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If you are looking for a different and exciting way to explore Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, you might want to check out Hanoi’s Train Street. This is a narrow street that runs along the railway tracks, where locals live, work and play. The street is also home to several cafes and shops that cater to tourists who want to witness the spectacle of a train passing by just a few centimeters away from the houses.
Can you still go to train street in Hanoi?
Hanoi’s Train Street was closed to tourists in October 2019 due to safety concerns, as the crowds of people posing for photos on the tracks posed a risk of accidents. However, since early January 2023, the street has been fully reopened, with some regulations in place to ensure security and order. Visitors can now enjoy the street again, but they have to follow some rules, such as staying inside the cafes or shops when the train is approaching, not crossing the yellow safety line, and not blocking the traffic or disturbing the residents.
The history of Hanoi’s Train Street dates back to the French colonial era, when the railway line connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City was built. Some of the workers who helped construct the railway decided to settle along the tracks, creating a vibrant community that still exists today. The street has become a popular attraction for visitors who want to experience the daily life of the locals and see how they cope with living in such close proximity to the train.
The best way to visit Hanoi’s Train Street
The best way to visit Hanoi’s Train Street is to go to one of the cafes or shops along the tracks and order a drink or a snack.
You can then sit back and relax, while observing the street scene and waiting for the train to come.
Hanoi train street schedule:
The train passes by twice a day, once in the morning around 7:00 am and once in the afternoon around 3:30 pm. The exact schedule may vary depending on the day, so it is advisable to check online or ask a local before you go.
When you hear the train horn, you will see how everything changes in an instant. The locals will rush inside their houses or hug the walls, while the tourists will scramble for a safe spot to watch and take photos. The train will zoom past at high speed, creating a loud noise and a strong wind. It is an exhilarating and unforgettable experience that will make your heart race.
Where is the best place to see the Hanoi’s train street?
There are many railway cafes along the train street, but some of the most popular ones are:
1. Hanoi Train Track Cafe
- Address: 47 Train Street Le Duan, Hanoi.
- Tripadvisor: Hanoi Train Track Cafe
- Range price: from 50.000 VNĐ/per person
This cafe has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, with wooden furniture, lanterns and plants. It serves coffee, tea, beer and snacks, and has a friendly staff. It also has a rooftop terrace where you can get a better view of the train.
2. The Railway Hanoi (Choo Choo Cafe)
- Address: 26, 10 Dien Bien Phu | Cua Nam, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
- Tripadvisor: The Railway Hanoi ( Choo Choo Cafe )
- Range price: from 40.000 VNĐ/per person
This cafe is the first coffee shop on the train street, established in 2017. It has a charming and cool vibe, with train-themed decor, street art and music. It serves coffee, tea, craft beer and smoothies, and has a helpful staff. It also has a balcony where you can watch the train from above.
3. Railway Coffee
- Address: 112 chan tau, 5 Tran Phu Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
- Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/railwaycafehanoi/
- Range price: from 50.000 VNĐ/per person
It has a modern and elegant design, with white walls, black furniture and green plants. It serves coffee, tea, juice and cakes, and has a professional staff. It also has a large window where you can see the train passing by.
Tips for you
If you are interested in visiting the Hanoi’s train street, here are some tips to make your experience more enjoyable and safe:
- Plan your visit according to the train schedule. The number of trains has decreased due to the pandemic, but you can still catch them at certain times of the day. You can ask the cafe owners or check online for the latest information.
- Be respectful of the locals who live and work along the track. Do not trespass on their property or block their way. Also, do not litter or make too much noise.
- Be careful when taking photos or videos. Do not stand too close to the track or lean out of the windows. Always keep an eye on the train and follow the instructions of the cafe staff.
- Enjoy your drink and snack while watching the train pass by. It is a rare and thrilling experience that you will not forget.
Hanoi’s Train Street is a unique and thrilling attraction that you should not miss if you are in Vietnam. It is a great way to see a different side of Hanoi and learn about its history and culture. Just make sure to be respectful of the locals and follow the safety rules when you visit.
