Hanoi’s train street, a once-bustling hub of tourism and coffee culture, now faces an uncertain future. While it continues to attract crowds of tourists, the street has been subject to multiple closures due to safety concerns regarding its proximity to the railway. The authorities’ emphasis on ensuring safety has sparked discussions about the viability of the train street coffee scene.
To enhance safety and enforce the ban on accessing the railway corridor, local authorities have implemented strict measures. Checkpoints with dedicated personnel aim to prevent visitors from entering the train street area, showcasing the commitment to protecting both locals and tourists from potential hazards.
Despite a prominent warning sign indicating the dangers, many people still flock to this street to enjoy coffee and capture memorable photos. The allure of the unique atmosphere and the thrill of being so close to the trains seem to outweigh the risks for many visitors.
Even with increased security measures and prominent warnings, the train street continues to draw visitors seeking a one-of-a-kind experience. This raises important questions about the effectiveness of enforcement and the need for better public education on safety, especially in such close proximity to an active railway.
The cafes along the train street have set up long benches to accommodate customers, but the seating areas are dangerously close to the tracks. This setup raises serious safety concerns, as patrons are placed in harm’s way when trains pass by, increasing the risk of accidents.
Despite the alarming proximity to the rail tracks, some tourists lean out and even stand up to take selfies, disregarding the dangers for the sake of the perfect photo. This behavior underscores a concerning trend where the pursuit of social media moments takes precedence over personal safety.
The behavior exhibited by some tourists highlights a reckless disregard for safety in the pursuit of social media content. It raises important questions about the responsibility of both visitors and business owners in creating a safe environment, especially when the thrill of the experience can overshadow caution.
Every day, around 3 p.m., tourists start gathering along the train street, eagerly awaiting the passing trains. This unique spectacle draws large crowds, especially on weekends, as tour groups bring visitors to experience this famous attraction in the heart of Hanoi.
The crowds along the train street can become chaotic, with people crowding onto the tracks and forming lines to capture the perfect selfie. This disregard for safety regulations and the potential dangers of the railway environment underscores the challenge of managing tourism in such a unique yet hazardous setting.
The cafes have extended their presence onto the railway corridor, setting up canopies and decorative lights in outdoor areas. This encroachment, despite the potential for collisions with passing trains, not only endangers customers but also complicates safety measures and obstructs the railway.
In 2023, Hanoi Railway of Vietnam Railways Corporation (VNR) requested the removal of coffee shops along the railway to ensure traffic safety. However, despite the authorities’ efforts to enforce regulations, the coffee business persists, highlighting the complex challenge of balancing safety concerns with the strong demand for this unique tourist experience.
You may also like

The Capital’s Early Risers: Hanoi’s Coffee and Tea Culture Awakens Before Dawn

“Eager caffeine enthusiasts and tea aficionados have been flocking to a quaint coffee shop nestled in Hanoi’s historic Hoan Kiem District. With dedication akin to a ritual, these young patrons arrive as early as 4:00 am, some even meticulously planning their outfits and makeup from the stroke of midnight. Their mission: to indulge in the perfect blend of coffee and milk tea, a beverage experience worth waking up for.”

Hanoi’s Railway Cafe Street: A Thrilling Foreigner Favorite, Despite the Risks

“Despite the ominous warnings of potential danger, the allure of Hanoi’s famed ‘train street’ proves irresistible to adventurous foreigners. With coffee shops mere inches from the active railway, the unique thrill of waiting for trains to pass by has become a sought-after experience for those daring enough to ignore the risks.”

Quang Tri, Vietnam offers a unique coffee bean harvesting and processing tour

Quang Tri Province in north-central Vietnam is now offering an exciting agricultural tour for coffee lovers. Visitors have the unique opportunity to experience the entire coffee production process, from harvesting and processing the beans to enjoying a freshly brewed cup of coffee. This tour allows enthusiasts to get hands-on experience and gain a deeper appreciation for the art of coffee-making. Don’t miss out on this one-of-a-kind adventure in Quang Tri Province!

Last Stop! Hanoi’s Beloved Train Cafe Street is Ordered to Close

The leader of Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee said that the district would temporarily close “the train street cafés,” and revoke the licenses of business households that violate the railway safety laws.

Railway café in heart of Hanoi attracts tourists

Enjoying delicious coffee while watching the old train slowly rolls barely a meter away is a terrifying but enjoyable experience for many foreign visitors to Hanoi.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR