Discover why Han River Bridge in Da Nang City, Vietnam’s first swing bridge, is a cultural icon. Book sustainable eco-tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable experience!
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 (Cầu Sông Hàn) is a 487.7-meter architectural marvel, renowned as Vietnam’s first swing bridge. Built by Vietnamese engineers between 1998 and 2000, it rotates 90 degrees nightly at 1:00 AM (11:00 PM weekends/holidays) to allow large ships to pass, creating a mesmerizing spectacle under vibrant LED lights. Fully funded by Da Nang residents, this bridge symbolizes local pride and ingenuity, connecting Le Duan and Pham Van Dong Streets to link the city center with attractions like My Khe Beach and Son Tra Peninsula. Its unique design and cultural significance make it a must-visit. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, offers eco-friendly tours to experience this landmark 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 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.
Han River Bridge, inaugurated on March 29, 2000, is Vietnam’s only swing bridge, designed and built entirely by Vietnamese engineers and workers at a cost of VND 117 billion (USD $5.8 million). Funded by local contributions, it embodies the spirit of Da Nang’s community, marking a milestone in self-reliant infrastructure development. Spanning 487.7 meters with a 12.9-meter width, it features 11 spans (33 meters each) and two cable-stayed sections (122.7 meters total), constructed with prestressed concrete, a steel girder, and a concrete deck. Its 26-meter clearance supports maritime traffic, connecting Hai Chau and Son Tra Wards.
The bridge’s defining feature is its nightly rotation, pivoting 90 degrees to open a 200-meter passage for ships. From Monday to Friday, it swings at 1:00 AM, closing by 2:00 AM (or 4:00 AM for large vessels). On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, the rotation occurs earlier, from 11:00 PM to midnight, attracting crowds during events like the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (June–July). The 15–20-minute spectacle, illuminated by LED lights, transforms the Han River into a shimmering stage, reflecting Da Nang’s maritime heritage.
Beyond its engineering, Han River Bridge is a cultural icon, celebrated for its role in Da Nang’s growth from a ferry-dependent port to a modern city. At night, its colorful LED lights create a sparkling silhouette against the river, making it a photography hotspot. Walking its pedestrian paths offers panoramic views of the city skyline, including nearby Dragon Bridge and Tran Thi Ly Bridge, enhancing its allure as a tourism centerpiece.
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 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 testament to Da Nang’s spirit and innovation” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Arrive by 10:30 PM for weekend rotations; pair with a riverside dinner for a memorable night. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).
The bridge’s rotation is a must-see, best viewed from Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao Streets, where crowds gather to watch the 15–20-minute pivot. For a unique perspective, book a Han River cruise to see the bridge open from the water, framed by Da Nang’s skyline. The earlier weekend timing (11:00 PM) makes it accessible for evening plans.
Cost: Free from streets; cruises $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Tip: Check weather forecasts; rotations may pause in storms. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).
Walk the bridge’s pedestrian paths at dusk or night to capture its LED-lit beauty reflecting on the Han River. The vibrant colors and city skyline, including nearby Dragon Bridge, create stunning photo opportunities, especially during sunset (5:30–6:30 PM) or festivals.
Cost: Free; guided photography tours $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).
Tip: Use a tripod for night shots; visit weekdays for fewer crowds. Included in our Da Nang Photography Tour ($60–$80).
Combine your visit with the Dragon Bridge fire show (9:00 PM, Fridays–Sundays, 1 km away) or explore Han Market (1 km) for local food and souvenirs. Riverside cafes like Riverside Coffee offer rotation views with drinks, enhancing the experience.
Cost: Free for Dragon Bridge; drinks $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).
Tip: Plan a 3–4-hour evening itinerary to include both bridges and dining. Included in our Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70).
Han River Bridge is centrally located at Le Duan and Pham Van Dong Street, Hai Chau Ward, 2–3 km from Da Nang city center and 27 km from Hoi An Town, accessible by eco-friendly transport:
From Da Nang City Center (2–3 km):
Walking: 10–15 minutes along Bach Dang Street, a scenic riverside path.
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 for an eco-friendly approach; book tours for multi-site visits.
Han River Bridge: Free.
Nearby Attractions: Dragon Bridge (free), Museum of Cham Sculpture ($2.50 or 60,000 VND), My Khe Beach (free), Ba Na Hills ($38–$45 or 950,000–1,125,000 VND).
Guided Eco-Tours: $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); fireworks cruise (June–July) $32–$160 (800,000–4,000,000 VND).
Photography Tours: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND).
Dining Nearby (e.g., Madame Lan, Han Market): $3.50–$16 (85,000–400,000 VND).
Coffee at Riverside Cafes: $1.50–$4.50 (37,500–112,500 VND).
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.
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) is ideal 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.
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.
Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Le Duan or Bach Dang Street; the bridge is walkable from Han Market (1 km). Han River pathways are bike-friendly.
Best Viewing Spots: Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao Streets for rotations; high-rise cafes like Sky 36 for elevated views; Han River cruises for unique angles.
Budget Wisely: Carry 50,000–500,000 VND notes; riverside cafes offer rotation views for a small cost. Book cruises early for fireworks events (June–July).
Stay Safe: Secure belongings during crowded rotations; avoid standing near rotating sections; watch for traffic post-event. Traffic halts during rotations.
Sustainability: Walk, cycle, or use electric taxis; 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 the bridge’s cultural significance and local crowds.
Our sustainable tours showcase Han River Bridge and nearby attractions:
Da Nang Night Tour ($50–$70/person): Han River Bridge rotation, Dragon Bridge fire show, Nguyen Van Troi Bridge events, riverside promenade. 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, 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 WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Han River Bridge in Da Nang City is a remarkable symbol of local pride and engineering prowess, its nightly swing and dazzling LED lights captivating visitors. As Vietnam’s first swing bridge, built with community funding, it holds deep cultural meaning while serving as a gateway to Da Nang’s vibrant attractions. From its unique rotation to the stunning riverfront views, it’s a must-see landmark. Supported by Da Nang’s sustainable tourism initiatives, Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours immerse you in this iconic bridge’s story, 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 experience the Han River Bridge’s nightly magic? Reserve your eco-friendly 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, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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