Spanning the Han River in Da Nang, the Dragon Bridge is not just a means of transportation but a symbol of the city’s innovative spirit and cultural heritage. Since its inauguration in 2013, this architectural marvel has captivated both locals and tourists alike.
Designed by the U.S.-based Ammann & Whitney Consulting Engineers, the bridge stretches 666 meters in length and 37.5 meters in width, accommodating six lanes of traffic. Its dragon-shaped design, inspired by the Ly Dynasty’s emblem of power and nobility, showcases Vietnam’s rich history intertwined with modern engineering. The dragon’s head faces east towards the sea, symbolizing prosperity, while its tail points west towards the mountains. At night, over 2,500 LED lights illuminate the bridge, creating a vibrant spectacle that reflects beautifully on the river’s surface.
Fire and Water Show A highlight for many visitors is the weekend fire and water performance. Every Saturday and Sunday at 9:00 PM, the dragon breathes fire and sprays water from its mouth, drawing crowds to witness this unique display. The show lasts approximately three minutes, during which the bridge is temporarily closed to vehicular traffic to ensure safety.
Best Viewing Spots For an optimal experience, consider these locations: • Bach Dang Street: This riverside promenade offers a panoramic view of the bridge, especially enchanting during the evening light displays.  • Tran Hung Dao Street: Situated on the opposite bank, this area provides a closer view of the dragon’s head and is less crowded. • Han River Cruises: Several operators offer evening cruises that pass under the bridge, allowing passengers to enjoy the fire and water show from the water.
Visitor Tips • Arrive Early: The bridge area becomes crowded well before the 9:00 PM show. Arriving by 8:00 PM ensures a good viewing spot. • Stay Dry: If you’re close to the dragon’s head, be prepared to get wet during the water spray segment. • Photography: Bring a tripod for night photography to capture the illuminated bridge and...
Read moreDragon Bridge is more than just a way to cross the Han River—it's one of Da Nang’s most iconic landmarks, blending impressive architecture, local symbolism, and vibrant nightlife. Whether you visit during the day or night, it offers an unforgettable experience.
Design & Atmosphere: The bridge is shaped like a majestic golden dragon—a symbol of power, prosperity, and good fortune in Vietnamese culture. Stretching across the river with its head facing the sea, it looks stunning in daylight, especially against the backdrop of blue skies or golden hour. At night, the dragon is beautifully illuminated with changing colors, creating a magical scene perfect for photos and romantic strolls.
Weekend Fire & Water Show: One of the most exciting features is the weekend fire and water show. Every Saturday and Sunday at 9 PM, the dragon breathes fire and sprays water, drawing crowds of both locals and tourists. The energy is fantastic! It’s a family-friendly event that feels festive and unique—make sure to arrive early for a good viewing spot near the dragon’s head.
Accessibility & Location: Dragon Bridge is centrally located, connecting the city center with the beachside. It's easily walkable from many nearby attractions like the Han Market, Love Bridge, and My Khe Beach. You can enjoy a peaceful walk or rent a scooter to see it from different angles.
Nearby Attractions: Surrounding the bridge are cafes, riverfront restaurants, and night markets where you can relax with a drink and enjoy the view. The riverfront is also a great spot for people-watching, sunset views, or even a boat ride.
Final Thoughts: Dragon Bridge is more than a piece of infrastructure—it's a celebration of culture, creativity, and Da Nang’s modern spirit. Whether you visit for the fire show, the views, or the sheer beauty of its design, it’s an experience that stays with you. Don’t leave Da Nang without seeing it, especially on a...
Read more⭐☆☆☆☆ One of the biggest letdowns of my trip. I’d heard so much hype about Dragon Bridge in Da Nang how it breathes fire and water every weekend night, how it’s a must-see attraction. Let me save you the trouble: it’s not. I showed up early thinking I’d beat the crowds and get a good spot. Instead, I ended up standing in a sea of people, surrounded by honking scooters, selfie sticks, and total chaos.
After nearly an hour of waiting, the “show” finally started if you can even call it that. The fire display lasted less than 3 minutes, and all it really did was spit out a few bursts of flame followed by clouds of thick black smoke. It looked more like the dragon had indigestion than anything remotely magical. Then came the water, which just sprayed from its mouth like a broken pipe. That was it. No music, no lighting effects, no storytelling just smoke, fire, and water from the river.
To make things worse, traffic comes to a complete standstill on the bridge while this happens, so you’re inhaling exhaust fumes while being shoved around by the crowd. There’s no real crowd control, no information about when it’s actually starting, and the whole thing feels like an underwhelming afterthought.
Honestly, I’ve seen better entertainment from a barbecue grill. Definitely not worth planning your evening around. If you’re expecting a dramatic, unforgettable performance lower your...
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