Vietnam Railways has unveiled a groundbreaking tourism offering—the “Hanoi Train”, a culturally immersive, double-decker train that launched on August 19, 2025, in celebration of Vietnam’s National Day. Departing from Hanoi Station, this unique service will start regular operations in September 2025, establishing a fresh benchmark for rail travel in the region.
A Journey Through Hanoi’s Gateways
The concept of the Hanoi Train draws inspiration from Hanoi’s five historic city gates—Ô Quan Chưởng, Ô Cầu Dền, Ô Đống Mác, Ô Cầu Giấy, and Ô Chợ Dừa. Five double-deck passenger carriages are each meticulously styled to reflect the heritage and aesthetic of one of these gates. Warm lighting, wooden accents, and traditional motifs are paired with modern comforts, creating a nostalgic yet sophisticated ambiance on board.
Two additional carriages serve as vibrant check-in zones—ideal for photo opportunities or simply soaking in the atmosphere. Passengers are transported to another time, surrounded by history, art, and elegance, all while seated in spacious comfort.
Scenic Routes and Flexible Departures
The train embarks on a scenic route from Hanoi to Bac Ninh, passing through iconic landmarks such as Long Biên Bridge, Gia Lam, Yên Viên, and Từ Sơn. With three daily departure slots—08:00, 14:00, and the uniquely atmospheric 20:30 evening journey—travelers can choose a ride that suits their preferred mood, whether lit by sunrise, afternoon glow, or the enchanting city lights by night.
Cultural Performances on Rails
More than a train ride, this is a rolling cultural showcase. Passengers are treated to live, authentic performances of Quan Họ folk singing, Ca Trù, Chèo opera, and Xẩm ballads—all deeply rooted creative traditions from northern Vietnam. This elevates every journey from mere travel to an engaging cultural event.
Modern Convenience Meets Tradition
In parallel with this launch, Vietnam Railways introduced a biometric ticketing system at Hanoi Station. Using chip-based national ID cards, boarding verification now takes just 3–5 seconds—a significant improvement over previous methods. The system boasts over 98% accuracy and will soon integrate with the VNeID digital ID for even greater convenience and flexibility.
Why This Matters for the Travel Industry
- New Tourism Magnet: The Hanoi Train is not just transport—it’s a destination experience, designed to attract both domestic and international tourists through immersive storytelling and cultural richness.
- Diversified Rail Tourism: This venture introduces themed rail experiences in Vietnam, paving the way for future routes that could incorporate local culture, heritage, and gastronomy.
- Operational Efficiency: Combining art, comfort, and modern ticketing technology, this service raises the standard for premium rail services, blending speed, beauty, and efficiency.
- Story-Driven Travel: In today’s travel culture, journeys that tell a story—through design, performance, or local identity—resonate deeply. The Hanoi Train delivers on all fronts, making it a compelling offering for tour operators and travel platforms.
Conclusion
The Hanoi Train represents a transformative chapter for rail and cultural tourism in Vietnam. With its themed design, live performances, scenic routes, and streamlined boarding, the service reimagines train travel as a personalized cultural experience. Launching fully in September 2025, it promises to become an emblem of Vietnam’s evolving tourism—where heritage meets innovation, tradition meets modernity, and every ride tells a story.
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Image source: Asia King Travel
