Han River Bridge is a symbol of Da Nang’s status as one of the fastest-developing urban centers in the country. For Indian travelers, the bridge is not only an impressive architectural landmark but also a cultural highlight that connects you to the vibrant rhythm of modern Da Nang.
The Han River Bridge (Cầu Sông Hàn) is the first and most iconic of Da Nang‘s modern bridges, standing as a powerful symbol of the city’s dynamism and progress. As Vietnam’s first and only swing bridge, its primary attraction is the unique engineering spectacle that occurs nightly when it rotates on its axis to allow maritime traffic to pass. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of this famous landmark, including the best ways to experience its nightly swing, its cultural significance, and practical tips for visitors.
It is more than just a way to cross the river; it is a symbol of our city’s dreams and a wonderful sight to see. So, let’s be your guide and show you the best way to experience the magic of our “swinging bridge.”
The Han River Bridge at a Glance: Key Facts for First-Time Indian Visitors
The Han River Bridge was a very proud moment for the people of Da Nang. It was the first bridge of its kind in Vietnam, and it was built with the contributions of our own citizens.
Construction of the bridge started on September 2nd, 1998. The Han River Bridge was the very first of our modern bridges, and it was a huge moment for Da Nang when it opened in the year 2000. It stands in a prime location, connecting two of our city’s main streets, and for us, it has always been a powerful symbol of our city’s journey into the future.
With a length of 487.7 meters and a width of 13 meters, this is an impressive architectural masterpiece. The bridge’s unique engineering allows its central span to rotate 90 degrees around its axis using a precise hydraulic mechanism.
The bridge rotates to create a wide passageway on the river, allowing large cruise ships and other tall vessels to pass through. This rotation is a slow, graceful, and almost silent movement. Watching the massive steel structure illuminated by lights as it slowly turns is a mesmerizing and one-of-a-kind display of engineering artistry.
For visitors arriving from Mumbai, the city of coastal dreams, Da Nang offers a similar yet refreshingly new feeling. Da Nang’s climate, much like that of Mumbai, falls within the humid tropical zone, featuring hot and humid summer months. When you stand on the banks of the Han River, watching the bridge swing or the water sparkle, you will sense the vibrant, thriving spirit of a rapidly developing coastal metropolis – a spirit that mirrors your own city. Da Nang, much like India’s ‘Maximum City,’ never truly sleeps, and witnessing the bridge’s rotating spectacle at night (especially the 11:00 PM weekend slot) will be a familiar, yet spectacular, display of urban dynamism. Feel free to enjoy the sea breeze and the climatic comfort you already know so well.
READ MORE: Must-visit bridges in Vietnam
The most important question: What time does it swing?
This is the most crucial piece of information for your visit!
- On weekends (Saturday and Sunday): The bridge swings at 11:00 PM (23:00).
- On weekdays (Monday to Friday): The bridge swings at 1:00 AM (01:00).
Honest advice for you: Please, plan to see this on a Saturday or Sunday night. The 11:00 PM time is perfect for an evening out. The 1:00 AM weekday time is very late and is mainly for industrial shipping, not for tourists. The whole process takes about 15-20 minutes. The bridge will swing open, the boats will pass through, and then it will slowly swing back into place.
Best Ways to Experience the Swing: Cruises, Riverbanks, and Rooftop Views
You have a few fantastic options to see this unique show.
Take a Han River Cruise
This is, without a doubt, the best and most memorable way to experience not just the Han River Bridge, but all of Da Nang’s beautiful bridges.
- The experience: You will board a beautiful, brightly lit boat for a relaxing cruise along the Han River. You’ll get to see the city’s sparkling skyline from the water. The boat will cruise under the Dragon Bridge (you might even see it breathe fire if it’s a weekend!), the Tran Thi Ly Bridge, and finally, it will position itself perfectly for the main event. You will have a front-row seat as the Han River Bridge begins its slow, graceful swing right in front of you.
- Who it’s for: Perfect for everyone! It’s a wonderfully romantic experience for couples, a fun and safe adventure for families, and a great, relaxing activity for groups of friends.
- Booking a Han River cruise: There are many boats to choose from. You can book your tickets easily at the boat pier on Bach Dang street. The cruises usually last for about 1.5 hours. Reserve your exclusive Han River Cruise package today with Vietnam Story.
Find a spot on the riverbank
This is a great, free option that lets you soak in the local atmosphere.
- Where to go: The best place is the beautiful, wide promenade along Bach Dang Street. There are many benches and open spaces where you can sit.
- The vibe: You will be joined by many local families, young couples, and other tourists. It’s a lively, happy, and very safe atmosphere. You can grab a drink from a nearby cafe or a snack from a street vendor and enjoy the show.
Watch from a rooftop bar
For a more sophisticated and comfortable view, head up high!
- Where to go: There are several fantastic rooftop bars in the hotels along the riverfront, like the Sky36 bar at the Novotel.
- The experience: You can enjoy a delicious cocktail with a stunning, panoramic view of the entire city and all its glowing bridges. It’s a very glamorous way to watch the spectacle unfold below.
Fireworks display at the Han River Bridge
If you are lucky enough to visit Da Nang during the summer, you are in for a truly spectacular treat! The city hosts the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival, where teams from all over the world come to compete, and the area around the Han River Bridge becomes the best seat in the house.
Imagine standing on the riverbank, looking up as the night sky explodes in breathtaking displays of colour and light. You can see the vibrant reflections of the fireworks dancing on the shimmering surface of the Han River-it is absolutely magical! The whole city comes alive with a wonderful, festive energy. You’ll be surrounded by happy local families, the sound of music, and a feeling of pure celebration. It is, without a doubt, one of the most exciting times to be in Da Nang, and an experience you will never forget.
READ MORE: All you need to know about Ba Na Hills in Da Nang.
Tailored Experiences for Indian Travelers: Halal Food, Vegetarian Options, and Family Comfort
Finding Comfort: Halal, Vegetarian, and Pure-Veg Food near Han River
For Indian travelers, finding suitable dining options is often a top priority — and Da Nang is well-prepared to meet your needs!
Indian Restaurants:
Near the Han River, you’ll easily find high-quality Indian restaurants serving authentic Halal and vegetarian cuisine. Notable spots include Maharaja Indian Restaurant, Namaste OM Restaurant, and Family Indian Restaurant. Here, you can enjoy a wide variety of curries, naan breads, and other traditional favorites.
Vietnamese Vegetarian Dishes:
Don’t hesitate to try local vegetarian options. Many Vietnamese restaurants offer flavorful meat-free dishes such as Phở Chay (vegetarian noodle soup), Bánh Mì Chay (vegetarian baguette sandwich), and delicious stir-fried vegetables. Simply ask for “món chay” (vegetarian dish) or “không thịt” (no meat), and you’ll be warmly served. To shop and explore more local cuisine, visit the famous Han Market, located just a short walk from the bridge.
Whether you are arriving from a culinary hub like Mumbai or Kolkata, where street food thrives, Da Nang is ready to satisfy your palate. From high-quality Halal/vegetarian restaurants (like Maharaja, Namaste OM) to delicious Vietnamese vegetarian dishes readily available at the Han Market, finding comfort and familiarity will not be a challenge. Embrace the new flavors of Vietnam within a dynamic, coastal urban setting, where the familiar hustle and humidity of the city will make you feel right at home.
Logistics & Stay: Getting to the Bridge and Best View Hotels
To make your trip more convenient, here are some transport and accommodation tips specially curated for Indian families.
Getting Around:
- Taxi: The most popular and convenient mode of transport. You can easily catch a taxi from your hotel or on the street. The estimated fare from the city center to Han River Bridge is around 50,000 – 80,000 VND (approximately 150 – 250 INR).
- XANH SM Taxi: A new eco-friendly electric taxi option offering competitive rates. You can book it via the app or by phone.
- Motorbike: For those seeking adventure, renting a motorbike is a budget-friendly and flexible way to explore the city – especially to conquer the legendary Hai Van Pass.
Hotels with Han River Bridge Views:
- Novotel Danang Premier Han River: Famous for its spectacular views of the river and bridges, including Han River Bridge. The hotel offers excellent family-friendly facilities.
- Hilton Da Nang: Another luxurious option with a prime riverside location, offering stunning views and world-class service.
- Other Hotels: Many boutique hotels and serviced apartments along Bach Dang or Tran Hung Dao streets also offer beautiful river views and comfortable spaces perfect for families.
A Perfect Evening Itinerary: Combining the Bridge with Dragon Fire
To make the most of your night, here is a perfect plan for a Saturday or Sunday:
- 7:00 PM: Enjoy a delicious dinner tailored to your taste: choose a local restaurant to savor authentic Vietnamese flavors, or stop by the nearby Maharaja Indian Restaurant for genuine North Indian cuisine.
- 8:30 PM: Take a slow, relaxing walk along the beautiful Bach Dang riverfront.
- 9:00 PM: Watch the magnificent Dragon Bridge breathe fire and water!
- 9:30 PM: Board your Han River Cruise.
- 11:00 PM: Enjoy the grand finale as your cruise boat gives you a perfect view of the Han River Bridge swinging open.
Other bridges cross the Han river in Da Nang
As you look at the beautiful city of Da Nang, you’ll see that our life revolves around the majestic Han River, and we have six beautiful, unique bridges that act like strings on a guitar, each playing its own special note. Let me introduce you to our family of bridges!
- First, there is the Han River Bridge, the true, beloved heart of our city. It was our first modern bridge and the only one in Vietnam that swings open at night—a symbol of our city’s pride.
- Then, you have the magnificent Dragon Bridge, our most famous icon that everyone comes to see! It looks like a giant, golden dragon flying towards the sea, and on weekends, it puts on a spectacular show, breathing real fire and water.
- Further down, where the river meets the sea, you’ll see the elegant Thuan Phuoc Bridge. It’s the longest suspension bridge in Vietnam, and its graceful, modern shape makes it a favorite spot for beautiful photos.
- If you look closely, you’ll see a bridge that looks different from the others. That is the Tran Thi Ly Bridge. With its unique, tilted pillar and fan of cables, it’s designed to look like a beautiful white sail catching the wind – a true work of architectural art.
- We also have the historic Nguyen Van Troi Bridge. It’s an older bridge that we’ve lovingly preserved. Now, it’s a peaceful pedestrian-only bridge, perfect for a slow walk and a quiet moment to admire the river.
- And finally, the practical Tien Son Bridge, which works hard every day to help with traffic and keep our beautiful city moving smoothly.
Each one has its own personality, and together, they create the stunning, modern, and dynamic skyline that makes Da Nang so special.
Plan Your Perfect Da Nang Tour: Experience the Symbol with Vietnam Story – Your Tailored Journey
Ultimately, the Han River Bridge is not just an engineering masterpiece – it’s a symbol of Da Nang’s identity. Its nightly rotation is a proud statement of the city’s constant motion, its connection to the sea, and its forward-looking spirit.
Whether you’re watching from the deck of a glittering cruise or a simple riverside bench, witnessing this graceful giant turn against the night sky is a unique and essential Da Nang experience – one that connects you to the very heart of this vibrant city.
Vietnam Story believes your journey should be one-of-a-kind. We are not just guides; we are Local Expertise specialists committed to delivering Authentic Encounters and Tailor-Made Experiences for Indian travelers.
Ready to start your journey? Let our team of experts craft your vacation, ensuring Safety and Reliability with guaranteed Quality & Comfort. Explore our tailored Da Nang Tour Packages today and start building genuine connections and enduring memories with Vietnam Story! Contact us via hotline +84911868609 or email booking@vietnamstory.in.
Conclusion
In the end, the Han River Bridge is more than just a piece of clever engineering; it is a symbol of Da Nang’s identity. Its nightly swing is a proud declaration of the city’s constant movement, its connection to the sea, and its forward-looking spirit. Whether you watch it from the deck of a glittering cruise boat or from a simple bench on the riverbank, witnessing this graceful giant turn against the night sky is a unique and essential Da Nang experience that connects you to the very heart of this dynamic city.