Hàng Gai (Silk Street), Hanoi

Set on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, near Hoan Kiem Lake, Hang Gai or Silk Street is one of the most bustling commercial destinations in the capital, specialized in silk. The entirety of this 300 meter-long street is lined with more than a hundred stores trading in silk or related products and services. The vast majority of the local fashion boutiques and tailor shops have been in business for decades, offering ready-to-wear and made-to-measure garments.

Back in the times of the Le Dynasty (1428-1789), Hang Gai (literally “Hemp Street”) was the middle section of the road that linked the Nhi Ha river shore to the Southern Gate of Thang Long imperial citadel, and was the place were ropes and hammocks were sold. The word “Gai” in Vietnamese means hemp that was used in making of the hammocks. Similarly, during the French colonial era, Hang Gai was known as Rue de Chanvre (chanvre is the French for hemp, too).

Generally renowned for its quality, the area has a number of firm favourites among the clientele, such as the Khai Silk and Tan My Design shops whose craftsmen are perfect if you’re too pressed for time to get a tailor-made outfit during your stay in Hanoi. They can make you a suit within 24 hours, though it’s best to allow more time for a second fitting to make sure that it fits perfectly.

Most stores in Hang Gai Street accept cards and it pays to go to a better quality store and avoid street vendors to ensure the best buy. As with most retailers throughout Vietnam, bargaining is also welcome – you can start at 50% off the asking price and pay no more than 70%.

Aside from boutiques and tailor shops, Hang Gai Street also hosts a number of souvenir outlets selling notebooks, lamps and postcards, as well as prominent art galleries such as Thang Long Art Gallery and Green Palm Gallery.