Long Bien Bridge | A Historical Witness | A Must-visit in Hanoi, Vietnam
Long Bien Bridge is a historic cantilever bridge across the Red River that connects two districts, Hoan Kiem and Long Bien of the city of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It was originally called Paul Doumer Bridge, named after Paul Doumer - The Governor-General of French Indochina and then French president.
Built 1899-1902
Since 1903
This bridge was built in 1899-1902 by the construction contractor Daydé & Pillé of Paris with the participation of more than 3,000 Vietnamese workers and was inaugurated in 1903. At that time, with a length of 2.4 kilometers (about 1.5 miles), it was one of the longest bridges in Asia. At that time, this bridge played an important role in securing control of northern Vietnam for the French colonial government.
Train, two-wheeled vehicles and pedestrian cross the bridge every day.
Because it is the only bridge at that time across the Red River connecting Hanoi to the main port of Hai Phong, it was heavily bombarded during Vietnam War. Parts of it were damaged but were later restored. To this day, train, two-wheeled vehicles and pedestrian still cross it daily.
Today, it has become one of the symbols of Hanoi city. It is a historical witness through two wars of resistance against the French colonialism and the US imperialism. It is a symbol of the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese people in the fierce wars. In addition to its historical value, it is also a must-visit for tourists coming to Hanoi. I'm sure you will take impressive photos when coming to visit this place.
The best time to visit this bridge is early in the morning or at sunset. There are 2 lanes for two-wheeled vehicles. One is for vehicles traveling from Long Bien district, a suburban district of Hanoi towards Hoan Kiem district, a central district of Hanoi. And the other lane is for vehicles going in the opposite direction. In the early morning, the lane from Long Bien to Hoan Kiem was filled with the vehicles of students, workers, and street vendors. In the opposite direction, at dusk, the flow of people rushed from Hoan Kiem to Long Bien to return home.
In the early morning, people followed each other from Long Bien to the city center.
In the evening, people return home after a day of work and study.