Thuan Phuoc Bridge: Iconic Da Nang landmark for sightseeing, photography & travel

Spanning the Han River and connecting Hai Chau and Son Tra districts, Thuan Phuoc Bridge stands as one of Da Nang’s most iconic landmarks. Known for its modern design and scenic beauty, the bridge attracts both local visitors and international tourists. This guide will explore the bridge’s history, architecture, walking experiences, best spots for sunrise and sunset, nearby attractions, and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.

Introduction to Thuan Phuoc Bridge 

Thuan Phuoc Bridge is a large suspension bridge spanning the Han River, and has become a prominent architectural and tourist landmark of Da Nang city. This bridge attracts numerous domestic and international visitors thanks to its modern design, harmoniously blending with the scenic Han River and Da Nang’s coastline. 

Thuan Phuoc Bridge is recognized as one of the largest suspension bridges in Vietnam and a source of pride for the city’s engineering and architecture. Additionally, with its night-time illumination system, the bridge has become an ideal check-in spot, helping to promote Da Nang as a dynamic, friendly, and modern tourist city.

Location & How to get to Thuan Phuoc Bridge

Thuan Phuoc Bridge is located in the northeastern part of Da Nang City, spanning the Han River and connecting Hai Chau District with Son Tra District. The bridge is not only an important transportation landmark but also a popular sightseeing spot due to its modern design and scenic surroundings. Visitors often combine a visit here with other nearby attractions to fully enjoy the beauty of Da Nang.

Getting to the bridge from downtown Da Nang is straightforward. By car or taxi, it takes approximately 10-15 minutes, following the route Nguyen Van Linh – Vo Nguyen Giap – Thuan Phuoc Bridge, which is both fast and convenient. Those traveling by motorbike will have a similar travel time, around 10-15 minutes, with the added benefit of enjoying scenic views along the Han River.

For visitors coming from Hoi An, Thuan Phuoc Bridge is about 30 km away, taking approximately 45-50 minutes by car or motorbike. The recommended route is via National Highway 1A and the coastal road along Vo Nguyen Giap, which offers scenic views of the coastline and the chance to enjoy the journey as part of the experience.

From Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness, the bridge is roughly 35 km away, requiring around 50-60 minutes by car or shuttle service. The resort provides transportation services, ensuring a safe and convenient trip for guests who wish to visit the bridge without hassle.

History and significance of Thuan Phuoc Bridge

Thuan Phuoc Bridge was initiated in 2003 and officially inaugurated on July 19, 2009. It is a key infrastructure project of Da Nang city, designed to address the increasing traffic demand between Hai Chau and Son Tra districts, while also contributing to the city’s economic, urban, and tourism development. With a total length of approximately 1,850 m, a main span of 405 m, a width of 18 m, and two bridge towers reaching 80 m, Thuan Phuoc Bridge once held the record as the longest main-span suspension bridge in Vietnam at the time of its opening.

In terms of significance, Thuan Phuoc Bridge is not only a vital transportation structure that shortens travel between the city center and Tien Sa Port but also a modern architectural icon of Da Nang. Its unique cable-stayed design, combined with an impressive night-time lighting system, has made the bridge a famous check-in spot and a major tourist attraction. Beyond its functional and aesthetic value, the bridge symbolizes advanced engineering, creative design, and urban development. For tourism, Thuan Phuoc Bridge enhances the cityscape, offers stunning views of the Han River and Da Nang coastline, and serves as a highlight in sightseeing tours, photography, and sunset experiences, helping promote Da Nang as a dynamic, modern, and tourist-friendly city.

Overall architecture of Thuan Phuoc Bridge

Thuan Phuoc Bridge is a modern cable-stayed suspension bridge that perfectly combines advanced engineering with urban aesthetics. The main span stretches 405 m, with a total length of approximately 1,850 m, supported by two main towers reaching 80 m in height. 

The entire bridge structure is meticulously calculated to optimize load-bearing capacity, ensuring stability against strong sea winds, storms, and varying weather conditions. High-quality steel and concrete are used according to international standards, resistant to corrosion and capable of long-term durability. The bridge deck spans 18 m, accommodating four lanes of motor vehicles alongside pedestrian sidewalks, providing convenience and safety for all users.

Cable system and bridge towers

A standout feature of the architecture is the V-shaped cable system combined with the main suspension cables, creating a balanced and elegant yet structurally robust design. The two A-shaped towers not only support the bridge but also serve as iconic landmarks for the city. 

Each tower, standing 80 m high, works in conjunction with tensioned steel cables to evenly distribute the weight and reduce vibrations caused by passing traffic. The bridge deck includes safety railings, modern lighting, and surveillance cameras, enhancing both technical functionality and the visitor experience.

Lighting system and nighttime highlights

One of Thuan Phuoc Bridge’s most notable features is its artistic LED lighting system. At night, the bridge illuminates with vibrant, color-changing lights reflecting on the Han River, creating a stunning and memorable visual experience. This feature makes it a popular check-in and photography spot, attracting both domestic and international tourists. During festivals or special events, the lighting can be customized, adding dynamism and visual appeal to the cityscape.

Location and scenic views

Thuan Phuoc Bridge occupies a strategic location near the coastline and Tien Sa Port, connecting the city center with key tourist areas, ports, and the Son Tra Peninsula. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Da Nang city, the Han River, Tien Sa Port, and the expansive coastline. The scenery is particularly impressive at sunrise or sunset, when natural light harmonizes with the LED illumination, offering a unique and romantic sightseeing experience.

Must-try experiences when visiting Thuan Phuong Bridge

When visiting Da Nang, Thuan Phuoc Bridge is an attractive destination for travelers who enjoy sightseeing, photography, and exploring the city from above. From leisurely walks and stunning photo opportunities to watching sunrises or sunsets, as well as enjoying local snacks and coffee near the bridge, each experience offers unforgettable moments. 

Walking on the bridge

Walking on Thuan Phuoc Bridge is an excellent way to enjoy fresh air while admiring the panoramic views of the Han River and Da Nang coastline. Visitors are recommended to walk on the pedestrian sidewalk toward Tien Sa Port, where the view is wider and fewer people pass by. The ideal times are early morning from 5:30 – 7:00 AM or late afternoon from 4:30 – 6:00 PM, both to avoid crowds and enjoy beautiful natural lighting.

When walking, it is best to wear comfortable clothing, sneakers or soft shoes, avoiding high heels or flip-flops that are unsafe on the bridge. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and water for sun protection if walking during the day. Visitors can also combine walking with light jogging or cycling to experience the entire bridge span and surrounding scenery. This allows for both exercise and relaxation, while enjoying the elevated view from the 80 m towers.

Check-in and photography

Thuan Phuoc Bridge is one of Da Nang’s most popular check-in spots. To capture the entire bridge, visitors can stand on the Han River banks near Son Tra District or close to Tien Sa Port, offering a wide view of the bridge. The sidewalk on the bridge itself is also ideal for capturing the bridge along with the river, port, and cityscape.

Evening is the best time for photography, from 6:00 – 8:00 PM, when the bridge’s LED lights illuminate, reflecting beautifully on the Han River. This is perfect for event photos, group shots, or wedding photography. Visitors should consider bringing a professional camera or a smartphone with a tripod to capture the details of the cables, A-shaped towers, and surrounding scenery. Always avoid standing on vehicle lanes and follow safety signage.

Sunrise and sunset viewing

Thuan Phuoc Bridge offers outstanding opportunities to enjoy sunrise and sunset.

• Sunrise: from 5:30 – 6:30 AM, the soft morning light illuminates the bridge, Han River, and eastern coastline, creating a peaceful and gentle atmosphere. The low crowd makes it convenient for photography and videography.
• Sunset: from 5:30 – 6:30 PM, golden sunlight reflects on the bridge and river, creating a romantic and visually striking scene, ideal for couples and photography enthusiasts.

Visitors are advised to bring a camera, tripod, sunglasses, and wear comfortable shoes. Walking along the bridge to find the best angles or combining with a stroll along the Han River enhances the overall experience.

Dining and snacks with a view

There are many dining options near Thuan Phuoc Bridge where visitors can enjoy food while watching the bridge:

• Panorama Cafe: Located near the Han River, with a wide balcony facing the bridge. The menu includes coffee, tea, pastries, and international dishes. Must-try items: Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá), bánh mì chảo, and assorted desserts.
• Sky View Coffee & Lounge: A rooftop café with direct views of the bridge, perfect for check-ins during the day or photographing sunsets. Popular items: fruit teas, smoothies, and cold brew coffee.
• Street food near the bridge: Small stalls offer sugarcane juice, bánh tráng trộn, chè, bánh bèo, nem nướng. This is a casual way to snack while enjoying the bridge view. Among these, bánh tráng trộn and corn pudding (chè bắp) are highly recommended.

The ideal time to enjoy food and drinks is before sunset, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal and prepare for photography when the light is perfect.

Nearby attractions around Thuan Phuoc Bridge

While visiting Thuan Phuoc Bridge is a highlight on its own, the surrounding area also offers a variety of attractions worth exploring. From pristine beaches and scenic peninsulas to bustling ports, iconic bridges, riverside cafes, and parks, visitors can easily plan a full day of sightseeing around the bridge. This section highlights the top nearby destinations, providing tips on what to see, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in the area.

My Khe Beach

Located just 2-3 km from the bridge, My Khe Beach is an ideal destination to combine a visit to Thuan Phuoc Bridge with some beach relaxation. Visitors can swim, stroll along the white sandy shore, or enjoy water sports such as beach volleyball, parasailing, and surfing. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to admire the bridge while enjoying the beach scenery and capturing beautiful photos.

Read more: My Khe beach – one of Asia’s most beautiful beaches

Son Tra Peninsula

About 5 km from the bridge, Son Tra Peninsula offers visitors a chance to explore natural landscapes and stunning viewpoints. Travelers can hike, visit famous pagodas like Linh Ung Pagoda, and enjoy panoramic views of the city and Han River from elevated spots. Combining a visit to Thuan Phuoc Bridge with Son Tra Peninsula creates a diverse trip that blends architectural beauty with natural scenery.

Read more: Son Tra Peninsula – Discover Danang’s “green lung”

Tien Sa Port

Located right next to the bridge, Tien Sa Port allows visitors to observe the bustling activity of ships and boats, experiencing the city’s maritime life firsthand. It is also a perfect spot for photographing the entire bridge, with the Han River and eastern coastline in the background. Visitors can take short boat tours, enjoy sunset views from the water, or participate in fishing and diving activities.

Whether you’re strolling along its pedestrian paths, taking stunning photos, enjoying a golden sunrise or romantic sunset, or exploring nearby beaches, pagodas, and local cafés, every moment here is unforgettable. Don’t miss the chance to witness the elegance of this modern landmark and create memories that will last a lifetime. Make Thuan Phuoc Bridge a must-visit highlight on your Da Nang journey!