Cannon Fort Cat Ba Island: An Detailed Guide Historical relics in Hai Phong

Cannon Fort, also referred to as Than Cong Fortress, is a prominent historical site located on Cat Ba Island in Hai Phong, Vietnam. Positioned at an altitude of 177 meters above sea level, this fortress offers visitors a strategic vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty of Cat Ba’s landscape. The sturdy military structure of Cannon Fort not only symbolizes the island’s rich history but also provides panoramic views that will leave you mesmerized by the breathtaking surroundings.

A Short History of Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Cat Ba Cannon Fort, also known as Pháo đài Thần công in Vietnamese, holds a significant place in the history of Cat Ba Island. Constructed in 1940 by the French colonialists, the fort served as a strategic military stronghold during periods of conflict, including the resistance against French colonization and later the American War. Its location atop a hill at an elevation of 177 meters above sea level provided a commanding view of the surrounding area, allowing for effective surveillance and defense.

Throughout its history, Cat Ba Cannon Fort witnessed fierce battles and played a crucial role in safeguarding the island against invaders. Today, it stands as a poignant reminder of the island’s tumultuous past. It serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into its storied history and panoramic views of the stunning landscape below.

The best time to visit Cat Ba Cannon Fort

The best time to visit Cat Ba Cannon Fort largely depends on personal preferences and weather conditions. However, certain periods offer more favorable experiences for visitors. Here are some recommendations:

1. Early Morning: Visiting the fort in the early morning allows you to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Cat Ba Island. The soft golden hues cast upon the landscape create a picturesque scene, perfect for photography enthusiasts seeking stunning shots.

2. Late Afternoon: Another ideal time to explore the fort is in the late afternoon, particularly during sunset. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a palette of vibrant colors, casting a warm glow over the island and enhancing the panoramic views from the fort’s vantage points.

3. Weekdays: To avoid crowds and enjoy a more serene experience, consider visiting the fort on weekdays rather than weekends. With fewer tourists, you can take your time exploring the various areas of the fort without feeling rushed, allowing for a more immersive and tranquil visit.

How to get there

Getting to Cat Ba Cannon Fort is relatively straightforward, and there are several transportation options available:

By Ferry: If you’re coming from the mainland, the most common way to reach Cat Ba Island is by ferry from Hai Phong City. Ferries depart from Ben Binh Pier in Hai Phong to Cat Ba Island several times a day. The ferry ride takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
By Speedboat: For a faster but slightly more expensive option, you can also take a speedboat from Hai Phong City to Cat Ba Island. Speedboats offer a quicker journey, usually taking around 20-30 minutes to reach the island. However, they may operate less frequently than ferries.
From Cat Ba Town: Once you arrive at Cat Ba Island, you can easily reach Cat Ba Cannon Fort from Cat Ba Town by motorbike, bicycle, or taxi. The fort is located about 20 minutes away from the town center by road.
Guided Tours: Another convenient option is to join a guided tour that includes a visit to Cat Ba Cannon Fort. Many tour operators in Cat Ba Town offer day trips or excursions that include transportation to and from the fort, along with guided exploration of the site.

What to see and do

Astronomical Observatory:

One of the highlights of Cannon Fort is the astronomical observatory. Here, visitors have the rare opportunity to marvel at the stunning panoramic views of the entire Cat Ba Archipelago from multiple vantage points. In the distance, Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay stretch serenely, creating a picturesque backdrop. Below the main hill are the two most beautiful beaches in the area: Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2.

Cannon Batteries:

Stepping back in time, visitors can explore the historic cannon batteries, remnants of the fort’s military past. Dating back to 1910 and used by the French, these cannons had a range of 40 kilometers and played a pivotal role in controlling Hai Phong Port. Despite the ravages of war and time, the fort’s strategic artillery positions remain largely intact.

U-shaped Tunnel:

Another impressive feature of Cannon Fort is the U-shaped tunnel. This spacious underground passage was built with sturdy concrete blocks and led to the command and control area hidden within the mountain. Serving as both a shelter and operational base, the tunnel complex could accommodate up to 500 people at a time.

Bunker Shelter:

This area served as a shelter and living quarters for revolutionary soldiers in the past. Exploring this section of the fort feels like stepping into a miniature history museum, with various military weapons and artifacts on display. These historical relics hold significant cultural and historical value and are worth preserving.

Scenic Overlook:

Located atop a high hill, Cannon Fort provides an ideal vantage point to take in the panoramic views of Cat Ba Town and its beautiful beaches from various angles. The sunset over the bay is a particularly mesmerizing sight, with the sky ablaze in shades of red and orange as the mountains gradually fade into the horizon.

Tips for visiting the Canon Fort

Ticket Purchase: Acquire entry tickets, priced at 40,000 VND per adult and 20,000 VND per child.
Clothing Choice: Opt for comfortable, stretchy clothes to allow easy movement during your visit.
Appropriate Footwear: Wear shoes instead of sandals or high heels for comfort and to minimize the risk of foot discomfort.
Sun Protection: Bring sun protection such as a wide-brimmed hat, umbrella, and sunscreen due to limited shade at the fort, particularly in sunny or rainy conditions.
Proper Waste Disposal: Show respect for the environment and historical site by avoiding littering and disposing of trash correctly.
Exercise Caution: Given its historical importance and elevated position, avoid running or jumping, particularly with children. Keep a close watch on youngsters for their safety.