A railside coffee shop has just been opened at the Long Bien Train Station, offering customers a good view of the passing train after the popular railway cafes near Tran Phu and Phung Hung streets were closed.
The Hoa Xa Coffee Shop, which was opened by the Vietnam Railway Corporation (VRC), covers 80 square metres in a French architecture style.
Speaking with Dantri/Dtinews, a representative from VRC said that the coffee shop aims to improve services.
"Visitors can also come to the shop to relax or ask for train information free of charge without having to use the service," he said.
A passenger, Nguyen Lien, said that she found the cafe a very nice place to relax while waiting for trains.
"The cafe offers very beautiful views of Long Bien Bridge and lucky visitors can watch the passing trains here. It's a very nice experience."
To ensure safety for customers and the trains, VRC has installed a fence and arranged guards at the site.
Earlier last year, Hanoi closed the train street which runs some two kilometres through some central streets including Le Duan, Tran Phu, Cua Dong, and Phung Hung for safety concerns. Many visitors to the capital have expressed disappointment at the closure of the popular tourist attraction.
VRC hopes that the new coffee shop at Long Bien Station will still offer the special experience to visitors while ensuring safety at the same time.