Lan Ong - Street Of Herbal Medicine

Most streets in Hanoi's Old Quarter begin with the word “Hang,” followed by the type of goods they offer. However, Lan Ong Street stands out, as its name translates to “The Lazy Old Man” in Vietnamese.

As you approach Lan Ong Street, the aromatic scent of herbs fills the air, making it easy to discern the specialties of this street.

Unlike many other streets in the Old Quarter, Lan Ong Street is home to numerous shops that continue to uphold the traditional craft of selling medicinal herbs. Despite the passage of time and the transformations in Vietnam's economy, these practices have been handed down through generations, making them valuable cultural assets. The shops here, often located closely together, offer a variety of medicinal herbs, either displayed prominently in shop windows or packaged in large plastic bags.

In addition to selling herbal medicines, Lan Ong Street is renowned for its traditional doctors and pharmacists. An experienced practitioner can often diagnose a patient’s condition by simply feeling their pulse, allowing them to prescribe the appropriate remedies. Historically, most physicians learned their trade through family traditions, but today's practitioners frequently undergo formal training courses and may even study abroad to further enhance their expertise.