Ninh Kieu Wharf: The Timeless Heart of Cần Thơ City
Ninh Kieu Wharf (Bến Ninh Kiều), often simply called Ninh Kieu Park, stands as the most recognized cultural and tourist symbol of Cần Thơ City. Located at the strategic confluence of the Hậu River and the Cần Thơ River, this picturesque waterfront park provides a blend of historical charm, natural beauty, and modern vibrancy. It attracts thousands of visitors daily seeking to experience the essential spirit of the Mekong Delta.
Address: 106 Đ. Hai Bà Trưng, Tân An, Ninh Kiều, Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
I. History and Cultural Landmarks
The wharf boasts a long and rich history, evolving from a small river landing into a major commercial and cultural center.
Name Origin: The name Ninh Kieu, adopted in 1957, commemorates a famous Vietnamese victory during the Lam Sơn Uprising, imbuing the site with patriotic significance.
Ho Chi Minh Statue: A majestic bronze statue of President Ho Chi Minh, standing 7.2 meters tall, dominates the park area. This monument represents a key focal point for local pride and commemoration.
Ninh Kieu Pedestrian Bridge: The modern “Love Bridge” (Cầu Tình Yêu) connects the main park area to a small river island. Its striking architecture and colorful LED lighting make it a major landmark, especially beautiful after sunset.
Nearby Heritage: The ancient Khmer Muniransay Pagoda and Ong Pagoda sit just a short walk away, allowing visitors to explore the city’s diverse cultural and religious landscape.
II. Activities and Mekong Gateway
The wharf is not only a place for contemplation but also Cần Thơ’s primary launch point for river explorations.
Boat Tours: Ninh Kieu Wharf serves as the essential starting point for famous Mekong Delta tours, including early morning trips to the Cái Răng Floating Market (Chợ Nổi Cái Răng). Tourists can easily arrange boat rentals and guided excursions here.
Dining Cruises: Dinner cruises operate every evening, offering guests a unique experience of dining on the Hậu River. These cruises typically include local specialties and live performances of Đờn Ca Tài Tử (Southern Vietnamese folk music).
Strolling and Nightlife: The park transforms into a lively hub in the evening. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade or explore the nearby Ninh Kieu Night Market, which offers street food, souvenirs, and clothing.
III. Essential Visitor Information
Planning a visit to this iconic location is easy.
Entrance Fee: Access to Ninh Kieu Wharf and the Park is free of charge.
Opening Hours: The park is open all day, and we encourage visitors to experience it both during the quieter morning hours and the bustling, illuminated evenings. River cruises typically operate from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Facilities: The large, paved area provides plenty of seating, photo opportunities, and close proximity to restaurants and hotels.
Tips for Tourists: We recommend using the wharf area as your central base for exploring Cần Thơ. It offers convenient access to transportation, including Xe Ôm (motorbike taxis) and traditional taxis. We suggest arriving before sunset to capture the best photos of the river and the pedestrian bridge lights.
