Hàng Gai (Silk Street)

Street in Hanoi

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Benjamin Smith

Set on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai, also known as Silk Street, is one of the capital’s busiest commercial hubs, specializing in silk. This 300-meter-long street is lined with over a hundred stores that trade in silk and related products. Many local fashion boutiques and tailor shops have been in business for decades, offering both ready-to-wear and made-to-measure garments.

During the Le Dynasty (1428-1789), Hang Gai, which means “Hemp Street,” was the central section of the road linking the Nhi Ha River shore to the Southern Gate of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. It was known for selling ropes and hammocks made from hemp. During the French colonial era, Hang Gai was called Rue de Chanvre, with “chanvre” being the French word for hemp.

Renowned for its quality, the area boasts several popular shops such as Khai Silk and Tan My Design. These craftsmen are ideal for those in a hurry, as they can create a suit within 24 hours. However, it is advisable to allow more time for a second fitting to ensure a perfect fit.

Most stores on Hang Gai Street accept cards, and it’s wise to choose reputable stores over street vendors to ensure the best quality. Bargaining is common practice here, with starting offers at 50% off the asking price and final prices typically no more than 70% of the original quote.

In addition to boutiques and tailor shops, Hang Gai Street hosts several souvenir outlets selling notebooks, lamps, and postcards, as well as prominent art galleries such as Thang Long Art Gallery and Green Palm Gallery.

The Hàng Gai (Silk Street) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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