Iconic bridges in Vietnam for instagrammable photo chances
Dragon Bridge, Trang Tien Bridge, Long Bien Bridge, Japanese Covered Bridge, and so on, are iconic Vietnam spots for check-in not only due to their appealing, unique architecture but also because they are witnesses to the country’s historical ups and downs.
Top iconic bridges in Vietnam
1. Long Bien Bridge (Hanoi)
Long Bien Bridge has been along with the capital’s history since the early 1900s. This is the first bridge to cross Red River with a harmoniously layered steel structure, designed and constructed by the French.
When inaugurated, Long Bien Bridge used to be the second longest bridge (2.290m) in the world, only after Brooklyn Bridge over East River in the US. It has been more than 100 years now, and although all materials have gradually turned old over time, the place is still a favorite place for tourists. When standing on the bridge, you can enjoy fresh air, as well as the poetic scenery of Red River with slow-moving barges below, and the bustling life of Hanoians in the distance.
2. Dragon Bridge (Da Nang)
Dragon Bridge attracted the attention of the press and tourists with the unique design of a huge golden dragon flying over Han River. The shape is designed to resemble the Dragon of the Ly Dynasty, facing My Khe Beach with the hope of prosperity. The architecture is also said to be unprecedented in the world in terms of load-bearing structures from a combination of steel and concrete beams, as well as steel arches.
What makes Dragon Bridge even more special, and similar to the legendary ones, is that it can spit fire and water. The show starts at 9 pm every Saturday, Sunday, and during major holidays. All vehicles will be banned on the bridge at that time, so lots of people will flock to the area quite early. It’s recommended to find coffee shops or top-floor bars nearby to avoid the crowds yet still have a better gaze-over.
3. Golden Bridge (Da Nang)
Another prominent name from Da Nang is the Golden Bridge in Bana Hill. The Golden Bridge once caused a stir on Instagram because of its unique architecture – soft and curved like a golden silk strip in the middle of the mountains and forests, cradled by two giant mossy hands. It was the magical scenery of Ba Na mountain that inspired the architects to come up with the idea of a bridge supported by the hands of a God.
You need to get to the top of the mountain where Golden Bridge is located via cable cars. Located right in the middle of the mountain at an altitude of more than 1400m above sea level, this world’s famous bridge is designed to be a pedestrian walkway connecting Marseille Station with Thien Thai Flower Garden. Standing in the middle of the bridge, visitors can admire the green forest stretching to the top, and vaguely in the distance is the panorama of the charming Da Nang city.
4. Japanese Covered Bridge or Cau Temple (Hoi An)
In the center of the picturesque old town is the Japanese Covered Bridge (Cau Temple), crossing a small branch of Thu Bon River. Originating from the cultural exchange and trade between Vietnam and Japan in the 1500s, the temple remains quite well until now. As legends tell, its construction started in the “Year of the Dog” and was finished in the “Year of the Monkey”. Therefore, statues of two dogs were placed at one end and of two monkeys, at the other end.
This 18-meter temple is designed with wood; the upper part being the temple, while the lower part being the foundation made of stone pillars, inside worshiping Tran Vo Bac De – God of Weather. The place has become a symbol of Hoi An representing the fusion of various cultures and a good place for photos opportunities. You can find its image printed on 20.0000 Vietnamese Dong banknote.
5. Truong Tien Bridge (Hue)
Located right in the heart of Hue city, Truong Tien Bridge, also known as Trang Tien Bridge, is crossed over Perfume River. Built between 1897 and 1899, the bridge is not only a traffic work but also a historical witness to many changes in the ancient capital of more than a century. With a total length of 402.60 meters, this is the first bridge in Indochina built according to techniques with materials imported from the West.
The bridge has undergone a period of resistance with heavy destruction and restoration. Now, it has two lanes of traffic and sidewalks outside of the roadway so that you can safely walk across the bridge. In addition to the inherent lighting system, Trang Tien is also equipped with a modern color changing light system. Thanks to that, the bridge seems to be wearing a new shimmering and fanciful look every night.
Read more: MUST-TRY DESSERTS IN HUE
6. Anh Sao Bridge (Ho Chi Minh City)
Located in Phu My Hung’s new urban area, District 7, less than 20km from the city center to the Southeast, although not an old work yet Anh Sao Bridge is still considered one of the iconic spots for strolling, sightseeing, and romantic dating. The name apparently translates to Starlight Bridge, referring to the glimmering, colourful lights that are spread across the crescent-shaped bridge.
The pedestrian lane of the bridge is a perfect setting for a picturesque evening stroll, perfect for Instagram photos. The neighborhood is also really calm and clean, along with lots of food options in Crescent Mall nearby.
