[Playing Chess on Train Tracks]A Train Runs Through a Hanoi Residential Area

Text and photos: E Cat

VisitedVietnamwill find that many locals have a relatively low awareness of traffic safety—for example, a single road might host a wide variety of vehicles, while traffic lights are scarce. Yet, it is precisely this “chaotic” aspect that gives rise to many unique and fascinating cultural elements in the country, such asVietnam’s capitalHanoi, where a train railway runs alongside residential neighborhoods. This rail network has been in place for over a hundred years and has coexisted withHanoiresidents for generations. The slightly rusted tracks are like a record of the ancient capital’s growth.

Fever Travel 10 Recommended Attractions in Hanoi 10 Selected Attractions in Hanoi
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Thanks to Travolor?Nan???Piaoyecaipasongqianweia hhh="world.php?id=1022">Yuenanabout the itinerary for this part of the trip.Tour guide Mr. Tao stated,HanoiThe railway network was officially established in 1902, not only bringing convenient transportation for locals but also economic benefits such as logistics and transport.Later, asHanoiAs urban development accelerates and the population rapidly expands, to address the shortage of land supply, the government has even included areas alongside railway tracks for residential construction, resulting in the unique sight today of trains passing through residential areas.

HanoiThe old quarter is extremely crowded, with even train tracks built within densely populated residential areas.

When it comes to the best spots forHanoitrain viewing, Mr. Tao mentions the area in the old quarter near T

Upon first entering the residential area, the feeling is quite eerie. Between two rows of residential buildings, about 2 to 5 stories high, there is a long train track corridor. Residents can almost step directly into the train's path as soon as they open their doors.But the strangest thing is that many residents sit or hang out there nonchalantly, setting up stalls and playing around, completely ignoring the danger posed by passing trains.

Trains arrive every 45 minutes, and it’s unclear whether this is due to the infrequent schedule.
Many residents generously gather to play chess, bask in the sun, eat, and play around the train tracks.

beHong KongTaking the train, citizens would be warned by railway ground staff if they even crossed the yellow line slightly, let alone lingered on the tracks. So, the scene before me was truly puzzling. Before long, the train’s arrival whistle sounded, lasting about ten seconds and quite loud — and with that, the answer became obvious.

Many homes and shops in the old town hangVietnamflags at their entrances, which are quite eye-catching.

Hearing the whistle, residents who had been lingering in the corridor immediately stood up to put away chairs and chessboards, went back inside, and closed their doors. The corridor, once bustling with noise, suddenly fell silent. At the same time, the railway guards lowered the gates at the intersection to prevent people and vehicles from entering the railway area. Then, in the distance came the “clack clack” sound of the approaching train. Instinctively, I knew the train was coming. Standing outside the railing with my camera, I prepared to capture the moment the train entered the station.

A somewhat vintage train slowly rolled in between two rows of houses. Its body brushed past flags and plants hanging from the residences, and it passed just tens of centimeters from the doors and windows — so close it was both thrilling and a little frightening.

The most interesting part was how, once the train had passed, the corridor instantly returned to its usual state, as if nothing had happened. Residents continued to come out of their houses to play or rest, creating a scene that was truly astonishing.

Mr. Tao pointed out with a smile that the old city’s residential railway is, much likeHong Kong’s trams, long become a part of daily life for locals. AlthoughHanoiresidents may not have as strong a sense of traffic safety as those inHong Kong, their determination to preserve historical elements is no less admirable. For example, they still carry out regular railway maintenance and retain the original design of stations. Visiting here to see the railway is a great way to experienceVietnam’s culture.

Tips for Viewing the Train Railway

The railway that runs through the old residential area has its terminal at Ga Hang Co (i.e., Hanoi Railway Station). There are 16 trains daily, starting from 7:00 am, with one departing every 45 minutes. It takes around 5 to 10 minutes to travel from the terminal along Ton That Thiep and Dien Bien Phu streets.

Additionally, walking straight ahead along the railway will take you to the area nearLong Biên Bridge, an iron bridge designed by Alexandre Gustave Eiffel, the architect of the Eiffel Tower in France. Here you can also admire the outstanding work of this world-renowned bridge designer.

Want to know what there is to do inHanoi? Check out Fever Travel’s 10 Recommended Attractions in Hanoi .
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Jetstar Hong Konground tripHanoiNew Flight Route

With the recent launch of aHong Kongdirect flightto Hanoiby Jetstar, visiting this historic ancient city has become relatively more convenient and affordable, giving backpackers yet another excuse to escapeHong Kong. The round-trip direct flight fromHong KongtoHanoistarts from just HK$249 one-way (excluding taxes and surcharges). Travel dates are available from now until 2015.http://www.jetstar.com/hk/

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VietnamTravel Tips
Starting from November 23, the single-entry visa on arrival fee has been reduced from 45 USD to 25 USD, but an entry letter application is still required;Hong KongThe visa fee at the consulate remains unchanged, with the latest price at HK$640.

Acknowledgements:Jetstar,Travolor