6 things you may not know about Hanoi

Hanoi is considerably more than simply a metropolis. Beyond the temples and pagodas, the Vietnamese capital has unexpected gems. Discover six fewer-known facets of Hanoian life!

1. The train passes in front of people's homes

In Hanoi, there is a train that runs on the doorsteps of houses. People spread out on the railway tracks every day due to lack of space, but when the train arrives, we pack up and then life goes on as usual! You can go to the intersection of Tran Phu and Phung Hung streets. Otherwise, you follow the railway track between the station and Long Bien Bridge.

>> Read more: The train street in Hanoi, an unparalleled ride

2. Crossing the street in Hanoi is a real adventure

Traffic is chaotic, noisy, and dangerous. Thousands of scooters are driving in the opposite direction, on the sidewalks, between cars. Crossing the street will seem as difficult as jumping into the void during a bungee jump. It is mainly about daring. Do not wait for a moment of respite when the incessant flow of vehicles will calm down because this moment will not come. You have to cross the street slowly, and not be afraid, looking towards the drivers so that they avoid you.

3. Street vendors are omnipresent on the streets

You will find street vendors everywhere in Hanoi. They come out of their house with 2 boards on their shoulders or an overloaded bicycle and sell fruits, flowers, socks, hats, T-shirts… This image is one of the most marked things for travelers during their stay in Hanoi.

4. Getting a haircut on the street

Hanoi’s street corners are always full of unusual things. Did you ever get a haircut on the sidewalk? Many of you will say “no”. In Europe, men are used to going to a hair salon to get their hair cut. But in Hanoi, they go to cheap street hairdressers. Of course, their tools are quite rudimentary: a mirror hung on a wall or even a tree, a pair of scissors, a clipper and a razor blade for finishing touches.

5. Hanoians like to eat on the street

Hanois like to eat on the sidewalk around a few plastic tables, sitting on small stools. You can easily find food stalls on every street corner. Each restaurant usually serves only one dish. You can’t go to Hanoi without tasting its street food either. You will be passionate about surprising dishes: Pho, Nem, Bun cha, Banh cuon, egg coffee…

>> Read more: Top Hanoi must-try dishes and best places to eat in Hanoi Old Quarter

6. Aerobics in public spaces

In Hanoi, few people join gyms. So, to keep fit, they often play badminton in the street or parks, or go for morning walks… But the most noticeable thing to observe is those ladies who gather very early in the morning or around 5 pm in public spaces to do outdoor aerobics, to rhythmic music.

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