Exploring The Murals At Hanoi’s Art Street, Vietnam
With its constant buzz of scooters, street vendors, and the rhythmic pulse of daily life, Hanoi can feel like a city in perpetual motion. Yet, tucked amid this chaos are moments of stillness — corners where the old-world charm lingers, quietly reminding visitors of a gentler time. One such gem is Phung Hung Street in the Old Quarter, a place where history and art beautifully intertwine.
Once an unassuming underpass, this street has been transformed into an open-air gallery, adorned with stunning murals that capture the essence of Hanoi’s bygone days. Each artwork tells a story, from scenes of traditional markets and vintage trams to children playing in narrow alleys, reviving memories of the city’s past and allowing locals and travellers alike to experience a living museum where the past walks hand in hand with the present. dont change much, just wereite mking better
The murals along Phung Hung Street beautifully capture the cultural soul of Hanoi, a city with more than a thousand years of history. Each painting tells a story—of street vendors calling out their wares, women gracefully carrying baskets of flowers, vintage trams bustling with passengers, and glimpses of everyday life from a bygone era. Together, they weave a vivid narrative of a simpler time, preserving memories that might otherwise have faded away.
This remarkable transformation was made possible through a community art exchange initiative supported by the Korea Foundation, UN-Habitat, and the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee. Vietnamese and Korean artists, along with the Nguyen The Son painters’ group, collaborated to breathe new life into the once-forgotten underpass.
Officially opened to the public in early 2018, Phung Hung Street has since become one of Hanoi’s most photogenic landmarks and a vibrant space for cultural exchange.
More than just beautifying the city, the murals play an important role in preserving and celebrating Hanoi’s rich heritage. They invite both locals and visitors to pause, reflect, and connect with the city’s past, proving that art has the power to keep history alive in the most captivating way.
[Also Read: 8 Best Things To Do In Vietnam]
For me, walking along the 200-metre stretch of Phung Hung Street was a delightful experience, where art and everyday life coexist effortlessly. On one side, intricate murals drew me in with their nostalgia and attention to detail, while on the other, the lively rhythm of Hanoi unfolded before me—vendors calling out to customers, scooters whizzing past, and laughter spilling out from nearby cafés and shops.
If you find yourself in Hanoi, take some time to wander through Phung Hung Fresco Street. Even if you arrive with no expectations, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of the city’s cultural soul and a reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful travel experiences are found in the quiet corners of a bustling city.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hanoi’s Art Street
1. Where is Hanoi’s Mural Street located?
Phung Hung Mural Street is located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, near the Hang Ma and Hang Luoc streets, close to the iconic Long Bien Bridge. It’s easily accessible by foot, taxi, or motorbike.
2. What is the best time to visit Phung Hung Mural Street?
The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and the temperature is pleasant. Weekdays are ideal if you want to avoid crowds and take uninterrupted photos.
3. How long is Hanoi’s Mural Street?
The mural street stretches for about 200 meters, making it perfect for a short, leisurely walk that takes around 20–30 minutes.
4. Who created the murals on Phung Hung Street?
The murals were created under a community art exchange project between Vietnamese and Korean artists, with support from the Korea Foundation, UN-Habitat, and the Hoan Kiem District People’s Committee. The Nguyen The Son painters group also played a key role in bringing the project to life.
5. What do the murals depict?
The murals illustrate everyday scenes from Hanoi’s past — local vendors, flower sellers, trams, traditional games, and festivals — celebrating the city’s rich cultural heritage and timeless charm.
6. Is there an entry fee to visit the mural street?
No, visiting Phung Hung Mural Street is completely free. It’s an open public space, making it one of Hanoi’s most accessible art attractions.
7. Are there cafes or shops nearby?
Yes, the street is surrounded by small cafes, souvenir shops, and local eateries where you can sit, relax, and soak in the artistic atmosphere.
8. Can I take photos or videos there?
Absolutely. The murals make a beautiful backdrop for photography, and it’s one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Hanoi.
9. How long has the mural street been open?
Phung Hung Mural Street officially opened to the public in early 2018 and has since become a symbol of community art and urban revival in Hanoi.
10. What makes Phung Hung Mural Street special?
Beyond its artistic beauty, the street serves as a cultural bridge connecting Hanoi’s past and present. It showcases how art can transform public spaces while preserving the city’s heritage and spirit.
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I travel to collect stories, slowly and meaningfully, with an open heart. I wander a little farther for good food, linger longer to understand a place, and write so I can call it “work.” A slow traveller at heart, I believe in experiences over checklists, in moments that unfold at their own pace, and in connections that stay long after the journey ends.
An absolute foodie and die-hard mountain lover, I find my happiest moments in quiet Himalayan towns with a cup of lemon-honey-ginger tea in hand. Over the years, I’ve had the joy of exploring places across India and beyond, each trip teaching me something new about people, cultures, and myself. When I’m not lost in thought or coffee, you’ll find me exploring the world one destination at a time, always looking for places that make me feel something. I love to read and write (give me a book and I’ll love you all the more) and share honest insights, real photos, and thoughtful recommendations from my own travels, so you can experience every place a little deeper, a little slower, and with just the right touch of comfort.
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