Dragon Bridge, Da Nang: A Striking Landmark in the Heart of the City
True to its name, Dragon Bridge in Da Nang is designed to resemble a dragon winding along its length. More than just a transportation link connecting the two sides of the Han River, the bridge has become a new symbol of Da Nang. It is a popular gathering spot in the evenings, and many of the city’s major events are often held in the surrounding area.
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Overview of Dragon Bridge, Da Nang
For any visitor to Da Nang, it’s impossible not to catch sight of Dragon Bridge at least once. Its striking design and central location ensure that you will likely pass by it while exploring the city. Spanning approximately 666 meters in length and 37.5 meters in width, Dragon Bridge crosses the Han River, which runs along the city. More than just a bridge for transportation, it has become a symbol of tourism, regularly hosting major city events.
In Vietnamese and Southeast Asian culture, the dragon has long been a symbol of prosperity, power, wisdom, and strength. The dragon’s body curves gracefully, and its head, raised high, represents an unstoppable energy and the aspiration to reach greater heights. The dragon motif has been deeply embedded in architecture and sculpture throughout history, becoming a powerful symbol in Vietnamese culture. The design for the Dragon Bridge was crafted by the American joint venture The Louis Berger Group and Ammann & Whitney, reflecting Da Nang’s ambition to grow and reach out to the world.
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As night falls, Dragon Bridge comes alive with vibrant colors. It’s a spectacular sight to stroll along and admire the bridge at night. From any angle, the bridge radiates modern beauty, illuminated by 15,000 LED lights that create a dazzling, dynamic display, captivating every visitor.
How to Get to Dragon Bridge, Da Nang
From Hoi An to Dragon Bridge
Hoi An and Da Nang are located very close to each other, so if you’re coming from Hoi An, you can choose to take a bus to Dragon Bridge during the day. This option is popular among tourists because it’s cost-effective, with tickets priced at around 20,000 VND per person, including personal luggage. The buses run frequently, with a trip departing every 20 minutes from Hoi An to Da Nang.
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If you prefer to travel by motorbike or car, head straight toward the An Bang highway, then turn left at the roundabout near Thanh Hien Seafood Restaurant. Continue along Vo Van Kiet Street, and you’ll see the bridge appear in front of you. You can also use Google Maps for precise directions.
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From Da Nang to Dragon Bridge
If you’re starting from the My Khe Beach area, head towards Vo Nguyen Giap Street and turn left onto Vo Van Kiet Street. Drive straight for a bit, and you’ll arrive at the bridge. Alternatively, you can reach Dragon Bridge by heading straight along Tran Phu Street and then turning left.
Dragon Bridge, Da Nang: Fire and Water Breathing Performances
In addition to its primary function as a traffic connector and its impressive architectural design, Dragon Bridge is uniquely engineered to perform fire and water breathing displays—a creative touch from the bridge’s designers. These spectacular shows take place every Saturday, Sunday evening, and during major holidays throughout the year. The fire-breathing performance starts at 9:00 PM, followed by the water display.
The entire fire and water show lasts about five minutes. The fire-breathing consists of two rounds, each with nine bursts, lasting two minutes in total. The water-breathing includes three rounds, with each round consisting of one burst, lasting three minutes. These performances have made Dragon Bridge a standout attraction and one of Da Nang’s most popular tourist destinations, drawing countless visitors each year.
How to Watch Dragon Bridge’s Fire and Water Show in Da Nang
Watching from the Bridge
When it’s time for the fire-breathing show, traffic is stopped on the bridge, allowing you to enjoy the performance right from the bridge itself. However, it’s best not to stand too close to the dragon’s head unless you don’t mind getting wet during the water show.
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Watching from Under the Bridge (Tran Hung Dao Street)
Tran Hung Dao Street runs directly under the dragon’s head, making it an ideal spot to watch the show. Moreover, this area has several sidewalk cafés where you can enjoy a drink while watching the performance.
Watching from Bach Dang Street
Bach Dang Street is located at the opposite end of the bridge, offering a clear view of the show while allowing you to admire the beauty of the Han River. For a better view, choose a café with a balcony or head to the second floor of a nearby establishment.
Watching from Above
A more unique way to enjoy the fire and water show is by watching it from the upper floors of nearby buildings. From this vantage point, you can take in both the performance and the stunning nighttime views of Da Nang.
Watching from Nearby Bridges
There are several other bridges in Da Nang parallel to Dragon Bridge, from which you can enjoy the fire and water shows in their entirety. Popular options include Han River Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge, and Thuan Phuoc Bridge.
Enjoying the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) from Dragon Bridge
The Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF) is held once a year, bringing together fireworks teams from around the world to compete in the city’s largest fireworks event. Since the fireworks displays take place over the Han River, Dragon Bridge offers a fantastic spot to watch the show for free.
If you want to fully enjoy the fireworks and music performances, capturing every vivid moment, it’s best to arrive early before the event starts, as large crowds gather on Dragon Bridge to witness the spectacle.
With its role as a connector between the two sides of the Han River and its regular hosting of exciting events, Dragon Bridge remains a favorite destination for all visitors to Da Nang. If you have the chance to visit Da Nang, don’t forget to stop by this remarkable bridge!
