Danang, once dubbed the 'Saigon of the North' during the American War, has blossomed into the vibrant commercial and educational hub of Central Vietnam. As the country's fourth-largest city and the largest in the South Central Coast region, it thrives with an unexpected friendliness.
The city's name, derived from Cham language, means 'opening of a large river,' reflecting its strategic position at the Han River estuary. Danang's rich history dates back to the ancient Sa Huynh culture, with numerous historical relics, palaces, towers, and temples on display at the Cham Museum. It played a significant role in Vietnamese history during the southward expansion of the Dai Viet under the Ly dynasty in the 15th century and witnessed the arrival of Westerners in the 20th century.
During the Vietnam War, Danang was a bustling hub, home to a major air base for South Vietnamese and U.S. forces, sparking the growth of the city's entertainment industry with bars, restaurants, and hotels. Today, Danang is celebrated for its beautiful beaches and culinary delights.
The city offers a plethora of attractions, including the UNESCO-listed My Son, a thousand-year-old archaeological site, and the Ba Na Tourist Resort, featuring a remarkable 5km-long cable car system offering panoramic views of Ba Na Mountains. Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains), representing five ancient oriental elements, is another must-visit spot. The Son Tra Peninsula boasts pristine natural beauty and an untouched jungle, along with landmarks like Linh Ung Pagoda and Non Nuoc Beach.
Culinary adventures in Danang are a treat, whether you're dining in local street cafes or upscale restaurants. As a coastal city, it's a seafood paradise, and dishes like 'be thui' (grilled beef) and 'my Quang' (Quang noodle) are culinary delights you can't miss.
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Map of Da Nang
Places on the map
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Da Nang
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Hoi An
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Bach Ma National Park
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Hue
