Train Street – Hanoi Railway Street

Located in the residential area of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Train Street is known for the active railway line that runs closely between narrow houses and compact cafés. The site has drawn international attention for its unusual layout, where trains pass just inches away from the buildings and visitors.

The most visited segment lies between Trần Phú and Lê Duẩn streets, with entrances typically controlled by local cafés. Access is often restricted by local authorities for safety reasons, and visitors are usually only allowed through when accompanied by a café host. Most travelers reach the area via a short taxi or walking route from Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Train passage is not constant. Trains run a few times daily, typically in the afternoon and evening, though schedules may shift. Many cafés provide daily updates or alert customers just before the trains arrive. Visitors often wait at elevated balconies or narrow patio seats to capture the moment a train rumbles by.

Safety is strictly enforced. Entering the track without supervision is discouraged. Patrons must follow café instructions, step off the track well in advance of any train, and avoid blocking pathways. Police or guards may intervene if behavior is deemed unsafe.

Several cafés are known for reliable access and photogenic setups, including Hanoi 1990s Café and The Railway Café. These spots often combine drinks with direct views of the track, making them ideal for photography or short video captures.

While small in scale, Train Street represents a distinct piece of Hanoi’s urban fabric—where infrastructure and daily life intersect in surprising ways. For those seeking something unconventional within a city tour, it remains one of the most memorable stops.