The Mark of Ha Long and Its Iconic Landmarks
Ha Long, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is not only a symbol of magnificent natural beauty but also a shining example of sustainable development in Vietnam. In recent years, Ha Long has undergone significant transformation with a series of impressive infrastructure projects and architectural landmarks that are both modern and luxurious, while harmoniously blending with the value of its heritage.
Bai Chay Bridge
Bai Chay Bridge is the largest single-plane cable-stayed bridge in Vietnam, connecting the two banks of the Cua Luc Bay and linking the Hon Gai and Bai Chay areas in Ha Long. Completed in 2006 with a total investment of 142 million USD (mainly from Japanese ODA), the bridge spans 903 meters, with a main span of 435 meters and a width of 25 meters, accommodating four lanes for motor vehicles and two lanes for non-motorized traffic. With its modern design and ability to withstand strong storms, it is a prime example of advanced construction technology.
Bai Chay Bridge is not only a vital traffic route but also a symbol of modern development, helping to alleviate congestion, promote trade, and drive socio-economic growth for Ha Long. The bridge has contributed to enhancing local tourism, with its lighting system at night highlighting the beauty of the landscape.
Despite the pressures of traffic and high maintenance costs, Bai Chay Bridge remains a testament to strategic vision and innovation in infrastructure, bringing Ha Long closer to its goal of becoming an internationally recognized economic and tourism hub.
Quang Ninh Planning, Exhibition, and Fair Center
The Quang Ninh Planning, Exhibition, and Fair Center, also known as the "Sea Bird Wing," is a unique and modern architectural landmark located by the Ha Long Bay. Completed in 2016 with a total investment of nearly 1,151 billion VND, it spans over 62,000 m². The design of the Center is inspired by the image of a seagull’s wings soaring over the sea, symbolizing the ambition of Quang Ninh to reach new heights.
The Center serves as a venue for conferences, trade fairs, exhibitions, and major events in the province. It is also a hub for displaying information about urban planning, development, and the economic and cultural achievements of Quang Ninh. The facility is equipped with modern amenities, offering spacious and flexible interiors to accommodate various uses.
With its prime location and distinctive architecture, the Quang Ninh Planning Center has become an important landmark, attracting attention from tourists and investors. It not only symbolizes sustainable development but also reflects the strategic vision of Quang Ninh in the era of international integration.
Quang Ninh Museum and Library
The Quang Ninh Museum and Library, located on Tran Quoc Nghien Street in Ha Long City, is an impressive cultural complex often referred to as the "black pearl by the bay." It was inaugurated in 2013 with a total investment of nearly 900 billion VND and features unique architecture inspired by coal – the symbol of Quang Ninh province.
The complex consists of three main structures: the museum, the library, and the outdoor exhibition area, all connected by a modern glass bridge system. The museum showcases over 14,000 artifacts related to the history, culture, and nature of Quang Ninh, while the library offers a comfortable space for reading and studying, with thousands of books across various genres.
The Quang Ninh Museum and Library is not only a place to preserve heritage but also an attractive destination, symbolizing the harmonious blend of culture and modernity, contributing to the promotion of local tourism.
Cái Dăm Roundabout
The Cái Dăm Roundabout, located in the central area of Bai Chay Ward in Ha Long City, is an important traffic hub that connects several major roads leading to tourist destinations and large residential areas. It serves not only as an efficient traffic coordination point but also as a green space, providing an architectural highlight for the area.
With its modern design, the roundabout is surrounded by a system of greenery, flowers, and artistic lighting, creating a harmonious and nature-friendly atmosphere. This area is regularly maintained and decorated during major holidays, further enhancing its appeal to visitors.
The Cái Dăm Roundabout not only fulfills its role as transportation infrastructure but also symbolizes the synchronized, modern development of Ha Long City, leaving a lasting impression on tourists who visit.
Quang Ninh Youth Cultural Center
The Quang Ninh Youth Cultural Center, located in Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, is a prominent facility dedicated to the younger generation, marked by a modern and creative design. Inaugurated in 2016, the center covers an area of over 25,000 square meters and features unique architecture that combines spaces for learning, entertainment, and sports.
The center includes various functional areas such as learning spaces with art, music, and language rooms; sports facilities with a football field, swimming pool, and gymnasium; and an outdoor recreation area, providing a well-rounded development environment for youth. The center's spacious, green surroundings also support extracurricular activities and large events.
The Quang Ninh Youth Cultural Center not only nurtures young talent but also contributes to shaping the modern, dynamic image of Ha Long City.
Queen Cable Car and Sun World Ha Long Complex
The Queen Cable Car and the Sun World Ha Long Complex are among the most prominent tourist attractions in Ha Long City. The Queen Cable Car, inaugurated in 2016, is known as the "wonder in the sky" and holds two Guinness World Records: the largest cable car cabin and the highest cable car tower in the world. The cable car line spans over 2 kilometers, connecting Bai Chay to the top of Ba Deo Mountain, offering stunning panoramic views of the Ha Long Bay.
At the summit of Ba Deo, the Sun World Ha Long amusement park awaits with numerous exciting attractions such as the Sun Wheel, a Japanese garden, and unique architectural structures. The complex also includes the Dragon Park and Typhoon Water Park, catering to entertainment needs for all ages.
The Queen Cable Car and Sun World Ha Long Complex not only provide a unique travel experience but also solidify Ha Long's position as a leading entertainment destination in Vietnam.
Ha Long Flower Park
Ha Long Flower Park, located on Tran Quoc Nghien Street along the coast of Ha Long Bay, is a beautiful green space that breathes new life into the coastal city. The park is designed to harmoniously blend nature and architecture, featuring wide walkways, an artificial lake, colorful flower gardens, and lush greenery.
The most striking area is the section dedicated to a variety of carefully maintained flowers, creating a vibrant landscape that attracts both locals and tourists for sightseeing and photography. The park is also equipped with benches, a children's playground, and artistic lighting, making it an ideal destination both during the day and at night.
Ha Long Flower Park is not only a place for relaxation and entertainment but also contributes to the cultural identity and enhances the beauty of Ha Long City, making it a must-visit attraction.
Ha Long International Cruise Port
Located in the Bai Chay area, Ha Long International Cruise Port is the first tourism port in Vietnam designed to meet international standards, officially opening in 2018. The port was built with a total investment of over 1,100 billion VND and consists of two main areas: the domestic passenger terminal and the international terminal, capable of accommodating the largest cruise ships in the world.
The facility stands out with its modern passenger terminal, covering more than 13,500 square meters, designed with luxury and inspired by distinctive elements of Vietnamese culture. The pier, which stretches over 500 meters, allows for the docking of ships with a capacity of up to 225,000 tons.
Ha Long International Cruise Port not only enhances the tourism experience but also affirms Ha Long's position on the global tourism map, attracting an increasing number of visitors to explore the beauty of Ha Long Bay.
Tran Quoc Nghien Street
Tran Quoc Nghien Street runs along the coastline in Ha Long City and is known as "the most beautiful coastal road in Quang Ninh." With a length of over 7 kilometers, the road connects many important points, from the Quang Ninh Museum and Library to the areas of Cột 3 and Cột 8, while offering stunning views of Ha Long Bay – a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site.
Upgraded and completed in 2020, Tran Quoc Nghien Street features a wide, modern roadway and spacious sidewalks, decorated with greenery, stone benches, and an artistic lighting system. Notably, the road includes a long sea dyke that not only protects the coastline but also provides an ideal space for walking and exercising.
Tran Quoc Nghien Street is a key highlight of transportation, culture, and tourism, contributing to enhancing the beauty and modern development of Ha Long.
Translated by Thuy Ha