Are you ready to embark on a unique journey to one of Vietnam’s hidden gems? Welcome to Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge, a stunning construction that not only serves as a crucial transportation link but also as a picturesque spot for photography and relaxation. Nestled in the beautiful province of Phú Yên, this remarkable bridge is more than just a passageway; it’s a testament to the ingenuity and spirit of the local community.
Aerial view of Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge in Phú Yên – Vietnam's Longest Wooden Bridge
The History Behind Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge
Construction of the Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge began in 1998 with a budget of approximately 1 billion VND, and it was officially completed and opened for use in 1999. Made primarily from planks harvested from casuarina and eucalyptus trees, the bridge is constructed using sturdy bamboo to reinforce its structure. Although it may not be the safest, its convenience has made it a popular route for locals, allowing them to cross frequently.
Designed specifically for bicycles, motorcycles, and pedestrian traffic, the bridge features an admission booth run by a local family, charging fees of 1,000 VND for pedestrians, 3,000 VND for two-wheelers, and 5,000 VND for any additional cargo. Remarkably, students can cross for free!
The Location of Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge
Phú Yên is renowned for its picturesque bays that stretch along the coastline, and its complex geographical layout creates many challenges for transportation. This is why local residents often pool their resources to build bridges for easier travel, with Ông Cọp being a standout example.
Holding the title of Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge, spanning nearly 400 meters, it connects several districts across the Bình Đá River. Looking from a distance, the bridge appears as a dainty structure amidst the vast waterways, leading towards the renowned Ô Loan Lagoon. The bridge has a surface width of approximately 1.5 to 1.8 meters, with wooden planks laid closely together, although some gaps may be present occasionally.
Ông Cọp Bridge also serves as a shortcut to several famous tourist attractions in Phú Yên, such as Ghềnh Đá Đĩa (about 8 km away), the historic Mằng Lăng Church (120 years old), and the national scenic site Ô Loan Lagoon.
Scenic view of Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge in Phú Yên during a beautiful sunset
How to Get to Phú Yên
By Air
Travelers can enjoy a plethora of direct flights to Tuy Hòa Airport, with numerous domestic airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, Jetstar Pacific, and Bamboo Airways offering an average of five flights per week. This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Phú Yên, with the airport located just 5-6 km from the city center.
By Train
Rail transport is another viable option, especially for visitors coming from Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, or Da Nang. Train tickets can easily be purchased through the Vietnam Railways website (dsvn.vn). Services like SE2, SE3, and SE4 cater to travelers’ needs, ensuring a comfortable journey. Trains typically leave in the evening, so do keep an eye on the schedule to avoid missing your ride.
By Road
For those preferring to travel by road, numerous bus services operate along the North-South route. Multiple reputable bus companies connect Ho Chi Minh City to Tuy Hòa, such as Thuận Thảo and Thành Ban, with one-way tickets starting as low as 240,000 VND. If you’re traveling from Quy Nhơn or Nha Trang, you can conveniently catch a bus with Phúc Thuận Thảo or opt for a limousine service that picks you up directly from your hotel. The same goes for routes from Gia Lai and Đắk Lắk, where Tấn Tài is the most recognized operator.
Visiting Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge
Being a captivating blend of rustic beauty and practicality, the Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge is not just a transportation pathway but also a beloved spot for young photographers and tourists alike. While there are several routes to reach this charming bridge, two paths offer the most scenic and safe experiences.
Route from Tuy Hòa City
Start your journey on Lê Duẩn Street and continue straight until you reach the Petrolimex gas station at No. 17. From there, cross over the An Hòa Bridge and head towards National Highway 1A. Should you encounter any difficulty while navigating, feel free to use Google Maps or ask the friendly locals for assistance. This route covers about 35 kilometers and takes you past numerous tourist spots, allowing you to combine your trip to Ông Cọp with other must-see attractions along the way!
Route from Sông Cầu Town
If you’re coming from Sông Cầu town, head along National Highway 1A and take a right after crossing the Ngân Sơn Bridge towards Mằng Lăng Church. This route is about 52 kilometers long, quite spacious, and generally well-maintained, although it’s worth noting that there are often traffic police monitoring speed along this stretch.
Transportation Options to Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge
By Motorbike
Traveling by motorbike is a popular choice among adventurous travelers wanting to explore the area around Ông Cọp Bridge. Various motorbike rental services are readily available, and rental prices can vary based on the travel season, generally ranging from 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND per bike per day. Factors influencing pricing include the type of bike (manual, automatic, or sport) and its condition, with newer models typically costing more.
By Taxi
For those looking for a more comfortable and group-friendly option, taxi services are another popular choice for visiting Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge. Although the road to the bridge is quite rugged, opting for a taxi ensures a hassle-free experience, particularly for travelers who may not feel confident navigating the area themselves.
Conclusion
We hope the information provided about reaching Ông Cọp Wooden Bridge in Phú Yên will enhance your upcoming travel itinerary. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty and historical significance of Vietnam’s longest wooden bridge. Combining a trip to Ông Cọp with visits to nearby attractions will help create a well-rounded and unforgettable vacation in the stunning Phú Yên province!
