Cultural HeritageHistorical SitePhoto Spot
Phung Hung Train Street
Phố Đường Tàu Phùng Hưng
4.4Free1-2 hours
An active railway through Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Phung Hung Train Street is a narrow Old Quarter lane where trains pass beside cafés on a railway built in 1902.
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What to know before you go
- Sitting on the northern railway spur serving Lao Cai and Hai Phong, the Phung Hung section runs dramatically close to local buildings between Hanoi Railway Station and Long Bien Station. This unique setting became a global tourist phenomenon around 2017 when residents began converting their trackside homes into vibrant cafes. Although authorities restricted open access in 2022 due to safety concerns, the street remains accessible to visitors through the local cafe system.
- To enter, visitors are typically met by cafe owners at the main checkpoints, such as the Tran Phu crossing, and guided to a seat. For safety, patrons must remain inside the designated cafe seating areas and strictly follow staff instructions to stand clear of the tracks whenever a train approaches.
Good to know
Culture, safety & access
Culture & etiquette
Crowd: Busy around train times and on weekends; quieter between departures.Best season: Good year-round; Oct–Apr offers cooler weather.
Respect local residents in this active neighborhood. Support nearby cafes if using their seating.
Safety & health
Strictly follow cafe staff and security instructions. Stay clear of the tracks when a train approaches.
Weather
Tracks become slippery when wet.
Dress Code
Comfortable clothing and flat shoes or sneakers recommended.
Best Time to Visit
Arrive early before train times for better seating, clearer views, and fewer crowds.
Accessibility
Tran Phu crossing may be restricted; access via nearby cafes. Active railway; clear tracks immediately when warned.