How long does it take to walk the 36 Streets of Hanoi?

A focused walk through the core artisan streets takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. If you stop to shop or visit historical sites like the Old House at 87 Ma May, plan for at least 3 hours.

Is the Hanoi Old Quarter safe for solo travelers?

Yes, it is generally very safe, though you must be vigilant about motorbike traffic and petty pickpocketing in crowded areas. The neighborhood is very active and well-lit into the evening.

Can I visit the Old House at 87 Ma May every day?

The house is typically open daily, but it often closes for a lunch break between 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM. It is best to visit in the morning or mid-afternoon.

What are the 36 Streets of Hanoi known for?

Each street was historically dedicated to a specific guild, such as silver (Hang Bac), paper (Hang Ma), or silk (Hang Gai). Today, many streets still maintain their traditional trade, creating a unique 'open-air market' atmosphere.

Is the Hanoi Old Quarter accessible for strollers?

It is challenging due to uneven, narrow sidewalks that are often used for motorbike parking or street food stalls. A baby carrier is much more practical than a stroller in this neighborhood.

What is the best time of day to explore the craft streets?

Morning between 9:00 AM and 11:00 AM is best to see the shops opening and artisans at work before the afternoon heat and peak traffic congestion.

Are there public toilets in the Hanoi Old Quarter?

Public toilets are rare. It is best to use the facilities at museums like 87 Ma May or at one of the many cafes along the route, such as those overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake.

Is it worth visiting Bach Ma Temple?

Yes, it is the oldest temple in the city and offers a peaceful respite from the street noise. It provides great insight into the spiritual foundations of the city's merchant history.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Step into a living museum where the rhythms of ancient trade still pulse through narrow alleyways. This self-guided walk through Hanoi's Old Quarter, known as the '36 Streets,' offers a window into a world where each street was once dedicated to a specific guild or craft. As you navigate this labyrinth, you are not just walking through a neighborhood; you are tracing the commercial history of Vietnam's capital. From the vibrant paper offerings of Phố Hàng Mã to the medicinal scents of Phố Lãn Ông, this route allows you to explore at your own pace, soaking in the sensory details that a standard walking tour Hanoi might miss. This neighborhood stroll captures the essence of the city's heritage, where centuries-old temples sit alongside bustling family-run storefronts. You will discover how these streets evolved from specialized artisan hubs into the vibrant, multifaceted commercial centers they are today. Whether you are intrigued by the delicate silverwork of Hang Bac or the architectural grace of a restored merchant’s home on Ma May, this audio walk provides the context to understand the 'how' and 'why' behind Hanoi’s enduring charm. This self-guided adventure is designed for those who want to wander away from the crowds and truly connect with the local culture and crafts that define the soul of the city. While many visitors take a guided tour Hanoi to see the main sights, this walking route invites you to slow down, look up at the weathered facades, and witness the daily rituals that have remained unchanged for generations. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Explore the colorful votive paper displays on Phố Hàng Mã

Experience the aromatic herbal medicine shops of Phố Lãn Ông

Visit Bach Ma Temple, the oldest place of worship in the Old Quarter

Witness the legacy of silversmiths on the historic Hang Bac Street

Step inside a perfectly preserved 19th-century merchant house on Ma May

Admire the exquisite textiles and tailoring traditions of Hang Gai

Tour Stops (6)

Phố Hàng Mã

Welcome to Phố Hàng Mã, perhaps the most visually striking street in the Old Quarter. For centuries, this has been the center for paper goods and votive offerings. In Vietnamese culture, burning paper replicas of money, cars, or houses is a way to send 'provisions' to ancestors in the afterlife. The street transforms dramatically throughout the year; during the Mid-Autumn Festival or Lunar New Year, it becomes a sea of red lanterns and traditional toys. While the specific items on display change with the seasons and modern trends, the craftsmanship remains rooted in ancient folk art. Observe the intricate details of the paper structures, which are often handmade in nearby craft villages before arriving here for sale.

Phố Lãn Ông

As you turn onto Phố Lãn Ông, the air changes. The scent of cinnamon, dried orange peel, and ginseng replaces the city's exhaust. This is the street of Traditional Chinese Medicine, named after a famous 18th-century Vietnamese physician. Here, you’ll see shopfronts lined with wooden drawers and glass jars filled with roots, barks, and dried herbs. Many of the families operating these businesses have been here for generations, practicing a form of healing that predates modern pharmacy. The rhythm here is different; it's a place of consultation and careful measurement. Note the large mortars and pestles used to grind ingredients into custom remedies tailored to each customer’s specific ailment.

Bach Ma Temple

Standing before you is Bach Ma, or the White Horse Temple, considered the oldest temple in the Old Quarter. Originally built in the 9th century, it was significantly reconstructed in the 18th and 19th centuries. Legend says that King Ly Thai To was struggling to build the city walls until a white horse appeared and guided him to this spot, marking where the foundations should be laid. Inside, you’ll find a statue of the white horse and beautiful lacquered wood carvings. The architecture is a classic example of the 'matchbox' style common in this area, featuring a long, narrow layout with internal courtyards that allow light and air to penetrate the dense urban fabric.

Hang Bac Street

Hang Bac translates directly to 'Silver Street.' Its history dates back to the 13th century when silver-making families from villages in Hai Duong province were brought here by the king to cast silver bullion and jewelry for the royal court. While many shops now sell modern gold and jewelry, you can still find small workshops tucked away in the back of narrow buildings where traditional tools are used. Look for the communal houses, like the Truong Dinh Communal House at number 58, which served as both a place of worship for the silver guild and a hub for trade regulations. This street remains one of the most prosperous and historically significant in the district.

Old House (87 Ma May)

To understand how life was lived in the 19th century, step inside 87 Ma May. This restored merchant’s house is a perfect example of Hanoi's traditional 'tube house' architecture. These houses were built long and narrow because property taxes were once based on the width of the street facade. As you explore the two floors, notice the open courtyards that separate the living quarters. These 'wells of light' provide essential ventilation and a connection to nature in the crowded city. The house features heavy ironwood beams, ceramic tile roofs, and traditional furniture, offering a quiet sanctuary from the chaotic streets outside. It serves as a reminder of the sophisticated urban lifestyle of the city's merchant class.

Phố Hàng Gai

Our walk concludes on Phố Hàng Gai, known today as Silk Street. Centuries ago, this street was the center for hemp and rope makers, but it eventually transitioned into a hub for high-end silk and embroidery. Today, it is lined with elegant boutiques offering everything from raw silk fabric to custom-tailored suits and traditional Ao Dai dresses. While the street has modernized, the connection to Vietnam's silk-weaving villages remains strong. Take a moment to appreciate the vibrant colors and delicate textures on display. This street represents the evolution of Hanoi’s artisans—merging ancient skills with contemporary fashion to keep the city's creative spirit alive in the 21st century.

Frequently Asked Questions

The 'Artisans of the 36 Streets' route is ideal, as it covers the most culturally significant craft streets including Hang Ma and Hang Bac. It allows you to see the transition from traditional ritual goods to modern commerce in about 90-120 minutes.