The Dragon Bridge in Vietnam is a river bridge built over the Han River in Da Nang, Vietnam. It is 666 m long, 37.5 m wide, and has six traffic lanes. Its impressive architecture in the shape of a dragon and its strategic importance in connecting to the city’s busy eastern and western banks, namely Nguyen Van Linh Street and Bach Dang Street, make it one of the most popular places to visit in Vietnam. It is also popular for its fire and water performance, making it a visual spectacle for tourists and locals alike.
About The Bridge
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The Dragon Bridge in Vietnam was constructed over four years. Construction began in July 2009, completed in October 2012 and the bridge opened to traffic in March 2013. Its opening coincided with the 38th anniversary of the capture of Da Nung City by North Vietnamese forces during the Vietnam War. Nguyen Tan Dung, former Prime Minister of Vietnam, inaugurated it. The bridge is an important part of the city of Da Nang in central Vietnam. Its location in the heart of the city makes it an important link for tourists to explore the best places in the city with convenience. Places close to Da Nang city, such as the Son Tra Peninsula and the Linh Ung Pagoda are closely connected to the rest of the city through the bridge.
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Architecture
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Dragon Bridge Da Nang has garnered international notice as a remarkable example of architectural innovation. Its unique arch support system has garnered significant attention from the global media and the architectural community. The largest steel bridge in the world, fashioned like a dragon, is in Da Nang, Vietnam. Its six lanes and 666 meters of flowing steel are fashioned into a Ly-Dynasty dragon image, the Vietnamese culture’s emblem of prosperity, at an installation cost of $85 million. This exquisite one-of-a-kind metal dragon also “breathes” water and fire every week. With over 2,500 LED lights, the lighting technology has been thoughtfully incorporated to show off the dragon’s fiery head and wonderfully rendered body.
Weekends At The Bridge
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The bridge is a sight to behold on weekdays, but the weekends see a complete transformation of the Dragon Bridge. The bridge sees a fire and water performance every Saturday, Sunday, and other public holidays, such as Vietnamese Tet, which is highly anticipated by everyone. The show was stopped during the COVID-19 breakout but has since resumed and proven to be a bigger crowd-puller than before.
The initial presentation of the fire show features an enthralling 2-minute fire-breathing spectacle, executed in two segments with a stunning display of fire-breathing occurring nine times. The water spraying performance promptly follows, lasting for an impressive duration of about three minutes and comprising three sequences, each featuring a single instance of creative displays of water spraying. The performance usually starts at 9 pm, but the crowd builds up by 8 pm.
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How To Reach
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There are many ways to reach the Dragon Bridge in Vietnam, depending on your location while staying in Da Nang. If you stay at Hoi An, the transport options include public buses and personal vehicles.
- Public buses: For people looking for budget-friendly options, the public buses are the most affordable but take a long time to reach.
- Personal vehicles: Google Maps allows you to use hired cars or two-wheelers with time flexibility. Multiple parking options are nearby. Taxes are the most straightforward option for those travelling from My Khe Beach.
Nightlife Near The Dragon Bridge
In addition to the Dragon Bridge, Da Nang also offers visitors a beautiful experience through other places. These places can also be enjoyed at night along with the bridge, making for a mesmerizing night-time itinerary.
1. Love Bridge
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Located adjacent to the Dragon Bridge, is a beautiful spot to visit with your significant other. Adorned with heart-shaped decorations, couples visit this place and attach love locks, signifying their unending bond. The bridge is perfect for romantic photos and a stroll along the river. So if you are travelling with your better half, do not forget to get clicked.
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2. Night Market
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Da Nang boasts of an exhilarating night market. It offers shoppers an incredible experience to shop under the moonlight and experience the city’s local culture through its food and other goodies. Take a stroll and check out the shops. Remember to get some souvenirs for your loved ones. Do not forget to try the local cuisine
Further Read: Places to Visit In Vietnam
If you plan to go to Vietnam, adjust your itinerary and add this spot to your list. This blog summarises all the relevant information you need before visiting the stunning Dragon Bridge. So, take the leap of faith and take that much-needed break. Book your trip to Vietnam and refresh your senses.
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Cover Image credit : By Christophe95 for Wikimedia Commons.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dragon Bridge in Vietnam
What is the significance of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang?
The Dragon Bridge (Cầu Rồng) is a symbol of Da Nang’s rapid modernization and economic growth. Completed in 2013, the bridge is designed to resemble a dragon—a creature that holds great cultural significance in Vietnamese mythology, symbolizing power, nobility, and good fortune. The bridge connects the Da Nang International Airport to other main roads in the city, enhancing both the infrastructure and the aesthetic appeal of Da Nang.
How long and wide is the Dragon Bridge, and what makes its design unique?
The Dragon Bridge spans 666 meters (2,185 feet) in length and 37.5 meters (123 feet) in width, featuring six lanes for traffic. The dragon's body stretches across the Han River, and its head faces the East Sea, symbolizing prosperity. The bridge's unique feature is its ability to breathe fire and water, an attraction that draws both locals and tourists.
When can visitors see the Dragon Bridge breathe fire and water?
Visitors can witness the Dragon Bridge’s spectacular fire and water show every weekend and on special occasions. The shows typically start at 9 PM on Saturdays and Sundays. During the display, the dragon's head spews fire for two minutes, followed by water for three minutes.
What are the best viewing spots for the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show?
Several vantage points offer excellent views of the Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show. The Bach Dang Street along the Han River is a popular choice, as it provides a direct view of the dragon's head. Alternatively, visitors can enjoy the show from the riverside cafes, bars, and restaurants that line the Han River. For an elevated perspective, the rooftop bars in nearby hotels offer a stunning view of the entire bridge and its performance.
How does the Dragon Bridge contribute to Da Nang’s tourism and economy?
The Dragon Bridge is more than just an infrastructure project; it’s a landmark that has significantly boosted tourism in Da Nang. Its unique design and nightly shows attract thousands of visitors, increasing the city's visibility as a tourist destination. The bridge’s presence led to the growth of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This has created jobs.
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