Among Hanoi tourist attractions, Hanoi Train Street stands out as a must-visit location, offering a remarkable experience that combines history, local life, and incredible photo opportunities. In this article, we will guide you on how to get, what to see, and provide details about the train schedules, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this charming spot.
Location
Hanoi’s Train Street is located in the heart of the city, specifically in the Old Quarter, near Phung Hung Street. To reach this iconic site, you can start your journey from the Hoan Kiem Lake area, which is a central point in Hanoi. From there, it’s about a 20-minute walk to Train Street. Alternatively, you can take a taxi or a Grab ride for a convenient and quick trip.
Once you arrive, you’ll notice that the street is a narrow, bustling alleyway flanked by houses on either side. The houses are so close to the train tracks that it’s a surreal sight, as it feels like the trains are passing through people’s living rooms.
Things to do at Hanoi Train Street
Hanoi’s Train Street is renowned for its unique blend of local life and train travel. Here’s what you can expect to see and experience:
Cafes and Eateries: Along the street, you’ll find several charming cafes and small restaurants. They offer an incredible vantage point to watch the trains passing by. Enjoy a cup of Vietnamese coffee or a meal as you wait for the trains.
Street Photography: Train Street is a photographer’s paradise. The juxtaposition of traditional Vietnamese architecture and the speeding trains creates stunning visual opportunities. Capture the vibrant street scenes and the moments when locals move their belongings off the tracks just seconds before the train arrives.
Train Watching: The main highlight is, of course, the trains. The street is a part of the Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh City railway line. Trains pass through Train Street twice a day, typically in the morning (around 6:00 am) and in the evening (around 7:00 pm). The precise schedule may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with locals or your accommodation for the most accurate timings.
Local Life: Observe the daily life of the residents. You’ll witness the harmonious coexistence of people and trains, as they adapt to the unique circumstances of their homes being next to a functioning railway.
Markets and Souvenirs: Nearby, you can explore local markets and shops where you can purchase unique Vietnamese souvenirs and handicrafts.
Train Schedules
The train schedule at Hanoi’s Train Street can vary slightly from day to day. However, you can typically expect trains to pass through in the morning and the evening. As mentioned earlier, the morning train usually arrives around 6:00 am, while the evening train passes through at approximately 7:00 pm. Keep in mind that these schedules can change due to various factors, such as maintenance or adjustments.
To ensure you don’t miss the train and make the most of your visit, it’s a good idea to arrive about 30 minutes before the expected train time. This will give you ample time to find a suitable spot at one of the cafes, get your camera ready, and soak in the unique atmosphere of Train Street.
Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is famous for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique attractions. Among these attractions, Hanoi’s Train Street is a remarkable and offbeat attraction that offers an unforgettable experience. It’s an ideal place to capture beautiful photographs, witness local life, and feel the excitement of a train passing mere inches from your surroundings. When visiting Hanoi, don’t forget to include Train Street in your itinerary to explore the fusion of tradition and modernity in this charming city.
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