Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge

Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge: Vietnam's Spectacular Mountain Retreat

Discover Vietnam's Enchanting Hilltop Paradise

Welcome to Ba Na Hills and the iconic Golden Bridge, two of Vietnam's most breathtaking attractions nestled in the lush mountains overlooking Da Nang. At Vietescapes, we specialize in creating unforgettable experiences at this magical destination, where French colonial charm meets modern entertainment and natural beauty.

Rising 1,487 meters above sea level, Sun World Ba Na Hills offers visitors a unique escape from the tropical heat into a cooler mountain climate with spectacular panoramic views. The crown jewel of this remarkable resort is the Golden Bridge (Cau Vang), a 150-meter pedestrian walkway seemingly held aloft by two massive stone hands that emerge from the mountainside.

Join us as we explore everything this extraordinary destination has to offer, from the world record-breaking cable car journey to the charming French Village, thrilling attractions at Fantasy Park, serene gardens, and the architectural marvel that is the Golden Bridge.

Experience the Wonders of Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge

An Extraordinary Mountain Resort Experience

Sun World Ba Na Hills stands as Vietnam's premier mountain resort destination, offering visitors a remarkable blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and modern entertainment facilities. Originally established by French colonists in 1919 as a hill station retreat from the coastal heat, today's Ba Na Hills has been transformed into a world-class tourist attraction while preserving its unique historical charm.

The journey to Ba Na Hills is an experience in itself. Visitors ascend the mountain aboard the world's longest non-stop single-track cable car, spanning nearly 5.8 kilometers. This engineering marvel holds multiple Guinness World Records and provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, lush forests, and distant coastline. The cable car system at Ba Na Hills consists of multiple lines connecting different areas of the resort, with the main line transporting guests from the base station to the mountain summit in approximately 20 minutes.

The Iconic Golden Bridge (Cau Vang)

Undoubtedly the most photographed attraction in Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge has become an architectural icon and global sensation since its opening in June 2018. This pedestrian walkway stretches 150 meters across the mountainside at an elevation of 1,400 meters, offering spectacular views of the surrounding Truong Son Mountains.

What makes the Golden Bridge truly extraordinary is its design—the walkway appears to be supported by two massive stone hands emerging from the mountainside, as if a mountain god is gently cradling the golden pathway. This artistic masterpiece, designed by TA Landscape Architecture, has captivated visitors worldwide and become a symbol of Vietnam's creative architectural vision.

The bridge's name comes from its golden balustrades and distinctive yellow hue that creates a striking contrast against the lush green landscape. Often referred to as "Golden Hands Bridge" by international visitors, the structure's Vietnamese name "Cau Vang" literally translates to "Golden Bridge."

The Enchanting French Village (Le Village Français)

At the heart of Ba Na Hills lies the meticulously recreated French Village, a charming European-style settlement that transports visitors to 19th century France. This architectural marvel features Gothic-inspired buildings, a magnificent cathedral reminiscent of Notre Dame, cobblestone streets, and quaint town squares complete with fountains and statues.

The village showcases the incredible attention to detail that makes Ba Na Hills special. Visitors can wander through streets lined with French bakeries, wine cellars, and boutique shops selling everything from souvenirs to fine clothing. The square comes alive with street performances, while restaurants serve both authentic French cuisine and Vietnamese delicacies.

The French Village's buildings house various attractions including hotels, museums, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Its architecture reflects different periods of French design, from medieval structures to Renaissance-inspired buildings, creating a cohesive yet diverse European atmosphere high in the Vietnamese mountains.

Fantasy Park: Adventure and Entertainment

Fantasy Park, Vietnam's largest indoor amusement center, occupies three floors inside the mountain and offers entertainment for visitors of all ages. This Jules Verne-inspired theme park features over 105 free arcade and carnival games, making it a perfect attraction for families and thrill-seekers alike.

Among the park's most popular attractions are the 3D theater, virtual reality experiences, and various simulation rides. The thrilling Alpine Coaster takes riders on an exhilarating journey through the mountainside forest, while rock climbing walls, bumper cars, and drop towers provide additional excitement.

Fantasy Park successfully combines modern entertainment technology with whimsical design elements that reflect the adventurous spirit of Jules Verne's works. The indoor setting ensures that visitors can enjoy these attractions regardless of weather conditions, making it a reliable entertainment option throughout the year.

Spiritual Sanctuaries: Linh Ung Pagoda and Sacred Sites

For those seeking spiritual exploration or cultural enrichment, Ba Na Hills houses several significant religious sites. The most prominent is Linh Ung Pagoda, featuring a 27-meter-tall white Buddha statue overlooking the landscape. This sacred site offers not only spiritual significance but also breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and, on clear days, Da Nang city and coastline.

The pagoda complex includes beautifully designed prayer halls, ornate architecture, and meticulously maintained gardens that create a peaceful atmosphere for reflection and appreciation of Buddhist traditions. Visitors can observe or participate in traditional rituals, adding a cultural dimension to their Ba Na Hills experience.

In addition to Linh Ung Pagoda, Ba Na Hills features several smaller shrines and spiritual sites scattered throughout the resort, each with its own significance and architectural beauty. These sacred spaces offer a tranquil contrast to the entertainment-focused attractions elsewhere in the resort.

Le Jardin D'Amour: Gardens of Romance and Beauty

Le Jardin D'Amour comprises nine meticulously designed themed gardens, each with its own distinct character and landscaping style. These gardens represent different concepts of love and romance through carefully selected plants, sculptures, and architectural elements.

Visitors can wander through the Love Garden, Memory Garden, Mythological Garden, and others, each offering unique photo opportunities and peaceful settings. The gardens feature thousands of flower species from both Vietnam and around the world, including rare orchids, roses, and seasonal blooms that ensure color throughout the year.

The thoughtful design of these gardens incorporates both Vietnamese and European landscaping traditions, creating spaces that feel both familiar and exotic. Winding paths, hidden benches, and strategic viewpoints encourage visitors to explore at a leisurely pace and discover the subtle details that make each garden special.

Debay Wine Cellar: A Taste of French Heritage

Deep within the mountain lies the historic Debay Wine Cellar, constructed by French colonists in 1923. This 100-meter-long tunnel maintains a constant cool temperature, creating the perfect environment for wine storage.

Today, the cellar offers visitors the opportunity to sample and purchase fine wines in a uniquely atmospheric setting. The stone walls, ambient lighting, and rows of wooden barrels create an authentic European wine cellar experience that connects guests to Ba Na Hills' French colonial history.

Wine tastings can be arranged with knowledgeable staff who guide visitors through selections from both French and international vineyards. The cellar also houses a collection of historical artifacts and photographs documenting the French colonial presence in Ba Na Hills, adding an educational element to the experience.

Planning Your Visit to Ba Na Hills & Golden Bridge

Entrance Fees and Practical Information

Visiting Ba Na Hills requires purchasing an entrance ticket that includes cable car transportation and access to most attractions within the resort. As of 2025, the Ba Na Hills entrance fee for adult visitors is approximately 850,000 VND (about $33 USD) during weekdays and 950,000 VND (about $37 USD) during weekends and holidays. Children between 1-1.3m tall qualify for reduced prices, while those under 1m enjoy free admission when accompanied by an adult.

This comprehensive ticket provides access to:

Round-trip cable car transportation
The Golden Bridge
French Village
Most attractions within Fantasy Park
Le Jardin D'Amour gardens
Linh Ung Pagoda
Debay Wine Cellar

Some specialized attractions or experiences within the resort may require additional payment. It's worth noting that prices may vary by season and special promotions are occasionally available, so checking the official Sun World Ba Na Hills website before visiting is recommended.

Best Time to Visit Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills can be visited year-round, but the experience varies significantly with the seasons. For optimal viewing and photography conditions at the Golden Bridge, consider these factors:

Peak Season (February to August):

Clearer skies and better visibility for panoramic views
More reliable weather with less chance of rain or fog
Spectacular sunrise views of the Golden Bridge (early morning arrival recommended)
Higher visitor numbers, especially during Vietnamese holidays

Off-Peak Season (September to January):

Fewer crowds and more peaceful experience
Mystical fog often surrounds the Golden Bridge, creating ethereal photo opportunities
Lower temperatures (can drop to 10°C/50°F)
Occasional rain may temporarily limit visibility

For the best Golden Bridge experience, arriving early morning (before 8:00 AM) or late afternoon (after 3:00 PM) is recommended regardless of season. This timing helps avoid the largest crowds and provides optimal lighting for photography.

The mountain weather can change rapidly, with conditions at Ba Na Hills often differing significantly from Da Nang city below. Packing light layers is advisable year-round, with warmer clothing recommended during winter months.

Getting to Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge

Ba Na Hills is located approximately 35 kilometers west of Da Nang city center, making it accessible as either a day trip or overnight stay. Several transportation options are available:

Organized Tours: Vietescapes offers comprehensive Ba Na Hills Golden Bridge tours that include:

Round-trip transportation from Da Nang or Hoi An
Professional English-speaking guides
Entrance tickets with cable car access
Lunch options
Flexible itineraries tailored to your interests

Private Transportation:

Private car with driver (approximately 400,000-600,000 VND one-way from Da Nang)
Motorcycle rental for experienced riders (not recommended for families with children)
Taxi services through applications like Grab

Public Transportation:

Public buses run from Da Nang city center to the base of Ba Na Hills (less frequent and requires additional walking)

The journey from Da Nang to Ba Na Hills takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, depending on traffic conditions. From Hoi An, expect a journey of 90 minutes to two hours.

Upon arrival at the base station, visitors purchase tickets and board the cable car for the scenic ascent to the main resort area where the Golden Bridge and other attractions are located.

Da Nang Tours Including Golden Bridge

While the Golden Bridge and Ba Na Hills can be enjoyed as a standalone day trip, many visitors choose to incorporate these attractions into a broader exploration of Da Nang and central Vietnam. Vietescapes offers several comprehensive tour packages that combine Ba Na Hills with other significant attractions:

Da Nang Highlights Tour (2 Days):

Day 1: Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge full-day exploration
Day 2: Marble Mountains, Lady Buddha, and My Khe Beach

Central Vietnam Discovery (4-5 Days):

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge
Hoi An Ancient Town UNESCO site
My Son Sanctuary Hindu temples
Hai Van Pass scenic drive
Lang Co Beach

Cultural and Natural Wonders Tour (3 Days):

Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge
Son Tra Peninsula and Monkey Mountain
Linh Ung Pagoda
Cooking class in Da Nang

These multi-day tours provide a more comprehensive experience of the region's cultural and natural attractions while ensuring comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and carefully selected accommodation options.

Exploring the Marvels of Golden Bridge

Golden Bridge Architecture and Design

The Golden Bridge represents a remarkable achievement in landscape architecture and structural engineering. Designed by TA Landscape Architecture firm under the direction of principal designer Vu Viet Anh, the bridge combines artistic vision with technical precision to create an installation that appears both ancient and otherworldly.

The bridge's structure consists of:

A 150-meter curved walkway constructed with golden-colored stainless steel handrails
Eight spans supported by concrete structures disguised within the massive stone hands
Weatherproof materials selected to withstand mountain conditions
Strategic anchoring to ensure stability despite high-altitude winds

The most distinctive features—the giant stone hands—appear weathered and ancient, as if they've emerged from the mountain after centuries of slumber. This effect was deliberately created through specialized finishing techniques that give the contemporary construction an aged, moss-covered appearance.

The hands themselves are supported by concealed steel frames covered with fine mesh and finished with fiberglass and engineered stone that can withstand the mountain's variable weather conditions. Their design incorporates subtle details like wrinkles, veins, and fingernails that enhance the illusion of giant human hands.

The bridge's curved design serves both aesthetic and practical purposes, creating a dramatic visual effect while allowing visitors to experience changing perspectives as they walk its length. The golden color was chosen to create a striking contrast against both the stone hands and the surrounding green landscape.

Golden Bridge Viewpoints and Photography

The Golden Bridge has become one of Southeast Asia's most photographed landmarks, with several key viewpoints offering distinctive perspectives:

On the Bridge: Walking the Golden Bridge provides constantly changing views as you move along its curved path. The best photographs typically capture:

The full curve of the bridge with mountains in the background
One of the hands in close detail with the bridge extending into the distance
The contrast between the golden structure and surrounding greenery

Cable Car Views: The cable car line passing near the Golden Bridge offers unique aerial perspectives that capture the bridge's relationship to the surrounding landscape. For photographers, this provides opportunities to showcase the bridge's scale and integration with its mountain setting.

French Garden Viewpoint: A designated viewing platform in the nearby French gardens provides a more distant perspective that captures the entire bridge structure within its landscape context.

Drone Photography (Restricted): While drone photography produces spectacular images of the Golden Bridge, it's important to note that drone use is strictly regulated in the area and requires advance permission from Ba Na Hills management.

For the best photographic conditions, early morning visits (before 9:00 AM) provide soft light and fewer crowds. Alternatively, late afternoon light (after 3:00 PM) creates a golden glow that enhances the bridge's color. During foggy conditions, particularly common in winter months, the bridge emerging from mist creates hauntingly beautiful images.

The Story Behind Golden Bridge

The Golden Bridge opened to the public in June 2018 as part of an ongoing development of Ba Na Hills resort. While relatively new, the bridge quickly attained international fame when images went viral on social media platforms, drawing worldwide attention to this Vietnamese architectural marvel.

The concept behind the hands emerged from the design team's desire to create a structure that would appear as if the mountain god was pulling a golden thread (the bridge) from the earth. This mythological reference connects to Vietnamese folk traditions while creating a visually striking landmark.

Construction of the bridge took just under a year, with teams working through challenging mountain conditions to complete the project. The technical challenges included:

Creating the appearance of weathered stone using modern materials
Ensuring structural stability at high altitude
Developing construction methods suitable for the remote mountain location
Designing the hands to withstand extreme weather conditions

Since its opening, the Golden Bridge has significantly contributed to increased tourism in the Da Nang region, with visitor numbers to Ba Na Hills rising dramatically following the bridge's international media coverage. The structure has won several architectural awards and firmly established itself as one of Vietnam's most recognizable landmarks.

Making the Most of Your Ba Na Hills Visit

Recommended Itinerary for a Day Trip

To fully experience Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge in a single day, we recommend the following itinerary:

Early Morning (7:30 AM - 9:30 AM):

Depart from Da Nang or Hoi An
Arrive at Ba Na Hills base station
Take the cable car journey to the upper station
Visit the Golden Bridge before crowds peak
Capture photographs in morning light

Mid Morning (9:30 AM - 12:00 PM):

Explore the French Village
Visit Linh Ung Pagoda
Tour the Debay Wine Cellar

Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM):

Enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants in the French Village
Consider a set menu or buffet options for efficient dining

Afternoon (1:30 PM - 4:30 PM):

Experience Fantasy Park attractions
Ride the Alpine Coaster
Explore Le Jardin D'Amour gardens
Visit the Wax Museum (optional additional ticket)

Late Afternoon (4:30 PM - 6:00 PM):

Return to the Golden Bridge for sunset views
Final cable car journey back to the base station
Return transportation to Da Nang or Hoi An

This schedule allows visitors to experience all major attractions while avoiding the most crowded periods at key sites like the Golden Bridge. For an even more comprehensive experience, consider an overnight stay at one of the on-site hotels, which allows for experiencing Ba Na Hills after day visitors have departed.

Accommodation Options at Ba Na Hills

For visitors wishing to fully immerse themselves in the Ba Na Hills experience, several accommodation options are available within the resort:

Mercure Danang French Village Ba Na Hills:

4-star hotel designed in French architectural style
Rooms with mountain or garden views
Access to resort facilities before and after day visitors

Hotel Morin:

Traditional French colonial design
Premium accommodations with elegant furnishings
Located in the heart of the French Village

Banahills Fantasy Hotel:

Family-friendly accommodations
Themed rooms inspired by fantasy elements
Convenient access to Fantasy Park attractions

Staying overnight provides several advantages:

Experience the Golden Bridge during early morning hours with minimal crowds
Enjoy evening entertainment in the French Village
Witness fog rolling through the mountains at dawn
Access to attractions before day trippers arrive
More relaxed pace for exploring all areas of the resort

Vietescapes can arrange accommodation packages that include transportation, entrance fees, and guided experiences tailored to your preferences.

Dining Experiences at Ba Na Hills

Ba Na Hills offers diverse dining options ranging from quick snacks to fine dining experiences:

French Village Restaurants:

La Crique & Kavkaz Restaurant: Fine dining with European cuisine
Le Terroir: Traditional French dishes and wine pairings
La Lavande: European and Vietnamese fusion

Asian Cuisine:

Arapang Restaurant: Vietnamese specialties and Asian fusion
Beer Plaza: German-inspired beer garden with international cuisine
Doumer Restaurant: Buffet restaurant with Asian and European options

Casual Dining:

Various cafés and bakeries throughout the French Village
Food courts offering quick meals and snacks
Street food stalls serving Vietnamese favorites

The dining experience at Ba Na Hills incorporates both the culinary traditions of Vietnam and international cuisines, with particular emphasis on French gastronomy reflecting the resort's colonial heritage. Many restaurants feature outdoor seating with mountain views or themed interiors that enhance the European atmosphere.

For visitors with dietary restrictions, most restaurants can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free requirements with advance notice. Vietescapes can arrange special dining experiences including private meals with panoramic views or themed dinners as part of customized tour packages.

Why Choose Vietescapes for Your Ba Na Hills Experience

Customized Ba Na Hills Golden Bridge Tours

At Vietescapes, we specialize in creating tailored experiences that maximize your enjoyment of Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge. Our customized tours offer several advantages:

Expert Local Knowledge:

Guides familiar with the best timing to avoid crowds
Insider information on hidden viewpoints and photo opportunities
Cultural context that enriches your understanding of the attractions

Seamless Logistics:

Private transportation from your accommodation
Pre-arranged entrance tickets avoiding long queues
Flexible scheduling adapted to weather conditions

Personalized Experiences:

Tours tailored to your interests (photography, culture, adventure)
Special arrangements for celebrations or occasions
Adaptable pace suitable for families, seniors, or those with limited mobility

Additional Services:

Professional photography services available
Multi-lingual guides upon request
Combined itineraries with other Da Nang attractions

Our Ba Na Hills tours range from half-day excursions focusing primarily on the Golden Bridge to comprehensive full-day experiences that allow ample time for all attractions. For those with specific interests, we offer specialized tours focusing on photography, cultural aspects, or adventure activities.

Exclusive Experiences with Vietescapes

Vietescapes distinguishes itself by offering exclusive experiences unavailable through standard tour operators:

Sunrise at Golden Bridge:

Private early morning access before public opening hours
Transportation timed to arrive for optimal sunrise views
Breakfast arrangements with mountain vistas

Cultural Immersion:

Guided historical tours focusing on French colonial influence
Spiritual experiences at Linh Ung Pagoda with participation in traditional ceremonies
Detailed architectural tours of the French Village with historical context

Photography Expeditions:

Professional photography guides
Access to optimal viewpoints at ideal times
Technical assistance for capturing challenging lighting conditions

VIP Experiences:

Private dining arrangements in exclusive locations
Behind-the-scenes tours of operational areas
Special access to restricted areas for unique perspectives

These exclusive offerings allow our clients to experience Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge in ways that transcend the standard tourist visit, creating memorable experiences that highlight the extraordinary nature of these attractions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of day to visit the Golden Bridge to avoid crowds?

The Golden Bridge experiences lowest visitor numbers before 9:00 AM and after 3:00 PM. Early morning visits offer the clearest views and best lighting for photography, while afternoon visits provide golden hour illumination. Weekday visits generally see fewer crowds than weekends.

Is Ba Na Hills suitable for visitors with limited mobility?

Ba Na Hills has made significant accessibility improvements with elevators, ramps, and mobility assistance services throughout most major attractions. The Golden Bridge is accessible for wheelchair users, and cable cars can accommodate standard wheelchairs. Contact Vietescapes for specialized accessibility arrangements.

How long should I plan to spend at Ba Na Hills?

A full day (7-8 hours) allows visitors to experience all major attractions without rushing. If your schedule is limited, a 5-hour visit focusing on the Golden Bridge, French Village, and one or two additional attractions is possible. For comprehensive exploration, consider an overnight stay.

What should I wear when visiting Ba Na Hills?

Comfortable walking shoes are essential as you'll cover considerable distances. Dressing in layers is recommended as temperatures can be 10°C cooler than Da Nang city. Sun protection is important during summer months, while light jackets are necessary year-round, especially in evenings.

Can I visit Ba Na Hills and Golden Bridge independently without a tour?

Independent visits are possible by arranging private transportation to the base station and purchasing tickets on arrival. However, during peak seasons this may involve long queues. Tours offer advantages of pre-arranged tickets, transportation, and valuable guidance to optimize your experience.