Guide to Hanoi Street Photography
Hanoi is an excellent place for street photography, offering a mix of traditional culture and modern city life. The Old Quarter is especially popular, with its blend of Vietnamese and French colonial architecture, bustling streets, and everyday scenes that make for interesting photo opportunities. From artisans working in their doorways to street vendors wearing traditional conical hats, there’s always something worth capturing.
Here’s a practical guide to some of the best spots for street photography in Hanoi, along with tips to make the most of your time behind the camera.
St. Joseph Cathedral
A great starting point for any street photography walk is St. Joseph Cathedral, the oldest church in Hanoi. Built during the French colonial period, its Neo-Gothic design is inspired by Notre-Dame in Paris. Locals call it “Nhà Thờ Lớn” (The Big Church), and its striking structure stands out in a city filled with Vietnamese-style buildings.
Take some time to explore the streets around the cathedral. You’ll find yellow colonial-era buildings, small shops, and street vendors selling snacks and drinks. The area is lively throughout the day, making it a good spot to photograph a mix of architecture and local activity.
Hoan Kiem Lake
From the cathedral, head toward Hoan Kiem Lake, a short walk along P. Lý Quốc Sư. This route offers several photo opportunities, like vibrant yellow wall and street sellers carrying their goods.
Hoan Kiem Lake is particularly good in the morning, when locals gather to exercise, practice Tai Chi, or enjoy a stroll. These daily routines offer plenty of chances to capture authentic moments. Later in the day, the streets around the lake become busier, with motorbikes, street vendors, and tourists creating a more dynamic scene.
For an elevated perspective, grab a coffee at one of the rooftop cafes near the Aldo Fashion Store and photograph the street activity below. The area is especially photogenic in the evening when the city lights come on.
Craft Streets of the Old Quarter
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is famous for its “craft streets,” a unique historical layout where each street was traditionally dedicated to a specific trade or craft. This tradition dates back to the 13th century, and many streets still retain their craft-based identities today.
• Hang Bac (Silver Street): Known for silversmiths and jewelry shops.
• Hang Gai (Silk Street): A haven for silk products, tailoring, and souvenirs.
• Hang Ma (Paper Street): Vibrant with paper decorations, especially during festivals.
• Hang Quat (Fan Street): Known for worship items and traditional paper fans.
• Hang Dau (Oil Street): Now a hub for shoe shops.
• Hang Thiec (Tin Street): Home to tinsmiths and metalwork products.
From Hoan Kiem Lake, head north along P. Đinh Liệt, which intersects many of these streets. The yellow buildings, colourful goods, and lively atmosphere offer endless inspiration for street photography.
Long Bien Market and Bridge
Crossing the Red River into Long Bien District, you’ll find one of Hanoi’s most photogenic spots: Long Bien Market. Operating late at night and into the early morning, it’s a bustling hub of activity where vendors and workers interact under the soft glow of streetlamps. It’s the perfect place to capture candid scenes of Hanoi’s local trade culture.
As you make your way to the market, follow Con Đường Gốm Sứ (Ceramic Street), a vibrant mosaic wall featuring traditional designs.
At coordinates 21°02’07.4”N 105°51’17.3”E, you’ll find a colorful ceramic rainbow, which makes a stunning background for environmental portraits. Don’t miss a walk on the iconic Long Bien Bridge, a historic structure that offers sweeping views of the Red River and surrounding areas.
West Lake (Hồ Tây)
For a more relaxed setting, head to West Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi. Like Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s most active in the morning, with locals exercising, praying, or simply enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Start your walk along P. Châu Long and explore nearby streets, which have traditional yellow buildings and local shops. A short walk away, you’ll find Tran Quoc Pagoda, one of Vietnam’s oldest Buddhist temples. It’s a peaceful spot, but it can get crowded with tourists later in the day, so early mornings are best for photography.
Tips for Street Photography in Hanoi
Start Early: The mornings (6:00–9:00 AM) are when you’ll see locals going about their routines in a more relaxed environment.
Build a Connection: A simple smile or friendly gesture can go a long way when photographing people.
Use a Versatile Lens: A 24-70mm lens works well, allowing you to capture both wide-angle street scenes and tighter portraits.
Observe and Wait: Take your time to find the right moment—sometimes the best shots come from simply being patient.
Blend In: Dress casually and keep your gear low-profile to avoid drawing unnecessary attention.
Final Thoughts
Hanoi offers countless opportunities for street photography, with its mix of old and new, quiet moments, and chaotic energy. Whether you’re exploring the historic Old Quarter, capturing life around Hoan Kiem Lake, or venturing to the bustling Long Bien Market, the city’s charm lies in its everyday details. Take your time, stay curious, and let the rhythm of the city guide your shots.
Read our other articles about Vietnam
In the beginning of 2024, we spent over 4 months traveling around Vietnam. By staying longer in Vietnam, we were able to visit places off the beaten path, where regular tourists don't usually go, and create comprehensive guides for you to plan your travels.
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