The Cambodia-Japan Friendship Bridge

The Cambodia–Japan Friendship Bridge was constructed in 1966. During the Cambodian Civil War, from 1973 to 1975, the Khmer Rouge successfully destroyed the bridge by planting explosives on it twice. On April 17, 1975, the Khmer Rouge forcibly evacuated all residents of Phnom Penh and sent them to live and work in rural agricultural areas. As a result, the bridge was abandoned and received no maintenance or repairs during that period.

Following the liberation of Phnom Penh on January 7, 1979, people from various provinces returned to the capital, and the government began restoring infrastructure that had been damaged by war and years of neglect. However, due to financial constraints, the bridge could not be repaired immediately. In 1995, the Cambodian government received assistance from the Japanese government to rehabilitate the bridge, and Japanese engineers successfully carried out the restoration work.

Phnom Penh was once known as the “Pearl of Asia” during the 1960s because of its beauty, modernity, and peaceful atmosphere at the time. Today, it remains Cambodia’s largest, most beautiful, wealthiest, and most populous city.

Moreover, the Chroy Changvar Bridge is a popular attraction where visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Phnom Penh and capture stunning photographs of the city skyline, featuring numerous high-rise buildings stretching along the riverbanks.

In addition to the Chroy Changvar Bridge, tourists visiting Phnom Penh can explore many nearby attractions, including Wat Ounalom, Independence Monument, Wat Phnom, National Museum of Cambodia, Phnom Penh Riverside Park, Phsar Chas (Old Market), Orussey Market, and Royal Palace of Cambodia.