Hang Ma Street, Hanoi - Hang Ma street in Hanoi city, some days before the lunar New year
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Hang Ma Street Hanoi

4.6
·491k reviews·, Vietnam

A bustling street in Hanoi's Old Quarter, famous for colorful paper goods and the thrilling Train Street.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings (before 8 AM)

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Hang Ma Street, Hanoi - Hang Ma street in Hanoi city, some days before the lunar New year

Hang Ma Street Hanoi

Best Time

Early mornings (before 8 AM)

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A bustling street in Hanoi's Old Quarter, famous for colorful paper goods and the thrilling Train Street.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Hang Ma Street is a visual feast, offering unique souvenirs and the unforgettable thrill of the passing train!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Go Early for Train Street

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful coffee on Train Street before 8 AM.

💰 Cash is King Here

Many shops on Hang Ma Street prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Festive Shopping Extravaganza

Festive Shopping Extravaganza

Explore a kaleidoscope of colorful paper products, lanterns, toys, and traditional decorations. Perfect for souvenirs!

TikTok
The Iconic Train Street

The Iconic Train Street

Witness the thrilling spectacle of a train passing just inches from shops and cafes. A unique Hanoi experience!

TikTok+1
Local Cafes & Eateries

Local Cafes & Eateries

Grab a coffee or a local snack amidst the bustling street life. Many cafes offer prime views of the train tracks.

TikTok+1

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Hang Ma Street

Hang Ma Street is a vibrant hub, especially lively in the evenings and during festive seasons. Be prepared for crowds and a sensory overload of colors and sounds. Many shops operate on a cash basis, so having small denominations handy is a good idea. TikTok

Best Time for Photos & Atmosphere

For the iconic train street experience, early mornings are key to avoid crowds and catch the train. TikTok For shopping and vibrant street life, evenings and weekends are best. Consider visiting during Tet (Lunar New Year) for an explosion of festive decorations. TikTok

Best Times

When
Early mornings (before 8 AM)
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Evenings & Weekends
Why
Vibrant shopping, lively street
Crowd
High
When
Tet (Lunar New Year)
Why
Spectacular festive decorations
Crowd
Very High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Add this to your Vietnam bucket list 🇻🇳 (Save & Share) The original train street in Hanoi closed down months ago but you can still experience drinking coffee as the train rushes by here at Hanoi 1990...
@iamsiennachristine
885.1K likes • 8.6M views

🎯 Go Early for Train Street

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful coffee on Train Street before 8 AM. TikTok

💰 Cash is King Here

Many shops on Hang Ma Street prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases. TikTok

Top 10 things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam 🇻🇳📍 - 1, Watch the train pass on train street - 2, Cafe Giang’s Egg Coffee - The birthplace of the iconic coffee! ☕️ 3, Tran Quoc Pagoda - The oldest Buddhist te...
@lizeandtom
89.5K likes • 1.8M views
shopping in Hanoi🛍️ #hanoi #vietnam #travelling #backpacking #shopping #southeastasia #asia #nightmarket #hanoitrainstreet #streetfood #fyp #foryoupagee #TravelMemories #newfriends #thingstodo #thing...
@charlottec_ugc
42.8K likes • 751.6K views

⚠️ Avoid Tourist Traps

Be aware of unofficial entrances to Train Street; head directly to a cafe for access. TikTok

🛍️ Shop Local Brands

Explore streets like P. Dang Van Ngu for trendy, affordable local fashion. TikTok

DON'T go to Train Street! ❌🚂🛤️ -without watching this video first! 🤫 1️⃣ Don't go to the Northern (most popular) entrance! ❌ ❌ Where NOT to go: 📍Hanoi Train Street (Phố Đường Tàu Hà Nội) ✅ Where to go...
@twopeasabroad
29.1K likes • 579.8K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Go Early for Train Street

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful coffee on Train Street before 8 AM. TikTok

💰 Cash is King Here

Many shops on Hang Ma Street prefer cash, especially for smaller purchases. TikTok

⚠️ Avoid Tourist Traps

Be aware of unofficial entrances to Train Street; head directly to a cafe for access. TikTok

🛍️ Shop Local Brands

Explore streets like P. Dang Van Ngu for trendy, affordable local fashion. TikTok

📸 Capture the Colors

Hang Ma Street is a photographer's dream, especially during festive seasons. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Hang Ma Street is a vibrant and colorful destination, particularly loved for its festive decorations and unique paper goods, making it a prime spot for souvenir shopping. The adjacent Train Street offers a thrilling, albeit regulated, experience of a train passing incredibly close to shops. While the atmosphere is generally positive, some visitors note the potential for tourist traps on Train Street and the need for cash transactions.

What People Like

Vibrant colors and decorations
Unique souvenir shopping
Exciting train street experience

What People Dislike

Potential tourist traps
Crowded during peak times
Cash-only transactions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Hang Ma Street is centrally located in Hanoi's Old Quarter. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or by walking if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with other Old Quarter attractions. TikTok

Parking can be challenging in the Old Quarter due to narrow streets and high traffic. If you're driving, look for designated parking areas, but be prepared for potential fees and limited availability. TikTok

Walking is the best way to experience Hang Ma Street's vibrant atmosphere and browse the shops. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of exploring on foot. TikTok

While there isn't a direct bus route to Hang Ma Street itself, several bus lines stop near the Old Quarter. From there, it's a short walk. Check local bus routes for the most convenient options. TikTok

Hang Ma Street is a busy, pedestrian-heavy area with uneven pavements. While shops are generally at street level, navigating crowds and narrow spaces might be difficult for those with mobility challenges. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Hang Ma Street itself is a public street and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely wander and explore the shops. TikTok

While the street is free to access, many cafes on the train street will require you to purchase a drink or food to sit and watch the train. Be wary of unofficial 'guides' asking for fees. TikTok

Most shops on Hang Ma Street are open from morning until late evening, especially on weekends and during festive periods. Some may close earlier on weekdays. TikTok

Evenings and weekends are the most vibrant times for shopping on Hang Ma Street, with the street bustling with activity and all shops open. TikTok

Absolutely! Hang Ma Street is particularly spectacular during holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year), when it's adorned with elaborate decorations. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

The entire street is a visual feast! Look for colorful lanterns, intricate paper crafts, and the unique juxtaposition of shops against the train tracks. Early mornings offer a less crowded, more atmospheric shot of the train. TikTok+1

Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of the products and street scenes. However, always be respectful and ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals. TikTok

For vibrant colors and bustling street life, evenings are fantastic. For a more serene and dramatic shot of the train, aim for early mornings. TikTok+1

While photography is generally allowed, be mindful of the operational train. Ensure you are in a safe location and not obstructing the tracks or the train's path. TikTok

A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for capturing both street scenes and details. A wide-angle lens can be useful for the train street. Don't forget a fast lens for low-light evening shots. TikTok

🍽️ ☕ Food & Drink

You'll find plenty of street food stalls and small eateries offering Vietnamese specialties like Banh Mi, Pho, and Bun Cha. Don't miss trying the famous Egg Coffee at Cafe Giang. TikTok

Numerous cafes line the train tracks, offering a unique spot to enjoy a coffee while waiting for the train. Hanoi 1990 Cafe is a popular choice. TikTok

While many Vietnamese dishes are naturally vegetarian-friendly (like Pho Chay), it's always best to ask about ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. TikTok

Street food and local eateries offer very affordable prices. Coffee at cafes on Train Street might be slightly higher but is generally reasonable for the experience. TikTok+1

While the focus is on local Vietnamese fare, you can find some international restaurants in the broader Old Quarter area if you venture a bit further. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Hang Ma Street is a visual wonderland for children, with its vibrant colors and an abundance of toys and festive items. It’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs that kids will love. TikTok The train street experience can also be exciting for older children, but ensure they are supervised closely due to the proximity of the tracks. TikTok Consider visiting during the day to avoid the peak evening crowds, making it easier to navigate with little ones. TikTok

🛍️ Budget Travelers & Shoppers

Hang Ma Street is a budget traveler's dream for souvenirs. You can find unique and affordable items here, especially if you're willing to browse and politely haggle. TikTok For clothing, exploring streets like P. Dang Van Ngu offers trendy pieces at very reasonable prices, making it ideal for updating your wardrobe without breaking the bank. TikTok Eating at local street food stalls and small eateries will also keep your food expenses low. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Hang Ma Street offers endless photographic opportunities, from the intricate details of paper crafts to the bustling street life. TikTok The train street provides a dramatic backdrop, especially during the train's passage. TikTok+1 Aim for early mornings for a less crowded and more atmospheric train shot, and evenings for vibrant street scenes and colorful decorations. TikTok+1 A versatile camera with good low-light performance will serve you well. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Magic of Hang Ma Street Shopping

Hang Ma Street is renowned for its dazzling array of paper products, traditional toys, and festive decorations. It's a sensory delight, especially during holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year), when the street transforms into a vibrant spectacle of red and gold. You'll find everything from intricate paper lanterns and votive offerings to colorful toys and traditional crafts. TikTok Many visitors come here specifically to find unique souvenirs that capture the essence of Vietnamese culture. The sheer variety and affordability make it a shopper's paradise. TikTok

Beyond the festive items, Hang Ma Street also offers a glimpse into local life. Observe the skilled artisans at work and the lively interactions between vendors and customers. It’s a place where tradition meets commerce, creating a unique and memorable shopping experience. TikTok Remember to bring cash, as many vendors may not accept cards, and be prepared to haggle politely for the best prices. TikTok

Experiencing Hanoi's Train Street

Hanoi's Train Street is an iconic, albeit sometimes controversial, attraction. It's a narrow street where residential buildings and shops are built just inches away from active railway tracks. The thrill comes from witnessing a real train pass through this incredibly tight space, creating a dramatic and unforgettable experience. TikTok+1

Accessing the train street has become more regulated over time. Many TikTok creators advise against using the northern, most popular entrance, as it can lead to tourist traps. Instead, it's recommended to go directly to a specific cafe that offers access to the tracks. TikTok Arriving early in the morning, before 8 AM, is a popular tip for experiencing the train street with fewer crowds and a more peaceful atmosphere. TikTok Enjoying a coffee or a local drink at one of the cafes while waiting for the train is part of the charm. TikTok+1

It's crucial to be aware of your surroundings and prioritize safety. Always follow the instructions of cafe staff and be mindful of the train's approach. The experience is exhilarating but requires respect for the operational railway. TikTok

Shopping Beyond Hang Ma Street

While Hang Ma Street is a must-visit for its unique paper goods, Hanoi offers a broader shopping landscape. For trendy and affordable fashion, explore streets like P. Dang Van Ngu and Phuong Lien in the Dong Da district, which are packed with local brands and boutiques. TikTok These areas are great for finding the latest styles at budget-friendly prices. TikTok

Other areas like Lotte Mall and various smaller shops scattered throughout the Old Quarter offer a mix of local crafts, souvenirs, and international brands. TikTok+1 Whether you're looking for unique clothing, handcrafted items, or everyday necessities, Hanoi's diverse shopping scene has something for everyone. TikTok+1

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