Cannon Fort

just like the other reviews. DO NOT go to the google maps fort cannon location beyond any gates. There’s a dirt/slight paved steps path on the left of the road next to a small scooter parking lot. Went up with no problem or fees and enjoyed a stunning sunset!

My husband and I motorcycled to Cannon Fort and being met by a friendly local at the gates. I’d like to point out for those saying this is a scam that when tourist attractions incur an entry fee - we paid 50k per person, it’s minimal (eq. To £2pp) and this is clearly contributing to the tourism industry for the local people on Cat Ba. If you aren’t even prepared to support the local when you’re a tourist, then you may need to seriously change your mindset.

We biked up to the top and appreciated the museum displays as well as the impressive cannon. We even got to enjoy the sunset view too. Highly recommend as an attraction and we absolutely strongly encourage you to support the local rather than trusting other reviews that entry fee is a scam.

When I went there was nobody asking for money the stairs are blocked off but you just have to sneak around the side of them and you can get back on the trail and walk up. It was very misty so you couldn't see anything at the top but on a clear day it would be totally different lol.

For those who are interested on what the place looks like, you may check out my virtual tour of the place in YouTube:

https://youtu.be/IY28fNO-4jg?si=-buF5-ScWO1aZY2q

Discovering the Abandoned Cannon Fort Point 177 in Catba, Vietnam was a thrilling journey for me filled with history, adventure, and natural beauty. After stumbling upon it on Google Maps, I couldn't resist the urge to explore. Despite initial uncertainties, I embarked on a solo adventure and was pleasantly surprised by what I found.

There is an entry fee of VND 50,000 to be paid at the small booth in front of the gated entry point. No tickets will be issued. The place aren’t as well maintained for obvious reasons, it is ABANDONED!

So why pay for entrance? So that you can be part of the raw history and nature. You want it well maintained and having restaurants etc? Maybe in a few years time and my guess, entry fee would be somewhere between 150K to 300K VND.

Navigating through lush jungles, picturesque landscapes and breathtaking views of Catba is simply amazing. As I ventured inside, I was captivated by the fort's rich history, from its construction during World War II to its role in commanding the surrounding coastline.

Exploring the fort's tunnels and ditches, I uncovered relics of the past and marveled at the resilience of nature reclaiming its space. Despite debates about entry fees, I found the experience to be invaluable, offering a unique glimpse into Vietnam's storied past.

In conclusion, my journey to Cannon Fort Point 177 was a truly enriching experience. It's a hidden gem that combines history, nature, and adventure in the most delightful way. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this place has something special to offer. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore this hidden treasure and create your own unforgettable memories.

JUST DO NOT PAY THE ENTRANCE FEE. Take the stairs just before the fence and you will enjoy the best views of Cat Ba. My favourite spot to relax.

I think there are some misunderstandings here. Every guidebook (including lonely planet), locals we talked to, and website about this area indicates that you HAVE TO PAY an entrance fee. I think someone just thought because you don’t get a ticket, that it’s a scam. But in fact, it’s a truth that they charge a small fee (like 2US$ per person 🤣) to enter the gate. We saw some people trying to get through for free and it caused some serious anger from the locals. Please don’t be that tourist. You’re ruining it for everyone else and giving tourists a terrible reputation on the island. Believe us, 2US$ is worth it for a view like this.

The best view point on Cat Ba. It was closed, but you can still enter there paying a bribe to someone on the entrance ;) If there is no one there - you can enter (as we did). The view is stunning 👌🏻 there are a lot of abandoned stuff, and be careful of boars and snakes 🐗🐍. Boars are not aggressive but it's better not to play with them:)
The best place to make photos

The steps are just before the gate easy to find and definitely worth the effort getting to the top.

Loved this walk! Brilliant views at the top and interesting old exhibition stuff as a bonus curiosity. It only cost 50,000VND per person and our baby was free! They could charge a bit more because they must spend a bit on the upkeep of the grounds.

The stairs is on the left side leading to the free point of view. There’s parking on the right side. It’s in the front of the gate.

Fenced off but still accessible via the stairs. Great spot to fly a drone.

Gate was not closed, at least not today. Guy on a scooter asks 50k dong entrance per person but can be negotiated down ;) Cafe at the top is abandoned and deteriorated, sort of an urban exploration place. Views over Cat Ba Island. Recommend for sunset.

Contrary to the previous review, Cannon Fort is open as of May 3rd 2022. Likely just closed for labor day and reunification day in between. Perfect spot for a bit of history during sunset and sunrise hours, depending on which spot you pick.

The view over the Bay is very beautiful, there is a guy in the Army working at the entrance, he will collect 50,000 VND, that is normal, because he does not know English (language difference :)) so I just paid and went in to visit, I heard that there were many activities in the past, but now I only have a beautiful view of Lan Ha Bay.

we go in the early morning the gate is closed but not lock we open and go through the gate no one ask us. A good place for view and learn history

I had a great time visiting here. Who cares if the 50k entry fee isn't official. It's less that £2 and the view from the top is worth at least that. In another review someone has called it an 'urban exploration' place and I couldn't agree more. I don't know what people want but in my opinion, it was money well spent on a great afternoon

We came here in November 2022, it s quite nice to visit, it gives you a nice view from above. Needless to say the best time to come here is at sunset

We visited Canon Fort the afternoon we arrived to Cat Ba and it was an amazing first impression to the island! The views are incredible and the walk has loads of interesting things to see along the way. We only had a couple of hours up there as it was getting dark, but would have loved to spend longer. Not sure how legit the guy charging people at the gate was 😂🤷

best view point for watch the sunset, except quiet a lof of mosquitoes

Amazing views for the sunset. Much better than any of the beaches around