The Dragon Bridge Da Nang is one of the most iconic and impressive bridges in Vietnam, with a stunning design that resembles a dragon flying over the Han River. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about this amazing attraction, from its history and architecture to its fire and water show, events, and activities, and how to visit and enjoy it.
History and Architecture of the Dragon Bridge Da Nang
The Dragon Bridge Da Nang was built to commemorate the 38th anniversary of the liberation of Da Nang from the South Vietnamese regime in 1975, during the Vietnam War. The bridge symbolizes the strength, prosperity, and development of the city and the nation, as well as the cultural and historical heritage of Vietnam.
The bridge was designed by the US-based Ammann & Whitney Consulting Engineers with Louis Berger Group, and constructed by Company No. 508 and Bridge Company No. 75. The construction started in July 2009 and finished in March 2013, at a cost of nearly VND 1.5 trillion dong (US$88m).
The bridge is 666 meters long, 37.5 meters wide, and has six lanes for traffic. It is the world’s largest dragon-shaped steel bridge, with a total of 2,500 LED lights that change colors every few minutes. The bridge has a unique design that mimics a dragon of the Ly Dynasty, which ruled Vietnam from the 11th to the 13th century. The dragon’s head faces the East Sea, while its tail forms a lotus flower, the national flower of Vietnam.
The bridge is located in the heart of Da Nang, connecting the city center with the eastern part of the city, where the international airport and many hotels and resorts are located. The bridge is also close to the Son Tra Peninsula and the Linh Ung Pagoda, which are popular destinations for nature and culture lovers.
Fire and Water Performance of the Dragon Bridge Da Nang
The bridge is famous for its fire and water performance, which happens every Saturday and Sunday night at 9 pm, and lasts for about 15 minutes. The performance is also held on holidays and festivals, such as the Lunar New Year, the Independence Day, and the Danang International Firework Festival.
During the performance, the dragon’s head breathes fire and water, creating a spectacular sight that attracts thousands of visitors and locals. The fire and water are sprayed from the dragon’s mouth, which can reach up to 7 meters and 10 meters respectively. The fire and water are synchronized with the music and the lighting system, creating a stunning visual and auditory effect.
The best time to visit the bridge is at night, when it is illuminated and offers a magnificent view of the city and the river. The fire and water show is also a must-see attraction, so make sure to arrive early and find a good spot to watch it. The show is free of charge, but it can get crowded, so be careful of your belongings and personal space.
The bridge is also a great place to take photos and videos, as it has a unique and impressive appearance. However, be aware of the traffic and the safety regulations, and do not climb or lean on the bridge. Also, respect the local culture and customs, and do not litter or make noise on the bridge.
Other Events and Activities at the Dragon Bridge Da Nang
The bridge is also a venue for various events and activities that showcase the culture and entertainment of Da Nang and Vietnam. Some of the most popular events are the Danang International Firework Festival and the New Year Countdown Party, which feature spectacular firework displays and live music performances.
The bridge is also surrounded by many attractions and facilities that visitors can enjoy, such as the Han River Park, the Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture, the Sun World Da Nang Wonders amusement park, and the Helio Night Market. These places offer a variety of options for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment.
The Han River Park is a green and peaceful oasis along the river, where you can relax, stroll, bike, or picnic. The park also has a children’s playground, a fountain, and a statue of Tran Hung Dao, a national hero of Vietnam.
The Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture is a museum that displays the art and culture of the Cham people, who ruled central and southern Vietnam from the 2nd to the 15th century. The museum has over 300 sculptures, mostly made of sandstone, depicting Hindu gods and goddesses, animals, and mythical creatures.
The Sun World Da Nang Wonders is an amusement park that features various rides, games, shows, and attractions for all ages. The park is divided into 10 zones, each representing a different country or region, such as Japan, Europe, Africa, and Vietnam. The park also has a Ferris wheel, a monorail, a water park, and a cultural village.
The Helio Night Market is a lively and colorful market that opens from 5 pm to 11 pm every day. The market sells a variety of goods, such as clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and handicrafts. The market also has a food court, where you can sample the local cuisine, such as banh xeo (crispy pancakes), mi quang (noodle soup), and banh trang kep (rice paper sandwich).
How to Visit and Enjoy the Dragon Bridge Da Nang
The bridge is easily accessible from any part of Da Nang, as it is located in the center of the city. The most convenient and comfortable way to get to the bridge is by taxi, which can cost around VND 50,000 to VND 100,000 (US$2 to US$4) depending on the distance and the traffic.
Another option is to take a bus, which is cheaper and more eco-friendly, but also slower and less frequent. The bus routes that pass by the bridge are No. 1, No. 2, No. 3, and No. 6, and the fare is VND 5,000 (US$0.2) per person. The bus stops are located near the bridge, and the buses run from 5 am to 10 pm.
For those who want to explore the city on their own, they can rent a motorbike or a bicycle, which are widely available in Da Nang. The rental fee is around VND 100,000 to VND 200,000 (US$4 to US$8) per day for a motorbike, and VND 50,000 to VND 100,000 (US$2 to US$4) per day for a bicycle. The bridge is easy to find, as it is well-signposted and visible from afar.
Where to Stay
If you are looking for a place to stay near the bridge, you have plenty of options to choose from, ranging from budget to luxury. Some of the best hotels near the bridge are the Novotel Danang Premier Han River, the Hilton Da Nang, the Brilliant Hotel, and the Sanouva Danang Hotel. These hotels offer comfortable rooms, excellent services, and stunning views of the bridge and the river.
The Dragon Bridge Da Nang is a remarkable bridge that showcases the beauty, culture, and history of Da Nang and Vietnam. It offers a spectacular sight, especially at night, when it lights up and breathes fire and water. It also hosts various events and activities that attract visitors and locals alike. It is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to experience the charm and excitement of Da Nang.
If you are planning to visit Da Nang, don’t miss the chance to see the Dragon Bridge Da Nang in person.
You can book your tickets and accommodation online, or contact us for more information and assistance. We are happy to help you make your trip to Da Nang unforgettable.
