Cat Linh Station – Your Gateway to Hanoi’s Modern Sky Train Adventure
Discover Cat Linh Station – The Heart of Hanoi’s Elevated Metro Line
Tired of Hanoi’s traffic? Want to see the city from above? Let’s start at Cat Linh Station — the first stop of Hanoi’s modern metro line. Whether you’re a traveler looking for new adventures or just curious about local life, this place offers a fresh, fun, and fast way to explore the capital.
About Cat Linh Station
Cat Linh Station is the starting point of the Cat Linh – Ha Dong Metro Line, which is Hanoi’s first urban railway system. Located at 167 Hao Nam Street in Dong Da District, the station is close to the city center and major landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hanoi Train Street. The station features a modern three-level design with clear English signage, elevators, and ticket machines, making it tourist-friendly and easy to navigate.
As a gateway to a fast, clean, and scenic ride across the city, Cat Linh Station is not only a transportation hub — it’s also a great starting point for travelers looking to explore both traditional and modern sides of Hanoi.
Inside the Station: Modern, Easy, and Tourist-Friendly
- Three-Level Design:
- Ground Floor: Entry area, ticket counters, vending machines
- Second Floor: Waiting lounge, electronic gates, information desk
- Third Floor: Train platforms with safety glass doors
- Accessibility:
- Equipped with elevators, escalators, and ramps for wheelchair users and families with children
- Spacious design for easy movement during busy hours
- Clear Signage:
- English and Vietnamese instructions throughout the station
- Digital display boards show real-time train arrival and departure info
- Clean & Safe Environment:
- Bright lighting, regular cleaning, and security staff available
- Surveillance cameras for passenger safety
- Technology-Friendly:
- Accepts QR code tickets and contactless cards
- Free Wi-Fi available in many parts of the station
- Photo Spots:
- Large windows with natural light and views of the city skyline
- Modern design perfect for quick metro-themed selfies or travel shots
What to Do and See Near Cat Linh Station
- Temple of Literature (Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam): Located approximately 1 kilometer from Cat Linh Station, the Temple of Literature is Vietnam’s first national university and a symbol of Hanoi’s rich educational heritage. This historic site offers a serene environment with traditional Vietnamese architecture, making it a must-visit destination.
- Hanoi Train Street: About a 10-minute walk from the station, Hanoi Train Street is renowned for its narrow railway track running through a densely populated neighborhood. Visitors can experience the unique sight of trains passing just meters away from local homes and enjoy the vibrant café culture that has emerged in the area.
- Giang Vo Lake: A short stroll from Cat Linh Station, Giang Vo Lake provides a tranquil setting amidst the bustling city. It’s an ideal spot for a leisurely walk, offering picturesque views and a glimpse into the daily lives of Hanoi’s residents.
- Ton Duc Thang Street: Adjacent to the station, Ton Duc Thang Street is a bustling thoroughfare known for its diverse array of shops, eateries, and street vendors. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and sample traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
- Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: A bit further afield, but still accessible, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers insights into Vietnam’s feudal history. The citadel features ancient relics and archaeological findings that date back over a millennium.
How to Ride the Train from Cat Linh Station
- Arriving at Cat Linh Station:
- Location: 167 Hao Nam Street, Dong Da District, Hanoi.
- Accessibility: The station is equipped with elevators and escalators, ensuring convenience for all passengers.
- Purchasing Tickets:
- Ticket Options:
- Single Journey Ticket: Valid for a one-way trip, with prices ranging from 8,000 to 15,000 VND, depending on the distance traveled.
- Day Pass: Allows unlimited travel for a day at a cost of 30,000 VND.
- Monthly Pass: Ideal for frequent travelers, priced between 100,000 to 200,000 VND per month.
- Where to Buy:
- Ticket Counters: Staffed booths available for purchasing tickets.
- Vending Machines: Automated machines offering instructions in both Vietnamese and English.
- Ticket Options:
- Entering the Station:
- Ticket Validation: After purchasing, proceed to the automatic ticket gates. Place your ticket or card on the reader to gain access.
- Security Check: Be prepared for a quick security screening before entering the platform area.
- Boarding the Train:
- Platform Information: Electronic boards display train schedules and destinations.
- Waiting Areas: Stand behind the safety lines and wait for passengers to disembark before boarding.
- During the Ride:
- Announcements: Stations are announced in both Vietnamese and English.
- Comfort: Trains are air-conditioned and equipped with seating and standing areas.
- Exiting the Station:
- At Your Destination: Follow the signs to the exit.
- Ticket Collection: For single journey tickets, insert your ticket into the exit gate; it will be retained by the system.
Why Tourists Should Visit Cat Linh Station
- Ride Hanoi’s First Sky Train: The Cat Linh – Ha Dong Metro Line is Vietnam’s first urban railway. Riding it gives tourists a unique and scenic view of the city from above — something you won’t get on a motorbike or taxi.
- Perfect for Urban Exploration & Photography: From the train platform, you can take panoramic shots of Hanoi’s rooftops, tree-lined streets, and daily life below. The clean design of the station also makes for great Instagram-worthy metro photos.
- Gateway to Local Culture: Cat Linh Station is surrounded by authentic Hanoi neighborhoods, local food spots, lakes, and cultural landmarks like the Temple of Literature and Hanoi Train Street — all within walking distance.
- Smooth, Safe & Tourist-Friendly Travel: With English signage, modern facilities, elevators, and security, the station is designed for all travelers — including families, seniors, and solo tourists. It’s easy to use, clean, and affordable.
- Eco-Friendly Way to Travel: By choosing the metro, you’re not only avoiding traffic — you’re also helping reduce air pollution in the city. It’s a green way to experience Vietnam’s capital.
Conclusion
Cat Linh Station is not just a metro stop — it’s a symbol of Hanoi’s transformation. From this modern gateway, you can ride above the bustling streets, explore hidden corners of the city, and experience a more relaxed, efficient way to travel. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or simply curious, Cat Linh offers a clean, cool, and surprisingly scenic view of daily life in Vietnam’s capital.
Want to explore Hanoi differently? Start your adventure at Cat Linh Station, hop on the metro, and let the city unfold in front of you — smooth, scenic, and stress-free. Follow VNITourist for more insider travel tips, routes, and local secrets in Hanoi.
