Hang Trong - Street of Drums

Reflecting on its storied past, Hang Trong street remains a vibrant hub of traditional craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Historically recognized for its diverse crafts, Hang Trong showcases folk drawings, drum-making, embroidery, flag-making, and more. The drum-making craft originated in Lieu Thuong village, Yen My, Hai Duong, and talented artisans migrated to Hanoi, where they continued to develop their skills. The drums they produced vary in size and style, including the master drum, small drum, "rice" drum, and chậu drum, each resonating with its own unique sound.

The craft of folk drawing is equally notable, credited to the talented artisans of Tu Thap village, who developed a distinctive style known as Hang Trong Folklore Paintings. To create these artworks, artisans use a wooden carving panel to print black ink onto paper, later infused with vibrant colors applied by hand. Vivid hues, including yellow, lotus pink, orange, green, and blue, capture the essence of urban life, bringing these paintings to life.

Hang Trong Folklore Paintings are categorized into two main types: those created for worship and those intended for Tet celebrations. Paintings depicting Ba Chua Thuong Ngan (The Mountain’s Goddess), Ngu Ho (the Five Tigers), and Bach Ho (White Tiger) are prominently featured in religious observances. In contrast, artworks such as Chuc Phuc (Wishing for Grace), Bon Mua (Four Seasons), and Ly Ngu Vong Nguyet (The Carp Contemplating the Moon) are popular during the Lunar New Year festivities.

While contemporary art forms have emerged, the enchanting figures and vibrant colors of Hang Trong paintings continue to resonate deeply with art enthusiasts and remain cherished in the realm of traditional art.

In 2025, Hang Trong has also gained notoriety for its culinary offerings. Street-side stalls now serve delicious rice noodle dishes at budget-friendly prices, while popular vendors of "banh trang tron," a beloved Southern specialty, complement the streetscape with their tempting snacks.