Da Nang City: How the Iconic Dragon Bridge Was Built

Da Nang City, a vibrant coastal hub on Vietnam’s South Central Coast, attracts over 7 million visitors annually to its 125 km South China Sea coastline. At the heart of the city, spanning the Han River in Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards, the Dragon Bridge (Cau Rong) is a 666-meter architectural masterpiece, the world’s largest dragon-shaped steel bridge. Inaugurated on March 29, 2013, to mark the 38th anniversary of Da Nang’s liberation, this engineering marvel, designed by Ammann & Whitney and Louis Berger Group, embodies the Ly Dynasty’s dragon, symbolizing prosperity and ambition. Renowned for its fire and water shows every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 9:00 PM, and its 15,000 LED lights, the bridge won the 2014 Engineering Excellence Award from the American Council of Engineering Companies. As a vital link to Da Nang International Airport, My Khe Beach, and Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, its construction story is as captivating as its visual spectacle. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to explore this iconic bridge sustainably. Contact +84825862222 or info@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 Dragon 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 natural and cultural 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 areas like Hoi An Town (formerly part of Quang Nam). 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 Dragon 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 Dragon Bridge. The Han River, crossed by seven iconic bridges, fuels Da Nang’s reputation as the “City of Bridges,” while over 50% of the area is forested, enhancing its natural allure.

Project Inception and Design Competition

The vision for Dragon Bridge emerged as a landmark project to symbolize Da Nang’s growth and cultural heritage. In late 2005, the city launched the Dragon Bridge Designing Competition, attracting eight proposals from firms in Vietnam, Japan, Germany, and the United States. The winning design, selected in 2006, was submitted by U.S.-based Ammann & Whitney and Louis Berger Group. Their concept featured a 550-meter steel dragon inspired by the Ly Dynasty (1010–1225), with a lotus-shaped tail and a head facing My Khe Beach, symbolizing prosperity and Da Nang’s seaward ambitions. The design integrated a single-steel arch, the first in Southeast Asia, blending aesthetic innovation with structural efficiency.

Construction Timeline and Challenges

Construction began on July 19, 2009, starting from the east bank of the Han River, with a total investment of VND 1.7 trillion (approximately USD $85 million). The project faced challenges due to the river’s tidal fluctuations and coastal weather, requiring precise engineering. Key milestones included:

• 2009–2011: Foundation work and pier construction, using advanced piling techniques to ensure stability in the riverbed.

• 2012: Completion of the main bridge pier on October 26, 2012, and assembly of the 9,000-ton steel dragon, coated with five layers of anti-corrosion paint to withstand harsh conditions.

• 2013: Final installation of 15,000 LED lights and 18 fire and water nozzles, with testing of the dragon’s pyrotechnic system. The bridge was inaugurated on March 29, 2013, celebrating Da Nang’s 38th liberation anniversary.

Spanning 666 meters with a 37.5-meter width, the bridge features six vehicle lanes, two 2-meter pedestrian pathways, and an 18-meter clearance for ships. The dragon’s head, equipped with nozzles, breathes fire (two bursts, nine times each) and water (three bursts) during shows, powered by a state-of-the-art system.

Engineering and Cultural Significance

The Dragon Bridge is a feat of modern engineering, recognized with the 2014 Engineering Excellence Award for its sophisticated design and community impact. Its single-steel arch, 550-meter dragon body, and LED lighting system (earning a 2014 Lighting Design Award) create a harmonious blend of aesthetics and utility. Culturally, the Ly Dynasty dragon reflects Vietnam’s heritage, while the bridge’s role in connecting Da Nang International Airport, My Khe Beach, and Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village underscores its economic and social value. The fire and water shows, held Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays at 9:00 PM, symbolize Da Nang’s vitality, drawing global visitors during the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July).

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

• Hours: Open 24/7; fire and water show Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays at 9:00 PM (15 minutes).

• Sustainable Tip: Walk or cycle to reduce emissions; avoid littering to preserve the riverfront.

• Highlights: “A fiery engineering marvel” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Arrive by 8:30 PM for prime show spots; view from Tran Hung Dao or Bach Dang Street. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).

Dragon Bridge is at Nguyen Van Linh Street, Hai Chau Ward, 2–3 km from Da Nang city center and 27 km from Hoi An Town, easily accessible by various transport options.

• From Da Nang City Center (2–3 km):

  • Walking: 10–15 minutes along Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao Street.

  • 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.

  • Electric Shuttle: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 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.

Tip: Walk or cycle for eco-friendly access; use Grab for transparent pricing. Book a Legend Travel Group tour for seamless transfers.

Entrance Fees

• Dragon Bridge: Free.

• Nearby attractions: Love Bridge (free), Ba Na Hills ($38–$45 or 950,000–1,125,000 VND).

Activities

• Guided tours (Dragon Bridge, Love 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.

• Dining nearby (e.g., Madame Lan, Bach Dang Street): $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 Dragon Bridge (2–3 km from city center): 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 in Hai Chau. Dry season (February–August) is ideal for shows.

• 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 8:30 PM for fire and water show spots (Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays at 9:00 PM); shows may pause in heavy rain or major events.

• Weather Prep:

  • Dry Season (February–August): Sunscreen, hats, light clothing for 24–35°C (75.2–95°F).

  • Rainy Season (September–January): Raincoats, umbrellas; avoid November flood risks (check AccuWeather). Waterproof shoes for water spray areas.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Nguyen Van Linh or Bach Dang Street; the bridge is walkable from the city center. Han River pathways are bike-friendly.

• Best Viewing Spots: Tran Hung Dao Street, Bach Dang Street, or rooftops like Novotel Da Nang for unobstructed views; Han River cruises offer unique angles.

• Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; riverside cafes provide show views for a small cost.

• Stay Safe: Secure belongings during crowded shows; avoid standing under the dragon’s head to stay dry; watch for traffic post-show.

• Sustainability: Walk, cycle, or use electric shuttles; support eco-vendors; dispose of waste responsibly to preserve the riverfront.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides/vendors ($1–$2); respect local crowds during shows.

Our sustainable tours showcase Dragon Bridge and nearby attractions:

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

• Da Nang Coastal & River Adventure ($65–$85/person): Dragon Bridge, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains. Includes electric taxi transfers and lunch.

• Da Nang City Explorer ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Dragon Bridge, Golden Bridge, Son Tra Peninsula, 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 +84825862222, info@legendtravelgroup.com!

Dragon Bridge in Da Nang City, a stunning fusion of cultural heritage and modern engineering, captivates with its Ly Dynasty-inspired dragon, advanced LED lighting, and weekend fire and water shows (Saturdays and Sundays, 9:00 PM), drawing millions yearly with free access. Spanning the Han River, this iconic bridge reflects Da Nang’s ambition, supported by sustainable tourism initiatives like low-impact viewing areas. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours uncover the bridge’s visionary design and construction story, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience with eco-friendly practices and visits to My Khe Beach and Han Market. Don’t miss out—contact Legend Travel Group to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore the Dragon Bridge’s engineering marvel? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Da Nang’s vibrant heart!

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:

• Dragon Bridge Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group