Learning about the history, culture, and traditions of Vietnam through street art… Awesome!

Are you looking for something unique to do in Hanoi that’s not just another pagoda or temple?

Phung Hung Mural Street might be exactly what you’re after…

A peaceful, photo-worthy slice of local stories hidden just steps away from the chaos of the Old Quarter.

When I first heard about it, I wasn’t sure if it would be worth the walk. Was it just another Instagram wall? Or was there more to it?

But after exploring it myself, I can honestly say this street was a charming surprise of the Vietnamese capital.

In this quick guide, I’ll show you exactly what Phung Hung Mural Street is, what to look out for, how to visit, and why it deserves a spot on your Hanoi itinerary…

Especially if you’re into street photography, culture, or exploring authentic local gems.

Disclosure: I sometimes use affiliate marketing. This will not cost you anything, but helps with my travel costs. I only recommend companies I use myself.

What is Phung Hung Mural Street?

Phung Hung Mural Street is a public art project that transformed the dark, aging railway arches along Phung Hung Street into a vibrant open-air gallery.

Hanoi is one of the best places in Vietnam for creativity, and Phung Hung Street is a prime example of this!

The fascinating project was launched in 2017 as a collaboration between Vietnamese and South Korean artists, not only as a quirky Instagram spot, but with an aim to preserve local heritage, while making the area more welcoming through colourful art.

Now, it’s a free, peaceful, and photo-worthy stop right near the Old Quarter area.

Graffit art at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi of fruit seller — ***A common sight in Hanoi.***

Each arch features a different hand-painted scene, blending traditional Vietnamese life, historic landmarks, local legends, and nostalgic snapshots from the past…

I noticed everything that you would think of, when thinking about Vietnamese culture…

From Tet celebrations and lantern festivals to long-forgotten street games and Hanoi’s colonial-era architecture.

An arch at Phung Hung Mural Street with traditional graffiit art — ***One of the unique arches.***

It only takes around 20–30 minutes to walk the whole stretch, making it an easy and rewarding stop to add to your Hanoi itinerary.

Whether you’re into photography, history, or simply exploring off the beaten path, this peaceful and free public space is well worth a visit — especially since it’s just a stone’s throw from the chaos of Dong Xuan Market and the buzz of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Some 3D art at Phung Hung Mura Street in Hanoi in Vietnam — ***Some 3D art.***

Where to find Phung Hung Mural Street.

Hanoi is actually one of the easier destinations in South East Asia that I have navigated, as many of the city’s highlights are within walking distance of the Old Quarter area.

Phung Hung Mural Street is located in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, running along Phung Hung Street between Hang Ma Street and Hang Luoc Street, just a short walk from the Dong Xuan Market and the centre of the Old Quarter.

I easily found it by searching ‘Phung Hung Mural Street’ on Google Maps.

The murals are painted along the railway arches beneath the Long Bien Bridge, near the intersection with Phan Dinh Phung Street

Culutral 3D street art at Phun Hung Mural Street in Hanoi in VIetnam — ***More 3D art.***

Walking: About 10–15 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake or Hanoi Train Street.
By Grab: Set destination to “Phung Hung Mural Street” or “Dong Xuan Market”.
Nearby landmarks: Dong Xuan Market, Long Bien Bridge, Train Street, Old Quarter.

Look for the series of archways under the railway line — you’ll know when you’re there.

Vietnamese fruit seller art at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi in Vietnam — ***More of the local traditions displayed through art.***

Highlights: Murals you’ll love.

As you walk beneath the railway arches of Phung Hung Street, you’ll encounter a series of hand-painted murals that each tell a unique story about Hanoi’s past and present.

These artworks aren't just decorative… They’re deeply symbolic, capturing moments of daily life, folklore, architecture, and celebration.

I found it fascinating as I could relate some of my experiences of my Vietnam itinerary to some of the mural’s stories.

Below are some of the most captivating scenes I found, with each one blending colour, culture, and history in a way that’s uniquely Vietnamese.

Old Hanoi street life.

This mural captures a nostalgic look at daily life in Hanoi during the 20th century.

You’ll see images of cyclo drivers, street vendors carrying baskets on bamboo poles, and of course, some scooter riders— all scenes that reflect the rhythm of life in Vietnam’s capital.

It’s a tribute to the resilience and warmth of the local people, and a reminder of how much (and how little) has changed over time.

Cyclo driver and street vendors mural on Phung Hung Street in Hanoi — ***20th Century Hanoi.***

Old steam train.

This mural honours the historic railway that still runs above the arches.

It features a black steam locomotive bursting through the wall — a clever 3D illusion that brings movement and nostalgia to life.

It symbolises the role of the railway in Hanoi’s development and connects the mural street to the famous Hanoi Train Street, which lies just a few blocks away.

Old steam train mural on Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi — ***Trains are an iconic part of Hanoi.***

Lion dances.

This one was my favourite mural… It is so vibrant, and feels so traditional!

The art shows a traditional lion dance in full swing — a key part of Vietnamese celebrations like Tet (Lunar New Year) and the Mid-Autumn Festival.

Apparently, the lion represents good fortune, protection from evil spirits, and prosperity.

With drummers in the background and dancers mid-leap, the mural feels full of movement and joy, echoing the energy of Vietnamese street festivals. I saw similar style murals during my time in Ho Chi Minh City.

In terms of culture, the best time to visit Vietnam is during a traditional festival.

Lion dance festival mural on Phung Hung Street in Hanoi — ***Festival celebrations.***

Imperial Temple.

This mural depicts an imperial-style temple with curved tiled roofs, ceremonial gates, and mythical dragon motifs — evoking Hanoi’s deep historical ties to the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.

It reflects Vietnam’s dynastic past and pays homage to the country’s architectural heritage.

This mural reminded me of when I visited Hoi An earlier in the trip.

Imperial temple mural with dragons and tiled roof on Phung Hung Street — ***Reminded me of Hoi An.***

Best time to visit Hanoi’s mural street.

Phung Hung Mural Street is open year-round and free to visit at any time of day — but some moments are definitely better than others for both atmosphere and photos.

Morning (7–9 AM).

This is the best time for soft, diffused light and minimal crowds. Local vendors are just setting up nearby, and the murals glow gently under the morning sun — ideal for photographers or peaceful solo walks.

Late Afternoon (4–6 PM).

As the sun starts to dip, the street takes on a warm golden hue, especially on the stone arches. It’s also when you’ll see more locals passing through after work, adding real-life charm to your photos.

Evenings & Festivals.

The arches are quieter at night, but during major events like Tet or Mid-Autumn Festival, the whole area comes alive with lights, lanterns, and cultural performances — sometimes even live lion dances.

Hanoi street scene mural Phun Hung Street murals — ***Another street scene.***

What other quirky things to do nearby.

Once I had explored the murals, I found a few other offbeat spots just a short walk away that capture Hanoi’s charm in unexpected ways.

From sipping egg coffee at a hidden local institution to watching a train pass just inches from your seat, here are a couple of my favourite quirky Hanoi experiences you won’t want to miss.

Visit Hanoi’s Train Street.

Just a few blocks from Phung Hung Mural Street, you’ll find Hanoi’s famous Train Street — where a working railway line runs directly through a narrow alley lined with cafes.

If it’s open when you visit (check current access rules), it’s a surreal place to sip coffee just inches from the tracks as a train passes by. A must-see for first-timers!

A quirky corner of Hanoi Train Street in Vietnam — ***A quirky corner of Train Street.***

Grab a coffee at one of Hanoi’s famous cafés.

Hanoi’s coffee culture is legendary — and a couple of iconic spots are right nearby.

Note Café is a colourful little spot where the walls, tables, and even ceiling are covered in handwritten sticky notes from travellers around the world. It's quirky, feel-good, and full of character.
Just around the corner, Café Giang serves up the original egg coffee (cà phê trứng) — a rich, frothy blend of coffee, egg yolk, and condensed milk that was invented right here in Hanoi.

Both cafés offer a unique twist on the city’s coffee scene — and make a perfect follow-up to your mural walk.

Local food spots near Phun Gung Mural Street in Hanoi — ***There are some local food spots near.***

Frequently asked questions about Phung Hung Mural Street.

Here are some frequently asked questions answered for you before you visit the iconic Hanoi Mural Street.

Is it free to visit?

Yes, it’s a completely free public space — no tickets needed.

How long does it take to explore?

I spent around 20–30 minutes there, as I love cultural murals. This will allow you to walk slowly and stop for plenty of photos.

Is it safe at night?

Yes, the area is safe, but it’s much quieter, and harder to see the murals. It is best visited during the day or before sunset. I felt safe throughout my time in Hanoi.

Is it touristy?

There was no one there when I visited. Most visitors walk by without realising it’s here. It still feels like a hidden gem in Hanoi.

Exploring More of Vietnam?

If you’re heading further through Vietnam, don’t miss the chance to cruise through the dramatic limestone cliffs of Ha Long Bay, crawl through the wartime Cu Chi Tunnels, or soak up the coastal vibes in Da Nang.

The popular Vietnam day trips tell their own unique Vietnamese story — just like Phung Hung Mural Street does in its own quiet way.

Is Phung Hung Mural Street Worth Visiting?

Absolutely — it’s one of those hidden gems in Hanoi that manages to blend creativity, culture, and calm all in one spot.

If you’re crafting your Vietnam itinerary, carve out 30 minutes and see this outdoor gallery for yourself — especially if you love photography, meaningful local art, or unique stops off the beaten path.