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The Hanoi Train offers a unique journey that immerses you in the capital's history, rhythm of life, and charm from a completely new experience.
Hanoi, the thousand-year-old capital of Vietnam, never ceases to amaze with its seamless blend of tradition and modernity. In this spirit, the The Hanoi Train, also known as Hanoi 5 Gates Tourist Train, was officially launched. This unique train is an invitation to a cultural and sensory immersion. More than just a ride, it is a new way to discover Hanoi - a meeting point of historical memory, local lifestyle, and modern charm, offering a fresh perspective on the city's unique identity.
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1. About The Hanoi Train
The Hanoi Train, a project by the Vietnam Railway Corporation (VNR), was designed to offer a unique journey from the heart of the capital to the cradle of the Red River Delta culture - Kinh Bac. To create this new experience, seven old double-decker carriages were fully renovated. Five of these were transformed into comfortable passenger cars, each seating between 40 and 60 people, while the remaining two were redesigned as modern check-in and welcome areas.
The name "5 Gates Tourist Train" was chosen to pay homage to the five ancient gates of Hanoi, representing a journey not just through the city's space, but also through its rich historical and cultural layers. This name has also become a familiar and beloved way to refer to the train, connecting modern travelers with the city's cherished past.
After its official inauguration on August 19th, 2025, this Hanoi Heritage Train opened to the public on September 6th, 2025 and is ready to offer travelers a fresh and inspiring way to explore the capital and its surroundings.
2. Why choose this Hanoi Heritage Train?
Traveling aboard The Hanoi Train is not just about moving from one place to another, it’s about living a unique cultural, historical, and sensory experience.
A tribute to the capital’s heritage
The train draws inspiration from the five symbolic gates of the ancient Thang Long Citadel – O Quan Chuong, O Cau Den, O Dong Mac, O Cau Giay, and O Cho Dua. These very gates once guarded the capital of Dai Viet from 1010 to 1802, before the Nguyen Dynasty moved the imperial seat to Hue.
By connecting the present with the thousand-year-old heritage, the Hanoi 5 Gates Train bridges a glorious past and modern life. Every passenger embarks on a journey not only through the city's space but also through time, rediscovering a Hanoi that is both ancient and eternally forward-looking.
Design that blends tradition and modernity
The train's meticulously renovated carriages blend contemporary elegance with a charming, old-world allure. On board, a welcoming bar, a stage dedicated to traditional Vietnamese folk arts like xẩm, chèo, and chầu văn, and decorative spaces reminiscent of old Hanoi create a refined and immersive atmosphere.
The interior design uses warm, understated tones, with a generous use of wood and retro motifs that evoke the capital's ancient streets. The walls are adorned with posters, photographs, and information panels that highlight Hanoi's heritage, monuments, and urban life of a bygone era.
Some carriages harmoniously combine French colonial architectural ornaments with traditional Vietnamese house features, while others showcase iconic Northern Vietnamese motifs such as the lotus, Bat Trang ceramic tiles, and Dong Ho folk paintings. Every detail transforms the journey into a full-fledged cultural immersion, making the train a living museum of Hanoi's culture.
A window to the contemporary life
Thanks to its large windows, The Hanoi Train offers breathtaking views. By day or night, the scenery flows like a living painting, from bustling city life to peaceful villages, and the poetic glow of Hanoi’s night lights.
More than just a ride
The Hanoi Train is designed as a journey within a journey, an original and elegant way to explore Hanoi and its surroundings, lulled by the soothing rhythm of the rails.
3. Schedule of the Hanoi Heritage Train
The Hanoi 5 Gates Tourist Train departs three times daily from Hanoi Railway Station, passing through Long Bien Bridge, stopping at Gia Lam Station, then passing Yen Vien Station. The last stop is Tu Son Station. The route offers a different ambiance and a unique perspective on the capital.
Currently, the Hanoi Train operates a round-trip route from Hanoi Station to Tu Son Station with departures at 8:00 AM, 1:30 PM, and 8:30 PM.
Departure at 8:00 AM – Duration: 3h30
In the morning, the train departs from Hanoi Station, traveling through Long Bien, Gia Lam, and Yen Vien stations before arriving in Tu Son, Bac Ninh province.
This leg of the journey may include a visit to Den Do Temple, a special national relic, an exploration of the traditional Dong Ho folk painting village, and a unique culinary experience making Banh Phu The, a traditional Vietnamese cake. The trip concludes with the return to Hanoi Station.
Departure at 1:30 PM – Duration: 3h30
The afternoon trip follows the same itinerary as the morning departure. The train is scheduled to arrive back at Hanoi Station around 5:00 PM.
Departure at 8:30 PM – Duration: 2h
In the evening, the train offers a romantic view of Hanoi by night. Departing from the main station, it passes through Long Bien, Gia Lam, and Yen Vien, then continues towards Dong Anh, Phu Dien, Ha Dong before returning to Hanoi Station. This evening route reveals a different side of the capital, illuminated by the city's night lights and imbued with a truly romantic ambiance.
4. Ticket prices of the Hanoi Train
The Hanoi Heritage Train offers several seating options:
- VIP ticket: 750,000 VND
- 1st Floor Seats: 550,000 VND
- 2nd Floor Seats: 650,000 VND
To reserve your tickets, you have two convenient options:
- Direct purchase at Hanoi Railway Station: This is an ideal option for travelers already in the area who want to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the station and get their tickets with ease.
- Phone reservation via the official hotline: You can book your tickets by calling the Vietnam Railways Service Center at 1900 636 212. This is a secure and practical service that allows you to book in advance and avoid any fraud.
5. Best time to experience the Hanoi Heritage Train
Each departure of the Hanoi Heritage Train reveals a unique side of the capital, allowing travelers to choose the experience that best suits their interests.
Daytime journeys (8:00 AM & 2:00 PM) are the perfect opportunity to admire the landscapes while immersing yourself in the region's rich history and culture. From ancient temples and traditional craft villages to unique culinary discoveries, these journeys offer a complete immersion into the very soul of Northern Vietnam.
In the evening, the nighttime magic train (8:30 PM) embarks on a truly enchanting night tour. The city lights reflect off the stations and landscapes, transforming Hanoi into a poetic and romantic setting. This nocturnal route invites travelers to rediscover the capital from a different perspective, blending serenity with pure wonder.
Whether you are a culture enthusiast, a landscape lover, or in search of a magical night out, the Hanoi train promises a unique experience at any time of day.
The Hanoi Train stands out as a unique experience where each departure tells a story. From bright mornings to romantic evenings, it reveals the many scenes of the capital. With its thoughtful design, popular folk art performances, and modern amenities, this train redefines how one travels in Hanoi. Here, comfort and heritage come together to offer an unforgettable cultural immersion.
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TRAVELERS' CHOICE 2025 
