No street in the Old Quarter dazzles the eye like Hang Ma — Paper Street — a riot of colour where votive 'ghost money', festive decorations and seasonal lanterns spill from every shopfront. It transforms with each festival.
1. What Hang Ma Sells
The street specialises in votive paper offerings — 'ghost money' and paper models of goods burned for ancestors — alongside festive decorations, lanterns and party supplies.
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⏱️ 2 Hours
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2. The Meaning Behind the Offerings
In Vietnamese belief, burning paper money and goods sends them to deceased relatives in the afterlife. It's a living spiritual practice, not just decoration.
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⏱️ 4 Hours
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⏱️ 4.5 Hours
3. A Street That Transforms
Hang Ma reinvents itself for every occasion — red for Tet and weddings, mooncakes and lanterns for Mid-Autumn, spooky decor for Halloween. Always changing, always vivid.
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⏱️ 4.5 Hours
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4. A Photographer's Dream
The walls of colour make it one of the Old Quarter's most photogenic streets. Mid-Autumn, with its glowing lanterns, is especially magical.
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⏱️ 4.5 Hours
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5. When to Visit
Any time is colourful, but visit before Tet or Mid-Autumn for the fullest, most spectacular displays.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Hang Ma street?
A: The Old Quarter's Paper Street, selling votive 'ghost money', paper offerings and festive decorations. Famously colourful.
Q: What is ghost money?
A: Paper money and goods burned as offerings to send to deceased ancestors in the afterlife — a living Vietnamese tradition.
Q: When is Hang Ma most spectacular?
A: Before Tet (Lunar New Year) and Mid-Autumn Festival, when it fills with red decor or glowing lanterns.
