Da Nang City: Han River Bridge - A Symbol of Pride and Innovation

Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal hub on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, captivates over 7 million visitors annually with its 125 km South China Sea coastline and iconic landmarks. At the heart of the city, spanning the Han River in Hai Chau Ward, the Han River Bridge, or Cầu Sông Hàn, is a 487.7-meter marvel, celebrated as Vietnam’s first swing bridge. Constructed by Vietnamese engineers and workers between 1998 and 2000, this engineering feat rotates 90 degrees nightly at 1:00 AM to allow large ships to pass, a spectacle that draws crowds to its LED-lit splendor. As a symbol of Da Nang’s resilience and progress, funded entirely by local contributions, it connects Le Duan and Pham Van Dong Streets, linking the city center to eastern districts and attractions like My Khe Beach. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to experience this iconic bridge sustainably. Contact WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure—reserve a tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Han River Bridge tours use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric shuttles, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the bridge’s engineering and cultural significance. Supporting communities in Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards, we align with Da Nang’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve its treasures. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book our eco-conscious tours via the links on this page and travel responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Quang Nam Province into Da Nang City, expanding its footprint to include Hoi An Town. The district level has been eliminated, making Da Nang the nation’s largest city by landmass. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND600 billion flood mitigation project (2024)—the city ensures seamless access to Han River Bridge and other attractions.

Located 764 km south of Hanoi and 964 km north of Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City is bordered by Thua Thien Hue, Quang Ngai, Kon Tum, Laos, and the South China Sea. Covering 1,283.42 km² (241.51 km² urban, 1,041.91 km² rural), it features a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (February–August, 24–35°C or 75.2–95°F) and a rainy season (September–January, 18–30°C or 64.4–86°F), with peak rainfall in October–November (150–500 mm).

The city’s terrain, from the Truong Son Mountains to coastal plains, creates a stunning backdrop for Han River Bridge. The Han River, crossed by six iconic bridges, fuels Da Nang’s reputation as the “City of Bridges,” while over 50% of the area is forested, enhancing its natural allure.

Location and Design

Han River Bridge, centrally located at 98 Han River Bridge, Hai Chau 1, Hai Chau Ward, connects Le Duan Street (west bank) to Pham Van Dong Street (east bank), facilitating access to Da Nang International Airport (4 km) and My Khe Beach (4 km). Spanning 487.7 meters with a 12.9-meter width, it features 11 spans (33 meters each) and two cable-stayed spans totaling 122.7 meters. Built with prestressed reinforced concrete, a steel girder, and a concrete deck, its 26-meter clearance supports maritime traffic. The bridge’s nightly rotation, pivoting 90 degrees, is a unique feature, making it Vietnam’s only swing bridge.

Historical and Cultural Significance

Construction began on September 2, 1998, and was completed on March 29, 2000, at a cost of VND 117 billion (USD $5.8 million), funded by Da Nang residents, symbolizing community pride. Designed by Vietnamese architects, it marked a milestone in local engineering, easing travel across the Han River after decades of reliance on ferries and the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge. The bridge’s rotation, initially for maritime traffic, has become a tourism draw, reflecting Da Nang’s dynamic growth. It’s a cultural icon, celebrated during festivals like the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July).

Visitor Experience

Han River Bridge is a nighttime spectacle, its LED lights creating a vibrant display. The rotation, at 1:00 AM weekdays (15–20 minutes) and 11:00 PM weekends/holidays, is best viewed from Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao Streets, or via a Han River cruise. Walk the pedestrian paths for skyline views, capturing Da Nang’s shimmering riverfront. Nearby attractions like Dragon Bridge (1 km) and Han Market enhance the experience. The bridge’s free access and central location make it ideal for all travelers, with eco-tours offering cultural insights.

• Cost: Free to view; guided eco-tours $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); Han River cruise $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Hours: Open 24/7; rotation at 1:00 AM weekdays (11:00 PM Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, weather permitting).

• Sustainable Tip: Walk, cycle, or use electric taxis (e.g., XANH SM Taxi) to reduce emissions; avoid littering to preserve the riverfront.

• Highlights: “A glowing symbol of Da Nang’s ingenuity and community spirit” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Arrive by 12:30 AM (10:30 PM weekends) for rotation viewing spots; pair with Dragon Bridge’s 9:00 PM fire show. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

Han River Bridge is 2–3 km from Da Nang city center and 27 km from Hoi An Town, easily accessible by eco-friendly transport options.

• From Da Nang City Center (2–3 km):

  • Walking: 10–15 minutes along Bach Dang Street, a scenic riverside stroll.

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); 5–10 minutes.

  • Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); 5 minutes.

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) round-trip, 5 minutes. Use XANH SM Taxi for electric vehicles.

  • Electric Shuttle: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) along Han River routes.

  • Private Tour: Tours start at $50/person with eco-transfers.

• From Hoi An Town (27 km):

  • Taxi/Grab: $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND) round-trip, 40–50 minutes.

  • Motorbike Rental: $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND), 40 minutes.

  • Private Tour: Round-trip transfers $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• From Da Nang International Airport (4 km): Taxi/Grab $3–$6 (75,000–150,000 VND), 10–15 minutes; follow Nguyen Van Linh to Tran Phu to Le Duan Street.

Tip: Walk from Han Market (1 km) via Bach Dang Street, turning left at Indovina Bank and right onto Tran Phu to Le Duan. Book a Legend Travel Group tour for seamless transfers.

Entrance Fees

• Han River Bridge: Free.

• Nearby attractions: Dragon Bridge (free), Museum of Cham Sculpture ($2.50 or 60,000 VND), My Khe Beach (free).

Activities

• Guided eco-tours (Han River Bridge, Dragon Bridge): $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND); private tours: $85–$130 (2,125,000–3,250,000 VND).

• Han River cruise: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for 1-hour tours; fireworks cruise (June–July) $32 (800,000 VND).

• Dining nearby (e.g., Madame Lan, Han Market stalls): $3.50–$16 (85,000–400,000 VND).

• Coffee at riverside cafes (e.g., Riverside Coffee): $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).

Transport

• Within Da Nang (1–3 km): Bicycle $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); motorbike $6–$12/day (150,000–300,000 VND); taxi/Grab $3–$5/trip (75,000–125,000 VND).

• To Han River Bridge (2–3 km): Taxi/Grab $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) round-trip.

• From Hoi An Town (27 km): Taxi/Grab $18–$25 (450,000–625,000 VND) round-trip.

• Hanoi to Da Nang (750 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$150; train $40–$65 + $6–$13 taxi; bus $25–$40 + $6–$13 taxi.

• Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang (900 km, round-trip): Flight $90–$170; bus $35–$50 + $6–$13 taxi.

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $10–$30 (includes transport, free access, street food).

• Mid-range: $30–$60 (includes guided tour, dining).

• Luxury: $60–$100 (includes private tour, cruise, upscale dining).

Tip: Carry VND for vendors; ATMs are widespread in Hai Chau. Dry season (February–August) offers ideal weather for nighttime visits.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–4 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, especially for weekends or the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July). Arrive by 12:30 AM for weekday rotations (1:00 AM) or 10:30 PM for weekend/holiday rotations (11:00 PM); rotations may pause in heavy rain or high winds.

• Weather Prep:

  • Dry Season (February–August): Light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F); hats for evening walks.

  • Rainy Season (September–January): Raincoats, umbrellas; check November flood risks via AccuWeather. Waterproof shoes for riverside paths. Avoid high heels due to uneven surfaces.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Le Duan or Bach Dang Street; the bridge is walkable from the city center. Follow Bach Dang to Tran Phu to Le Duan for easy access.

• Best Viewing Spots: Bach Dang Street, Tran Hung Dao Street, or high-rise cafes like Sky 36 for unobstructed views; Han River cruises (e.g., Da Nang Dragon Cruise) offer unique angles.

• Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; riverside cafes provide rotation views for a small cost. Book cruises for fireworks events (June–July) in advance.

• Stay Safe: Secure belongings during crowded rotations; avoid standing near rotating sections; watch for traffic post-event. Traffic is halted during rotations (15–20 minutes).

• Sustainability: Walk, cycle, or use electric taxis (XANH SM Taxi); support eco-vendors at Han Market; dispose of waste responsibly to preserve the riverfront.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2); respect local crowds and the bridge’s cultural significance.

Our sustainable tours showcase Han River Bridge and Da Nang’s top attractions:

• Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70/person): Han River Bridge rotation, Dragon Bridge fire show, Nguyen Van Troi Bridge events, Love Bridge. Includes eco-transfers, guide, and snacks.

• Da Nang Coastal & River Adventure ($65–$85/person): Han River Bridge, My Khe Beach, Museum of Cham Sculpture. Includes electric taxi transfers and lunch.

• Da Nang City Explorer ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Han River Bridge, Ba Na Hills, Marble Mountains, homestays ($12–$30/night or 300,000–750,000 VND). Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include entrance fees, eco-transfers, and meals/snacks. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 10+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page or contact WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Enhance your Han River Bridge visit with these nearby attractions:

• Dragon Bridge (1 km): Watch the fire and water show (Fridays–Sundays, 9:00 PM); free.

• My Khe Beach (4 km): Relax on Forbes-ranked sands; free, with water sports $12–$35/hour (300,000–875,000 VND).

• Museum of Cham Sculpture (2 km): Explore 300+ Cham artifacts; $2.50 (60,000 VND).

• Son Tra Peninsula (10 km): Hike trails, visit Linh Ung Pagoda’s 67-meter Lady Buddha; free trails, guided tours $60–$80 (1,500,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Ba Na Hills (25 km): Ride the world’s longest cable car to Fantasy Park and Golden Bridge; $38–$45 (950,000–1,125,000 VND).

Tip: Combine with a Han River cruise for a full evening; book eco-tours to bundle attractions efficiently.

Han River Bridge in Da Nang City is more than a crossing—it’s a symbol of local pride, innovation, and community spirit, being Vietnam’s first swing bridge built with Da Nang’s contributions. Its nightly rotation, shimmering LED lights, and central role in connecting the city make it a must-visit landmark. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through this engineering marvel, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Han River Bridge adventure today!
Ready to witness the Han River Bridge’s magical rotation? Reserve your eco-friendly tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Da Nang’s vibrant charm!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group