The unique Pink Church of Da Nang
You’ll spot Da Nang Cathedral right away thanks to its bright pink color — it’s not exactly subtle, and that’s part of the charm. This Gothic-style church rises above the city with a tall spire topped by a rooster-shaped weather vane, which is why locals often call it the “Rooster Church” (Nhà thờ Con Gà). It’s a popular photo stop, especially for Instagram, but it’s also a working Catholic church with a calm, peaceful feel once you step inside the courtyard.
History of Da Nang Cathedral
Da Nang Cathedral was built between 1923 and 1924 under the guidance of French priest Louis Vallet, making it one of the oldest and few remaining French colonial churches in central Vietnam. At the time, Da Nang was known as Tourane, and the church was often called the Tourane Church. Its construction brought together French Gothic architecture and Vietnamese craftsmanship, with skilled artisans from Kim Bong village in Hoi An contributing to the building work. The result is a distinct mix of European style and local touches that still stands out today.
Christianity in Da Nang
Catholicism first arrived in central Vietnam in the early 1600s, brought by European missionaries, including Jesuits from Italy, Portugal, and later France. Under French colonial rule, the religion grew more rapidly, with churches built throughout the region. Today, Da Nang has a Catholic population of over 70,000 believers, and Da Nang Cathedral serves as the main church of the Da Nang Diocese, still active with daily services and community events.
Location & How to get there
Where is Da Nang Cathedral?
Da Nang Cathedral is located at 156 Tran Phu Street, right in the heart of Hai Chau District. It’s just a short walk from popular spots like Han Market, Dragon Bridge, and the Bach Dang riverside promenade — making it an easy addition to any central sightseeing route.
Getting there
If you’re staying in the city center, you can easily walk to the cathedral. It’s also accessible by Grab, taxi, or motorbike, though parking can be limited nearby. Note that the main entrance on Tran Phu Street is often closed — use the back gate on Yen Bai Street to enter.
Visiting information
Opening hours
The cathedral grounds are open for general visits Monday to Saturday, from 8:00–11:30 AM and 1:30–4:30 PM. On Sundays, access is limited to mass times, so plan accordingly if you’re just coming to look around or take photos.
Entrance fee
There’s no entry fee to visit Da Nang Cathedral. Donations are welcome but completely optional.
Mass times
Mass is held daily, mostly in Vietnamese, with one English service each week:
- Mon–Sat: 5:00 AM and 5:15 PM
- Sunday: 5:15 AM, 8:00 AM (children’s mass), 10:00 AM (English mass), 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:30 PM
If you plan to attend mass, try to arrive early as seating can be limited — especially on Sundays.
Dress code
Modest clothing is expected, especially if you’re visiting during mass. Cover your shoulders and avoid anything too revealing out of respect for the church setting.
What to see at Da Nang Cathedral
While the cathedral isn’t large, there are a few charming details worth noticing — especially if you enjoy architecture, quiet spaces, or photography. Here’s what to look out for when you visit:
1. The Pink Façade and Bell Tower
The cathedral’s soft pink exterior is what draws most people in. The tall Gothic spire, arched windows, and decorative details make it one of the most photogenic spots in the city center. It’s easy to snap a great photo from the courtyard or just outside the back gate.
2. Stained glass windows and gothic details
If the doors are open or you’re attending a service, peek inside to see colorful stained glass windows that depict Biblical scenes and saints. The interior is simple but full of small Gothic touches, including pointed arches and decorative ceiling beams.
3. The Marian Grotto behind the church
Tucked away behind the main building is a small Marian grotto — a replica of the Lourdes shrine in France. It’s a quiet place for reflection or prayer, and many visitors miss it entirely. Take a moment to walk around and explore this peaceful spot.
4. Peaceful courtyard and statues
The church grounds include a compact shaded courtyard with benches, flower beds, and a few religious statues. It’s a nice place to pause, rest, or enjoy the surroundings — especially in the early morning when it’s quieter.
Nearby sights to combine your visit
Da Nang Cathedral is a quick stop — most travelers spend just 15–30 minutes here. Luckily, it’s located right in the city center, surrounded by several other places worth seeing. These nearby sights are all within walking distance and easy to add to your route.
Han Market
Just a 2-minute walk from the cathedral, the busy Han Market is a great place for souvenirs, snacks, or a look at daily life in Da Nang.
Han River (Bach Dang Riverside Walk)
A 5-minute walk brings you to the Han River with a riverside promenade, perfect for a short stroll, photos, or a coffee break with a view.
Museum of Cham Sculpture
Only 12 minutes on foot, this Cham museum houses a unique collection of ancient Cham art and artifacts — a nice contrast to the cathedral’s colonial style.
Dragon Bridge
Also about 12 minutes away, the iconic Dragon Bridge is famous for its fire-breathing dragon shows on weekend nights. It’s right next to the Cham Museum.
Con Market
Roughly 1.5 km (20-minute walk), the Con Market is a great spot for local street food and casual shopping.
Da Nang Museum
Also about 1.5 km away, the Da Nang Museum offers a broader look at the city’s history and culture — good if you want to dig a little deeper into the area.
Is Da Nang Cathedral worth visiting?
Da Nang Cathedral isn’t a must-see on its own, but it’s a pleasant, easy stop if you’re exploring the city center. The pink exterior makes it a favorite for quick photos, and architecture fans will appreciate the Gothic design. If you’re nearby — especially visiting Han Market or walking along the river — it’s definitely worth adding to your route.
