Long Biên Bridge Hanoi
Long Bien Bridge is one of the most famous bridges in Hanoi. It has experienced so much devastation, yet, it is still standing over the Red River as a precious symbol representing the painful history of Hanoi.
1. Learn about Long Bien Bridge – A historical witness of Hanoi
Long Bien Bridge was the first steel bridge in Hanoi and one of the first bridges erected in Vietnam by French colonists. It crosses the Red River and connects two districts of Hanoi, namely Hoan Kiem and Long Bien.
1.1. Long Bien Bridge’s history
Long Bien Bridge was constructed by the French from 1899 to 1902. It used to be named after the then Governor-General of French Indochina – Paul Doumer. This work is likened to a witness to the history of Hanoi, as the bridge has seen many fierce battles during the two Indochina Wars against the French and Americans.
In September 1945, before President Ho Chi Minh read the declaration of independence in Ba Dinh Square, this very bridge helped thousands of people living on the outskirts flock to the site. It was not until 1954, when the Vietnamese completely defeated the French in Dien Bien Phu, that the bridge was renamed Long Bien. It was heavily damaged by the US’s bombardment from 1965 to 1968, and was later repaired in 1973.
This famous bridge in Hanoi is more than a hundred years old (Source: Collected)
The classic French-built bridge is still an essential work for the daily life of the city’s residents. Due to the drastic increase in the number of vehicles since the 1990s, this bridge has been used only for trains, motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians. The bridge has also become a famous historical landmark in Hanoi for locals and visitors. In addition, Long Bien Bridge is a popular photo location for newlyweds, as well as youngsters.
Long Bien Bridge has a significant value in the daily life of Hanoi’s people (Source: Collected)
1.2. Long Bien Bridge’s architecture
Long Bien Bridge was designed by Daydé & Pillé, a company based in Paris. It was built with advanced construction technology at the time, ensuring both modern and artistic elements. The bridge was entirely made of steel with a tight structure.
With a length of 1,682 meters, the steel bridge now bears many marks of time, with rusty rails and narrow roadways on both sides of the bridge This special work used to be the world’s second longest bridge (after the Brooklyn Bridge in the US).
2. What to do on your excursion to Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi?
There is a wide range of activities for you to try at this gorgeous work in Hanoi:
2.1. Walk along the bridge to enjoy the light wind
At night, standing on Long Bien Bridge in Vietnam, you could admire the splendor of the city center from afar. It will be a waste if you don’t have a walk on the bridge to enjoy the light wind while waiting for the night train to pass by. The breathtaking view of this bridge makes it an ideal destination for those who want to escape from the crowded city for a while, to enjoy rare moments of relaxation.
You can see the marks of time on Long Bien Bridge Eiffel (Source: Collected)
2.2. Capture the beauty of the old railway
Visiting Long Bien Bridge in Vietnam, do not forget to carry a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery here. The rustic appearance of the bridge matches very well with both traditional and modern outfits. That is the reason why many youngsters come to this place to take photos and capture their youth in the vibrant capital city. Meanwhile, the elderly often come to the bridge to reminisce about the nation’s heroic history.
The old railway of Long Bien Bridge is a favorite photo spot for tourists of all ages (Source: Collected)
2.3. Admire the amazing sunrise and sunset
Long Bien Bridge is believed to be one of the best places in Hanoi to watch the sunrise and sunset. At those times, the sun leaves a brilliant light on the bridge and twinkles on the river below. It is such a magnificent and unique sight that you will not be able to find anywhere else in the capital city.
The gorgeous and beautiful sunset on Long Bien Bridge (Source: Collected)
2.4. Drop by Tran Nhat Duat Cafe for a cup of coffee
From the 4th floor of a cafe on Tran Nhat Duat Street, you can enjoy the authentic Hanoi coffee while chatting with friends and contemplating the old bridge. From here, you can also see a nearby market and the Red River Flower Garden. This is an ideal place for visitors to take many beautiful photos with Long Bien Bridge in the background.
The photo angle from Tran Nhat Duat Cafe will be very nostalgic (Source: @musta_c)
