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Fansipan Cable Car Station & How to Get There

Your complete guide to Fansipan: Location & how to get there

Perched in the Hoàng Liên Son range near the misty town of Sa Pa, Sun World Fansipan Legend is home to Vietnam’s highest cable car and the gateway to conquering the Roof of Indochina—Mount Fansipan. Whether you're after sweeping views, a smooth ride to the summit, or a spiritual trek through mountain temples, this high-altitude adventure delivers.

Read on to find out where the Fansipan cable car station is, how to get there, and the best ways to plan your journey to the top.

Where is the Fansipan Cable Car Station?

Visitor enjoying view inside Fansipan Cable Car at Sun World Fansipan Legend, Vietnam.

Address: 89B Nguyễn Chí Thanh, Phường Fansipan, Sa Pa, Lào Cai 00842, Vietnam.

​Find on Maps

Hoàng Liên Station is located on Nguyễn Chí Thanh Street in Muong Hoa Valley, about 3 km from central Sa Pa town—a short 10–15 minute drive.

To reach it, most visitors start from the iconic Sun Plaza building (beneath Hôtel de la Coupole – MGallery), where the Muong Hoa funicular begins its uphill ride. This mountain train connects Muong Hoa Station (inside Sun Plaza) to Hoàng Liên Station, the departure point of the Fansipan cable car.

Look out for signage around Sun Plaza—it's a major local landmark, making navigation simple even for first-time visitors.

How to get to Fansipan?

Cable car ascending Fansipan Mountain with temple and statue at Sun World Fansipan Legend, Vietnam.
  • Muong Hoa Funicular: A popular scenic option is to take the Muong Hoa funicular train from Sa Pa town up to the cable car base. This glass-paneled funicular departs bypasses the winding road. The 2 km ride takes about 6 minutes.
  • Shuttle bus/hotel transfer: Many hotels in Sa Pa (especially near Sun Plaza) offer free shuttle vans to the cable car base. The ride takes about 10–15 minutes from the town center. You can ask your hotel or the tour desk about scheduled shuttles.
  • Taxi or ride-hail: A taxi or Grab from Sa Pa center to Hoang Lien Station is quick (~10 min, ≈ ₫40–70k). This is convenient and direct.
  • Car: If driving yourself, follow QL4D / AH14 out of Sa Pa toward Fansipan. The drive to the base station parking lot takes around 10–15 minutes (free parking is available). Free electric shuttle carts run from the parking area up to the station.
  • Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike (≈ ₫150–200k/day) and ride to the base station. The trip is about 10–15 minutes via a hilly paved road (only recommended for confident riders).
  • On foot: Hiking from Sa Pa to the cable car base is possible via the paved road, but it’s steep. Walking ~3 km can take 30–40 minutes. Most visitors prefer motor transport or the funicular.
Read more about Fansipan opening hours

Parking

Free parking is available at Hoàng Liên Station if you’re arriving by car or bike. Parking for motorbikes and taxis is also available near Sa Pa Station in town.

Frequently asked questions about the Fansipan location

How long is the Muong Hoa funicular ride?

It’s about 6 minutes from base to top, covering roughly 2 km through the valley.

Can I park my car/motorbike at the station?

Yes. There is a free parking area at the Hoang Lien (base) station where you can park.

How far is the cable car station from Sa Pa town?

The base station is only ~3 km from Sa Pa’s center (about a 10–15 minute drive). Many guests use taxis, motorbikes, or hotel shuttles for this short trip.

Are there shuttle buses or public buses?

There is no regular city bus to Fansipan. Instead, many hotels and tour operators provide free or private shuttle vans directly to the cable car station. Taxis and motorcycle taxis are the most common alternatives.

Are the Fansipan signages available in English?

Yes. The cable car complex is a major tourist attraction, so directional signs and information are provided in both Vietnamese and English to assist international visitors, making it easier to plan your visit.

What's the easiest way to reach the Fansipan cable car from Sa Pa town?

The Muong Hoa funicular is the most scenic and hassle-free route. It skips the steep roads and gets you to the base in just 6 minutes, with sweeping valley views along the way.

Can I drive myself to the cable car station?

Yes! It’s an easy 15-minute drive from Sa Pa to Hoang Lien Station. There's free parking at the base, plus electric carts to shuttle you up to the station entrance.

Are there shuttle buses from hotels in Sa Pa?

Most hotels near Sun Plaza offer free shuttles to the cable car base. Just ask your hotel’s front desk for the latest schedule.

Is it possible to walk to the Fansipan cable car base?

You can! The walk takes about 30–40 minutes uphill. It’s doable if you’re feeling adventurous, but most visitors choose a quicker ride.

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