Nhat Tan Bridge: The Symbol of Vietnam-Japan Friendship

Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travelers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. Copyright © Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group. All rights reserved.

A Journey into Hanoi’s Modern and Cultural Heritage

Hanoi, Vietnam’s vibrant capital, is a city where tradition meets modernity, and Nhat Tan Bridge stands as a striking symbol of the deep friendship between Vietnam and Japan. Known as the Symbol of Vietnam-Japan Friendship, this 1.5 km cable-stayed bridge, designed and funded with Japanese assistance through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), spans the Red River, connecting Hanoi’s urban core with Noi Bai International Airport. Its vibrant red arches and illuminated cables at night make it a visual masterpiece, often called Hanoi’s “modern icon.” The bridge not only facilitates transport but also embodies cultural exchange, reflecting Japan’s minimalist aesthetics and Vietnam’s dynamic spirit.

A Nhat Tan Bridge experience offers travelers the chance to walk or cycle across its pedestrian paths, capture stunning photos of the Red River, or join guided Hanoi Tours to learn about its engineering and diplomatic significance. Perfect for history buffs, photographers, and eco-conscious travelers, this journey includes exploring nearby attractions like the West Lake area or local markets for authentic Hanoi street food. Self-guided adventures suit independent explorers, while guided tours provide deeper insights into the bridge’s role in Vietnam-Japan relations.

Hanoi is accessible via Noi Bai International Airport, high-speed trains, and highways, with Nhat Tan Bridge located just 5 km from the Old Quarter. This guide details how to plan your visit, including cultural etiquette, costs, and sustainable Hanoi Travel options.

Administrative Note

Visiting Nhat Tan Bridge is free for pedestrians and cyclists. Guided tours cost $15–$50 (375,000–1,250,000 VND), including transport and guides. Nearby market snacks range from $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND). Passports or e-visas (valid 6+ months) are required for checks. Temporary residence registration is mandatory within 24 hours, typically handled by hotels. Verify schedules and bookings through trusted providers like Legend Travel Group.

Experience Options and Highlights

• Standard Nhat Tan Bridge Walking Tour:

  • Details: A 3–4 hour guided walking tour exploring the bridge’s design, its role as a Vietnam-Japan friendship symbol, and Red River views; includes English-speaking guide; low difficulty.

  • Cost: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes guide).

  • Highlights: Learn about JICA’s funding and engineering; photograph the red arches; visit nearby West Lake for street food.

  • Schedule: Daily, morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM) or evening (5:00 PM–9:00 PM); departs from Hanoi Old Quarter.

• Deluxe Nhat Tan Bridge Photography Workshop:

  • Details: A 4–5 hour session focusing on capturing the bridge’s vibrant design, with tips on night photography and a market visit for local crafts; includes expert instruction; low to moderate difficulty.

  • Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes materials).

  • Highlights: Photograph the illuminated cables at dusk; learn about the bridge’s diplomatic history; explore local markets.

  • Schedule: Daily, morning (9:00 AM–1:00 PM) or afternoon (3:00 PM–7:00 PM); departs from Hanoi hotels.

• Eco-Friendly Nhat Tan Bridge Bike Tour:

  • Details: A 4–5 hour cycling tour across the bridge and nearby West Lake, visiting local markets for street food; uses sustainable bikes; includes guide; low to moderate difficulty.

  • Cost: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike and snacks).

  • Highlights: Cycle the pedestrian path; learn about Vietnam-Japan ties; sample local phở or bánh mì; reduce emissions.

  • Schedule: Daily, morning (8:00 AM–1:00 PM) or evening (4:00 PM–9:00 PM); departs from Hanoi Old Quarter.

• Private Nhat Tan Bridge Heritage Tour:

  • Details: A customizable 4–6 hour tour combining bridge exploration with a visit to cultural sites (e.g., Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum) or a cooking class on Vietnamese-Japanese fusion dishes; includes private guide; low difficulty.

  • Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes transport).

  • Highlights: Personalized insights into the bridge’s significance; explore Hanoi’s cultural landmarks; flexible itinerary.

  • Schedule: Daily, flexible start times (e.g., 8:00 AM–2:00 PM or 4:00 PM–10:00 PM); departs from Hanoi hotels.

• Key Booking Information:

  • Where to Book: Agencies like Legend Travel Group (legendtravelgroup.com) or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000).

  • Contact: WhatsApp (+84 825862222) or email (sales@legendtravelgroup.com) for bookings.

  • Tips: Book 1–2 weeks in advance for private tours; confirm inclusions (e.g., guide, transport); verify details with providers.

Respecting Hanoi’s Cultural and Modern Heritage

Cultural etiquette enhances your Hanoi Travel experience while exploring Nhat Tan Bridge:

• Greetings: Greet locals or guides with “xin chào” (hello); use both hands when paying for market snacks ($0.50–$5 or 12,500–125,000 VND).

• Dress: Wear comfortable, modest clothing for walking or cycling; cover shoulders and knees for nearby cultural sites; bring a lightweight scarf ($3 or 75,000 VND) for sun protection.

• Behaviour: Be polite on the crowded bridge; ask permission before photographing locals; avoid littering to honor Hanoi’s heritage.

• Customs: Tipping guides is appreciated ($0.20–$1 or 5,000–25,000 VND); respect pedestrian and cyclist pathways; carry a printed e-visa or passport for checks.

• Tip: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to vendors; use reusable bags ($3 or 75,000 VND) for market purchases to support sustainable Hanoi Travel; avoid aggressive haggling. A guest from Hanoi noted: “Respecting the bridge’s cultural significance made our visit truly special.”

General Tips:

• Language: Carry a phrase card ($2 or 50,000 VND) for Vietnamese basics; English is common with guides.

• Respect: Be patient with cyclists and pedestrians; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for the bridge (from Hoan Kiem District) or nearby markets; most spots are within 5 km of Hanoi’s center.

• Eco-Tip: Choose walking or cycling tours to reduce emissions; use reusable utensils to align with Hanoi’s green tourism goals.

Below is a curated list of options for exploring Nhat Tan Bridge, based on firsthand insights and guest feedback from Legend Travel Group. Confirm schedules and prices before booking.

1. Self-Guided Nhat Tan Bridge Exploration

• Details: Walk or cycle across Nhat Tan Bridge independently, capturing photos and visiting nearby West Lake markets; suitable for adventurous travelers; low difficulty.

• Cost: Free for bridge access; market snacks: $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND); bike rental: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Schedule: Daily; best at sunrise or sunset for lighting.

• Location: Central Hanoi, 5 km from Old Quarter, near West Lake.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walk or cycle to reduce emissions; avoid single-use plastics.

• Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me); visit early evening for illuminated views; a guest from Ho Chi Minh City noted: “Self-guided cycling on Nhat Tan Bridge was breathtaking.”

2. Legend Travel Group (Standard Nhat Tan Bridge Walking Tour)

• Details: 3–4 hour guided walking tour exploring the bridge’s design and Vietnam-Japan ties; includes English-speaking guide; low difficulty.

• Cost: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes guide).

• Schedule: Daily, morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM) or evening (5:00 PM–9:00 PM); departs from Hanoi Old Quarter.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hanoi hotels or Old Quarter.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walking tours minimize impact; supports local vendors.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Da Nang noted: “Legend’s tour brought the bridge’s history to life.”

3. Legend Travel Group (Deluxe Nhat Tan Bridge Photography Workshop)

• Details: 4–5 hour session focusing on photographing the bridge, with a market visit for local crafts; includes expert instruction; low to moderate difficulty.

• Cost: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes materials).

• Schedule: Daily, morning (9:00 AM–1:00 PM) or afternoon (3:00 PM–7:00 PM); departs from Hanoi hotels.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hanoi hotels or designated points.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Uses sustainable transport; supports local artisans.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com; a guest from Hanoi noted: “The photography workshop captured the bridge’s beauty perfectly.”

4. Hanoi Ethnic Travel (Eco-Friendly Nhat Tan Bridge Bike Tour)

• Details: 4–5 hour cycling tour to the bridge and West Lake markets; includes guide and snacks; low to moderate difficulty.

• Cost: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike and snacks).

• Schedule: Daily, morning (8:00 AM–1:00 PM) or evening (4:00 PM–9:00 PM); departs from Hanoi Old Quarter.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hanoi hotels or designated points.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Cycling reduces emissions; supports local vendors.

• Tip: Book via phone (+84 24 382 0000); a guest from Vientiane noted: “The eco-friendly bike tour was a vibrant Hanoi adventure.”

5. Private Nhat Tan Bridge Heritage Tour (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: Customizable 4–6 hour tour combining bridge exploration with cultural sites or a fusion cooking class; includes private guide; low difficulty.

• Cost: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes transport).

• Schedule: Daily, flexible start times (e.g., 8:00 AM–2:00 PM or 4:00 PM–10:00 PM); departs from Hanoi hotels.

• Pick-up/Drop-off: Hanoi hotels or custom locations.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walking or cycling options; supports local communities.

• Tip: Book via legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp (+84 825862222); a guest from Saigon noted: “The private tour was a personalized cultural delight.”

• Self-Guided Exploration: Flexible and budget-friendly for adventurous travelers.

• Standard Walking Tour: Affordable with expert historical insights.

• Deluxe Photography Workshop: Hands-on learning for capturing the bridge’s beauty.

• Eco-Friendly Bike Tour: Sustainable with market immersion.

• Private Heritage Tour: Personalized and in-depth for cultural enthusiasts.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, cycling, and local purchases support Hanoi’s green tourism goals.

Key opportunities for visiting Nhat Tan Bridge include:

• Dry Season: Ideal for comfortable walking or cycling; vibrant city views.

• Tet Nguyen Dan: Festive with illuminated bridge lights; lively market atmosphere.

• Hanoi Festival: Features cultural events near the bridge; bustling local scene.

• Mid-Autumn Festival: Offers vibrant night views with festive stalls.

Morning visits (8:00 AM–1:00 PM) are best for clear daylight photography; evening visits (4:00 PM–9:00 PM) offer stunning illuminated views of the red arches. Wet season requires rain gear, but the bridge remains accessible. Check forecasts for optimal planning.

• Booking: Reserve through legendtravelgroup.com or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000); confirm inclusions (e.g., guide, transport).

• Visa: Ensure a valid passport (6+ months) and e-visa if required ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Documentation: Carry a printed e-visa or passport photocopy; confirm hotel residence registration.

• Eco-Tip: Use reusable bags for market purchases; walk or cycle to reduce emissions.

• Tip: Book early for small group tours; arrive 15 minutes before start; carry small VND notes for purchases ($0.50–$5).

Pack for a comfortable, sustainable Hanoi Travel experience:

• Documents: Passport (valid 6+ months), printed e-visa ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND if required), passport photocopy, tour bookings, wallet ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).

• Clothing: Comfortable attire for walking or cycling; lightweight scarf ($3 or 75,000 VND); quick-dry clothing and raincoat ($10 or 250,000 VND) for wet season; comfortable shoes ($15 or 375,000 VND); hat ($2 or 50,000 VND).

• Essentials: Reusable water bottle ($4 or 100,000 VND); reusable bag ($3 or 75,000 VND) for market purchases; small backpack ($5 or 125,000 VND); hand sanitizer ($2 or 50,000 VND); napkins ($1 or 25,000 VND).

• Tech: Phone with translation apps (e.g., Google Translate); charger ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND); local SIM ($5–$7 or 125,000–175,000 VND); camera ($50 or 1,250,000 VND) for photos (with permission).

• Eco Items: Reusable tote ($3 or 75,000 VND) for market purchases; phrase card ($2 or 50,000 VND) with Vietnamese basics.

• Extras: Small VND notes for snacks or tips; small first aid kit ($5 or 125,000 VND); umbrella ($5 or 125,000 VND) for rain; money belt ($5 or 125,000 VND) for valuables. Tip: Pack light (1 small bag, max 5 kg); reusable items support sustainability.

Costs for a Nhat Tan Bridge Experience

Tour and Activity Costs

• Standard Walking Tour: $15–$25/person (375,000–625,000 VND, includes guide).

• Deluxe Photography Workshop: $25–$40/person (625,000–1,000,000 VND, includes materials).

• Eco-Friendly Bike Tour: $20–$35/person (500,000–875,000 VND, includes bike and snacks).

• Private Heritage Tour: $30–$50/person (750,000–1,250,000 VND, includes transport).

• Self-Guided Exploration: Free for bridge access; market snacks: $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND); bike rental: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

• E-Visa Costs (if required): Single entry: $25 (625,000 VND); multiple entry: $50 (1,250,000 VND); expedited processing: $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Safety-Related Costs

• Money Belt: $5 (125,000 VND).

• Local SIM for Emergency Calls: $5–$7 (125,000–175,000 VND).

• Travel Insurance (Recommended): $10–$30 (250,000–750,000 VND). Other Costs

• Local Snacks (e.g., phở, bánh mì): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., crafts at West Lake markets): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Tips for Guides: $0.20–$1 (5,000–25,000 VND). Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $5–$15 (self-guided, snacks, bike rental).

• Mid-range: $15–$35 (standard or eco-friendly tour, purchases).

• Luxury: $35–$50 (private tour, premium extras). Tip: Budget $5–$50 for tours, snacks, and transport; $0.50–$5 for purchases or tips; book group tours to save costs.

• Booking: Reserve through legendtravelgroup.com or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000); confirm inclusions (e.g., guide, transport).

• Visa: Ensure a valid passport (6+ months) and e-visa if required ($25–$50 or 625,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Etiquette: Use “xin chào” and “cảm ơn”; be patient with cyclists; ask permission before photographing locals; avoid littering.

• Access: Group tours suit first-time visitors; self-guided for adventurers; private tours for personalized experiences.

• Schedules: Bridge accessible 24/7; morning tours for clear views; evening tours for illuminated arches.

• Sustainability: Use reusable bags; walk or cycle to reduce emissions; support local vendors with fair purchases.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for the bridge and nearby markets; most are within 5 km of Hanoi’s center.

• Weather: Dry season ideal for outdoor exploration; wet season requires rain gear; bridge remains accessible.

• Safety Note: Secure valuables with a money belt ($5 or 125,000 VND); beware of pickpocketing at markets; carry emergency numbers (Police: 113, Medical: 115).

• What is the significance of Nhat Tan Bridge? It symbolizes Vietnam-Japan friendship, funded by JICA, with vibrant red arches reflecting cultural exchange.

• How much does a Nhat Tan Bridge experience cost? Free for self-guided; $15–$50 (375,000–1,250,000 VND) for tours or workshops.

• Where to visit Nhat Tan Bridge? Located 5 km from Hanoi Old Quarter, near West Lake and local markets.

• Where to book a tour? Via legendtravelgroup.com or Hanoi Ethnic Travel (+84 24 382 0000).

• Are experiences available in the rainy season? Yes, bring rain gear for outdoor visits.

• What should I bring? Passport, e-visa copy, reusable bag, comfortable clothing, camera.

• Are eco-friendly options available? Walking, cycling, and local purchases support sustainability.

Enhance your Hanoi Travel with eco-conscious Hanoi Tours from Legend Travel Group:

• Nhat Tan Bridge Eco-Bike Tour ($15–$25/person, 3–4 hours): Guided cycling tour with sustainable practices.

• Hanoi Cultural Trail ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Combines Nhat Tan Bridge with cultural sites using eco-friendly transport.

• Northern Vietnam Explorer ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Multi-site adventure with eco-conscious practices. Prices include guides, transport, and snacks; group discounts available. Explore options at legendtravelgroup.com or contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com / WhatsApp (+84 825862222).

A Nhat Tan Bridge experience offers a vibrant journey through Hanoi’s modern and cultural heritage, celebrating the Symbol of Vietnam-Japan Friendship with its stunning red arches and Red River views. With costs from $0–$50, eco-friendly options like cycling tours, and sustainable Hanoi Tours, this experience is perfect for history buffs and eco-conscious travelers. Book through Legend Travel Group, respect local customs with greetings like “xin chào” and sustainable practices, and use reusable bags for an eco-friendly Hanoi Travel adventure. Ensure a valid passport and e-visa, and embark on a memorable journey. Safe travels!

Copyright: © Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group. All rights reserved.