuisine will create unforgettable memories in Hanoi.
If you're eager to feel the thrill of a train rushing by just inches from you and experience the rhythm of life blending the past and present of Hanoi Train Street, book your Flight to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.
Passengers are required to have adequate travel documents for all flights on all concerned airlines and to abide by national laws and regulations. Vietnam Airlines does not take responsible if passengers are denied entry into any country.
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