Phung Hung Mural Street Hanoi – Guide & Tips

Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi, Vietnam, with colorful murals beneath historic railway arches near the Old Quarter.
Colorful murals beneath historic railway arches at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi.

ℹ️ Practical Information
🎨 History and Art Project
📸 Main Highlights
🕒 Best Time to Visit
💡 Useful Travel Tips
🗺️ Map and Location
🎫 Book a Tour in Hanoi

Photography

Photo Spots

Capture murals beneath historic arches.

Culture

Local Heritage

Discover traditional Vietnamese street life.

Location

Old Quarter

Combine art with a walk around Hanoi.

Quick answer: Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi, Vietnam, is a free outdoor art gallery beneath historic railway arches near the Old Quarter. Its colorful murals depict traditional Hanoi life and scenes from the city’s past. Opened in 2018, it is a great spot for photography and a short cultural stop.

At a glance:

  • Location: Phung Hung Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.
  • Known for: Colorful murals beneath railway arches.
  • Opened: February 2018.
  • Entrance fee: Free.
  • Visit duration: Around 20–45 minutes.
  • Best for: Photography, street art and local culture.
  • Nearby attractions: Dong Xuan Market, Hang Ma Street and Hanoi Old Quarter.

Last updated: October 2026


Phung Hung Mural Street – A Colorful Art Gallery in Hanoi

Phung Hung Mural Street is a distinctive attraction in Hanoi, combining public art with the city’s historic railway architecture. Located near the Old Quarter, this colorful street features paintings beneath old railway arches, creating an unusual outdoor gallery.

The murals show scenes inspired by traditional Hanoi, including street vendors, old shops, transportation and everyday life. They offer a glimpse into the city’s cultural heritage and provide attractive backgrounds for photographs.

Phung Hung Mural Street is free to visit and easy to include in a walking tour. You can combine it with Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market and the surrounding historic streets.

🎨 Why Visit?

  • Admire colorful street art
  • Learn about old Hanoi
  • Take memorable photographs
  • Explore the historic neighborhood

💡 What to Know

  • Free public attraction
  • Allow 20–45 minutes
  • Best explored on foot
  • Easy to combine with nearby sights

⭐ Is Phung Hung Mural Street Worth Visiting?

Yes, especially if you enjoy photography, street art and local culture. The murals offer something different from Hanoi’s temples and museums, and the short visit fits easily into a walking tour of the Old Quarter.


The History of Phung Hung Mural Street

Phung Hung Mural Street was created to bring art into public spaces and celebrate Hanoi’s urban heritage. The project transformed part of the old railway arches into a cultural attraction instead of leaving the area as an ordinary street passage.

The murals were officially opened in February 2018. Vietnamese and Korean artists worked together on paintings inspired by the theme of old Hanoi, with support from local authorities, the Korea Foundation and UN-Habitat.

Art Inspired by Traditional Hanoi

The paintings recall familiar scenes from the city’s past, including traditional shops, street vendors, old transportation and neighborhood life. Together, they create a visual story of Hanoi’s changing identity.

The historic arches provide a distinctive backdrop for the artwork. The result combines older railway infrastructure with contemporary public art in the heart of the city.

Murals at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi depicting an old red-and-white tram and historic city architecture beneath stone railway arches.
Murals of an old tram and historic Hanoi architecture beneath the railway arches at Phung Hung Mural Street.


Main Highlights of Phung Hung Mural Street

The main attraction is the series of murals displayed beneath the railway arches. Walk along the street, look closely at the individual paintings and enjoy the contrast between the artwork and the surrounding neighborhood.

1. Murals of Old Hanoi

See paintings inspired by traditional streets, local businesses and everyday life in earlier generations.

2. Historic Railway Arches

The repeating arches frame the artwork and create an unusual setting for this outdoor gallery.

3. Traditional Street Scenes

Look for images of street vendors, old transport and familiar scenes from Hanoi’s cultural history.

4. Photography Spots

Use the colorful paintings and brick arches as a backdrop for travel photographs.

Vietnamese street vendor wearing a traditional conical hat and carrying baskets on a shoulder pole beside an old stone wall in Hanoi.
A Vietnamese street vendor carrying baskets on a traditional shoulder pole in Hanoi.


Tips for Exploring the Murals

Walk slowly along the mural section and take time to appreciate the different paintings. Wide-angle photographs can capture the repeating arches, while close-ups highlight individual artistic details.

Phung Hung Street is part of a working urban neighborhood. Be aware of traffic, avoid blocking entrances and respect local residents while taking photographs.

📸 Photography Tip

Visit early in the morning if you prefer quieter conditions. Include the surrounding railway arches in your photographs to show the distinctive setting of the mural street.


Best Time to Visit Phung Hung Mural Street

Phung Hung Mural Street can be visited throughout the year. Early morning is often a good choice for photography, while late afternoon can be pleasant for exploring the surrounding Old Quarter.

🌅 Early Morning

Enjoy a quieter walk and better opportunities for photographs without crowds.

☀️ Late Afternoon

Explore the murals before continuing to nearby streets and local cafés.

🌦️ Check the Weather

Choose a comfortable time for walking, especially during hot or rainy weather.

A visit usually takes less than an hour, so you do not need to plan a separate trip just for the murals. Include them in a wider walking tour of Hanoi instead.

Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi, Vietnam
Colorful murals at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi, Vietnam.


💡 Useful Travel Tips for Phung Hung Mural Street

How to get there: Phung Hung Mural Street is near Hang Cot Street, on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Walking is convenient from central Hanoi, but taxis and ride-hailing services are also available.

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes

Explore the murals on foot and continue through the nearby Old Quarter streets.

📸 Bring a Camera

Capture colorful murals, historic arches and interesting street scenes.

🚦 Watch the Traffic

Stay alert for motorbikes and avoid stepping into the road for photographs.

🌦️ Prepare for the Weather

Bring water and sun protection, especially on hot and humid days.

🌅 Visit Early

Morning is often a good time for quieter walks and less crowded photographs.

🗺️ Explore Nearby Sights

Combine your visit with Hoan Kiem Lake and Dong Xuan Market.

🎨 Phung Hung Mural Street – Visitor Information

📍 Location: Phung Hung Street, Hanoi, Vietnam.

🎟️ Entrance fee: Free.

🕒 Opening hours: Outdoor public space; access may be affected by local restrictions.

⏱️ Visit duration: Around 20–45 minutes.

🚶 Getting there: Walking from the Old Quarter or by taxi.

⚠️ Note: Follow local signs and traffic rules when visiting.

Colorful mural at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi depicting a traditional Vietnamese dragon and children in festive costumes playing drums.
A colorful Vietnamese dragon mural with children in traditional costumes at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi.


Places to Visit Near Phung Hung Mural Street

Phung Hung Mural Street is easy to combine with other attractions in central Hanoi. Visit nearby markets and traditional streets or continue to some of the city’s best-known historical landmarks.

1. Hanoi Old Quarter

Explore traditional streets, local shops, cafés and Vietnamese street food.

2. Dong Xuan Market

Visit a famous local market selling clothing, household goods and souvenirs.

3. Hang Ma Street

See colorful decorations, paper goods and seasonal displays, especially before major festivals.

4. Hoan Kiem Lake

Walk around Hanoi’s famous lake and explore the surrounding central streets.

Hoan Kiem Lake Travel Guide ➜

5. Temple of Literature

Discover a historic complex associated with education and Vietnamese scholarly traditions.

Temple of Literature Guide ➜

6. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long

Explore historic gates, archaeological remains and Vietnam’s imperial heritage.

Imperial Citadel Guide ➜

🗺️ Suggested Walking Plan

Start at Phung Hung Mural Street, continue to Hang Ma Street and Dong Xuan Market, then explore the Old Quarter. If you have more time, finish your walk at Hoan Kiem Lake.


Map of Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi

Use the map below to find Phung Hung Mural Street near the Old Quarter. You can plan a walking route from Dong Xuan Market, Hang Ma Street or Hoan Kiem Lake.

Photos of Phung Hung Mural Street

Phung Hung Mural Street combines colorful artwork with historic railway arches. Add your photographs here to show the murals, architectural details and atmosphere of this unique Hanoi attraction.

Mural at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi depicting a traditional shop selling colorful masks, lanterns and festive decorations on Hang Ma Street.
A mural depicting traditional shops and colorful decorations on Hang Ma Street in Hanoi.
Black-and-white mural at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi showing Vietnamese women wearing traditional ao dai dresses among scenes of historic Hanoi street life.
A historic Hanoi street scene featuring women in traditional ao dai dresses.
Murals depicting everyday life in old Hanoi beneath the historic stone railway arches along Phung Hung Mural Street, Vietnam.
Historic street scenes painted beneath the railway arches at Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi.

📖 More Places to Visit in Hanoi

🌊 Hoan Kiem Lake – Visit Hanoi’s famous central lake.

🏯 Imperial Citadel of Thang Long – Explore Vietnam’s imperial history.

📚 Temple of Literature – Discover Hanoi’s historic educational complex.

🏛️ Vietnam Military History Museum – Explore Vietnam’s military history through artifacts and exhibitions.

🎫 Hanoi Tours and Activities – Find tours and activities for your visit.


❓ Phung Hung Mural Street Hanoi – Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi?

It is an outdoor art gallery featuring colorful murals beneath historic railway arches near Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Where Is Phung Hung Mural Street Located?

It is located on Phung Hung Street, near Hang Cot Street, on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Is Phung Hung Mural Street Free to Visit?

Yes. The mural street is a public outdoor attraction and normally does not require an entrance ticket.

How Long Should You Spend at Phung Hung Mural Street?

Allow around 20–45 minutes to explore the murals and take photographs.

What Is Phung Hung Mural Street Famous For?

It is famous for murals depicting traditional Hanoi life, historic streets and local culture beneath old railway arches.

When Did Phung Hung Mural Street Open?

The mural project officially opened to the public in February 2018 and involved Vietnamese and Korean artists.

What Is the Best Time to Visit Phung Hung Mural Street?

Early morning is often a good time for photography because the street may be quieter.

Can You Walk to Phung Hung Mural Street from Hoan Kiem Lake?

Yes. The mural street is within walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake, although the exact time depends on your route and starting point.

What Attractions Are Near Phung Hung Mural Street?

Nearby attractions include Dong Xuan Market, Hang Ma Street and Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Hoan Kiem Lake is also a good addition to a walking itinerary.

Is Phung Hung Mural Street Worth Visiting?

Yes. It is a free, colorful attraction that is especially worthwhile for visitors interested in photography, street art and Hanoi’s cultural heritage.

Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi, Vietnam, featuring colorful murals beneath historic railway arches, traditional Hanoi street scenes, and a vibrant outdoor art gallery near the Old Quarter.
Phung Hung Mural Street in Hanoi features colorful street art beneath historic railway arches and offers a unique photo spot near the Old Quarter.

Ha Giang Travel Guide ➜

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About the author:
Hi, my name is Milan and I’m from the Czech Republic. I’m an independent traveler and the creator of this guide about northern Vietnam. I’ve spent a lot of time exploring this beautiful region — especially its mountains, nature, and ethnic culture. This website was born from my personal travel experiences, and I regularly update it with new tips and information to help fellow travelers. Follow our Facebook page for updates. This site was built with passion ❤️. Read more about the author
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