Hang Mam - Street Of Fish Sauce

While a few streets of Hanoi Old Quarter have inherited their traditional commercial activities, others have adopted various types of jobs to keep up with the frenzy development and fast pace of life. Hang Mam is one of them.

Stretching a humble 190m length, Hang Mam Street starts from Tran Nhat Duat Street, connecting Hang Bac Street at junction Ma May and crossing Nguyen Huu Huan Street. The exotic name “mam” is derived from its traditional business of manufacturing and selling various kinds of “mam” or fish sauces as well as sea products.

History

Hang Mam Street was formed based on the union of two old streets called Hang Trung in the east and the original Hang Mam where was originally home to massive fish sauce trade. However, this business didn’t really evolve. In the 1940s, tombstone carvers came and made ceramics industry, some of memorial stone etching, coffins and tombstone the dominated products in this area.

Presently, Hang Mam Street no longer sells “mam”. It has now transformed to a stretch of boutiques selling fashion items and tombstones.

What to see

As you pass Tombstone Street early in the morning, you’ll be embraced by a relatively quiet and traffic-free atmosphere. It’s a good chance to witness tombstone shop owners set up and arrange their stones ready for sale. These stones are mostly black or shades of gray while a few of gold or brass hues items can also be found. Number 30 Hang Mam is a popular destination to see plenty of tombstones just after dawn.

Where to stay

Accommodation on Hang Mam Street isn’t plentiful but inexpensive and suits various types of budgets. Staying there is a good way to integrate into local life and save a great deal.

Hoa Duong Hotel (1 Hang Mam) 

The hotel is a perfect place to feel Hanoi and its surroundings. From here, it’s easily accessible to major attractions such as Hoan Kiem Lake, Thang Long Water Puppet Theater and some of greatest nightlife venues.

Parkson Hotel Hanoi (7 Hang Mam) 

The 3-star hotel comprises of 30 non-smoking rooms for guests to relax in comfort and style. They are well-appointed with modern facilities and other services such as laundry/ dry cleaning, meeting facilities and executive floor.

Happy Backpacker’s Hostel (29-31 Hang Mam)

This budget-friendly property is an ideal choice for backpackers and visitors with tight budget. The accommodation is fitted with proper facilities and close to many city highlights.