Hanoi’s iconic Long Bien Bridge, once described as a “misshapen but essential component of Hanoi’s heritage”, has spanned across the Red River for over 100 years. It has been – and will continue to be – the subject of countless images over the years. Its crumbling French architecture, passing trains and timelessness all scream: “Photograph me!” I’m definitely a sucker for this type of image, but Long Bien's surrounding neighborhood also provides a rich fabric of markets, textures and smiling faces to complement the iconic bridge. It takes but a slow stroll around the block and all the best bits of street photography present themselves.
A young woman carries her wares down the street near Long Bien Bridge.
A vendor sells plums in the market near Long Bien Bridge.
Down the tracks from Long Bien Bridge, looking westward towards the Red River.
Ga Long Bien, the train station on the eastern side of Long Bien Bridge.
Built between 1899 and 1902, Long Bien remains a symbol of French architecture in Vietnam.
A cyclist rides below the eastern side of Long Bien Bridge.
A pedestrian stands for a portrait while walking across the Long Bien Bridge.
The neighborhood surrounding Long Bien Bridge includes the vertical, box-like construction that so typifies a large number of Vietnamese dwellings.
Traditional fishing boats along the Red River.
Looking east from the bridge towards the city center.
A traditional vendor sits in the surrounding neighborhoods near the bridge.
