Modeled after Singapore’s Merlion statue, the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang, which began construction in 2015, has become a new symbol of the “city worth living.” It is also a famous tourist attraction that draws many visitors for sightseeing and taking photos alongside familiar landmarks such as bridges, My Khe Beach, Linh Ung Pagoda,…
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Have you learned anything about the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang?
When was the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue built?
It was initiated in 2015 and completed in 2016. The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue is not just a sculpture; with its presence, it embellishes the yacht harbor and the surrounding scenery. Simultaneously, it emphasizes the beauty of the Han River area specifically and Da Nang in general.
This unique project was constructed starting in 2015.
From the day of its introduction until now, it has become a new tourist attraction, drawing a large number of visitors for sightseeing and admiration. Its attraction has not waned and, in fact, continues to grow. With its meticulous design and substantial weight, this statue will leave you in awe when you get close to it.
The significance of the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang.
In East Asian culture, the carp symbolizes many profound meanings. According to folklore, the carp turning into a dragon is always a mythical creature symbolizing strength, authority, and good luck. Nowadays, this belief remains the same, and it is even seen as a symbol of intelligence and flexibility. Both in the East and the West, dragons are depicted as creatures that can ascend to the skies and descend into the seas.
Legend has it that in the past, there was a celestial dragon competition in the sky, and animals from all around came to participate. Each had to pass through the Vũ Môn Gate, but for a whole month, no animal could withstand this fierce challenge. Until a carp appeared, holding a pearl, and after many determined attempts, the carp passed through the Vũ Môn Gate and transformed into a dragon.
Since then, the story of the carp turning into a dragon has been passed down through generations. And the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang vividly portrays the belief, tradition, faith, and perseverance that lead to success.
The ideal time to visit the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang.
When is the best time to visit the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue? In reality, the structure retains its unique beauty and shines brightly by the romantic Han River at any time of the year. Anyone passing by can’t help but pause for a moment to admire and take pictures. Therefore, you can visit at any time that suits you.
However, based on the experience of traveling in Da Nang, it’s better to go during the dry season. Since this statue is located outdoors, rainy weather not only makes it difficult to move around but also hinders a clear view of its beauty and makes photography challenging. Typically, from March to September, this area is crowded with tourists.
As for the best time of day, it’s in the evening. As the sunlight gradually fades, it seems to concentrate on the statue, making it appear as if the entire carp is covered in gold, incredibly dazzling. The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang becomes even more radiant at night. The statue continuously changes between nine different colors. What’s unique is that it sprays water into the romantic Han River, creating an iconic symbol for the city worth living in.
Location and directions to the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue area.
Where is the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue located?
The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang is situated on the eastern bank of the romantic Han River, between the Han River Bridge and the Dragon Bridge, along Tran Hung Dao Street in Son Tra District. Standing from the Dragon Bridge, tourists can enjoy the entire panorama of the carp turning into a dragon, the scenic beauty, and activities in the nearby area.
This is considered one of the most strategic locations in the city. It is the central point of the eight-border concept in the local culture, representing the convergence of factors: Heaven, Earth, Sky, Sea, Mountains, Forest, Marsh, and Swamp. It can be said that the people of Da Nang have put a lot of thought and meaning into this statue, expressing desires for strength and belief in a prosperous and flourishing life.
How to get to the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue?
To reach the location of the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang, you can travel in one of the following two directions (depending on your starting point):
- First: From My Khe Beach, drive towards the city center, turn onto Vo Van Kiet Street, then onto Ngo Quyen Street, take a right onto Ly Nam De, and continue to turn left onto Tran Hung Dao Street until you arrive.
- Second: If you’re starting from the north of the city, take Nguyen Van Linh Street, cross the Dragon Bridge, then turn right onto Tran Hung Dao Street, and when you reach the Love Bridge, you’re there. The statue is located right beneath the Dragon Bridge and is easily visible.
You have various transportation options.
Since it is located in the city center on one of the busiest streets in Da Nang, getting here is not difficult. If you’re coming from a farther distance, you can either ride a motorbike or take a taxi or a rideshare service like Grab. For those staying in hotels or homestays in the vicinity, walking to visit the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue is also an option.
If you choose to travel by motorbike, you can park your bike at lots across the street or in the Son Tra Night Market area, with parking fees around 5,000 VND per trip. Afterward, you can simply walk across the street to the statue. According to DanangPrivateCar.com, if you’re traveling with a group or children, using public transportation might be more convenient. Motorbikes are generally suitable for younger travelers.
Additionally, if you want to explore more attractions in Da Nang, such as Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, famous bridges like the Dragon Bridge, or the Son Tra Peninsula with Linh Ung Pagoda, renting a private car in Da Nang is a suitable option. DanangPrivateCar.com is proud to offer top-notch private car rental services in Da Nang, with a team of professional drivers who have basic English language skills, ensuring you have a safe and comfortable trip to Da Nang. You can book our Danang city tour by private car today.
Visiting the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang, is there an entrance fee?
Even though it’s a famous tourist spot that attracts many visitors for sightseeing and photography, the good news for those planning to check out this unique statue is that there is no entrance fee. It’s entirely open for visitors throughout the day, so feel free to come and visit at your convenience.
However, you will need to budget for transportation to get to this location as well as parking fees (if you’re driving your own vehicle). Additionally, if you plan to eat in the vicinity, be aware that prices can be higher compared to areas farther from the city center. So, it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand, just in case.
The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang – a landmark for the “city worth living in.”
The uniqueness of the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang.
The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang was constructed and sculpted by artisans from the Non Nuoc stone village. The project consists of 5 pieces of white stone, each 7.5 meters high and weighing 200 tons, crafted with the skilled hands of artisans over three months.
The structure of the statue includes a dragon head with intricate carvings reminiscent of the Ly Dynasty era. The dragon’s body is represented by finely carved scales, and its back features decorative fins, resembling the dragon’s spine. The dragon’s legs are portrayed as two symmetrically stylized hands placed on undulating scales.
This is not just a simple statue; the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang is equipped with a water spray system from the dragon’s head, vividly recreating the image of water pouring to bless the transformation of the carp into a dragon. This image also symbolizes the yacht harbor and enhances the landscape of the riverfront area, affirming the value of the Han River area and the beauty of Da Nang in general.
The Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang has become a meeting point for tourists.
Along with the Love Bridge, the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue has established a distinctive style among the 108 famous tourist destinations in Da Nang. It is very interesting and ideal for tourists when visiting this city in Central Vietnam. At any time of the day, the statue stands out with its unique beauty, making anyone passing by unable to resist pausing to admire, take souvenir photos, and capture beautiful moments beside it.
Moreover, if you stand at the base of the carp statue, you can encompass the entire city within your view. In front of you lies the tranquil Han River, with colorful yachts gliding gently along its surface, while the friendly smiles of the local people surrounding you will warm your heart. But perhaps the most cherished moment is witnessing the Dragon Bridge spewing flames and water, a sight to behold with your own eyes.
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What to eat near the Carp Turning into a Dragon statue in Da Nang? Here are some restaurant suggestions.
Suggested delicious dishes to try
Da Nang is not only known for its beautiful landmarks and scenery but also for its diverse culinary paradise. Here, you can explore a variety of delicious dishes at extremely affordable prices.
- Local specialties include: Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles), Bun Mam (fermented fish soup noodles), Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork noodles), Bun Bo (beef noodles), Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (pork rolled in rice paper), Be Thu Cau Mong (Cau Mong goat), Goi Ca Nam O (Nam O fish salad), and more.
- Seafood: Da Nang is renowned for its fresh and delicious seafood such as shrimp, crab, grouper, snails, fish, squid, octopus, etc. You can enjoy them fresh or in various seafood dishes.
- Snack foods: Da Nang offers a wide range of snacks, including mixed jackfruit, snail sausages, stir-fried fermented pork rolls, rice pancakes, grilled nem (spring rolls), banh beo (steamed rice cakes), avocado ice cream, and more.
See More: Top 12 Best Seafood Restaurants in Da Nang
Restaurants and eateries nearby
Not only is this area a hub for various tourist attractions, entertainment, and hotels, but it also boasts many restaurants, eateries, and cafes to satisfy your dining needs, such as:
- Tri Hang Seafood Restaurant.
- Lemon Tea – Chill.
- Olivia’s Prime Steakhouse.
- Duyet Bun Bo Noodle Shop…
Alternatively, you can visit the Son Tra Night Market right at the beginning of the Dragon Bridge. There, you can find a wide variety of street food, snacks, ice creams, and beverages at reasonable prices. The market also offers Da Nang specialties as souvenirs, fashion items, and more, making it a great place for shopping if you’re interested.
The attractions near the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang.
Because it is located in the city center, besides the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang, there are many other destinations for you to explore, have fun, and shop.
Love Bridge.
Right there is the Love Bridge – a beautiful photography spot in Da Nang that young people especially adore. Although it’s only a short stretch, it’s decorated with many sparkling red hearts, creating an extremely romantic atmosphere.
Son Tra Night Market.
This is the second-largest Son Tra night market in Da Nang, where dozens of stalls converge, offering clothing, shoes, souvenirs, and food. Just take a few steps, and you’ll be able to explore this bustling and lively night market.
Dragon Bridge.
With a unique design that mimics the shape of a dragon curving over the water towards the East Sea, it has attracted the curiosity of many tourists. Especially, if you visit on Saturday evening or Sunday, you can witness the bridge spewing fire and then spraying water, which is quite special.
For those who prefer tranquility, you can choose riverside cafes along Tran Hung Dao Street with a view of the river to relax and enjoy the night view of the city. It’s that simple, but it will be an unforgettable memory.
Some notes when visiting the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang.
- The best time to admire the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang is at night. At this time, the brightly colored lights will make the scene more mystical.
- Although this structure has been in Da Nang for nearly 5 years, it still attracts many tourists. If you want to take photos, you need to be patient and wait.
- When you come here, please be mindful not to litter or climb onto the statue.
- If you are traveling by motorcycle, you can park it at spots on the opposite side for a fee of 5,000 VND per round trip and then walk across the street to visit.
It can be said that the Statue of a Carp Turning into a Dragon in Da Nang carries unique beauty and is the pride of this beautiful coastal city. If you want to see this special symbol with your own eyes, plan your visit to this land right away!
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