The short answer
Cannon Fort (Point 177): what visitors should know first
Go for the view and the wartime remains, ideally in clear weather and late afternoon. Take a vehicle up if you can; fog and drizzle hide the scenery, so keep it for a clear day.
History and context
The story behind Cannon Fort (Point 177)
Sources describe the fort as built in the 1940s and used during the conflicts with France and the United States. Wikipedia describes it as a newly built fort on a 177 m peak with older bunkers and helicopter landing sites, so some of what you see is more recent than the military remains.
We could not verify a detailed construction history, so we have kept this brief.
Useful facts
Cannon Fort (Point 177) facts at a glance
- Location
- Hill above Cat Co 1 and Cat Co 2 beaches
- Height
- 177 m, hence Point 177
- Remains
- Two cannons, tunnel, bunkers, observatory
- Access
- Paved road for cars and motorbikes
- Entry
- Ticketed; about 40,000 VND per one source
- Best light
- Late afternoon in clear weather
Why it matters
Why Cannon Fort (Point 177) is worth your time
The fort sits on a 177 m hill and dates from the 1940s, in the years of fighting against the French and then the Americans. Its guns, trenches and tunnels show how this island served as a lookout over the sea approaches to Hai Phong.
It is also the best single viewpoint for understanding the island's layout. From the platforms you can see the small bay where Cat Ba town lies, the beaches beneath you and the stacked islands beyond, which makes it a useful first or last stop on a short visit.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The two cannons
The guns anchor the site. The first is better kept, and the contrast with the second shows how weather and time have worked on them.
- 02
The observatory views
Look for Cat Co beaches below and the island chain of Lan Ha Bay in the distance.
- 03
Bunkers and tunnel
Short and narrow; only for the comfortable. They give a sense of how soldiers sheltered.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Reach the fort by taxi, hotel car or motorbike along the paved road above the Cat Co beaches. Walking up is possible but hot, so most older visitors ride. Buy your ticket at the counter and follow the paved path to the left of the parking area to reach the main artillery.
The core of the site is a stone observation position, two cannons, a U-shaped tunnel and several concrete bunkers, including shell shelters. The first cannon is better preserved than the second. The tunnels are narrow and best left to those comfortable in tight spaces. Spend most of your time on the observation platforms, which look across the town, the Cat Co beaches below and the karsts of Lan Ha Bay and Ha Long Bay in the distance.
The views depend on weather. A visitor who came in fog and light rain saw little, so check the sky before you go. Late afternoon light is flattering and local people consider the sunset a highlight; allow time to get down before dark.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Take a vehicle to the top rather than walking in the heat
- Check the weather; fog hides the view
- Carry water and a hat
- Leave enough daylight to get down safely
- Wear shoes with grip on the bunker steps
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Hill above Cat Co beaches, north of Cat Ba town
- Time needed
- 1 to 1.5 hours
- Best time
- Late afternoon on a clear day
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- A paved road leads up, so cars and motorbikes can reach the top, but the site has uneven paths, steps up to the observation points and little shade. Choose a vehicle over walking.
- Tickets and access
- A ticket is needed; one guide we opened quotes about 40,000 VND per person, but fees change. No clear posted hours were found, so plan for daylight hours and confirm locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Cannon Fort (Point 177)
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
A paved road leads up, so cars and motorbikes can reach the top, but the site has uneven paths, steps up to the observation points and little shade. Choose a vehicle over walking.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Can I drive to Cannon Fort?
Yes, a paved road leads up and cars and motorbikes can reach the site, according to a guide we opened.
Is it worth visiting in poor weather?
Not for the views. In fog or rain you may see little, so choose a clear day or late afternoon.
Is it suitable for elderly travellers?
With a vehicle, many can manage the main platforms. Tunnels and bunker steps are better skipped if mobility is limited.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
