Dragon Bridge in Da Nang: History, Architecture, and Weekend Fire-Breathing Experience

As one of Vietnam’s most unique bridges, Dragon Bridge has become an icon of Da Nang that no visitor should miss. Yet, not many know about its history. That’s why today, we’ll take you on a journey to discover its story—along with a few surprising facts you may not have heard before.

History of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang

True to its name, Dragon Bridge was designed in the shape of a dragon, stretching 666 meters long and 37.5 meters wide across the Han River. With an investment of nearly VND 1.5 trillion, it features six lanes and was officially inaugurated on March 29, 2013, marking the 38th anniversary of Da Nang’s liberation. Its design is a milestone in the city’s modern architectural landscape.

The bridge was the result of an international design competition. Out of many impressive proposals, the winning design came from two American consultancies—depicting a dragon soaring gracefully into the sky.

Source: danangfantasticity.com

Highlights of the Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge is the most unique bridge in Vietnam, providing the shortest route connecting Da Nang International Airport to the city’s main streets. Not only does it serve as a crucial transportation route for the city, but the Dragon Bridge, with its design resembling a dragon from the Ly Dynasty reaching out to the sea, is one of the most iconic architectural structures of Da Nang.

Source: danangfantasticity.com

The dragon’s tail is stylized to resemble a blooming lotus flower, a traditional flower associated with peaceful rural life in Vietnam. The dragon’s body curves toward the sea, symbolizing Da Nang’s aspiration for integration with friends around the world. Regarding durability, the bridge is coated with five layers of anti-corrosion paint to protect it from weather elements and give it a stunning golden color. The most special feature of Dragon Bridge is its ability to breathe water and fire. According to the design, the dragon on the bridge can breathe fire for two minutes and then breathe water for three minutes, making the bridge an impressive, iconic and attractive highlight of Da Nang city.

Events at the Dragon Bridge

The night time is the best time to view the Dragon Bridge. With 15,000 LED lights, the bridge turns into a real dragon, emitting a dazzling array of colors. Furthermore, the Dragon Bridge also attracts tourists with various events and performances during the evening.

Source: danangfantasticity.com

Dragon Bridge’s fire and water show

For Da Nang tourists, alongside learning about the history of the Dragon Bridge, witnessing the fire-breathing show is one of the most exciting moments. Fortunately, you can enjoy this spectacular performance every weekend for free. Every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM, the Dragon Bridge will dazzle both locals and tourists with its amazing fire and water performance.

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The first performance is the fire-breathing show, which features two rounds, with nine bursts of fire in each round. You’ll be amazed by the dazzling lights combined with fire shooting from the dragon’s head. Many tourists prefer the second show, the water-breathing performance, which is shorter with three rounds, each consisting of one burst. The ideal place to enjoy the performance:

• On the bridge: When the bridge starts to breathe fire, vehicles are not allowed on the bridge. Therefore, you can enjoy the performance right on the bridge. However, you should avoid standing too close to the dragon’s head if you don’t want to get wet from the water spray.
• Under the bridge (Tran Hung Dao Street): Tran Hung Dao Street runs directly beneath the Dragon Bridge’s head. This is an ideal spot for watching the performance. Moreover, tourists can enjoy drinks from sidewalk cafés along the street.
• From Bach Dang Street: Bach Dang Street is located at the far end of the bridge. From here, you can witness the performance from a distant view while enjoying the beauty of the Han River. However, you should choose cafes with balconies or second floors for a better view.
• From above: A more exciting way to witness the fire and water performance is from the upper floors of nearby buildings. You can enjoy the show while also getting a spectacular view of Da Nang at night.
• From other bridges: Da Nang is a city with many famous bridges, such as the Han River Bridge and Tran Thi Ly Bridge. Since these bridges run parallel to the Dragon Bridge, you can enjoy the fire and water show from both bridges.

Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF)

Da Nang is not only a destination for beautiful beaches, ancient pagodas, and delicious food but also hosts international events such as the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival. Once a year, fireworks teams from around the world gather in this coastal city to participate in the largest fireworks competition of the year. Fireworks displays will take place over the Han River, so the Dragon Bridge is a great location to watch the fireworks for free.

Source: danangfantasticity.com

However, if you want to fully enjoy the performance and music, it’s best to arrive early before the show starts, as there will be many people gathered on the bridge.

See more: DA NANG INTERNATIONAL FIREWORKS COMPETITION 2019 – VIETNAM TOP FESTIVALS

How to get to Dragon Bridge

From Hoi An

You can take a bus to the Dragon Bridge during the day. It’s an affordable and comfortable means of transportation, as the ticket costs only 20,000 VND per person, including personal luggage. Furthermore, buses depart every 20 minutes from Hoi An to Da Nang.
If you prefer to ride a motorbike to the Dragon Bridge, head straight on the An Bang Highway and turn left at the roundabout when you see Thanh Hien Seafood Restaurant. Continue along Vo Van Kiet Street, and you will see the bridge ahead.

From Da Nang

If your hotel is near My Khe Beach, take Vo Nguyen Giap Street, then turn left onto Vo Van Kiet Street. Continue straight, and you’ll arrive at the bridge. You can also reach the Dragon Bridge by following Tran Phu Street and turning left.

Conclusion

Exploring the history and admiring the unique architecture of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang will surely give you unforgettable experiences on your trip. Particularly, the fire and water performance every weekend is a perfect moment to fully feel the dynamic life by the Han River.

To make your journey even more complete, you can combine your stay with a relaxing time at Pullman Danang Beach Resort – just a 15-minute drive away, where you can enjoy the stunning beauty of the Dragon Bridge at night.