Vietnam’s landscape is a tapestry of rivers, deltas, and mountains, stitched together by extraordinary bridges. These structures are more than mere crossings—they’re symbols of resilience, innovation and reflect the nation’s journey through time. From the Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi scarred by war to the whimsical Golden Bridge in Da Nang, Vietnam’s bridges captivate travelers with their stories and designs. They offer a unique lens into the country’s history, from ancient trade routes to modern tourism marvels. Discover the must-visit bridges across Vietnam, exploring their architectural brilliance and their cultural significance to the nation’s identity.
The Significance of Bridges in Vietnam
Bridges in Vietnam are as diverse, ranging from wooden relics of the feudal era to sleek, modern feats of engineering. While rivers like the Mekong, Red, and Perfume shape its geography, Vietnam has long relied on bridges to connect communities, facilitate trade, and drive progress. Many bear the marks of history—French colonial influence and wartime destruction—while others showcase innovation. These structures are cultural touchstones, drawing millions of tourists annually to witness their beauty and significance.
Must-Visit Bridges in Vietnam
Golden Bridge (Cau Vang) – Da Nang
The Golden Bridge in Da Nang, or Cau Vang in Vietnamese, is a 150-meter pedestrian marvel nestled in the Ba Na Hills. Opened in June 2018, it was designed to boost tourism—and it succeeded spectacularly. Its standout feature is a pair of colossal, weathered stone hands that appear to lift the golden walkway from the mountainside. The bridge sits 1,400 meters above sea level, offering sweeping views of misty peaks and dense forests. Lined with vibrant purple chrysanthemums, it’s a functional path within the Ba Na Hills resort. The hands, made of fiberglass and wire mesh, evoke ancient mythology, making Cau Vang a symbol of Vietnam’s creative resurgence.
Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills.
Dragon Bridge (Cau Rong) – Da Nang
Spanning 666 meters across the Han River, the Dragon Bridge, or Cau Rong, is a modern icon of Da Nang. Completed in 2013 to mark the 38th anniversary of the city’s liberation, it was designed by the American firm Ammann & Whitney. The bridge’s namesake—a golden dragon—stretches its steel body along the structure. Its head facing the sea symbolizes prosperity in Vietnamese folklore. Weighing nearly 10,000 tons, it’s the country’s heaviest bridge and features six lanes for traffic. On Saturday and Sunday nights at 9 PM, the dragon breathes fire and water, a dazzling display that draws crowds to the riverbanks. Cau Rong blends engineering prowess with cultural reverence, cementing Da Nang’s reputation as a forward-thinking city.
Dragon bridge in Da Nang.
Long Bien Bridge – Hanoi
Long Bien Bridge, originally named Pont Doumer after a French Governor-General, stretches 1.7 kilometers over the Red River in Hanoi. Built between 1898 and 1902 by French architects Daydé & Pillé, it was once Southeast Asia’s longest bridge. Its cantilever design, with 19 spans, was innovative for its time. Heavily bombed during the Vietnam War (1965-1972), it bears visible scars—twisted beams and patched sections—remains a vital link for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorbikes. Today, it’s a living relic, offering panoramic views of Hanoi and a reminder of the city’s turbulent past.
Long Bien Bridge, an ancient witness of Vietnam’s development.
Japanese Bridge (Chua Cau) – Hoi An
The Japanese Bridge, known locally as Chua Cau, is a 18-meter wooden gem in Hoi An’s ancient town. Constructed in the 1590s by Japanese merchants to connect their quarter to the Chinese district across a stream, it’s one of Vietnam’s oldest bridges. Its distinctive curved roof, tiled with yin-yang symbols, protects a small temple inside dedicated to Bac De Tran Vu, the weather god said to shield the town from storms. The bridge’s pinkish hue and statues of monkeys and dogs at its ends. Granted the status of National Historic-Cultural Relic, Chua Cau exudes a timeless charm amid the lantern-lit streets.
Japanese Bridge at night.
Truong Tien Bridge – Hue
Truong Tien Bridge arches 403 meters over the Perfume River in Hue, Vietnam’s former imperial capital. Designed by Gustave Eiffel (the designer of the Eiffel Tower) and built between 1897 and 1899 under French colonial rule, it reflects a blend of European and Vietnamese aesthetics. Named after a nearby market, it once served as a critical link for Hue’s north and south banks. Damaged by storms and wars, it was later restored in the 1990s. Today, its nightly illumination in shifting colors transforms it into a romantic centerpiece, mirroring the river’s gentle flow and Hue’s poetic heritage.
Trang Tien Bridge connects the north and the south of the Perfume River in Hue.
The Huc Bridge – Hanoi
The Huc Bridge is a petite, 15-meter wooden walkway linking Hanoi’s old quarter to the Ngoc Son Temple on Hoan Kiem Lake. Built in 1871 during the Nguyen Dynasty, its vivid red paint symbolizes vitality and good fortune in Vietnamese culture. The name The Huc translates to “resting place of celestial light,” reflecting its spiritual role as a passage to the temple honoring scholar Van Xuong and General Tran Hung Dao. Its simple, elegant design—curved railings and a gentle arc—complements the lake’s serene beauty. A favorite for photographers, The Huc Bridge glows against the water, especially at dawn, embodying Hanoi’s blend of tradition and tranquility.
The Huc Bridge in Hanoi.
Bach Long Glass Bridge – Son La
The Bach Long Glass Bridge, meaning “White Dragon Bridge,” stretches 632 meters across a valley in Moc Chau, Son La province. Opened in April 2022, it was certified by Guinness as the world’s longest glass-bottom bridge, surpassing China’s record. Designed by Vietnamese engineers, its transparent floor—made of three layers of tempered glass—hovers 150 meters above jagged cliffs and lush forests. The name Bach Long evokes a mythical dragon, fitting for its winding path and adventurous spirit. Spanning two mountains, it offers panoramic views of Northwest Vietnam’s rugged terrain. With a capacity for 450 people, it’s a bold addition to Vietnam’s tourism landscape, drawing thrill-seekers worldwide.
Bach Long Glass Bridge.
Exploring Vietnam’s Wonders
Vietnam’s must-visit bridges are a testament to the country’s ability to weave history, culture, and innovation into its landscapes. Each structure tells a story—of colonial legacies, wartime scars, mythical reverence, or modern ambition. These architectural marvels are more than landmarks—they’re invitations to explore a nation where every crossing reveals a new chapter. Plan your journey to these iconic bridges and discover the soul of Vietnam, one span at a time.
