The 36 Streets are located beside Hoan Kiem Lake, with dozens of narrow streets of varying lengths interconnected like the threads of a carpet, weaving together the daily life of Hanoi’s residents.

The name “36” refers to the concentration and flourishing of various trades and industries in this area. Since the Ly Dynasty established Hanoi as its capital, it has become a bustling center for handicrafts and commerce.

During the French colonial period, the French renovated the 36 Streets, constructing three- to four-story French-style buildings at many street corners, as if adorning each street with a floral crown, leaving an imprint of French culture. The romantic French also planted numerous trees along these streets, transforming the sun-drenched alleys into lush, cool oases.

Every street in the 36 Streets area specializes in a specific type of product, named accordingly: there’s Silver Street for processing necklaces and bracelets, Buddhist Articles Street for incense and altars, Iron Street for horseshoe trades, Medicine Street for herbal goods, Bamboo Street for bamboo products, Candy Street for sweets, Oil Street for custom slippers, Mat Street for weaving mats, Gift Street for lanterns, and Instrument Street for musical instruments. Most of these workshops and shops are designed with storefronts in the front and living spaces in the back or above, bustling with activity from morning to night, creating a warm and vibrant urban cultural environment.

In this vibrant area filled with the essence of daily life and commercial energy, you can stroll along the cobblestone streets, visit traditional craft shops, purchase souvenirs, and admire the well-preserved ancient architecture.

Of course, delicious food is a must. Here, you can savor authentic Vietnamese dishes like pho, spring rolls, and banh cuon, experiencing the unique culinary culture of Vietnam.