Dragon Bridge, Da Nang

Meet Da Nang’s Fire-Breathing Landmark

Dragon Bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Da Nang. Stretching across the Han River, the bridge is shaped like a golden dragon and connects the city center with My Khe Beach and the eastern coastline.

After sunset, thousands of lights illuminate the structure. On selected weekend evenings, the dragon’s head breathes fire and sprays water in a performance that has become one of Da Nang’s signature experiences.

Why Visit Dragon Bridge?

Dragon Bridge combines modern engineering, Vietnamese symbolism and public entertainment.

During the day, visitors can admire its enormous steel arches and walk across the Han River. At night, the illuminated dragon transforms the waterfront, while nearby restaurants, cafés and pedestrian areas create a lively atmosphere.

It is an easy attraction to include in a city tour, evening food experience or Han River cruise.

Top Experiences at Dragon Bridge

• Walk across the bridge during daylight.
• Photograph its dragon-shaped steel arches.
• Watch the bridge illuminate after sunset.
• Experience the fire-and-water performance.
• View the show from the Tran Hung Dao riverside.
• Take an evening cruise along the Han River.
• Walk to the nearby Love Bridge.
• Explore Son Tra Night Market.
• Enjoy local food near the eastern end of the bridge.
• Photograph Da Nang’s skyline reflected in the river.

Architecture and Design

Dragon Bridge is approximately 666 metres long and 37.5 metres wide, with six traffic lanes and pedestrian walkways.

The continuous steel structure forms the body of a dragon flying toward the sea. Its design was inspired by the dragon of Vietnam’s Ly Dynasty, a symbol associated with prosperity, power and national development.

At night, an extensive LED lighting system changes the appearance of the bridge with different colors.

History of Dragon Bridge

Construction began in 2009 as part of Da Nang’s continuing urban development.

The bridge officially opened on March 29, 2013, connecting the western side of the Han River with the city’s coastal districts. It created a convenient route between Da Nang International Airport, the city center, My Khe Beach and Son Tra Peninsula.

Its practical role and distinctive architecture quickly turned it into a modern symbol of Da Nang.

Fire and Water Show

Dragon Bridge normally presents its fire-and-water show at 9:00 PM on Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings.

During the performance, traffic across the bridge is temporarily restricted while the dragon breathes bursts of fire followed by sprays of water.

Schedules may be extended during festivals and public holidays or changed because of maintenance, weather and special events. Visitors should confirm the latest local schedule before arriving. The regular 2026 schedule has been reported as Friday through Sunday at 9:00 PM.

Best Places to Watch the Show

Tran Hung Dao Riverside

The eastern riverbank near the dragon’s head offers a close view of the fire-and-water performance.

This area becomes crowded before showtime, so arriving 30 to 45 minutes early is recommended.

Bach Dang Riverside

The western bank provides a wider view of the entire bridge and Da Nang skyline. It is better suited to panoramic photographs, although the fire may appear farther away.

Love Bridge

Love Bridge offers an attractive angled view of the dragon’s head. Space is limited, and the area can become congested on weekends.

Han River Cruise

A licensed river cruise can provide an unobstructed perspective from the water. Cruise routes and timing vary, so confirm that the departure is scheduled to coincide with the performance.

Where to Stand—and Stay Dry

Standing very close to the dragon’s head provides the most dramatic experience, but visitors may become wet during the water-spraying sequence.

Electronic devices should be protected, and people who prefer to remain dry should watch from farther along Tran Hung Dao Street or from the opposite riverbank.

The fire produces noticeable heat at close range. Always remain behind barriers and follow staff instructions.

Dragon Bridge by Day

The bridge is quieter during the morning and offers views along the Han River toward Da Nang’s modern skyline.

Pedestrians can observe the scale of the steel structure and continue toward the Museum of Cham Sculpture, My Khe Beach or Son Tra Peninsula.

Sunrise and late afternoon generally provide the most comfortable walking conditions.

Dragon Bridge at Night

After sunset, Dragon Bridge becomes the visual center of Da Nang’s waterfront.

Colored lighting reflects across the river, while restaurants, rooftop bars and night markets attract both residents and visitors. Even on evenings without the fire show, the illuminated bridge is worth seeing.

Best Time to Visit

Dragon Bridge can be visited throughout the year.

• Friday to Sunday evening: Best for the scheduled fire-and-water show.
• Around 8:15 PM: Recommended arrival time for finding a viewing position.
• Early morning: Quiet streets and cooler temperatures.
• Sunset: Attractive light before the bridge illumination begins.
• March to August: Generally drier evening weather.
• September to December: Increased rain and possible schedule changes.

Weekend and holiday evenings attract the largest crowds.

Getting to Dragon Bridge

Dragon Bridge crosses the Han River between Nguyen Van Linh Street and Vo Van Kiet Street.

Typical travel times are:

• Around 5 minutes from the Museum of Cham Sculpture.
• Approximately 10 minutes from Da Nang International Airport.
• Around 10 minutes from My Khe Beach.
• Approximately 15 to 20 minutes from Da Nang Railway Station.

Taxis, ride-hailing services, bicycles and walking are convenient options. Road closures and traffic congestion should be expected near performance time.

Nearby Attractions

Dragon Bridge can be combined with:

• Love Bridge
• Son Tra Night Market
• Han River waterfront
• Museum of Cham Sculpture
• Han Market
• My Khe Beach
• Da Nang Cathedral
• APEC Park
• Tran Thi Ly Bridge
• Son Tra Peninsula

Responsible Visiting

Use pedestrian areas and marked crossings when approaching the bridge. Never stand in active traffic lanes or cross barriers to take photographs.

Keep personal belongings secure in crowded viewing areas and dispose of waste responsibly. Follow instructions from police and event staff during traffic closures.

Discover Dragon Bridge with Joyous Travel

Experience Dragon Bridge with Joyous Travel as part of an unforgettable evening in Da Nang.

Watch the dragon breathe fire, explore the illuminated Han River waterfront and discover the city’s food and nightlife with a knowledgeable local guide.

See Da Nang come alive when its golden dragon lights up the night.