Capture stunning photos at The Huc Bridge in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward! Discover top spots, pricing, activities, eco-friendly tips, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book now!
Capture the iconic beauty of Hanoi’s photographic gem (Source: Internet)The Huc Bridge, a vibrant red footbridge connecting Hoan Kiem Lake’s shore to Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is an iconic symbol of Vietnam’s capital, drawing over 18 million visitors annually. Known as “the bridge where light is absorbed,” its scarlet arches against the lake’s jade waters create a photographer’s dream, with free access to most vantage points and Ngoc Son Temple entry at $1.20 (30,000 VND). Built in 1865 by scholar Nguyễn Văn Siêu, this architectural marvel offers timeless frames, from sunrise reflections to twinkling night lights, perfect for street photography, cultural portraits, or romantic shoots.
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, The Huc Bridge embodies the city’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage, blending Buddhist spirituality with vibrant urban life. Eco-friendly practices, like LED lighting and pedestrian-only access, align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, set in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable photography tours guide you to capture The Huc Bridge’s magic, ensuring a green, unforgettable experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to The Huc Bridge using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly photography tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share top photo spots, cultural insights, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local artisans and vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and capture The Huc Bridge responsibly!
Photograph the vibrant allure of Hanoi’s nightlife (Source: Internet)Constructed in 1865 during the Tự Đức reign, The Huc Bridge spans 15 arches with 32 wooden pillars, painted vermilion to symbolize vitality, connecting Hoan Kiem Lake’s shore to Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island. Rebuilt in 1897 and 1953 with concrete foundations, it retains its traditional Vietnamese curvature, resembling a “shrimp” in local folklore. The bridge’s name, meaning “the rising and perching sun,” reflects its east-facing orientation, capturing dawn’s first light. Ngoc Son Temple, dedicated to heroes like Trần Hưng Đạo and scholar Văn Xương, houses a preserved giant turtle, a sacred symbol tied to the lake’s legend of Emperor Lê Lợi’s magical sword. The Huc Bridge’s vibrant setting, framed by Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower, makes it Hanoi’s most photogenic landmark, with sustainable LED lighting enhancing night shots.
These free or low-cost spots offer stunning photo opportunities, all within Hoan Kiem Ward:
Shoot The Huc Bridge’s full arch from the lake’s northern shore near Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at sunrise (6:00 AM) for soft light, free, capturing reflections and temple silhouettes.
Cost: Free.
Hours: 24/7; best at sunrise or blue hour (6:00–7:00 PM).
Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable from Old Quarter; digital shots reduce waste.
Tip: Use a 24–70mm lens for wide lake views; avoid rush hours for clear shots.
Stand mid-bridge for close-ups of its red arches and distant Turtle Tower, best at 8:00 AM, free to cross (Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 or 30,000 VND).
Cost: Free to cross; temple entry $1.20 adult, $0.60 (15,000 VND) child.
Hours: Temple open 8:00 AM–6:00 PM; bridge 24/7.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-only bridge; minimal waste from digital tickets.
Tip: 50mm lens for arch details; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Photograph the bridge’s curve from Jade Island’s temple courtyard, best at 9:00 AM, for $1.20 entry, framing incense-filled shrines and lake views.
Cost: $1.20 adult; $0.60 child; incense $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable offerings; support temple maintenance.
Tip: 16–35mm lens for courtyard scenes; respect worshippers.
Capture The Huc Bridge from near Pen Tower on Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at 6:00 PM for golden hour, free, with the tower’s calligraphy as foreground.
Cost: Free.
Hours: 24/7.
Eco-Friendly Note: LED-lit at night; walk from Hoan Kiem Lake.
Tip: 50–200mm lens for bridge-tower compositions; avoid crowds during pedestrian street hours.
Shoot vibrant night scenes from the pedestrian street along Đinh Tiên Hoàng, best at 8:00 PM, free, with The Huc Bridge’s lights reflecting on the lake.
Cost: Free; street food $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: LED lighting; recycling bins available.
Tip: Fast lens (f/1.8) for low-light shots; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150).
Start your Hanoi Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)These eco-friendly activities enhance your photography experience, mostly free or low-cost:
Join or photograph locals practicing tai chi at 6:00 AM near Đinh Tiên Hoàng, free, capturing cultural morning rituals.
Cost: Free; tips for instructors $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Outdoor activity; minimal environmental impact.
Tip: 50mm lens for candid portraits; respect participants’ space.
Explore the temple’s shrines and preserved turtle, best at 8:00 AM, for $1.20, adding spiritual depth to your shots.
Cost: $1.20 adult; $0.60 child.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital tickets; biodegradable incense.
Tip: Dress modestly; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Capture street performers and food stalls during the car-free pedestrian street (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight), free, for vibrant night photography.
Cost: Free; street food $0.50–$2.
Eco-Friendly Note: LED lights; support local vendors.
Tip: 16–35mm lens for crowd scenes; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150).
Photograph nearby Hàng Bạc or Tạ Hiện streets, best at 7:00 AM, free, for vendor and cyclo candids.
Cost: Free; souvenirs $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable; reusable bags for purchases.
Tip: Ask permission for portraits; 50mm lens for alley details.
Shoot cultural scenes at the nearby theater (57B Đinh Tiên Hoàng), best at 5:20 PM, for $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND), adding traditional art to your portfolio.
Cost: $4–$8; camera fee $0.80 (20,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital tickets; local artisans.
Tip: Book 3–5 days ahead; 50mm lens for stage shots.
Photograph The Huc Bridge from September to November for cool, dry weather (20–28°C or 68–82.4°F), ideal for clear shots and comfort. The dry season (November–April) ensures stable light, while the rainy season (May–October) adds reflective drama but requires rain gear. Shoot at sunrise (6:00 AM) or golden hour (5:00–6:00 PM) for warm tones, or blue hour (6:00–7:00 PM) for illuminated night shots. Weekends (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) are vibrant during the pedestrian street (50,000–100,000 visitors), but weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter for temple shots (2,000–5,000 visitors).
The Huc Bridge, located at Hoan Kiem Lake in Hoan Kiem Ward, is reachable in 5–15 minutes from central Hanoi:
By Walking: 5–10 minutes from Old Quarter streets like Hàng Đào to Đinh Tiên Hoàng. Free, eco-friendly.
By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Xanh SM apps.
By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $4–$10/hour (100,000–250,000 VND) for 1–2 people.
By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 08, 09, 36 to Hoan Kiem Lake, 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Đinh Tiên Hoàng, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people.
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward”; locate via Hoan Kiem Lake fountain or Huc Bridge. Pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) restricts vehicles.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walking or VinBus reduces emissions; Xanh SM electric taxis lower fuel use.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets near Đinh Tiên Hoàng; secure camera gear. Confirm xe ôm fares upfront.
Learn Hanoi’s cultural legacy with expert insights (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable shoot:
Clothing: Light layers, closed-toe shoes; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.
Photography Gear: DSLR/mirrorless camera, 16–35mm and 50–200mm lenses, tripod ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND), extra batteries, memory cards.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable camera bag; biodegradable wipes for gear.
Extras: Notebook for shot lists; cash for vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for temple entry ($1.20), street food ($0.50–$2), or tips ($0.20–$0.50); secure gear against pickpocketing.
Photography and Activity Fees
Hoan Kiem Lake Shore/Pen Tower/Pedestrian Street: Free.
The Huc Bridge Crossing: Free; Ngoc Son Temple entry $1.20 (30,000 VND) adult; $0.60 (15,000 VND) child.
Thang Long Water Puppet Show: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND); camera fee $0.80 (20,000 VND).
Street Food (Pedestrian Street): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (Old Quarter): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).
Tripod Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).
Lens Rental (24–70mm): $10–$20/day (250,000–500,000 VND).
Guided Photography Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)
Walking: Free.
Xe Ôm: $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND) for 1–5 km.
Cyclo: $4–$10/hour (100,000–250,000 VND).
VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Electric Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Parking (Bikes/Cars): $0.20–$1.20 (5,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Photography Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $5–$15 (walking, free spots, street food).
Mid-range: $20–$40 (xe ôm, tripod rental, temple entry).
Luxury: $60–$100 (private car, guided tour, gear rental).
Tip: Budget for temple entry ($1.20), gear rentals ($5–$20), and transport ($0.80–$8); carry cash for vendors.
Timing: Shoot at sunrise (6:00 AM) or golden hour (5:00–6:00 PM) for optimal light; weekends (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) for pedestrian street vibrancy. September–November for clear skies.
Booking: No permits needed for public photography; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.
Sustainability: Use digital storage to reduce waste; support local vendors for snacks ($0.50–$2). Walk or use VinBus/Xanh SM for eco-friendly travel.
Navigation: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hoan Kiem Lake fountain or Huc Bridge as landmarks.
Safety: Secure camera gear in crowds; avoid leaning over lake edges. Watch for pickpockets during pedestrian street hours.
Weather: Dry season for sharp shots; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and lens wipes ($1 or 25,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Ask permission for portraits; say “cảm ơn.” Tip vendors ($0.20–$0.50) for cooperation. Dress modestly for temple visits.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for evening shoots.
Our sustainable tours showcase The Huc Bridge and Hanoi’s cultural treasures:
Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo to The Huc Bridge, Ngoc Son Temple, and Old Quarter at 6:00 AM for sunrise shots. Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Night photography at The Huc Bridge, Tạ Hiện, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Huc Bridge, Old Quarter, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
The Huc Bridge in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, a photographic masterpiece, offers free or low-cost ($0–$1.20, 0–30,000 VND) shots of its iconic red arches connecting Hoan Kiem Lake to Ngoc Son Temple, captivating 18 million visitors yearly. From sunrise reflections on Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street to vibrant night scenes during the Weekend Walking Street (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight), eco-friendly practices like LED lighting and digital photography preserve its timeless charm. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to Hanoi’s most iconic frames, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience with cultural immersion and visits to nearby Dong Xuan Market. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to photograph The Huc Bridge in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and capture an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
The Huc Bridge Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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