Heritage train offers tourists a new way to explore the capital

The two-story train, called The Ha Noi Train, takes passengers on a 40-minute journey across the capital’s landmarks and eastward to Tu Son in Bac Ninh Province. Along the way, travelers can enjoy traditional music and dance performances, including quan ho (love duet folk singing), ca tru (ceremonial singing), and cheo (traditional opera). Local delicacies such as young sticky rice, lotus-scented tea, and seasonal snacks are also served.

“I could also try making Dong Ho paintings and Phu The conjugal cakes. Without going far, just one refreshing ride is enough to appreciate the beauty of the capital,” shared Pham Thi Thuy, a visitor from Hung Yen Province. “Inspired by the ancient Thang Long Citadel, the train reflects Hanoi’s effort to bring the railway back to urban life in a vibrant way while boosting tourism.”

Launched on September 6 after trial runs on August 19 to mark the August Revolution and National Day, the train offers scenic views of Hanoi’s daily life through large windows. It features five double-decker carriages named after iconic city gates—O Quan Chuong, O Cau Den, O Dong Mac, O Cau Giay, and O Cho Dua—plus two check-in carriages.

According to Dicky Lai, Sales Director of 3T Technology and Service JSC, The Ha Noi Train was designed as “a mobile work of art,” with details evoking layers of Hanoi’s history. “Door frames and seat backs echo Long Bien Bridge, the Red River flows across the ceiling and floor, while old French shutters, tiles, and bulletin boards bring back the feel of the past,” he explained.

Tran Trung Hieu, Deputy Director of Ha Noi’s Department of Tourism, said the project is the first tourist train built to highlight the city’s culture along the railway. “It combines nostalgia with modern comfort, offering a creative and distinctive tourism product—a new symbol in the journey to explore the thousand-year-old capital,” he noted.

The Ha Noi–Bac Ninh route also carries historical significance. From Ha Noi Station, the train passes Long Bien, Gia Lam, and Yen Vien before reaching Tu Son, Bac Ninh, where visitors can explore Do Temple, dedicated to eight kings of the Ly Dynasty. The area is home to seven UNESCO-recognized heritage traditions and other cultural activities.

The train departs daily from Hanoi at 8:00 AM and 1:30 PM, returning from Tu Son at 10:30 AM and 4:20 PM. Tickets range from VND 550,000–750,000 (US$20.8–28.4), with discounts for children and groups. Bookings can be made via hotline 19002695, the official website: https://hanoitrain.vn/.