Buying local gifts or souvenirs for family and friends is both convenient and easy. One of the most popular choices for tourists is silk, a traditional Vietnamese handicraft. Hang Gai Street, also known as Silk Street Hanoi, is a renowned destination where you can find some of the finest silk products.

I.The Legacy of Vietnamese Silk

Vietnamese silk is a true reflection of centuries-old craftsmanship. This luxurious fabric, made from natural protein fibers, begins with silkworms feeding on mulberry leaves. Once fully grown, the silkworms spin their cocoons, which are then expertly crafted by skilled artisans into one of Vietnam’s most cherished textiles.

  Silk has been integrated as a staple in Vietnamese culture

The lasting appeal of Vietnamese silk lies in its exceptional qualities. It is ideally suited to the country’s tropical climate, offering coolness during hot summers and warmth in the cooler winter months. Its natural luster and graceful drape have solidified its place as a key element of Vietnamese fashion.

II. History of Hang Gai Street

Hang Gai Street, located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, boasts a rich history of transformation. In the Le Dynasty, it was called the Street of Hemp, functioning as an important trade route linking the Nhi Ha River to the Thang Long imperial citadel. The street’s name, “Gai,” is derived from the hemp plants (cây gai) that were once used to make hammocks and ropes.

Today, the ancient Co Vu communal house at number 85 stands as a quiet testament to history. A grand banyan tree shelters its entrance, and within, locals continue to honor Bach Ma and Linh Lang, the guardian deities of the old Thang Long villages.

The Evolution of Hanoi’s Silk Trading Hub

• Originally named “Street of Hemp” during Le Dynasty
• Located in ancient Co Vu village, Thang Long citadel
• Transformed from hemp trading to silk commerce
• Historical landmark: Co Vu communal house (85 Hang Gai)

III. Notable Features of Hang Gai Street

Hang Gai is one of the “36 streets” in the Old Quarter, home to numerous valuable cultural sites. It offers insight into the daily life of the people of ancient Thang Long and reveals how they selected, preserved, and developed the historic Hanoi Old Quarter in the city center.

One of the standout features of Hang Gai Street is the seamless blend of architectural styles, where the design of the houses, the stores, and the religious sites come together. This fusion creates a unique charm that is both traditional and modern.

Most houses are designed in traditional architectural styles. The front of the house is relatively narrow, typically ranging from 2 to 4 meters in width, while the length varies between 20 to 60 meters.

Today, the houses and shops have been renovated to meet the needs of modern living. Another notable feature is that many households in this area are involved in trading silk and offering silk-related services. This also reflects the distinct business activities found on each street in Hanoi’s “36 Streets.”

The street has transformed into Hanoi’s top destination for silk, featuring more than one hundred specialized boutiques along its 250-meter stretch. Each shop showcases distinct collections, ranging from ready-to-wear garments to custom-tailored creations.

• 100+ specialized boutiques
• Custom tailoring services
• Contemporary fashion meets traditional craft

IV. What can you do on Hang Gai Street?

1. Buying Silk and Souvenirs

Buying silk and souvenirs is the main activity in Hang Gai street.

The silk is sourced from the renowned Van Phuc Silk Village, ensuring top-notch quality. With a wide variety of designs and vibrant colors, it caters to diverse preferences and needs. Additionally, you can pick out beautiful souvenirs to share with your family and friends.

In addition, there are tailor shops that can craft high-quality suits or outfits in just 24 hours. However, if you’re seeking a more refined and perfect fit, it’s best to allow them additional time.

Notable Boutiques

• Cu Thanh: Premium fabrics
• Hoa Silk: Signature scarves
• Kelly Silk: Quick tailoring service
• Tan My Design: Contemporary designs

2. Wandering Around and Taking Photos

Hang Gai is not just a destination for silk shopping; it’s a living testament to Hanoi’s commercial history. The street’s architecture showcases a blend of traditional Vietnamese styles and French colonial influences, reflecting the city’s rich past.

Stroll through the street, capturing the timeless facades with your camera and immersing yourself in the rhythm of local life. The fusion of historic and contemporary elements creates a distinctive ambiance that truly reflects the spirit of modern Hanoi.

V. How to Get there

To reach Hang Gai, you can walk from Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, passing through Hang Hom, Hang Trong, or Hang Bong, and then cross Luong Van Can Street. Alternatively, you can take various modes of transportation, such as a bus, taxi, motorbike, or pedicab.

• Walking distance from Hoan Kiem Lake
• Bus routes: 01, 02, 08, 09, 14, 31, 36
• Grab taxi or motorcycle services
• Use Google Maps for navigation

VI. Shopping Tips on Hang Gai Street

The ideal time to visit Hang Gai is in the afternoon, when shopkeepers are more likely to offer better prices.

• Always bargain for a good price: The price that shop owners say is always higher than the real price. Therefore, you should begin at 50% off the price that the buyer asked and you shouldn’t pay an extra 70%.
• Be careful that you might be cheated when buying silk: because it’s not authentic Vietnamese traditional silk with high quality, but can be imported from China that is shoddy, fake Vietnamese origin labels or even without clear origin. That’s why you should choose to buy silk-made products in a prestigious boutique.

As you shop, take a moment to admire the distinctive architecture of the street. The traditional tube houses, characteristic of Hanoi, extend deep into their plots, blending residential spaces with commercial areas in a unique local style.

Hang Gai, known for its blend of traditional and contemporary beauty, along with its renowned silk products, has become one of the most vibrant shopping destinations in Hanoi. It is not only a shopper’s paradise but also a reflection of the rich history of old Thang Long, located at the heart of this dynamic and evolving city.

Hang Gai is a popular and must-visit spot for tourists, particularly shopping enthusiasts, when exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter.Come and experience Hang Gai Street on your next trip, and create unforgettable memories of Vietnam by securing your Vietnam visa at https://evisavietnam.gov1.vn/. As a trusted and reliable visa service, we are here to help turn your dream vacation into reality from the very first step.