Cat Ba Cannon Fort: Historic landmark with the best bay views

With wartime relics and breathtaking bay views, Cat Ba Cannon Fort stands as one of Cat Ba Island’s most significant historic landmarks and scenic spots.

1. Introduction to Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Cat Ba Cannon Fort, also known as Pháo đài Thần Công, is one of the most remarkable historical sites on Cat Ba Island. Perched at around 177 meters above sea level, it once held a strategic military position and offered commanding views over Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Cat Ba Town. For decades, this fortress was not only a symbol of defense but also a cultural landmark that connected the island’s past with its present.

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Stunning sunset view from Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Travelers often described Cannon Fort as “the balcony of Cat Ba,” where history and natural beauty merged seamlessly. The site allowed visitors to imagine the wartime atmosphere while simultaneously enjoying panoramic seascapes. Whether you were fascinated by Vietnam’s military history or simply in search of the best viewpoint in Cat Ba, Cannon Fort delivered both experiences in one place.

Today, although the site has been closed to visitors, it remains a vital part of Cat Ba’s cultural heritage. Understanding its story gives you a deeper appreciation of the island and helps preserve the memory of a place where history and nature once created unforgettable travel moments.

2. History of Cat Ba Cannon Fort

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The historic site of Cat Ba Cannon Fort

The history of Cat Ba Cannon Fort dates back to the 1940s, when it was built as a crucial military outpost. During wartime, the fortress played a vital role in defending the Gulf of Tonkin, serving as both a lookout point and a stronghold equipped with large cannons aimed at protecting Vietnam’s northern seas. Thanks to its elevation and strategic location, Cannon Fort was considered the “eyes” of Cat Ba, monitoring any movement across the surrounding waters.

Visitors who explored the site before its closure could still see remnants of this history. Massive artillery guns, underground tunnels, and observation posts remained as silent witnesses to the conflicts of the past. Walking through these pathways gave travelers a glimpse into what life might have been like for the soldiers stationed here decades ago.

The fortress was not only a defensive stronghold but also a reminder of the resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people. Even today, though the site is no longer open, the story of Cat Ba Cannon Fort continues to echo as part of the island’s wartime heritage and national memory.

3. Why It Became a Popular Tourist Spot

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Sightseeing through binoculars

For many years, Cat Ba Cannon Fort was among the most visited attractions on the island, not just for its history but for its breathtaking views. From the top, travelers could enjoy a 360-degree panorama of Lan Ha Bay, Ha Long Bay, and Cat Ba Town, making it the ultimate viewpoint on the island. Sunrises painted the sea in soft gold, while sunsets turned the limestone karsts into dramatic silhouettes against a fiery sky.

The unique charm of Cannon Fort lay in its dual appeal: a place to learn about military history while also offering one of the most stunning natural vistas in northern Vietnam. Travelers often combined their visit with photography sessions, capturing both the relics of war and the serene beauty of the bays below.

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One of the most popular places to enjoy the sunset in Cat Ba

As of late 2023, Cat Ba Cannon Fort officially closed its doors to the public. This decision, made by local authorities and heritage management, was taken to prioritize conservation, visitor safety, and the preservation of its historical integrity. After decades of exposure to natural weathering and heavy tourist traffic, parts of the site had begun to deteriorate, making closure the most responsible choice.

From 2024 onwards, the fortress is no longer included in Cat Ba’s tourist itinerary. While this has disappointed many travelers who hoped to visit, the closure reflects a growing commitment to sustainable tourism and heritage protection in Vietnam. By limiting access, authorities aim to protect the site’s authenticity and prevent further damage.

4. Nearby attractions to Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Cat Ba National Park: A paradise for trekking and nature lovers. Trails lead through lush tropical forests, the rare Kim Giao forest, and up to Ngu Lam Peak, where sweeping views of the island rival those once seen at Cannon Fort.
Hospital Cave (Hang Quân Y): A fascinating historical site that functioned as a secret hospital during the Vietnam War. With its 17 rooms carved inside the mountain, it gives visitors a tangible sense of wartime resilience.
Trung Trang Cave: A 300-meter-long limestone cave filled with stunning stalactites and stalagmites. It’s both a geological wonder and a cultural site, often linked to local legends.

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Lan Ha Bay viewed from Cat Ba Cannon Fort

5. FAQs about Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Q: Is Cat Ba Cannon Fort still open?
No. The site has been closed since late 2023 and remains inaccessible to tourists.

Q: Can I take photos of the fort from outside?
Some viewpoints along the road leading toward the site still allow glimpses and distant photos. However, the main entrance and interior are no longer open to visitors.

Q: What is the closest alternative viewpoint?
The easiest alternative is Ngoc Mountain (Núi Ngọc), located in Cat Ba Town, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding bays. For a more adventurous option, trek to Ngu Lam Peak in Cat Ba National Park, which offers one of the most impressive viewpoints on the island.

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At Cat Ba Cannon Fort

Conclusion

Cat Ba Cannon Fort remains one of the island’s most important cultural and historical landmarks, even though it has been closed since 2023. Its story reflects both the turbulent past of Vietnam’s northern seas and the enduring natural beauty of Cat Ba. While you can no longer walk its tunnels or stand by its cannons, the fortress continues to live on in memory as a place where history met the horizon.

If you’d like to explore Cat Ba Island, feel free to contact Cat Ba Du Ky Travel at +84 989 745 338 for travel advice. You can also check out our full-package Cat Ba tours below: