Hang Gai - Street of thorns

Being one of the most photographed streets in the Old Quarter, Hang Gai or Store of Thorn is certainly not one you would miss when visiting the area. Not all streets are created equal and Hang Gai is a relatively short one with length of just about 300 meters. This tiny yet boisterous street links Hang Bong Street in the west and Hang Dao Street in the east and the narrow lanes between houses make the whole neighborhood look even classier. As you make your way down this street, you’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time.

In This Article

1. History
2. What to see
3. Where to stay

History

Hang Gai is one of the oldest streets in Hanoi, located in the area once known as the Co Vu village, which consists of two historical wards, Dong Ha and Co Vu. This street is not merely one path but a network of several streets that have flourished over a millennium. Despite suffering destruction during various conflicts, many of the traditional architectural buildings with their faded yellow facades remain intact, giving a glimpse of the past.

Commonly referred to as Silk Street, Hang Gai has built a renowned reputation for its silk products, custom tailoring services, and hand-crafted souvenirs, some of which have been operating successfully for decades.

What to see

If you are in search of high-quality silk materials, stylish dresses, embroidered tablecloths, or custom-tailored suits, Hang Gai is the ideal destination. Shoppers will be delighted by the abundance of fashion boutiques and local tailor shops, offering a wide range of prices along the street. Among the countless shopping spots, some trusted addresses include Tanmy Design (61 Hang Gai), Thao Silk (69-73 Hang Gai), and XQ Hand Embroidery (13 Hang Gai).

For culture enthusiasts, the rich history of the area is readily accessible through visits to several important historical sites. One standout location is the Co Vu Communal House, located at number 85. This site is notable for its large banyan tree with intertwined roots, where locals often offer incense sticks and rice whiskey.

Where to stay

Walking along the street, you'll discover a variety of accommodations catering to different preferences and budgets. Whether you seek five-star luxury or affordable boutique options, Hang Gai has something to fit your needs.

Church Boutique Hotel (58 Hang Gai)

This elegant hotel features 35 beautifully decorated rooms with dark wooden furniture complemented by crisp white linens. It's conveniently located near several impressive boutiques showcasing silk and crafts, as well as within walking distance of Dong Xuan Market.

Golden Silk (109-111 Hang Gai)

The Golden Silk hotel offers stunning views and an inviting Asian aesthetic, delivering a luxurious experience for guests. Its rooftop bar is the perfect spot to unwind, often featuring promotions and discounts.

Silk Queen Hotel (100 Hang Gai)

This four-star hotel boasts 60 rooms and suites, catering to various budgets and preferences. It is an excellent choice for both leisure and business travelers, featuring a new rooftop bar and restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, and a spacious conference room.

Tips

There is no better way to spend a day exploring Hang Gai Street than hitting some of the great coffee shops for chilling out and browse the art galleries dotted along the streets after seeing plenty of stores and ancient monuments. Indeed, Hang Gai is filled with a lot of spots to stop and sip a drink or grab a bite to eat.

Banh troi tau (warm Chinese floating cake): it is a very well-known dish for local people through many generations which feature a sugar sauce and a hint of ginger. On Hang Gai Street, you can find many sidewalk venues selling this special dish.

Hanoi Old Quarter 36 Streets

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