Grand Mercure Hanoi - Upscale hotels & resorts

There are countless ways to make your visit to Hanoi memorable. From strolling through its charming old streets and admiring the city from an open-top double-decker bus to savoring authentic Vietnamese street food, every experience offers a different perspective on Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital. However, if you are looking to discover Hanoi from a truly unique perspective, the Hanoi 5 Gates Heritage Train is an experience not to be missed.

Departing from Hanoi Railway Station, this two-level heritage train invites travelers on an inspiring cultural journey. Beyond simply enjoying traditional performances and local delicacies, guests are immersed in the rich history, culture, and heritage of Thang Long. As the train gently rolls along the tracks, the rhythm of the city slows, creating a memorable journey that connects the present with the past on its route from Hanoi to Tu Son.

The Hanoi Train

The Hanoi 5 Gates Heritage Train is a two-level cultural tourism train celebrating Vietnam’s rich heritage, officially launched in September 2025. The route connects Hanoi with Tu Son City in Bac Ninh Province, passing through Gia Lam, Yen Vien and Tu Son stations before returning to the capital. More than just a sightseeing train, it is a thoughtfully curated cultural experience that recreates the unique identity of the Thang Long–Kinh Bac region throughout every carriage.

Source: baochinhphu.vn

From the moment passengers step aboard, they are welcomed into a nostalgic atmosphere featuring wooden interiors, warm lighting, and decorative details inspired by traditional Vietnamese culture. Throughout the journey, guests can enjoy live performances of folk arts such as Quan Ho folk singing, Ca Tru, and other traditional musical performances, alongside interactive cultural activities. Travelers can also savor tea, traditional pastries, and local light bites while admiring the changing scenery of Hanoi and the Kinh Bac countryside through the train’s large windows. Along the route, guests have the opportunity to explore traditional craft villages, historical landmarks, and local cultural heritage, creating a journey rich in authentic Vietnamese experiences.

Source: hanoi.gov.vn

The name “5 Gates” is inspired by the five historic gates of ancient Thang Long: O Cau Den, O Quan Chuong, O Cau Giay, O Dong Mac, and O Cho Dua. These gateways once connected the Imperial Citadel with the surrounding regions and witnessed many significant chapters in Hanoi’s history. Inspired by these iconic landmarks, the train symbolizes a connection between past and present, allowing travelers to explore the cultural depth and heritage of Vietnam.

Experiences on Board

The journey begins at Hanoi Railway Station, traveling through Gia Lam and Yen Vien before arriving in Tu Son. Along the way, passengers can watch the bustling urban landscape gradually transform into the peaceful scenery of Hanoi’s outskirts, leading into the cultural heartland of Kinh Bac. Stepping aboard feels like entering a “moving cultural museum,” where traditional performances of Quan Ho folk singing, Ca Tru, Cheo, and Xam are presented right inside the train. Paired with Vietnamese tea, traditional cakes such as banh com (green rice cake), banh phu the (husband-and-wife cake), and other local delicacies, the journey becomes a harmonious blend of culture, cuisine, and beautiful scenery, making every moment a memorable part of the experience.

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More than a simple sightseeing train, the Hanoi 5 Gates Heritage Train offers a completely new way to experience the capital. Over the course of approximately four hours, travelers can enjoy multiple experiences in a single journey—from admiring Hanoi through the train windows and enjoying traditional performances and local cuisine to discovering the rich cultural heritage of Northern Vietnam.

source: baochinhphu.vn

One of the highlights of the journey is the live traditional performances presented right on board the train. Throughout the trip, passengers can enjoy captivating performances of Quan Ho folk singing, Ca Tru, and Cheo, creating an intimate and immersive cultural atmosphere. While savoring a fragrant cup of lotus tea alongside traditional delicacies such as banh com (green rice cake) and banh phu the (husband-and-wife cake), guests can fully appreciate the rich cultural heritage of Northern Vietnam. Accompanied by melodious folk tunes, the aroma of tea, and the ever-changing scenery beyond the windows, the journey offers a memorable glimpse into the timeless traditions of the ancient land of Thang Long.

Source: 1thegioi.vn

With its well-balanced itinerary and diverse activities, the journey is ideal for families, groups of friends, international visitors, and anyone seeking a unique weekend experience. More than just a sightseeing tour, the Hanoi 5 Gates Heritage Train is a journey that connects history, culture, and the vibrant rhythm of modern Hanoi, offering visitors a distinctive and unforgettable perspective on the capital.

Things to Know Before Your Journey

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Departure Point

• Hanoi Railway Station, 120 Le Duan Street
• Please check your ticket carefully for the designated boarding gate.

Departure Schedule

The train generally operates two daily departures:

• Morning: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM
• Afternoon: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Ticket Information

Ticket prices vary depending on the seating level, carriage type, and departure time. Special discounts are available for children, senior citizens, and eligible passengers.

• Children under 3 years old: Free of charge when sharing a seat with an accompanying adult
• Children aged 3–8: 10% discount
• Children aged 8 and above: Adult fare applies
• Seniors (60 years and above): 5% discount
• People with disabilities, war veterans, and eligible social policy beneficiaries: 5% discount

Required Documents

• National ID card or passport
• Electronic ticket

Tips for the Best Experience

For the best experience, it is recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially during weekends and public holidays. Arrive at the station 15–30 minutes before departure to complete check-in procedures and take photos before boarding. Don’t forget to fully charge your phone or camera so you can capture every memorable moment throughout the journey.

More than simply a sightseeing train, the Hanoi 5 Gates Heritage Train offers a journey that connects history, culture, and the unique heritage of Hanoi and the Kinh Bac region. Conveniently located near the heart of the capital, Grand Mercure Hanoi is the perfect starting point for combining this distinctive railway experience with visits to many of Hanoi’s most iconic attractions, creating a memorable and enriching stay in Vietnam’s capital.