Hai Phong Train Station: A century-old cultural landmark

1. Overview of Hai Phong Train Station

1.1. Location

Hai Phong Train Station, located at 75 Luong Khanh Thien Street in Hai Phong city center, is about 102 kilometers from Hanoi Station and 1,624 kilometers from Saigon Station. As the final stop on the Hanoi – Hai Phong railway, it handles both passengers and cargo. The station offers easy access to city attractions. For visitors from Hanoi and nearby provinces, the train provides a budget-friendly, comfortable, and scenic way to reach Hai Phong.

From the city center, travelers can reach Hai Phong Station conveniently by motorbike, taxi, or Xanh SM electric car. The route is simple: follow Lach Tray Street, turn right onto Luong Khanh Thien Street, then continue and make another right turn onto Pham Ngu Lao Street.

1.2. History

Hai Phong Train Station is among the city’s oldest landmarks, bearing a rich history shaped by its construction and the many events it has witnessed.

• In 1902: The French built the 102-kilometer Hanoi – Hai Phong railway to connect the two cities, officially inaugurating the line and Hai Phong Station on June 16, 1902.
• In 1946: President Ho Chi Minh returned from France via Hai Phong Port and departed from Hai Phong Station to Hanoi on October 21, a date later honored as Vietnam’s Railway Industry Traditional Day. That same year, the station also witnessed brave battles against French forces.
• From 1954 to 1975: Hai Phong was the last northern railway stronghold under French control until Vietnamese forces took over the station on May 13, 1955. During the resistance war against the United States, the station served as a vital hub for transporting weapons and supplies.
• In 1996: Hai Phong Railway Station was officially recognized as a historical site of resistance by the Hai Phong People’s Committee.

1.3. Architecture & map

Hai Phong Railway Station preserves its French colonial design and continues to serve its original purpose after more than 123 years. The main building has two floors with arched windows, solid columns, European-style decorative motifs, and a central round clock.

The ground floor serves as the ticketing hall and waiting area, displaying old Hai Phong photographs and a French-style fireplace. An ironwood spiral staircase with iron railings leads to the second floor, which now houses railway staff offices and originally contained meeting rooms with period furniture.

A covered rear corridor supported by white iron columns with oval and leaf motifs shows some rust but remains sturdy. The station's 120-year-old clock casing is preserved, though fitted with a modern electronic mechanism.

2. Popular railway routes at Hai Phong Station

Hai Phong Station operates daily with four trains arriving from Hanoi, each stopping for only about two minutes. Below is detailed information on the train services for travelers’ reference.

*Note: Visit the Vietnam Railways website for the latest updates on train services, schedules, fares, and other information.

3. Top things to do at Hai Phong Train Station

3.1. Ride the Hoa Phuong Do luxury train

The Hoa Phuong Do (Red Flamboyant) train offers a premium travel experience with modern amenities. Passengers can enjoy brand-new carriages equipped with LED lighting, air conditioning, Wi-Fi, charging outlets, and comfortable rotating seats designed for sightseeing. The highlight of the train is its two Indochine-style VIP carriages, featuring natural wooden floors, elegant interiors, private sofa areas, and a stylish bar serving coffee with live music.

This luxury Hanoi to Hai Phong train operates daily, with key departures including LP6 from Hai Phong at 9:10 AM, HP2 from Hai Phong at 6:40 PM, and LP5 from Hanoi at 3:15 PM. Each stop at major stations lasts around two minutes. The journey takes just over two hours.

Ticket fares are tiered by class: Standard Class ranges from 105,000 to 130,000 VND, First Class from 150,000 to 180,000 VND, and VIP Class from 250,000 to 300,000 VND.

 3.2. Join a sightseeing tour

Visitors to Hai Phong Railway Station can join a guided sightseeing tour available daily from 7 AM to 11 PM, including holidays. The program features two suggested routes. 

• Route 1 highlights the station’s historic architecture, exhibition rooms, documentary screenings, and interactive experiences such as role-playing railway staff, before moving on to vintage trains, French-era tracks, and wartime shelters. 
• Route 2 begins with passengers arriving by the Hanoi – Hai Phong train and continues with visits to old locomotives, railway relics, and exhibition areas, along with shopping, dining, and leisure services. 

3.3. Discover more unique train journeys

When visiting Hai Phong, travelers can join special sightseeing tours by train that combine heritage, culture, and cuisine. The Hai Phong food tour lets guests savor specialties like crab noodle soup, crab spring rolls, spicy pate baguettes, coconut coffee, and desserts while learning about local food culture.

Another highlight is the heritage port tour, which takes visitors from Hai Phong Railway Station to the 150-year-old Hoang Dieu Port to explore historic warehouses, rail tracks, and wartime shelters. These tours offer a unique way to experience the city’s history, flavors, and charm.

>>> Explore: Things to do in Hai Phong, Vietnam

4. Tips for first-time visitors to Hai Phong Station

4.1. Nearby attractions

Hai Phong is one of Vietnam’s renowned travel destinations, home to many cultural and historical landmarks:

• Hai Phong Opera House (1.2 kilometers away): A National Architectural and Artistic Monument with elegant French-inspired design, preserving the city’s cultural and artistic heritage.
• Hai Phong Museum (1.3 kilometers away): Built in 1918, this French-style building is both a cultural hub and a favorite photo spot, showcasing artifacts and images of Hai Phong’s past.
• Hang Kenh Communal House (1.6 kilometers away): The oldest and most beautiful communal house in the city, over 300 years old, known for its intricate wooden carvings and role as a spiritual gathering place.
• Hai Phong Walking Street (2.2 kilometers away): A lively riverside street along the Tam Bac River, perfect for photography, enjoying local food, and watching live performances.
• Du Hang Pagoda (3.9 kilometers away): A serene temple with impressive architecture and a collection of ancient relics, set in a peaceful courtyard filled with greenery.

4.2. Nearby restaurants

Travelers visiting Hai Phong Train Station can explore a variety of nearby restaurants that offer everything from local specialties to international dishes, satisfying every taste and preference.

>>> Read more: Top 15 Hai Phong restaurants for authentic local flavors

FAQs about Hai Phong Railway Station

How far is the station from Cat Bi International Airport?

Hai Phong Railway Station is about 8 kilometers from Cat Bi International Airport, roughly a 17-minute drive by car.

Is Hai Phong Railway Station close to the city center or major attractions?

Yes. Hai Phong Railway Station is near the city center and major attractions, easily reached by motorbike, taxi, or Xanh SM electric car.

How long is the train ride from Hai Phong to Hanoi?

The train ride from Hai Phong to Hanoi takes approximately 2 hours and 25 to 45 minutes, covering a distance of 102 kilometers.

What makes Hai Phong Station special?

Hai Phong Railway Station is special for its century-old French colonial architecture, rich historical significance, and role as a key gateway connecting Hai Phong to Hanoi and northern Vietnam.

Hai Phong Train Station is more than just a transit point; it combines French colonial architecture, cultural heritage, and modern railway services. Today, it remains a living piece of history and a must-see landmark for anyone exploring the city.

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