The Han River Swing Bridge, also known as the Han River Bridge, is the first cable-stayed bridge designed and built entirely by Vietnamese engineers and workers. Inaugurated in 2000 to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the liberation of Da Nang, this bridge not only connects the east and west banks of the Han River but also represents the city's socio-economic development.

According to historical records, construction of the bridge began in 1998, featuring a total length of 487.7 meters, a width of 12.9 meters, 11 spans (33 meters each), and 2 cable-stayed spans measuring 122.7 meters. The most distinctive feature is that the middle section can rotate 90 degrees to allow large vessels to pass, facilitating waterway traffic. It is the only operational swing bridge in Vietnam, attracting millions of tourists each year. Located right in central Da Nang, the bridge connects Hai Chau District (West bank, Le Duan Street) with Son Tra District (East bank, Pham Van Dong Street). Just about 3-4 km from Da Nang International Airport, it is an ideal check-in spot for both daytime and nighttime travel.

Before 2000, travel between the two banks of the Han River relied mainly on ferries, causing significant inconvenience. The idea of building a swing bridge arose from the need for economic development, particularly connecting the area east of the Han River with the city center. The project received an investment of over 117 billion VND (at that time), and the entire design and construction process was handled by Vietnamese people—a source of immense pride.

Upon completion, the bridge not only doubled the local economy but also became a symbol of modern Da Nang. At night, a system of over 10,000 LED lights changes color dynamically, creating a shimmering reflection on the river surface. The bridge's cultural significance is also demonstrated through annual light festivals and events that draw international tourists.

The Han River Swing Bridge is located in An Hai Bac Ward, Son Tra District, Da Nang. For easy visualization, here are the detailed directions:

Popular Routes:

• From Da Nang Airport: Follow Nguyen Van Linh Street, turn left onto Nguyen Tri Phuong, then onto Le Duan and head straight to the bridge. Takes about 10-15 minutes by taxi (150,000-200,000 VND) or Grab.
• From the Central Bus Station: Go along Ton Duc Thang – Dien Bien Phu – turn left onto Le Duan and drive to the end of the road. Distance is 5-7 km, ideal for rental motorbikes (100,000-150,000 VND/day).
• From My Khe Beach: Follow Vo Nguyen Giap – turn left onto Pham Van Dong, drive to the end of the street to reach the bridge.
• Other Transport Options: Bus line 1 or 5 (20,000 VND), cyclo (50,000-100,000 VND/trip), or walk from Han Market (just 10 minutes).

Note: Avoid rush hours (5:00 PM - 7:00 PM) to bypass traffic jams. If staying at a riverside hotel, you can easily combine visiting nearby attractions.

One of the most exciting experiences when visiting is watching the bridge swing, when the middle span rotates about 90 degrees horizontally to allow boats through. The rotation process is quite quick, usually taking only 2–4 minutes, but it is a moment well worth watching for visitors.

The swing schedule is generally maintained quite consistently:

• Weekdays (Monday – Friday): Traffic stops from 12:45 AM, and the bridge begins swinging at 1:00 AM. After ships pass, the bridge returns to its original position around 2:00 AM – 4:00 AM depending on vessel traffic.
• Weekends (Saturday – Sunday): Traffic stops from 10:45 PM, swings at 11:00 PM, and returns to normal around 12:00 AM (midnight).
• Tet Holiday 2026: The bridge will swing on additional nights on Feb 14–15 (27th–28th of the 12th Lunar Month), Feb 17–18 (1st–2nd days of Tet), and Feb 21–22 (5th–6th days of Tet) to serve locals and tourists.

Visitors can watch the bridge swing for free. However, it is advisable to arrive about 30 minutes early to secure a good viewing spot. If visiting during Tet, be sure to recheck the official schedule from Da Nang City, as times may change.

When visiting the Han River Swing Bridge, tourists can not only admire the unique moment the bridge swings but also participate in many exciting activities around the area. The spacious, bustling night-time riverside environment also provides the perfect setting to sightsee, relax, and explore the beauty of Da Nang city.

• Watching the Bridge Swing: Stand along the riverbank or view from riverfront cafes like Ut Tich Café (drink prices 50,000-100,000 VND).
• Han River Cruise: 45-60 minute tour, priced at 100,000-150,000 VND/person, combining a seafood buffet and artistic performances.
• Strolling Along the River Embankment: Free, taking 30-45 minutes, perfect for photos with the Carp-Dragon Statue.
• Check-in Photography: Scenic spots such as nearby Dragon Bridge or the gemstone sculpture garden.

The Han River area frequently hosts many outdoor cultural and artistic events. Each year features over 55 events such as light festivals, street performances, and free art shows, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere that attracts crowds of tourists.

After exploring the Han River Bridge, don't miss out on local cuisine and shopping, an essential part of any Da Nang Han River Bridge travel guide.

Dining

The Han River area is a "seafood paradise" at affordable prices:

• Fresh Seafood: Phong Map Seafood or Kim Seafood (near Dragon Bridge), 200,000-500,000 VND/meal for 2 people.
• Local Dishes: Mi Quang Ba Mua, savory pancakes (banh xeo), cao lau
• Street Food: Pha lau (offal stew), grilled rice paper (banh trang nuong) at Son Tra Night Market (open 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM).

Shopping

• Han Market: 1 km from the bridge, purchase specialties like braised squid, dried seaweed (affordable, bargaining allowed).
• Son Tra Night Market: Beside Dragon Bridge, selling clothes, souvenirs, dried seafood (open in the evening, 50,000-200,000 VND).
• Shopping Malls: Indochina Riverside Mall (Han River view) or Vincom Plaza for high-end shopping.

Total estimated food + shopping cost: 300,000-500,000 VND/day per person.

The Han River Bridge is not only a unique transportation landmark but also a symbol of innovation and the vibrant energy of Da Nang. The midnight bridge rotation, reflections dancing on the water, and lively riverside atmosphere make this an unmissable destination for every traveler. For the most complete and convenient experience, guests can choose the all-inclusive Han River Bridge tour organized by Sovaba Travel. Thoughtfully designed to blend sightseeing, cuisine, cruising, and entertainment, the tour lets you thoroughly enjoy the beauty of the Han River at night without worrying about schedules or transportation.