Hang Dau Street: Locations, History & Tips For Visitors

Hang Dau Street is a famous and bustling street in the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter, renowned as the city's primary destination for footwear. For locals and tourists alike, it’s a non-stop spectacle of commerce and culture. It’s a place where the history of the capital is etched into the colonial facades, while the vibrant energy of modern life plays out on the pavement. This guide by GTrip will walk you through its exact location, fascinating history, and essential tips for the best visitor experience.

Where is Hang Dau Street?

Location: Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Hang Dau Street is situated in the heart of Hanoi, perfectly nestled within the lively maze of the city’s historic Old Quarter. Its central position makes it an unmissable stop for anyone exploring the capital.

The street itself is a relatively short but dense commercial artery, measuring approximately 270 meters in length. It serves as a key connector, running from Tran Nhat Duat Road, near the downhill slope of the iconic Long Bien Bridge. It ends at Van Xuan Park, a green space that offers a moment of tranquillity amidst the urban buzz.

Hang Dau Street, a short yet bustling 270-meter stretch in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, connects Long Bien Bridge to Van Xuan Park at the city’s vibrant heart

History of Hang Dau Street

Hang Dau Street (meaning Oil Street), not to be confused with “Hang Dau Street” (meaning bean street), is a distinct destination despite its similar-sounding names. In fact, its name originated from the time when the street specialized in edible oils such as peanut and sesame oil. During the French colonial period, it was renamed Rue du Lac (Lakeside Street) for its proximity to Hoan Kiem Lake. This era also introduced many French-style buildings that still shape its distinctive character today. After the August Revolution of 1945, the original Vietnamese name, Hang Dau, was officially restored, marking an important milestone in the city’s journey to independence.

Over the decades, the street’s commercial identity shifted completely. As Hanoi’s urban population grew, so did the demand for affordable footwear. Hang Dau evolved from an oil market into today’s bustling “shoe paradise”, reflecting Hanoi’s ability to adapt while preserving its heritage.

What to buy on Hang Dau Street?

Today, Hang Dau Street is affectionately known as Hanoi's "Shoe Paradise", a bustling thoroughfare where shops are packed tightly together. The street showcases an endless variety of footwear for all ages and styles. Here, you’ll find everything from sandals and sneakers to elegant heels, leather shoes, and even cute styles for kids. The collections are constantly updated to reflect the latest trends, and the prices are remarkably affordable, making it accessible to most consumers.

When shopping on Hang Dau Street, it's helpful to remember that this is a popular local market area, so don't hesitate to bargain for the best price. It is also wise to carefully inspect the quality of the products, such as the glue lines and stitching, before making a purchase. With its vast selection and reasonable prices, Hang Dau Street is the ideal destination for anyone looking to find fashionable footwear without breaking the bank.

Hang Dau Street offers endless, affordable footwear choices for all ages and styles, making it a must-visit shopping spot

Architectural highlights of Hang Dau Street

While the shopping is the main draw for many, the architecture of Hang Dau Street tells its own fascinating story. A walk down this street is a journey back in time, with the elegant and sometimes weathered facades of French colonial buildings providing a picturesque backdrop to the modern-day hustle and bustle.

The predominant architectural style is a fusion of French and Vietnamese design, a common feature in Hanoi's Old Quarter. These buildings are characterized by classic elements like shuttered windows, balconies, and decorative pillars. This blend of styles reflects the cultural and historical melting pot that Hanoi was during the colonial period.

Nearby attractions and food

Hang Dau Street's prime location in the Hoan Kiem district means it is surrounded by some of Hanoi's most famous landmarks and culinary hotspots. A visit to the shoe paradise can easily be combined with a broader exploration of the city's cultural and gastronomic treasures.

Key attractions within walking distance

Surrounding Hang Dau Street are a variety of significant landmarks and cultural sites, each offering a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich history and vibrant daily life. Notable attractions located within proximity and easily accessible on foot include:

• Hoan Kiem Lake: Just a short stroll from Hang Dau, this legendary lake is the heart and soul of Hanoi. It’s famous for the tale of Emperor Le Loi returning a magic sword to a giant turtle. The lake is a hub of activity, where locals come to exercise, relax, and socialize. Key sites around the lake include the iconic Turtle Tower on a central islet and the Ngoc Son Temple, which is accessible via the striking red-painted The Huc Bridge.
• Long Bien Bridge: The starting point of Hang Dau Street connects to the approach of this historic bridge. An engineering marvel of its time, the Long Bien Bridge was built by the French between 1899 and 1902 and was designed by the firm of Gustave Eiffel. Having survived heavy bombing during the Vietnam War, it stands today as a powerful symbol of Hanoi's resilience and history. A walk or ride across the bridge offers breathtaking views of the Red River and is a favorite activity for photographers.
• Hanoi Old Quarter: Hang Dau is one of the 36 ancient streets that make up this historic district. Each street was traditionally dedicated to a specific craft or trade. Exploring the neighboring streets is a must-do. You can wander down Hang Bac Street for jewelry, Hang Ma Street for colorful paper goods and decorations, and Hang Gai Street for high-quality silk products and custom tailoring.
• Van Xuan Park: Located at the end of Hang Dau Street, this small park offers a pleasant green space to rest and observe daily life in Hanoi.
• St. Joseph's Cathedral: A stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture, this cathedral, completed in 1886, resembles the Notre Dame de Paris. It is the oldest church in Hanoi and serves as the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Hanoi.

Surrounding Hang Dau Street are key landmarks in Hanoi, each offering a glimpse into Hanoi’s rich history and daily life

A taste of Hanoi: Food near Hang Dau Street

The area surrounding Hang Dau Street is a haven for food lovers, offering a chance to dive into Hanoi's world-renowned street food culture. After a busy shopping session, you can indulge in a variety of delicious local dishes.

• Bun cha: This quintessential Hanoi dish consists of grilled pork patties and slices of pork belly served in a bowl of tangy dipping sauce with pickled vegetables. It's typically eaten with fresh herbs and rice vermicelli. To truly experience this local favorite, many visitors make it a mission to seek out what is often called the best bun cha in Hanoi.
• Banh mi: The Vietnamese version of a sandwich is a culinary icon. A crispy baguette is filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pate, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and chili. As a true culinary icon, the quest to find the best banh mi in Hanoi has become a delicious challenge for food lovers visiting the city.
• Pho: No trip to Hanoi is complete without trying a bowl of pho. This famous noodle soup features a rich, aromatic broth, rice noodles, and your choice of beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga). If you prefer beef or chicken, discovering your personal favorite often starts by sampling from the eateries reputed to serve the authentic pho in Hanoi.
• O mai: For a unique local snack, try o mai, which are salted or sugared dried fruits. These treats offer a delightful mix of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors and are a popular souvenir to take home.

Around Hang Dau Street, visitors can enjoy Hanoi’s famous street food scene, from iconic dishes like bun cha, banh mi, and pho

Exploring the culinary offerings is an essential part of the Hang Dau experience, but if you have more time, you can also explore multi-day tours from Hanoi to uncover the rich culture and stunning landscapes of northern Vietnam.

Tips when visiting Hang Dau Street

To fully enjoy your time on Hang Dau Street, here are some practical tips to help you shop wisely and soak in the local atmosphere:

1. Be prepared to bargain: While many shops on Hang Dau Street now offer fixed prices, there are still places where bargaining is welcome. Brush up on your friendly negotiation skills to get better deals.
2. Walk around and compare before buying: Hang Dau Street is about 270 meters long and lined with diverse footwear stores. Take your time to walk through the street, observe, and compare designs and prices before making a decision.
3. Bring small-denomination cash: Most stores don’t accept credit cards or may not have POS machines. Carrying small cash notes will make your transactions easier and ensure you receive the correct change.
4. Wear comfortable shoes for walking: The street is bustling and shopping here often involves a lot of walking. Comfortable footwear will help prevent sore feet and enhance your experience.
5. Visit during peak hours for the full vibe: The street becomes more vibrant in the afternoon and evening, when foot traffic increases. On weekends, night market activities add a cultural and culinary dimension worth experiencing.
6. Don’t miss the street food nearby: Hang Dau is surrounded by popular street food stalls selling bun cha, banh mi, and more. It's a great chance to shop and explore Hanoi’s famous local cuisine at the same time.
7. Respect the local culture and historical vibe: The street features French colonial architecture and holds historical value. When taking photos or exploring, be mindful of your surroundings and avoid disturbing residents.
8. Check product quality carefully before buying: Shops offer everything from handcrafted to factory-made footwear. Make sure to try on the shoes, check the material and stitching to ensure durability and comfort.

Hang Dau Street offers a vibrant glimpse of Hanoi, where tradition meets modern energy in every corner

A visit to Hang Dau Street offers more than just a shopping spree, it is an immersion into the living history and vibrant culture of Hanoi. Once a modest grain market, the street has transformed into the city’s shoe capital, standing as a silent witness to Hanoi’s remarkable journey of change. The blend of historic French colonial architecture with the lively chaos of hundreds of shoe shops creates a unique atmosphere that is both charming and exhilarating. Hang Dau Street promises an unforgettable experience, from finding stylish boots to savoring street food and immersing yourself in the Old Quarter’s vibrant atmosphere. Book GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency now to start your adventure.