Dragon Bridge in Da Nang | Everything You Need to Know

The Iconic Dragon Bridge

The Dragon Bridge is one of the most recognizable symbols of Da Nang. Massive, bright, and loud, it’s impossible to miss. And honestly, whether you’re just passing through or staying a few days, it’s definitely something to check out.

Built between 2009 and 2012, the bridge was officially inaugurated on March 29, 2013, right on time to mark the 38th anniversary of Da Nang’s liberation. It’s an ambitious project – designed by the American firm Louis Berger – that connects the airport to the coastline and draws everyone’s attention as soon as night falls.

Why is Da Nang’s Dragon Bridge special?

First off, because it’s shaped like a giant yellow dragon – 666 meters long. And that’s not just for show. In Vietnamese culture, the dragon is a symbol of luck, prosperity, and strength.

The number 6 is also considered lucky here. So the bridge has 6 lanes, stands 66 meters high, and measures 666 meters long. Subtle, right?

At night, it lights up with 2,500 LED lights.

And then there’s the best part: it literally breathes fire and sprays water.

Dragon Bridge Show

This is one of those experiences you really shouldn’t miss in Da Nang.

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday at exactly 9:00 PM, the dragon comes to life for a 15-minute show: it breathes fire, then sprays water, all while being lit up with constantly changing LED colors. It’s visual, impressive (especially the fire), a bit kitschy at times… but honestly, it’s well worth it.

The show is fairly short – just 15 minutes – and the good news? It’s free.

If you’re in the area, I definitely recommend checking it out at least once.

The bridge closes to traffic about 10 minutes before the show starts, so it’s a good idea to arrive a bit early to grab a decent spot – it gets seriously crowded.

Pro tip: don’t stand directly under the dragon’s head unless you’re okay with getting soaked.

Best Places to Watch the Dragon Bridge Show

• On the Dragon Bridge
Just before the show starts, traffic is blocked, so you can actually stand right on the bridge. It’s the closest you can get to the action – and one of the best spots to enjoy the performance up close.

• From Tran Hung Dao Street
This street runs directly underneath the dragon’s head, making it one of the best spots to watch the show head-on.

There are plenty of small drink stands along the sidewalk. Grab a plastic chair, order an iced tea or a fresh juice, and enjoy the show.

Love Bridge and Riverside Park, both located along this street, also offer great views with a bit more space and distance.

• From rooftop bars or hotels
Another great option is to watch the show from a rooftop bar or hotel. You’ll get a beautiful view of the performance, the Han River, and the city lights – without the crowds.

Here are a few hotels with a great view of the bridge:

• Vanda Hotel – 03 Nguyen Van Linh St.
• Brilliant Hotel – 162 Bach Dang St.
• Da Nang Riverside Hotel – A30 Tran Hung Dao St.
• Senriver Hotel – 223 Tran Phu St.
• Memory Hostel – 03 Tran Quoc Toan St.

• From a Han River cruise
Several evening river cruises depart from the Bach Dang pier. They cruise along the Han River, passing under the Dragon Bridge – giving you a unique, peaceful view of the fire and water show. It’s a great option if you want to combine sightseeing with the nighttime performance.

How to Get There

No worries – you can’t miss it.

Whether you’re staying in Da Nang, Hoi An, or even Hue, the Dragon Bridge is easy to find. Just type “Cầu Rồng” (its Vietnamese name) into Google Maps and you’re good to go. Ask anyone in the area and they’ll point you in the right direction.

You can visit the bridge during the day, but honestly, it’s way better at night when it lights up and the LED show kicks in.

What to See Around the Dragon Bridge

Son Tra Night Market

Just across the Dragon Bridge on the east side, you’ll find the Son Tra Night Market – a great place to stroll around after the show. You’ll come across local street food, souvenir stalls, clothes, and a decent crowd (especially on weekends).

It’s not huge, but the vibe is relaxed and lively. It’s also a great spot to grab a cheap bite before heading back.

Cham Sculpture Museum

Less than a 10-minute walk from the bridge (on the west side), the Cham Sculpture Museum showcases dozens of artifacts from sites like My Son. It’s the best place in Vietnam to learn about the Cham civilization, which remains relatively unknown.

If you’re into history – or planning to visit My Son later – this is a solid starting point. Budget about an hour for the visit.

Bach Dang Street

Bach Dang Street runs along the west bank of the Han River and is one of the most vibrant and pleasant areas in downtown Da Nang, especially in the late afternoon.

You’ll find cafés, restaurants, a few hotels, and a nice riverside promenade with views of the bridges. It’s perfect for a relaxed walk or a drink with a view after the show.

Most of the city’s major public events happen right here – concerts, festivals, fireworks… If something’s going on in Da Nang, chances are it’s happening on Bach Dang Street.

My Opinion

The Dragon Bridge isn’t just a bridge – it’s a true symbol of Da Nang. Modern, bright, and a bit over the top with its fire (and water) breathing dragon. Whether you’re here for a night or a few days, it’s definitely worth checking out, especially on the weekend.

Even if the show doesn’t last long, it’s free, so you might as well enjoy it.

And while you’re at it, take some time to explore the area: the night market, the Cham Museum, a stroll along Bach Dang Street… it’s all right there.

It’s free, it’s easy to get to, and honestly, it’s a fun way to spend your evening.