Luu Huu Phuoc Park: Cần Thơ's Premier Spot for Relaxation and Community
Luu Huu Phuoc Park (Công Viên Lưu Hữu Phước) serves as the city’s largest and most important green space, earning the nickname “the green lung of Cần Thơ.” It stands on the busy Hòa Bình Boulevard, providing locals and tourists alike with a spacious, open area for exercise, relaxation, and cultural events. Its open design invites everyone to enjoy the fresh air and vibrant atmosphere, making it an essential stop on any Cần Thơ itinerary.
Address: Đ. Hoà Bình, Tân An, Ninh Kiều, Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
I. Historical and Cultural Significance
The park honors the renowned Vietnamese composer, academician, and professor Lưu Hữu Phước (1921–1989), a native of the Mekong Delta. Naming the park after him pays tribute to his profound contributions to Vietnamese music and culture.
Unique Design: The layout of the park is striking—it incorporates the stylized shape of a large guitar, symbolizing the musical legacy of its namesake.
The Statue: A prominent bronze statue of Lưu Hữu Phước stands proudly in the center, capturing his intellectual and cultural spirit and providing a popular photo opportunity for visitors.
Modern Renovation: Originally featuring fences and gates, the local authorities renovated the park in 2015, transforming it into an open, accessible public space that better integrates with the city center.
II. Activities and Atmosphere
The park becomes a dynamic hub of activity from morning to night. It caters to people of all ages seeking both tranquility and entertainment.
Morning Exercise: Local residents flock to the park early in the morning to engage in jogging, Tai Chi, and yoga, enjoying the cool, fresh air.
Youth Culture: As evening descends, the park buzzes with activity. Young people utilize the wide-open spaces for roller skating and skateboarding, creating a lively, energetic environment.
Events and Festivals: The spacious venue frequently hosts major cultural and community events, including book fairs and city festivals. Visitors may find themselves in the middle of a major public celebration.
Leisure and Relaxation: Ample green lawns, shady trees, and benches offer perfect spots for picnics, reading, or simply people-watching. Numerous food stalls and street vendors surround the park in the evenings, allowing guests to enjoy local snacks (đồ ăn vặt) and drinks.
III. Essential Visitor Information
Planning a visit to Luu Huu Phuoc Park is straightforward.
Entrance Fee: Access to the park is free of charge.
Opening Hours: The park is generally open all day, from dawn until late at night. We recommend visiting in the early morning or evening to enjoy the most pleasant temperatures and to experience the social buzz.
Facilities: The park includes public restrooms and modern outdoor exercise equipment.
Parking: Visitors arriving by motorbike can find parking areas, often near the entrances, for a small fee (khoảng 5,000 VND).
Proximity: Its location places it near other key city landmarks, including the Can Tho Museum and Muniransay Pagoda, making it an easy addition to a central Cần Thơ walking tour.
