The Hanoi Train – A Double-Decker Journey through Hanoi’s Five Ancient Gates

The cultural tourist train “Hanoi Five Gates” officially began operating on the Hanoi – Tu Son (Bac Ninh) route on September 6, offering visitors a unique travel experience. Each day, there are two round trips starting from Hanoi Station, passing through Gia Lam and Yen Vien, before arriving at Tu Son Station (Bac Ninh) and returning.

• The morning train departs Hanoi Station at 8:00 AM and returns at 11:30 AM.

• The afternoon train departs Hanoi Station at 1:30 PM and returns at 5:00 PM.

On board, passengers can enjoy cultural performances, light snacks, and a convenient shuttle service connecting Tu Son Station with Do Temple. In Bac Ninh, visitors can explore Do Temple, enjoy traditional Quan Ho folk songs, and experience local crafts such as Dong Ho folk painting and making Phu The (husband-and-wife) cakes.

So, let’s join ISEN TRAVEL to discover the charm of the “Hanoi Five Gates” tourist train!

From the Five City Gates of Thang Long to the Homeland of Quan Ho (Image source: Internet)

1.Discover the “Hanoi Five Gates” Tourist Train

The “Hanoi Five Gates” tourist train, also known as “The Hanoi Train,” is inspired by the ancient beauty of the former Thang Long Citadel. Each carriage is named after one of Hanoi’s five historic city gates: Cau Den Gate, Quan Chuong Gate, Cau Giay Gate, Cho Dua Gate, and Dong Mac Gate. These names not only recall the thousand-year cultural history of the capital but also symbolize the heritage of the Red River Delta.

Step aboard The Hanoi Train and relive the charm of Hanoi’s Five Ancient Gates on a cultural railway journey (Image source: Internet)

The train is designed with two levels, and each carriage tells its own story through unique themes. With a capacity of 40 to 60 seats per carriage, the interiors are elegantly decorated, drawing inspiration from Hanoi’s rich cultural heritage. The enlarged windows create an airy space, allowing passengers to fully admire the beautiful scenery along the journey.

Throughout the trip, travelers are immersed in the vibrant world of traditional Vietnamese arts. Performances such as Quan Ho folk songs, Ca Tru, Cheo opera, and Xam singing bring diverse cultural experiences to life. More than just a train ride, the project aims to reconnect railways with urban life, promote tourism, and spread the timeless values of Vietnam’s cultural traditions.

A variety of traditional art performances showcasing Vietnam’s rich cultural identity are presented on the Hanoi Five Gates Train (Image source: Internet)

2.The itinerary

The “Hanoi Five Gates” train operates under the journey theme “Thang Long – Kinh Bac: Echoes of a Thousand Years,” offering daily services as follows:

• Morning trip: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM, Hanoi Station – Tu Son Station – Hanoi Station.

• Afternoon trip: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM, Hanoi Station – Tu Son Station – Hanoi Station.

The travel time from Hanoi to Tu Son Station is approximately 45–50 minutes.

A double-decker journey through Hanoi’s history and culture (Image source: Internet)

3.Experience

Passengers can admire cultural art spaces on board, listen to stories about local heritage, and enjoy seasonal light snacks. A shuttle service is available in Bac Ninh, connecting Tu Son Station – Do Temple – Tu Son Station. At Do Temple, where eight emperors of the Ly Dynasty are worshipped, guided tours are provided.

Enjoying lotus flowers, traditional treats, and street views – the Hanoi Train brings culture on board (Image source: Internet)

Visitors will also enjoy live performances of Quan Ho folk songs and have the chance to interact directly with local singers at the water pavilion. In addition, they can experience traditional crafts such as making Dong Ho folk paintings and preparing Phu The (husband-and-wife) cakes.

4.Ticket Booking

• Call the hotline 19002695 for consultation and booking support.

• Receive booking confirmation and payment instructions via SMS.

• Make the bank transfer according to the provided instructions.

• Obtain an e-ticket with a QR code sent via SMS.

• Arrive at Hanoi Station and present your ticket at the carriage gate.

• Passengers should check that the train number, date, and time on the e-ticket match the actual train schedule. Tickets must be valid and confirmed in the electronic ticketing system.

In the near future, an online booking system will be launched, along with additional methods such as ticket counters at Hanoi Station and domestic travel agencies.

From the ancient gates of Thang Long to the folk melodies of Quan Ho, this train journey brings Vietnam’s cultural heritage closer to travelers (Image source: Internet)

5.Ticket Prices

From 550,000 VND to 750,000 VND per ticket depending on the carriage and level (approximately $23 - $32 per guest)

• Children over 10 years old: adult fare.

• Children from 6 to 10 years old: 15% discount on adult fare.

• Children under 6 years old: free of charge (sharing a seat with an accompanying adult).

Ready to board the Hanoi Five Gates Tourist Train – a unique journey through culture, heritage, and the charm of the capital city (Image source: Internet)

6.Train Carriages

The train consists of five two-level passenger carriages and two special carriages designed for photo check-ins. Each carriage is equipped with air conditioning, premium seating, drinking water, audio narration, and souvenirs. Passengers can move freely between carriages.

Each carriage accommodates 40 to 60 seats and is named after one of Hanoi’s historic city gates: Cau Giay Gate, Cau Den Gate, Dong Mac Gate, Quan Chuong Gate, and Cho Dua Gate. Each carriage features a different style of music, from Cheo opera and Quan Ho folk songs to modern music. Large panoramic windows offer passengers beautiful views of the passing landscapes.

Inside the Hanoi Five Gates Train (Image source: Internet)

7.Notes

• Arrive at Hanoi Station at least 15 minutes before departure.

• Bring your ID card or passport with details matching the e-ticket.

• Round-trip tickets must be kept for the return journey.

• Train schedules are subject to change in accordance with regulations by Vietnam Railways.

The Hanoi Five Gates Train is more than just a mode of transportation—it is a cultural journey that revives the heritage of Thang Long–Hanoi while connecting it with the traditions of Bac Ninh. With its elegant design, diverse art performances, and unique cultural experiences, the train offers travelers an unforgettable way to discover both history and modern life. Whether enjoying folk music, tasting local specialties, or exploring ancient temples, passengers are invited to immerse themselves in the richness of Vietnam’s cultural identity.