Hanoi Train Street runs around two kilometers from Le Duan through Tran Phu, Cua Dong and Phung Hung Streets. While one part of its was blocked off last September, another part between Tran Phu and Dien Bien Phu streets is not and draws foreign tourists in droves.
The tourists usually arrive in the morning before the first train comes. There are three train trips across the section on weekdays and seven during the weekends.
Tourists pose for photos on the rail track. Most say they come for the thrill of standing close to a running train.
Several coffee shops have opened here, and are usually full during weekends.
Snack vendors also come around.
Before a train comes at 11:35 a.m. daily a coffee shop owner (L) instructs tourists to keep a safe distance from the tracks.
At the blocked section nearby, tourists are turned away from the tracks. The section is curvy and more attractive to tourists.
Coffee shop owners tell tourists to stay away from the tracks as a train approaches.
