1. Introduction to Ghep Ferry Terminal
1.1. Geographical location and transportation role of Ghep Ferry Terminal
Ghep Ferry Terminal is located on the Yen River, within the administrative boundaries of Ngoc Son ward, Thanh Hoa province. This strategic location lies directly on National Highway 1A, playing a crucial role in connecting the North Central region with key economic zones of the province and the entire country. Thanks to this position, the ferry terminal was once a vital transit point, contributing to trade links between the North and the Central region for many decades.
Beyond its transportation significance, Ghep Ferry Terminal is also intertwined with the history of Thanh Hoa people's struggle during the resistance war against the US. This place was once a critical transport route, the "artery of communication" serving the Southern battlefield. Today, although the Ghep Bridge has replaced the ferry's role, the old ferry terminal remains a landmark deeply imbued with historical significance and the heroic memories of a time of bombs and bullets.
The Ghép Bridge connecting the two banks of the Yên River in the Ghép ferry terminal area. (Source: Thanh Hóa Newspaper)
1.2. The Ghép Ferry Terminal and its imprint on wartime history
During the fierce years of the resistance war against the US for national salvation, the Ghép ferry terminal played a particularly important role on National Highway 1A – the vital route connecting the rear of the North with the front lines of the South. It was a strategic transit point, where thousands of vehicles carrying weapons, food, and wounded soldiers crossed the Yên River day and night to reinforce the battlefield.
Amidst the bombing and shelling, the C94 Quảng Xương forces, youth volunteers, and local militia and people tenaciously held their ground, defending the ferry terminal 24 hours a day. Many soldiers bravely sacrificed their lives on the water to protect the ferry route, ensuring the flow of transport vehicles was never interrupted. Stories of courage and creativity amidst hardship have become symbols of the resilient spirit and iron will of the people of Thanh Hóa.
Ghep Ferry Terminal is a historical witness to the resistance war against the US for national salvation. (Source: Collected)
The ferry terminal also witnessed many fierce battles when US aircraft concentrated their attacks to cut off the North-South transport route. However, thanks to the bravery and resilient will of the army and people, the ferry route remained operational. Each ferry trip across the Yen River at that time not only carried goods but also carried the belief in victory and the indomitable will of the Vietnamese nation.
2. Cultural and Educational Influence of Ghep Ferry Terminal
Ghep Ferry Terminal is not only a witness to the fierce years of war but has also become a "red address" for educating revolutionary traditions for the younger generation. It preserves touching stories about the courage and indomitable spirit of the militia, youth volunteers, and people of Thanh Hoa during the resistance period.
Annually, many delegations of students and tourists from within and outside the province visit the ferry terminal to offer incense in remembrance, learn about history, and recall the glorious memories of their ancestors. The relic site is solemnly planned with a memorial stele, an exhibition area for artifacts, and images recreating the years of bombing, becoming a destination with profound educational value. Ghep Ferry Terminal today is not only a symbol of a glorious past but also a source of pride for the local community, inspiring patriotism and the responsibility to preserve historical heritage for future generations.
3. Directions and Exploration of Ghep Ferry Terminal
3.1. Route to Ghep Ferry Terminal from Thanh Hoa Center and Major Provinces
Ghep Ferry Terminal is located on the Yen River, about 30-40 km south of Thanh Hoa center. From the center, visitors can travel along National Highway 1A towards Nghi Son – Nghe An, and reach the destination at the Ghep bridge area. The journey by car or motorbike takes about 1 hour, depending on traffic density.
If traveling from Hanoi, the distance is about 180 km. The most convenient way is to travel via the Hanoi – Ninh Binh – National Highway 1A expressway, taking about 3.5 to 4 hours. Long-distance bus routes from North to South all pass through this area, making it easy for visitors to stop and explore the relic.
3.2. Suggested Itinerary for Visiting Ghep Ferry Terminal Combined with Tourism
Visitors should start their journey in the morning, visit Ghep Ferry Terminal to explore the memorial stele area, the image exhibition area, and learn about the history of the glorious resistance years. Afterwards, you can stop at Ghep bridge to admire the scenery of the Yen River and take souvenir photos in an atmosphere that is both peaceful and reminiscent of a heroic past.
In the afternoon, visitors can continue their journey to Sam Son Beach Square to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere, participate in festivals, entertainment activities, and feel the vibrant pulse of Thanh Hoa. Afterwards, visitors can visit the Lam Kinh relic site, which preserves the historical values of the Later Le dynasty and the characteristic cultural beauty of Thanh region. In addition, Thanh Hoa is also commencing the construction of Huyen Tich Am Tien in the Nui Nua area, with the orientation to develop this place into a large-scale spiritual tourism center in the future. Upon completion, the project promises to offer visitors a new destination, combining cultural, spiritual values, and the unique natural landscape of Thanh region.
Stroll and visit at Sam Son Sea Square. (Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper)
The Ghép Ferry Terminal relic is a vivid testament to the courageous spirit and immortal patriotism of the Thanh Hoa army and people during the arduous resistance years. Over time, this place still preserves intact memories of a time of bombs and bullets, where ordinary people sacrificed themselves to maintain the "lifeline of transportation" of the Fatherland. Today, Ghép ferry terminal is not only a historical relic but also a sacred destination, helping every Vietnamese person to cherish peace more and be proud of the nation's resilient tradition. Stop by here once to listen to the echoes of the past and feel the immortal pulse of history amidst the Thanh Hoa land.
