As a unique bridge in Vietnam, Dragon Bridge has become a symbol of Da Nang city that no visitor can miss. However, few people understand the history of Da Nang Dragon Bridge. So, today’s article will help you learn about the history of this bridge and a few surprising facts that you didn’t know.
Overview of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang
When visiting Da Nang, travelers can enjoy not only scenic views, beach activities, and famous historical landmarks but also one of the city’s most iconic structures: the Dragon Bridge. Construction of the bridge began in 2009, and after years of development, it was officially inaugurated in 2013.
The Dragon Bridge spans a length of 666.5 meters, weighs nearly 9,000 tons, and accommodates 6 lanes of traffic, 5 spans, and two pedestrian pathways. Built with a total investment of over 1.7 trillion VND, it crosses the Han River at a prime central location, serving as a vital connection between Da Nang Airport and the city’s stunning beaches.
As a renowned coastal tourist city, Da Nang invested heavily in the bridge’s unique design. The bridge’s architecture resembles a majestic dragon from the Ly Dynasty, symbolizing power and vitality, reaching boldly toward the sea.
First-time visitors to the Dragon Bridge will be captivated by its steel girder system, crafted to simulate a dragon flying over the Han River and facing the open ocean. The structure has been praised by experts for its unprecedented design, blending steel girders, steel arches, and cutting-edge concrete beams, making it a groundbreaking engineering feat globally.
Best Time to Explore the Dragon Bridge
Visitors can explore and enjoy Da Nang at any time of the year. During this time, the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang features fire-breathing and water-spraying performances on weekends. Da Nang at night is stunning; standing on the bridge, you can admire the city and enjoy the refreshing atmosphere. Here are some specific details about the fire and water show schedule at the Dragon Bridge:
- On Saturdays, the fire-breathing and water-spraying performances run from 9:00 PM to 9:15 PM. The bridge sprays water in three rounds, each round once. It breathes fire in two rounds, with nine bursts per round.
- On Sundays, the schedule is the same, with fire-breathing and water-spraying from 9:00 PM to 9:15 PM. The water-spraying happens in three rounds, each round once, and the fire-breathing occurs in two rounds, with nine bursts per round.
- On major holidays, the bridge also performs fire and water shows in the evening, following the usual schedule or potentially adjusted to a new time.
Transportation and Directions to Explore the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang
Visitors can choose to travel to the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang by motorbike, private car in Danang, or taxi. Thanks to its prime location, the bridge is easy to spot from afar and quick to reach.
There are several great spots to enjoy the fire-breathing and water-spraying shows on weekends:
- Standing directly on the bridge itself.
- At the base of the Dragon Bridge, either along Tran Hung Dao Street or Bach Dang Street.
- Other excellent viewpoints include nearby cafés or the rooftop bars in the area.
Unique Features of the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang
The Dragon Bridge serves as a sturdy connection between the airport and the eastern side of Da Nang. It is also considered a remarkable symbol for promoting tourism in this coastal city. Its design is carefully crafted to preserve the view of historical landmarks, ensuring these ancient sites remain unobstructed. This innovative approach emphasizes sustainable tourism while safeguarding traditional structures like the Cham Museum and An Long Pagoda.
The bridge symbolizes the enduring spiritual heritage of Vietnam, represented by the cultural phrase “Descendants of Dragons and Fairies.” Paired with the Tran Thi Ly Bridge, which resembles a phoenix, these two structures harmonize to showcase the grandeur of Da Nang.
Visitors to the Dragon Bridge can enjoy a breathtaking spectacle of the fire-breathing or water-spraying performances every Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 PM. These moments offer a unique and delightful experience for all who visit
Events at Dragon Bridge
Night is the best time to see the Dragon Bridge. Attached 15 000 led lights, the bridge becomes a real dragon with shimmering color effects. Moreover, Dragon Bridge also attracts tourists by many events and performances at night.
Dragon Bridge spits fire and spits water
For Da Nang tourists, along with learning about the history of Da Nang Dragon Bridge, admiring the fire-breathing Dragon Bridge is one of the most interesting moments. Fortunately, you can see this amazing performance every weekend for free. Regularly every 9 pm on Saturday and Sunday, Dragon Bridge will entertain locals and tourists with a wonderful performance of water and fire.
The first performance was a fire spray with 2 turns of 9 times. You will be surprised with the shimmering light combined with the fire spewing from the dragon’s head. Many visitors love the second performance, a rather short water show consisting of 3 turns of only 1 turn. The perfect place to enjoy the performance
On the bridge: When the bridge starts spewing fire, vehicles will not be allowed to travel on the bridge. So you can enjoy the performance right on the bridge. However, you should not stand near the dragon’s head if you do not want to get wet in the spray screen.
Under the bridge (Tran Hung Dao Street): Tran Hung Dao Street cuts across the Dragon Bridge right below the dragon’s head. Therefore, this place is an ideal place to enjoy the performance. Moreover, visitors can enjoy drinks from sidewalk bars along the street.
From Bach Dang street: Bach Dang street is located at the end of the bridge. From here you can admire the performance with a glimpse while gazing at the beauty of the Han River. However, you should choose cafes with balconies and go to the second floor to have a better view.
From above: A more interesting way to see the fire and water spray is from the top floors of buildings near the bridge. You can enjoy the performance and the whole night of Da Nang shimmering.
From other bridges: Da Nang is the city of many famous bridges such as Han River Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge. Since these bridges are parallel to the Dragon Bridge, you can admire the spray of water and fire from both bridges.
Danang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF)
Da Nang is not only a destination for beautiful beaches, ancient temples and delicious food, but also a host to famous international events such as the Danang International Fireworks Festival. Once a year, fireworks competition teams from all over the world gather in this coastal city for the biggest fireworks competition of the year. The fireworks displays will take place on the Han River, so Dragon Bridge is a great place to watch the fireworks for free.
But if you want to see the performance and music to the fullest, you should arrive early before the show starts because there will be a lot of people gathered on the bridge.
Important Notes When Visiting the Dragon Bridge in Da Nang
- When watching the fire-breathing or water-spraying performances at the Dragon Bridge, maintain a safe distance to avoid being splashed by water or exposed to the heat of the fire.
- Due to the high number of visitors and regular local traffic, pick an ideal spot that doesn’t disrupt the city’s transportation flow.
- Ensure to keep the environment clean by not littering on the bridge.
Conclusion
The Dragon Bridge stands out not only for its design and vibrant colors but also for its significant contributions to the local economy and culture. Alongside other attractions like the Han River Bridge, Son Tra Peninsula, and My Khe Beach, it offers visitors an exciting and emotional journey through Da Nang.
So, why wait? Start planning your own unique itinerary to explore Da Nang in your own style and uncover the charm of this beautiful city!
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