Every time I set foot in Da Nang, my heart flutters as if I had met an old friend after many years apart. To me, this city is not only a tourist destination but also a symbol of strong transformation, where aspirations and potentials blend together to reach high in the blue sky.

Da Nang is not only famous for its bridges, but also for its convergence of light and art through the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF). Photo: XUAN SON

From the southern metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, the journey to Da Nang is like a change of pace, from the hustle and bustle of the Southern urban area to the harmonious rhythm of life between the sea and mountains of a central coastal city. Da Nang always welcomes me with the gentle embrace of the sea, the salty taste of the wind and the proud look of the ‘Rong’ (Dragon) Bridge - the lively symbol of the city. Every time I see the Dragon Bridge squirting fire and water, I feel the bustling, dynamic vibe of a youthful Da Nang, always ready to break out to conquer new things.

On those trips, I not only came to see beautiful scenery but also to meet friends, especially literary friends living here. They are kindred spirits, always enthusiastic and creative. We shared everyday stories, literary concerns, and dreams for a new literature from this central region. Every morning coffee session on My Khe Beach or meetings in the cozy space of small cafes along the iconic Han River were unforgettable memories.

Da Nang is not only a place of unique architectural works such as the Golden Bridge at the Sun World Ba Na Hills, but also a gathering place for artistic souls and literature lovers from all over the country. The bond between literary friends makes me feel like Da Nang is my second home, a place I can return to when I need sympathy and sharing.

But Da Nang is not only about bridges and friends. This city is also a place where light and art converge through the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF). Every DIFF season, the entire Han River lights up like the Milky Way, when teams from all over the world gather to create spectacular fireworks displays. The fireworks night is not only a visual feast but also an opportunity for friends from all over the world to admire the beauty of cultural exchange, the aspiration for peace and development.

Looking down from above, the Han River is like a giant mirror reflecting the brilliant colours of the night sky. The fireworks fly up, blooming into thousands of petals of light, making the hearts of the audience vibrate with emotion. That is the magical power that DIFF brings - not only the pride of Da Nang, but also that of Viet Nam as a whole.

The DIFF is not only a cultural event but also a symbol of international integration, demonstrating the vision and aspiration of Da Nang. Over the years, DIFF has continuously affirmed its strong position on the map of major cultural events in the world, contributing to promoting the image of a modern, creative and vibrant Viet Nam.

A performance is seen at the Da Nang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF). Photo: XUAN SON

In the brilliant light of fireworks, I also think of my close literary friends in Da Nang - people with whom every meeting is always filled with stories about poetry, art and the desire to make more contributions. Through them, I understand more about the profound culture of this city where creativity is always accelerated and humanity is always full.

In addition, Da Nang also attracts tourists with its own charm of a coastal land with fine white sand beaches, dishes with rich flavours of the central region, and the hospitality of local residents here. Developing strongly step by step, Da Nang is like a green wave full of inner strength, always moving forward and constantly conquering new heights.

I hope that Da Nang will continue to promote the spirit of innovation, turning potential into reality to become a leading economic and cultural hub in the region. Besides investing in infrastructure and tourism services, I also hope that the city will preserve traditional values, preserve craft villages, and folk culture to create a balance between modernity and identity.

My literary friends are also nurturing many projects to connect literature between Da Nang and other cities and provinces all over the country. They believe that literature can be a bridge connecting cultures, and I also believe that Da Nang will be the starting point for new, vibrant creative movements.
Returning to Ho Chi Minh City after each trip, I always brought back memories of Da Nang, where I placed my faith in a bright future. And now when spring comes, I long to return here, to see the city continue to grow, to reach far - a lovely and very livable Da Nang.

Written by NGUYEN HUNG - Translating by A.THU