Hang Chieu - Street Of Mats

Hang Chieu Street is ideally located near the vibrant Hang Ma Street and the bustling Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi's Hoan Kiem District.

The street spans 280 meters, stretching from Quan Chuong Gate to the intersection of Dong Xuan, Hang Ma, and Hang Duong streets. Historically, this area was known for producing handmade mats that were crafted along the banks of the Red River and then sold on Hang Chieu.

During the French colonial era, the street was known as Rue Jean Dupuis, primarily serving as a hub for the trafficking of weapons and ammunition for the French military. Notably, it was through this street that architect Gustave Eiffel, associated with the construction of the iconic Eiffel Tower, and General Hoang Dieu made their way into Hanoi. In 1888, the French colonial authorities destroyed the entire street through fire. Subsequently, they took control of the land, established shops, and compelled residents to use bricks to construct new houses in the Western architectural style.

The street featured sidewalks, greenery, and lampposts, becoming the first in Hanoi to exhibit Western-style architecture, earning it the name Pho Moi (the modern street). Hang Chieu Street also played a significant role as a battlefield during the prolonged struggle of Vietnamese troops against French forces. The Quan Chuong Gate battlefield remained a historical landmark until the Capital Regiment withdrew from the city on February 17, 1947.

Today, Hang Chieu Street retains elements of its heritage, with several shops still selling traditional grass mats. Additionally, it has become a favored spot for food enthusiasts, especially those keen to savor a delicious bowl of wonton noodle soup, a beloved dish among locals and visitors alike.