Ninh Kieu, Can Tho: A day strolling along the waterfront and through the night streets.
After reorganization, Ninh Kieu ward covers an area of 5.42 km2 and has nearly 120,000 inhabitants. It includes Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Pagoda, Can Tho Market, a pedestrian bridge, and the large prison; the pedestrian street will be expanded from December.
Ninh Kieu ward (5.42 km2, nearly 120,000 inhabitants), the most densely populated ward in Can Tho after administrative reorganization, offers a complete range of characteristic experiences: strolling along Ninh Kieu Wharf, taking a boat trip on the Hau River, visiting Ong Pagoda and Can Tho Market, enjoying the view from the pedestrian bridge, exploring the Grand Prison; and at night, strolling along the soon-to-be-expanded Ninh Kieu pedestrian street.
Ninh Kieu Wharf and the Hau River experience
Ninh Kieu Wharf is a tourist and cultural landmark that originated in the 19th century, located on the right bank of the Hau River, at the confluence of the Hau and Can Tho rivers, adjacent to Hai Ba Trung Street. Strolling along the wharf, you can hear the sound of water lapping against the boats and feel the peaceful rhythm of life on the river.
In the evening, a popular experience is a cruise on the Hau River: enjoying local specialties, listening to traditional folk music, and admiring the city lights reflected on the water.
Architectural and cultural imprint
Ong Pagoda (Hai Ba Trung Street)
Built over 120 years ago by people of Cantonese origin (China), the temple boasts unique architecture and serves as a center for religious activities and cultural exchange. Unlike some other Chinese temples, Ong Temple in Can Tho does not have a stele recording the name of the person who started the construction or the date of its formation.
The pagoda was classified as a national historical monument in 1993. People often visit to pray for good fortune in their work or peace in their lives.
Can Tho Market (Hai Ba Trung Street)
Established in the early 20th century, the market is considered one of the beautiful architectural landmarks of the Mekong Delta and a popular check-in spot. Today, the market has been renovated with a spacious and harmonious design, focusing on selling souvenirs, handicrafts, travel accessories, clothing, and traditional costumes.
City view from Ninh Kieu pedestrian bridge
The Ninh Kieu pedestrian bridge (also known as the Love Bridge) is 199 meters long, 7.2 meters wide, and curves in an S shape. The bridge has two widened sections with lotus-shaped platforms and covered resting areas. You can visit anytime, but it's most beautiful when:
- Early morning: the sun rises through a thin layer of mist.
- Late afternoon: the sunset paints the water's surface golden.
- At night: a cool breeze, panoramic views of the city and the Can Tho Bridge – the longest cable-stayed bridge in Southeast Asia – shining brightly.
Urban history at Can Tho Prison
The Can Tho Grand Prison historical site (Ngo Gia Tu Street) is a prison built by the French colonialists between 1876 and 1886.Prison Provinciale(The provincial prison, the largest in the Western region at that time). A sturdy structure with thick walls 3.6–5 m high, surrounded by iron fences; watchtowers 6 m high with floodlights.
Inside, it is divided into two sections, comprising 21 communal cells (with a capacity of 30–40 people) and many smaller cells used for solitary confinement.
Ninh Kieu pedestrian street: the nightlife is about to be transformed.
From December, Ninh Kieu pedestrian street will be expanded and reorganized, aiming for a rich nighttime cultural and artistic space, extending the length of stay for tourists and enhancing the spiritual life of the people.
In addition to traditional cultural and artistic activities continuing from the previous street, the new street is expected to include interactive activities between the audience and artists of various art forms such as Cai Luong, Ho, and Ve…
Fact-checking information
- Main area: the right bank of the Hau River, the confluence of the Hau River and the Can Tho River.
- Ninh Kieu Wharf: adjacent to Hai Ba Trung Street.
- Ong Pagoda: Hai Ba Trung Street.
- Can Tho Market: Hai Ba Trung Street.
- Can Tho General Clinic: Ngo Gia Tu Street.
- Ninh Kieu pedestrian bridge: has 2 widened sections, a lotus-shaped platform and a canopy; best times to visit: early morning, sunset, and night.
Quick suggestion
- Evening: Take a cruise on the Hau River to enjoy Western Vietnam's specialties and listen to traditional folk music.
- Combine sightseeing along Hai Ba Trung Street: Ong Pagoda – Can Tho Market – Ninh Kieu Wharf – pedestrian bridge, convenient for walking.
