Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in Hue. Not only does it boast unique architectural features, but it is also regarded as a “historical witness” to the transformation of the ancient capital. Join Hue Transfer Service’s in exploring this remarkable landmark!
Introduction to Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge
To give visitors a comprehensive and detailed understanding of this landmark, let’s explore it step by step.
Where is Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge Located?
Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge is a wooden arched bridge with a tiled roof, spanning a canal in Thanh Thuy Chanh Village, situated in Thuy Thanh Commune, Huong Thuy Town, Thua Thien Hue Province. Located about 8 kilometers east of Hue’s city center, the bridge is regarded as a rare artistic masterpiece and holds great historical significance among Vietnam’s ancient bridges.
This architectural gem was officially recognized as a National Cultural Heritage Site by the Ministry of Culture under Decision No. 575QĐ/VH on July 14, 1990.
The History of Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge
In the 16th century, among the settlers from Thanh Hoa who followed Lord Nguyen Hoang to Thuan Hoa, 12 clan leaders decided to stop and establish their homes in what is now Thanh Toan Village. These clans became the original founding families of the village.
- 1776: The Bridge’s Construction
Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge was built in 1776, funded by Mrs. Tran Thi Dao, a sixth-generation descendant of the Tran family. She used her personal wealth to construct the bridge, aiming to facilitate local transportation and provide a resting place for travelers.Mrs. Tran Thi Dao was the wife of a high-ranking official during the reign of King Le Hien Tong. Though she had no children, she dedicated her resources to benefit her community and hometown. Her benevolence earned her the deep respect and reverence of the villagers, who continue to honor her memory.
In recognition of her contributions, King Le Hien Tong praised her in 1776 and exempted the village from certain taxes to commemorate her generosity and encourage others to follow her example.
A royal proclamation stated:
“Mrs. Tran Thi Dao, born in Thanh Toan Village, is a woman of noble virtue. Her life commands admiration in every aspect. She is more praiseworthy than anyone else, and her contributions to the village will be remembered forever.”
- 1925: Honoring Mrs. Tran Thi Dao
In 1925, King Khai Dinh posthumously honored Mrs. Tran Thi Dao with the title Duc Bao Trung Hung Linh and ordered the construction of a shrine on the bridge itself to serve as a place of worship in her memory.
The Architecture of Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge
Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge was constructed in the traditional “Thượng gia hạ kiều” style, meaning “house above, bridge below.”
- Dimensions and Structure
The bridge originally measured 43 wooden meters (approximately 18.75 meters in length) and 14 wooden meters (about 5.82 meters in width), divided into seven compartments. On both sides, there are wooden benches and railings, providing seating or resting spots for travelers. The bridge is covered by a tiled roof made of glazed terracotta tiles, offering shade and protection from the elements. - Durability and Maintenance
Over two centuries, the bridge has endured numerous natural disasters, including storms and floods, as well as the ravages of war. Despite these challenges, local residents have consistently rallied to repair and preserve it. - Restoration Efforts
The bridge underwent several restorations in 1847, 1906, 1956, and 1971, during which its dimensions were slightly reduced. The current bridge measures approximately 16.85 meters in length and 4.63 meters in width.In late 2016, plans for further restoration and preservation were initiated with a projected investment of 13.1 billion VND.
Since 2015, a Thanh Toan Agricultural Tools Museum has been established near the bridge. It showcases a variety of traditional farming and fishing tools, along with stories reflecting rural life. This project was made possible through the collaboration of the International Labour Organization (ILO) and the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
What’s Interesting About Thanh Toan Bridge Tourism?
If you have the chance to visit Thanh Toan Bridge, don’t miss out on the fascinating activities below:
Learn About and Check-in at Thanh Toan Bridge
Visitors coming here can listen to the history of Thanh Toan Bridge and uncover intriguing stories behind its construction. This experience will enrich your knowledge and cultural understanding.
Through the introduction, visitors will realize that the bridge was not only built to facilitate local transportation but also serves as a resting place, providing shelter from the rain and sun.
Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity to check-in at this stunning location. Thanh Toan Bridge is one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Hue.
With its timeless, rustic beauty combined with the serene countryside ambiance and a tranquil river gently flowing beneath, this is an ideal backdrop for capturing breathtaking photos.
Visit Thanh Toan Farming Tools Museum
Next to the bridge lies the Thanh Toan Farming Tools Museum, which vividly recreates traditional agricultural and fishing activities in the countryside of the ancient capital. Visitors will gain deeper insights into the daily lives of the locals here.
Additionally, the museum features a section showcasing handicrafts and local specialties, such as weaving, bamboo products, and bánh tét.
Enjoy Rustic and Delicious Dishes
Hue cuisine has long been renowned, leaving anyone who tastes it thoroughly impressed. At Thanh Toan Bridge, besides enjoying Hue’s signature dishes, visitors will have the chance to savor authentic countryside flavors.
Using fresh local ingredients such as duck, chicken, vegetables, shrimp, and fish, the skilled chefs here craft unique and delicious dishes like peppered chicken, stir-fried pumpkin flowers, fermented shrimp, and duck with bamboo shoots. The flavors are distinct and unlike anything you’ve tried before.
Explore the Unique Thanh Toan Night Market
If you’re planning a 2-day-1-night trip to Hue, don’t miss exploring the Thanh Toan Night Market. The market features a variety of local products, such as native chicken, fragrant Thuy Thanh rice, mudfish, perch, frogs, and other souvenirs.
In addition to the diverse activities, the pedestrian paths around the bridge are beautifully decorated, making it a perfect spot for capturing memorable photos. At the night market, you can not only explore and shop for local products but also enjoy many countryside dishes.
Thanh Toan Bridge Festivals
Anniversary of Lady Tran Thi Dao
On the anniversary of Lady Tran Thi Dao, which falls on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month each year, the local people organize a ceremony to honor her for her significant contributions to the construction of Thanh Toan Bridge. During this time, a series of solemn rituals are conducted.
The festival begins with the procession of Lady Tran Thi Dao from the temple (shrine) to the bridge, where rituals of reverence are performed. After the ceremonies are completed, Lady Tran Thi Dao is returned to the temple. Once the commemoration and honoring are concluded, the festival continues with folk activities.
During this festival, the locals engage in recreational activities such as tug of war, boat racing on the river, singing, and even a rice pounding chant competition. This festival creates a joyful and united atmosphere in the community, while also providing an opportunity for the people to remember and honor Lady Tran Thi Dao’s contributions, as well as the dedication of the community in preserving and maintaining Thanh Toan Bridge.
Village Market at Thanh Toan Bridge
The village market at Thanh Toan Bridge is a biennial event. This is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the lively festival atmosphere, experiencing the unique village market space with a variety of simple yet appealing Hue dishes and specialties.
In addition to enjoying the delicious food, visitors also have the chance to participate in fun activities such as boat races on the river, tug of war competitions, and many other entertaining games.
Bai Choi Festival
The Bai Choi Festival at Thanh Toan Bridge takes place on the 3rd day of the Lunar New Year (Tết). It is a traditional practice of playing Bai Choi, which holds significant cultural value but is not related to gambling. This game conveys messages of love for the homeland and the country through meaningful songs, bringing a spirit of participation to everyone involved.
Besides playing Bai Choi, the festival is also an opportunity to meet, interact, and exchange lucky gifts on the first day of the new year. Bai Choi has become an essential part of performance art, with the participation of folk artists. Each game of Bai Choi has its own unique features and carries the imprint of local traditional culture.
Nearby Attractions to Thanh Toan Bridge
When visiting Thanh Toan Bridge, visitors can also explore other nearby attractions such as:
- Hue Pedestrian Street: 6.4 km from Thanh Toan Bridge
- An Dinh Palace: 6.9 km from Thanh Toan Bridge
- Phu Cam Church: 7.1 km from Thanh Toan Bridge
- The Imperial City (Dai Noi): 7.8 km from Thanh Toan Bridge
Additionally, if you want to explore Thanh Toan Bridge and other destinations in the safest and most comfortable way, you can use our private car tour service in Hue. The private car tour will help you save time and enjoy a more relaxing experience in Hue.
Conclusion
Thanh Toan Bridge boasts a unique architecture and timeless beauty. Not only is it a famous tourist destination in Hue, but it is also considered a historical witness to the transformation of the ancient land of the former capital, Hue.
