Discover how Can Tho Bridge, an iconic Mekong Delta landmark, was built. Learn its engineering feats and book eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable Can Tho adventure!
Capture the majestic beauty of Can Tho’s engineering gemCan Tho Bridge, stretching gracefully over the Hau River in Can Tho City, is a symbol of innovation and connectivity in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, attracting millions to its vibrant floating markets, cultural landmarks, and scenic waterways. Completed in 2010, this cable-stayed bridge links Can Tho with Vinh Long, revolutionizing travel across the Delta’s western provinces. Its striking design and historical significance make it a must-visit, especially when paired with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives. Legend Travel Group offers eco-friendly tours to experience the bridge and Can Tho’s treasures—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!
Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours feature low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who illuminate the Delta’s history. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore responsibly!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to landmarks like Can Tho Bridge. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers effortless exploration of its attractions.
Experience Can Tho Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Can Tho Bridge, a monumental achievement in Vietnam’s infrastructure, was constructed to connect the two banks of the Hau River, replacing the historic Can Tho ferry that operated since 1914 under French colonial rule. Conceived in 1993, the project took 17 years to complete, culminating in its inauguration on April 24, 2010. As a state-level initiative, it was the largest and most technically complex bridge project in Vietnam at the time, showcasing a remarkable collaboration between Vietnam and Japan.
Start Date: September 25, 2004.
Completion Date: April 24, 2010.
Length: 15.85 km, including approach roads; main span of 550 meters.
Design: Cable-stayed with an inverted Y-shaped pylon and 216 cable-stayed fibers.
Height: Pylon reaches 175.3 meters, allowing large vessels to pass beneath.
Cost: Approximately USD 342 million, funded partly by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).
The bridge’s construction faced significant challenges, including a tragic collapse in 2007 that claimed over 50 lives, underscoring the project’s complexity. Despite setbacks, it was completed with cutting-edge engineering, earning recognition as Southeast Asia’s longest cable-stayed bridge at the time and ranking among the world’s top 10 largest bridges, as noted by JBIC Director Masayuki Karasawa.
Engineering: Utilized advanced cable-stayed technology for stability and aesthetic appeal.
Materials: High-strength steel cables and concrete, designed to withstand the Delta’s tropical climate.
Lighting System: Vibrant nighttime illumination enhances its visual grandeur.
Impact: Connects Can Tho City with Vinh Long, linking seven western Delta provinces (An Giang, Kien Giang, Bac Lieu, Ca Mau, and others).
Tip: Learn about the bridge’s construction on a guided tour, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Begin your Can Tho Tours with a scenic adventure (Source: Internet)Can Tho Bridge is a testament to Vietnam-Japan friendship, with significant contributions from both nations:
Vietnam: The Vietnamese government, through the Ministry of Transport, oversaw the project, with local contractors like Civil Engineering Construction Corporation No. 4 (CIENCO 4) handling key tasks.
Japan: The Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) provided substantial funding, while Japanese firms, including Taisei Corporation and Nippon Steel, contributed technical expertise and materials.
Design Team: A joint venture of international and Vietnamese engineers, led by Chodai Co., Ltd. (Japan), designed the bridge’s innovative structure.
The collaboration symbolized mutual respect and shared goals, resulting in a bridge that not only serves practical needs but also stands as a cultural and economic landmark.
Tip: Hear stories of the bridge’s builders on our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Seize the vibrant spirit of Can Tho Travel (Source: Internet)With its 550-meter main span and elegant cable-stayed design, the bridge is a visual masterpiece. Its orange cables and illuminated pylon create a poetic silhouette, often likened to a maiden’s flowing hair against the Hau River.
Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking views, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
The bridge offers stunning views of the Hau River and surrounding canals, especially from Ninh Kieu Wharf or Au Islet. Night visits showcase its dazzling lights, perfect for photography and romantic strolls.
Tip: Capture the bridge’s glow from a riverboat, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).
By linking Can Tho with Vinh Long, the bridge has transformed travel across the Delta, making it easier to explore attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and Tra Su Bird Sanctuary.
Tip: Use the bridge as a gateway to western provinces, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
The bridge embodies the Delta’s aspirations, marking a leap in economic and tourism development. Its construction story, including sacrifices made, resonates with visitors seeking to understand Can Tho’s modern evolution.
Tip: Combine with cultural sites like Ong Pagoda, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Location: Thoi An, Thuan An Ward, Thot Not District, Can Tho City (spanning Hau River to Vinh Long).
Access: Free to cross by foot, bicycle, motorbike, or car; viewing points along riverbanks are open 24/7.
Best Viewing Spots: Ninh Kieu Wharf (2 km away) or riverbank paths near Au Islet.
Guided Tours: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) for 1-hour tours with bridge history, bookable via Legend Travel Group.
Accessibility: Pedestrian paths available; limited wheelchair access due to steps at viewing areas.
Tip: Pair with Cai Rang Floating Market, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) from Ninh Kieu, ideal for the 2–3 km ride.
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for flexibility.
Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) from city center.
Electric Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND) for river tours with bridge views.
Tip: Opt for eco-friendly bikes or electric boats via the Xanh SM app to support Can Tho’s green initiatives.
The dry season (January–May) offers sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F), perfect for bridge views and outdoor exploration. The rainy season (June–December) brings cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush scenery, with fewer crowds.
Peak Season (January–May): Book tours early for events like the Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April).
Shoulder Season (March–April, November): Mild weather, quieter visits.
Tip: Night visits highlight the bridge’s lighting; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for January–May.
Dress Code: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for pedestrian paths.
Sustainability: Use reusable water bottles and tote bags to align with Can Tho’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Thot Not District. The bridge is 2 km from Ninh Kieu.
Safety: Stay on designated paths; avoid crossing during peak traffic. Secure valuables.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Health: Apply mosquito repellent near riverbanks; stay hydrated.
Embrace the vibrant spirit of Can Tho Travel adventures (Source: Internet)Our sustainable tours pair Can Tho Bridge with the Delta’s iconic attractions:
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, Can Tho Bridge views, canal cruise. Includes electric boat and breakfast.
Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Can Tho Bridge, Ong Pagoda, Ninh Kieu Wharf. Includes bike rentals and snacks.
Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Can Tho Bridge, Binh Thuy Ancient House, orchards. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, bridge stop. Includes boat rides and eco-transfers.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Can Tho Bridge, floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes transfers, meals, and activities.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!
Can Tho Bridge is a remarkable engineering feat and a cultural icon, connecting Can Tho City with the broader Mekong Delta. Its construction story, born from Vietnam-Japan collaboration, reflects resilience and ambition. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours let you marvel at the bridge’s beauty while exploring Can Tho’s floating markets, heritage homes, and natural wonders, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience in an eco-friendly way. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to witness Can Tho’s iconic bridge? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a Mekong Delta journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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