Gulf of Tonkin, Gulf in South China Sea between Vietnam and China
The Gulf of Tonkin is a body of water off the South China Sea, bordered by northern Vietnam and China's Hainan Island. The shallow seabed extends across most of the area, forming a sheltered zone that opens toward the wider ocean.
The gulf takes its name from the historical region of Tonkin in northern Vietnam, which formed a distinct territory for centuries. In August 1964, clashes between American and North Vietnamese vessels occurred here, marking the start of a longer military engagement.
The maritime region supports numerous fishing communities along both Vietnamese and Chinese coastlines, maintaining traditional methods passed through generations.
Several ports along the coast serve cargo traffic between the two countries and connect the region to international shipping lanes. Visitors reach the coastal areas via roads in Vietnam and China that lead to small fishing villages and larger port towns.
Bach Long Vi Island sits halfway between the two coasts and has served as a maritime boundary point since 2000. Few travelers visit this remote outcrop, which is mainly inhabited by a small garrison.
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