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Story: Son Tung
Photos: Pham Phung
There’s a city where bridges are not just transportation links but also works of art that form the soul of an urban area. That city is Danang – a shining gem in Central Vietnam.
In the past, the Han River divided Danang into two banks, east and west. Those with old ties to this place still remember the stark differences between the two banks: the west bank was the city center, bustling and crowded, while the east bank was a quiet neighborhood with old and outdated houses. A bittersweet local folk verse sums up the difference:
Standing on this side of the Han, looking at the other side, the water is green like leaves
Standing on the other side, looking at this side, the streets are vast.
Then, bridges were built, one after another, making the city more beautiful and serving as catalysts for its development. Danang grew more attractive and modern. Each bridge contains a story about Danang’s history, culture, and development. The city’s bridges not only link the two riverbanks but also bridge the past with the present and tradition with innovation. They stand as symbols of the city’s ongoing development and are major tourist attractions.
The Han River Bridge: a source of local pride
Twenty-four years ago, Danang celebrated the arrival of the Han River Bridge. Like a miraculous thread connecting the river’s two banks, this bridge opened up a new chapter in the city’s development.
Since then, this coastal city in Central Vietnam has successfully established itself as a “livable city.” Visitors to Danang love to explore its vibrant coastal setting and experience its iconic bridges.
The Han River Bridge is more than just a transport link; it is a symbol of love for the homeland and embodies the dynamism, creativity, and aspirations of Danang. During a period of economic hardship, individuals came together, each contributing a portion of their income to help build this bridge
As such, this bridge is a source of pride and a symbol of the sweat, tears, and locals’ desire to elevate their homeland’s status. The Han River Bridge is the only bridge in Vietnam that can rotate 90 degrees, allowing ships to pass. Many tourists have eagerly stayed up until midnight to capture memories of this unique rotating bridge.
The Thuan Phuoc Bridge: reaching out to sea
Not far from the Han River Bridge, the Thuan Phuoc Bridge stands tall where the Han River flows into the East Sea. Finished in 2009, the Thuan Phuoc Bridge is the longest suspension bridge in Vietnam and one of the most beautiful bridges in the country.
Spanning Danang Bay, the Thuan Phuoc Bridge connects the city center with the Son Tra Peninsula. From this bridge, visitors feel as if they are gazing upon a watercolor painting. On one side, the gentle Han River reflects high-rise buildings. On the other side lies the boundless East Sea. At sunset, golden light tints the sky pink, reflecting on the water and creating a romantic scene. When night falls, both the bridge and the city’s high-rises light up, dazzling onlookers.
The Dragon Bridge and the Tran Thi Ly Bridge: symbols of a young city
These modern architectural masterpieces can be considered twins, both completed almost simultaneously in late 2012 and early 2013. They soon became symbols of the city of Danang. With its majestic dragon shape, the Dragon Bridge represents the strength and development of this city. The Tran Thi Ly Bridge resembles a sail billowing in the wind, evoking the heroic island traditions of the people of Quang Ngai province – former members of the renowned Hoang Sa Flotilla.
With its spectacular light and water performances, the Dragon Bridge has become a distinctive symbol of Danang. The image of a sacred dragon spouting fire and water has become a renowned tourism icon, drawing millions of visitors each year. With its elegant and modern design, the bridge named after the female hero Tran Thi Ly resembles a sail extending toward the open sea, symbolizing the people of Danang’s desire to reach new heights and broader horizons.
The Nguyen Van Troi Bridge: a witness to history
The oldest bridge spanning the Han River, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge, is a heroic witness to the city’s history. Built in 1965, this bridge has witnessed many ups and downs. It features simple but sturdy architecture and was once the only road bridge connecting the two banks of the Han River.
After the birth of the Tran Thi Ly Bridge and the Dragon Bridge, the Nguyen Van Troi Bridge was closed to vehicle traffic. This bridge is now an ideal pedestrian space for those seeking peace in the heart of the city.
These are just some of Danang’s bridges, with more to be built in the future. Each bridge bears a unique story and stirs different emotions, while making Danang more beautiful and impressive. Come and experience these bridges to feel the allure of this coastal city.
