Train Street Hanoi | Hanoi

Train Street in Hanoi is one of the most unique and iconic places in the city, offering a fascinating blend of local life, history, and the thrill of watching trains pass through narrow urban streets. Located near the Old Quarter, this stretch of railway track is famous for running through the heart of a bustling residential area, where the lives of Hanoi’s residents often intersect with the passing trains.

History and Significance

The Train Street is part of the Hanoi Railway Line that stretches across the city. The rail line was constructed during the French colonial era in the late 19th century and has played an essential role in connecting Hanoi to other parts of Vietnam and beyond. However, the stretch of track running through the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where the buildings are right up against the rails, has become particularly famous over time.

This section of the track is often referred to as "Train Street" because of the unique experience it offers: a train travels through the street several times a day, right alongside people’s homes, shops, and cafes. The proximity of the railway line to daily life has made this part of Hanoi’s history famous and distinctive.

The Experience

Train Street provides a thrilling and unique experience for both locals and tourists, where the regular train schedule becomes a part of the daily rhythm of life.

The Train: The train that runs through Train Street is part of the Hanoi to Lao Cai Railway line, which connects Hanoi with other parts of northern Vietnam. The train is relatively small, but it moves at a steady pace as it weaves through the narrow alleyways of the city. The train’s journey is only a few minutes long, but it is an exhilarating experience to see it pass by just inches from nearby buildings.

Narrow Streets: One of the most exciting features of Train Street is the narrowness of the street itself. The buildings are so close to the tracks that when a train passes, it feels like the entire street is vibrating. People living here have learned to adjust to the trains, and many even live in houses where the front door opens directly onto the tracks. You can often see locals going about their daily activities just feet away from the moving train.

Cafes and Shops: Along Train Street, several small cafes and shops have sprung up, giving tourists and locals the chance to watch the trains go by in a comfortable setting. Cafes serve drinks such as coffee and tea, while visitors can sit at tables set up on the sidewalk or even right next to the tracks. The most popular cafes are situated just feet away from the train, offering a great vantage point for viewing the spectacle. Tourists flock to these cafes to get a taste of the excitement and capture the perfect photos of the train passing through.

Timing of the Train: The train doesn’t pass through Train Street all the time, but it runs multiple times a day—usually in the early morning and late afternoon. The timing of the train’s arrival is something that locals know well, and it’s often a communal event, with people stepping out of their homes, quickly pulling up their chairs, and watching the train roll through.

Safety and Local Life

While Train Street is an exciting and popular attraction for tourists, safety remains a concern, particularly because the railway track runs so close to the buildings. Vietnamese authorities have occasionally imposed safety measures, such as closing off certain areas of the street during train hours, and the residents here are well accustomed to the passing trains.

Living Near the Tracks: For the people who live along Train Street, it is simply a way of life. Many of them have lived in these homes for generations, and the train passing through is a daily occurrence. People here have adapted to the presence of the train in the same way that any other part of their daily routine fits into their lives. For example, residents may step aside or pull their chairs back into their homes just before a train passes, and after it has gone, they return to their usual activities.

Local Businesses: Many of the small businesses along Train Street cater to both locals and tourists. They sell everything from snacks and drinks to souvenirs. Some businesses, such as small street vendors, set up on the tracks, only to clear their stalls when the train comes through.

Tourist Popularity: Train Street has become an Instagram-worthy spot for many visitors to Hanoi. The spectacle of a train passing through a street lined with cafes and homes is unique, and tourists often take photos or video clips of the scene. The popularity of Train Street has turned the area into one of Hanoi’s more famous attractions, particularly among international travelers.

Challenges and Controversies

While Train Street is undoubtedly a major tourist attraction, it has faced some challenges in recent years, especially related to safety concerns and the growing number of tourists.

Tourism and Safety: The increasing number of tourists coming to witness the trains has raised concerns about the safety of visitors. Since many tourists stand near the tracks to take photos or videos, there have been incidents where people were too close to the train or didn’t move out of the way quickly enough. Local authorities have implemented certain measures, such as restricting access to the tracks during train schedules or posting signs about staying at a safe distance.

Balancing Local Life with Tourism: The growth of tourism in Train Street has also created a delicate balance between preserving the way of life for the residents and accommodating tourists. Some local residents may be frustrated with the intrusion of large crowds, while others welcome the business and the attention their neighborhood receives. Efforts have been made to find a balance, such as providing designated viewing areas for tourists, but the situation remains an ongoing challenge.

How to Visit Train Street

Visiting Train Street is quite simple since it is located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, near Hoan Kiem Lake. The area is easy to access on foot, by bicycle, or motorbike, and it’s a popular stop for tourists exploring the city.

Best Time to Visit: To get the full experience, it’s best to visit during the scheduled times when the trains pass by. In the morning, the train usually passes around 5:30 AM, while in the afternoon, there is another train around 7:00 PM. Check with locals or your hotel for precise times to ensure you don’t miss it.

Respecting the Locals: When visiting, it’s important to be respectful of the residents and the space they live in. Avoid getting too close to the tracks, follow any signs posted about safety, and be mindful of the fact that this is a living, working community, not just a tourist attraction.

Conclusion

Train Street in Hanoi is a unique and captivating destination, offering an authentic glimpse into the intersection of daily life and history. The sight of a train passing through narrow streets lined with homes, cafes, and shops is a thrilling experience that draws both locals and tourists. While it has become a significant cultural landmark, visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and safety rules, ensuring that Train Street remains a vibrant and safe space for everyone. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply someone wanting to experience a different side of Hanoi, Train Street is a must-visit place that captures the essence of the city’s charm and uniqueness.