You simply cannot visit Hanoi without seeking out the famous Train Street in the centre of the city. In the hustle and bustle of this capital city it can be a bit tricky to find so my advice is to experience Hanoi’s famous train street with a tour. This way you can be sure to experience the before, during and after!
So what is Train street?
Train street is an experience all in itself. Twice a day this track has a speeding train rushing along it, the rest of the time it is used for other purposes. Some residents use it as a garden to play games such as badminton on, others put their washing out, cook food, create cafes for tourists. You name it, train street has probably been used for it.
However it is the close proximity with which you can get to this rushing train which is its main draw. People have created cafes and restaurants along the edge of the train line for tourists to get very close to the action. Some a little too close at times, so be very careful if this is where you choose to view it.
Where to Find it
What happens before
The train track is closed off by police officers to all who wish to cross it or walk along it…for their own safety! The foot, scooter and car traffic all begin to back up as you can see in the image below.
What happens during?
The train literally doesn’t stop for anything. I was surprised at how close it sped past people and objects to be honest. Hence why some tourists who ventured too closely have actually been injured. So be careful if you choose to view this fun event from the train track.
Where to view it?
We discovered a lovely cafe purely by chance. It was right on the corner of the track and had a great view. However there are multiple locations along the track which are suitable and safe for viewing.
Not confident you can find the train times and best location to view the even? Take the hassle out of it by booking a tour of Hanoi which includes Train Street.