Short answer
Walk up from town (about 20–30 minutes, steep) or take an electric cart, pay a ticket of around 40,000–50,000 VND and time your visit for the late afternoon light.
01History
The fortifications date from the 1940s, during the Second World War, when foreign forces built gun positions and tunnels to control the sea approaches. Accounts differ on whether French or Japanese troops did most of the construction. The guns were later used by French forces and then by the Vietnamese during the wars that followed. Today the site is a heritage area with restored guns, trenches, tunnels and information boards.
02What you will see
- Two large artillery guns in concrete emplacements
- A network of tunnels and trenches, some walkable
- Wartime displays and figures
- Viewing platforms over Cat Ba Town, Cat Co and the bay
- A café near the top for a cold drink
03Getting there
The road starts from the eastern end of the harbour front and climbs steeply. Walking takes 20–30 minutes from town in the heat; electric carts and scooters can drive almost to the top. After the ticket gate there is still a short uphill walk.
Where it is
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Pins mark approximate locations.
?Questions people ask
Is Cannon Fort worth visiting?
Yes, for the view alone. The history and tunnels make it a good family outing too.
How much is the Cannon Fort ticket?
Recent prices were about 40,000–50,000 VND for adults.