 Hai Phong is the largest port in northern Vietnam and serves the vital role of linking Hanoi with shipping routes in the East Sea. Though it is Vietnam's third largest city with a population of two million, you would hardly realize it from the city's relatively quiet, tree-lined streets and crumbling colonial buildings.
The French colonized Hai Phong in 1874, converting it from a small market town into a major port. During the war the city was bombed repeatedly. A number of Hai Phong's bridges were destroyed and rebuilt – a testament to the perseverance of Hai Phong's citizens. Surprisingly, much of the French architecture survived the bombings and the city's center retains its colonial charm. Notable points of interest include the 17th century Du Hang Pagoda and the Hang Kenh Communal House. |
Dalat