Long Bien Bridge, the first artery bridge connecting the Red River banks; is a witness of history witnessing countless changes and many ups and downs of Hanoi.
After more than a century of existence, Long Bien Bridge is a familiar image to many people and generations and has become a cultural and historical symbol of Hanoi.
Every time tourists come here, they are very interested in the ancient beauty of the bridge, as a historical relic bearing the imprint of the nation.
Today, Long Bien Bridge is still the main circulation place of the people of the Capital and a frequent spot for young people; to admire the scenery, and observe the rhythm of people’s lives through the street vendors, and the carts passing back and forth on the bridge.
General Information about Long Bien Bridge
The bridge was built by the French from 1898 to 1902 under the Governor-General of Indochina at that time, Doumer.
The bridge is 2290m long across the river and 896m of the bridge; includes 19 steel girder spans placed on 20 pillars with unique architecture.
The bridge is designed with a single rail running in the middle and the sides are two lanes for bikes and pedestrians.
One thing that few people know about the bridge is that it was once the second longest bridge in the world (just after the Brooklyn Bridge over the East River of America); even called the horizontal Eiffel Tower of Hanoi.
Historical events associated with the Long Bien bridge
Long Bien Bridge witnessed the nation’s most important milestones. The two biggest resistance wars of our nation were the war against French colonialism and the next was the war against American imperialism.
In 1945, when Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence at Ba Dinh Square, the bridge became the span leading thousands of suburban people to Uncle.
In October 1954, Hanoi was flooded with flags of flowers to celebrate the liberation of the capital, Long Bien Bridge stood there and witnessed the joy of the nation.
And then 21 years later, the bridge once again witnessed the joy of independence and reunification, the liberation of the South.
Just like that, after over 100 years of history, the bridge is no longer an inanimate artifact, it is like a companion to each people and our country.
The architecture of Long Bien Bridge
Long Bien Bridge was designed and built in the famous French architectural style by Daydé & Pillé company (Paris, France). This historic bridge was designed and built by leading French companies.
They have technical advances in advanced construction science, so they can ensure both the most modern technical and artistic elements of bridge construction.
The entire bridge body is made of steel with a tightly layered steel structure, the design is very harmonious and impressive.
Where is Long Bien Bridge?
Long Bien Bridge is the first steel bridge to cross the Red River; connecting the two districts of Hoan Kiem and Long Bien of Hanoi.
Best time to visit Long Bien Bridge
Sunrise and sunset in our opinion are the two most ideal times that you should visit Long Bien Bridge.
Interesting experiences only at Hanoi Long Bien Bridge
Enjoy the romantic sunset on Long Bien Bridge
Long Bien Bridge is a place where young people often drive out to enjoy the wind on a day to catch up; Or when the soul feels compelled, wanting to find an open space to “let go”.
The bridge is a place to keep memories of young people. And what could be better than visiting the bridge one afternoon; golden rays of sunlight gradually let go of the brown color of iron bars; creating a romantic scene nowhere to be found.
This special background has become a source of inspiration for many photographers. So if you have a chance, don’t miss this moment!
Drink Coffee at Tran Nhat Duat Street and watch Long Bien Bridge
Tran Nhat Duat Coffee Shop is located on the 4th floor of a building with open space, you can see Long Bien Bridge from afar.
Here, you can call yourself a cup of coffee while sipping and chatting and admiring the ancient bridge, the Red River rocky, or the busy market nearby.
This point will give you a completely different perspective on Long Bien Bridge.
Check-in at the Red River rocky beach next to Long Bien Bridge
Located at the foot of Hanoi Long Bien Bridge is the Red River rocky beach – a very familiar place to take pictures for many people. If you are a follower of TikTok or Instagram, you will not be able to help but check in here.
The vast, green scenery will definitely give you sparkling pictures like on the steppe.
In addition, coming to Long Bien Bridge in winter to Long Bien Bridge, visitors will really enjoy the experience of sitting together by the charcoal oven, enjoying grilled corn and hot baked potatoes.
Tourist spots near Long Bien bridge
Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, is located in the heart of the capital. This is not only a place for people to walk and relax but also has historical – cultural significance for the Hanoi people.
Sword Lake is not only a beautiful landscape not to be missed in the list of Hanoi tourist attractions near Long Bien Bridge, but it is also a place associated with the historical and spiritual tradition of the thousand-year-old capital land.
Temple of Literature
Temple of Literature is the first university relic complex in Vietnam. It is known that the Temple of Literature is not only a historical and cultural relic but also a place where many scholars and students come here to pray for luck in exams and studies.
The first university in Vietnam is located in Dong Da district, right in the middle of 4 main streets including Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ton Duc Thang, Van Mieu, and Quoc Tu Giam streets.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is one of the most famous works around the world. It not only has national historical and cultural value but also attracts a large number of tourists to visit and pay their respects and admiration to the leader of Vietnam.
Tips
- Long Bien Bridge is not far from the city center, right next to Yen Phu bus station – Dong Xuan market. Starting from Sword Lake, visitors only take about 15-20 minutes to walk.
- The most popular shooting spot here is the Long Bien station platform. From the parking lot at the foot of the bridge, you can walk up the rail on the bridge to freely create the perfect photo; but remember to pay attention to passing trains. Please wear a pair of sneakers for convenience on the bridge
- The bridge has a pedestrian lane but the handrail is relatively low; if you are not used to it, go slowly, avoiding playing around will be very dangerous.
- In order to be able to comfortably walk back and forth on the bridge, let’s skip the high heels and replace them with soft soles!
Although today there are many more bridges spanning the Red River, Hanoi Long Bien Bridge still stands quietly as a proud symbol of the capital.
Come to this place on a cool afternoon to have a different feel about the land of a thousand years.