Mong Bridge: A timeless piece of Ho Chi Minh City’s history

Contents

1. Where is Mong Bridge on the Ho Chi Minh City map?

Mong Bridge is a prominent attraction in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, easily recognizable by its distinctive emerald color. It spans across the Ben Nghe Canal, connecting two key areas of the city: Vo Van Kiet Street in Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, and Ben Van Don Street in Ward 12, District 4. This central location makes it a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Mong Bridge was designated as a municipal-level Architectural and Artistic Heritage Site in 2014. And in November 2015, the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee ranked it among the city’s top 10 landmarks. 

Mong Bridge – Ho Chi Minh City is a symbolic landmark (Source: Collected)

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2. Things to know about the history of Mong Bridge

Mong Bridge was constructed between 1893 and 1894, funded by the French shipping company Messageries Maritimes and built by the Levallois Perret Company. Messageries Maritimes, headquartered in what is now known as Nha Rong Wharf, financed the bridge to facilitate transportation from central Saigon to its dock.

Initially, the bridge was called “Cầu Vận Tải Hải Dương,” after the sponsoring company. The French also referred to it as Arc-en-Ciel due to its curved, arch-like design. However, the Vietnamese name “Cầu Mống” or “Cầu Móng” became more popular. It is interpreted in two ways:

• Its arch shape resembles a rainbow, or “Mống trời” in Vietnamese.
• It was the first bridge in Saigon with foundational piers (“Móng”).

Mong Bridge – Saigon has a distinct emerald color (Source: Collected)

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3. What is special about the architecture of Mong Bridge?

Mong Bridge stands out with its elegant arch design, originally constructed with steel and spanning 128 meters in length and 5.2 meters in width. The bridge features a single-arch structure, distributing its load onto two main piers, making it one of the most modern steel bridges in Saigon at the time. 

The surface of the bridge was initially made of iron, while the approaches and staircases at both ends were built with stone, laid in an alternating brick-like pattern. The architectural details are different at each end of the bridge. On the District 1 side, the approach follows the horizontal axis of the bridge. On the District 4 side, the approach continues directly with the bridge along the vertical axis.

In the early 2000s, during the construction of the East-West Highway and the Saigon River Tunnel, Mong Bridge was completely dismantled. It was later reconstructed to its original design but with reinforced foundations and enhanced with artistic lighting. The bridge was also repainted in its now-iconic emerald green. This earned it the nickname “Cầu Mống Xanh” (Green Mong Bridge). Today, it is exclusively for pedestrians. 

Mong Bridge’s history is rich (Source: Collected)

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4. Things to do at Mong Bridge, Ho Chi Minh City

4.1. Take a walk and soak in the city views

Mong Bridge offers an escape from the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City, so it is an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll. From the bridge, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding cityscape.

On one side, the exciting energy of District 1 provides a glimpse into the city’s commercial heart, while the more laid-back atmosphere of District 4 on the opposite side contrasts with its charm. The contrast of these two worlds, connected by the bridge, showcases the harmonious blend of old and new. 

4.2. Shoot awe-inspiring photos

Mong Bridge is a photographer’s dream. Its emerald-green structure, combined with the beauty of the Ben Nghe Canal, provides a perfect backdrop for photography. Every element of the bridge, from its vintage-style lamp posts to its gracefully curved railings, creates charming vintage-inspired compositions.

Flowy outfits in soft pastel or neutral tones complement the bridge’s vintage aesthetic beautifully. The gentle breeze on the bridge can create a romantic effect, with light garments adding movement to your shots.

Take stunning Mong Bridge photos (Source: Collected)

4.3. Enjoy coffee on the sidewalk

One of the most delightful experiences at Mong Bridge is enjoying a cup of traditional Vietnamese coffee on the nearby sidewalks. Along the Ben Nghe Canal, small stalls with simple seating arrangements line the area.

These spots offer a perfect chance to immerse yourself in Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant street culture. The rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee paired with the soft hum of the city creates a truly relaxing moment.

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4.4. Savor Saigon street food

A visit to Mong Bridge would not be complete without indulging in the vibrant street food scene that Ho Chi Minh City is famous for. Around the bridge, you will find an array of street vendors serving delicious snacks. These are perfect for enjoying while soaking in the atmosphere of the bridge and its surroundings. Some must-try Ho Chi Minh City foods include grilled rice paper, mixed rice paper, and fried fish balls. They are not only tasty but also convenient to enjoy on the go.

Grab a snack as you explore Mong Bridge – Saigon (Source: Collected)

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5. Extra tips to know before visiting Mong Bridge

5.1. When to visit?

You can visit Mong Bridge at any time of the year, as its charm remains constant regardless of the season. However, for those who enjoy photography or prefer a more tranquil experience, the best times to visit are early in the morning or late in the afternoon. With the former, the weather is cool, and the bridge is less crowded. With the latter, the soft light of the golden hour enhances the bridge’s vibrant green color.

5.2. How to get there?

The bridge is located in the city center, so it is quite easy to reach. From downtown District 1, you can go by motorbike either via Dong Khoi Street or Vo Van Kiet Street. It will only take about 10 minutes to get there. For parking, there’s a nearby bank lot with a parking fee of VND 10,000 per motorbike per trip.

If you are traveling from other districts, you can take one of the following bus routes: 03, 04, 152, 18, or 56. The drop-off is at 67 Ham Nghi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1. For a more convenient option, consider using Xanh SM. Booking is straightforward through the app, and fares are competitive compared to traditional taxis.

5.3. Where to go nearby?

From Mong Bridge, you can also check into: 

• Nha Rong Wharf (500 meters away): Built in 1863, this site served as a headquarters for Saigon Trading Port. It now preserves many relics of Uncle Ho’s life. 
• Bitexco Tower (700 meters away): One of Ho Chi Minh City’s most recognizable skyscrapers, Bitexco offers breathtaking views from its Sky Deck. It is also a hub for luxury shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts (800 meters away): This historic building features a mix of French colonial and local architectural styles. Inside, visitors can explore an impressive collection of Vietnamese art. 
• Nguyen Hue Street (850 meters away): A pedestrian-only boulevard, Nguyen Hue is perfect for strolling, enjoying fountains, and snapping photos. It is surrounded by shops, cafes, and landmarks like the Saigon Opera House.
• Bach Dang Wharf (1 kilometer away): Bach Dang Wharf is a historic riverside spot offering scenic views of the Saigon River. It is about 1.3 kilometers long, located on Ton Duc Thang Street. The adjacent park is ideal for relaxing walks.

Visit other attractions near Mong Bridge, Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

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Whether you are exploring the city’s past, capturing stunning photos, or simply enjoying a relaxing walk, Mong Bridge – Ho Chi Minh City provides a memorable experience for every visitor. A visit to this iconic landmark is not just a journey through Saigon’s history but also an opportunity to connect with the soul of the city.

After immersing yourself in the historical charm of Mong Bridge, continue your exploration of Ho Chi Minh City by visiting the newly opened Grand Park.  Grand Park is situated within Vinhomes Grand Park in Thu Duc City.

Here, you can have a splashing time at Tropical Island Water Park, rediscover sweet childhood memories at Dream Garden, and shop and dine lavishly at Park Avenue Commercial Street. Grand Park promises a day filled with fun. It is an ideal destination for families, friends, and tourists seeking entertainment.

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