Let’s discover Train Street in Hanoi. Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital, is a city teeming with history, culture, and unexpected surprises. One of the most fascinating and unique experiences awaiting travelers in Hanoi is the Train Street.
Discover Train Street in Hanoi | Nestled within the heart of the city’s Old Quarter, this Train Street in Hanoi is intersected by a railway track that sees daily train traffic. The sight of a train passing mere inches from doorsteps and cafes is a captivating spectacle that has drawn curious visitors from around the globe. In this article, we’ll explore the magic of Hanoi’s Train Street, delve into its historical background, and offer practical tips on how to make the most of this extraordinary experience.
Discover Train Street in Hanoi : A Unique Experience to Enjoy
Historical Context
The Train Street’s origins date back to the French colonial era, over a century ago. The railway was constructed to connect the northern and southern parts of Vietnam, playing a crucial role in the country’s transportation network. Despite the rapid urban development and modernization over the years, this particular section of the railway has remained unchanged, creating a living museum of sorts amidst the bustling city. The narrowness of the passage through which the railway tracks run, with only 4 to 5 meters between the two rows of houses, adds to its intrigue and charm.
The Narrow Passage
What makes Train Street so remarkable is its incredibly tight squeeze between residential buildings. Visitors are often astonished by how the train fits through this narrow corridor, seemingly grazing the walls of the houses and shops lined up along the tracks. Watching the train pass is a thrilling and highly photogenic experience, capturing the essence of Hanoi’s blend of tradition and modernity. This experience is akin to the famous train market in Bangkok, Thailand, where vendors clear their stalls to make way for passing trains.
Nicole, a French tourist visiting Hanoi, shared her amazement: “It’s really surprising and impressive to see the train making its way through these dwellings so close to each other. It feels like it’s about to take one or two houses with it,” she said with a chuckle.
Scenes from Daily Life in Hanoi
The arrival of the train on Train Street is a well-practiced ritual for the local residents. Just before the train is due, life on the tracks is temporarily suspended. People retreat into their homes, and businesses pause their activities. As soon as the train passes, life swiftly resumes, with people returning to their daily routines, cooking, hanging laundry, or chatting with neighbors.
Café Culture on Train Street
Over the years, Train Street has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists to enjoy a drink or meal while waiting for the train to pass. A number of quaint cafes and eateries have sprung up along the tracks, offering a unique and cozy vantage point from which to observe this remarkable scene.
Here are some of the top train cafes frequented by tourists:
Café 90 Đường Tàu
Address: 26C Phung Hung Ward, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Cafe Sân Ga 62
Address: 62 Train Street, Phung Hung Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
MER Café
Address: 48 Train Street, Phung Hung Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Hảo Hảo Coffee
Address: 80 Train Street, Phung Hung Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Spot 09
Address: 74A Train Street, Tran Phu Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Coffee Waitrans 74
Address: Phung Hung Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
30 Train Coffee
Address: 159 Phung Hung Street, Cua Dong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.
Where to Find Train Street in Hanoi
Discover Train Street in Hanoi : Location
The famous Train Street is located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, at the crossroads of Dien Bien Phu and Ton That Thiep streets. After witnessing the train pass, take a stroll down Phung Hung Street, which runs parallel to the railway. This street is home to beautifully preserved colonial mansions and at the end of it, you can admire stunning frescoes that depict scenes of Hanoi from the past and present. These 17 works, created by South Korean and Vietnamese artists, adorn the stone walls of the viaduct over which the train travels.
>>> SEE MORE ABOUT HANOI TRAIN STREET
Train Timetables to Discover Train Street in Hanoi
During the week, you can witness the train passing at 19:00, 19:45, 20:30, and 22:00. On weekends, the schedule is more frequent, with trains passing at 06:00, 09:00, 11:20, 15:20, 17:30, 18:00, 19:00, 19:45, 20:30, 21:00, and 22:00. Keep in mind that the train might occasionally be delayed, so it’s good to arrive a bit early to secure a good viewing spot.
Conclusion
Hanoi’s Train Street is more than just a tourist attraction; it’s a living, breathing part of the city’s history and culture. The experience of seeing a train pass so closely through such a narrow residential area offers a glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoians, blending tradition with modernity in a unique way. Whether you’re sipping coffee at one of the rail-side cafes or dining at Ray Quan Restaurant, Train Street promises an adventure that is both thrilling and culturally enriching.
Ready to explore the captivating sights and sounds of Hanoi’s Train Street with knowledgeable local student guides? Join the Hanoi Free Private Tour Guide Club for an authentic journey through one of the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods. Discover the charm of Hanoi’s unique attractions, cultural heritage, and vibrant street life. Visit hanoifreeprivatetourguide.vn to learn more and book your free tour today!
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