Vietnam-made Golden Bridge ranks 4th among the world's most beautiful bridges, surpassing iconic US and Australian structures

Time Out magazine recently published its ranking of the world's 19 most beautiful bridges, and a Vietnamese representative unexpectedly finished in fourth place. Located more than 1,400 meters above sea level on Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge is not only a tourist landmark but also a testament to the fusion of modern construction techniques and architecture with symbolic meaning for Vietnam. Construction of the Golden Bridge began in July 2017 and was completed in April 2018, with official operation starting in June 2018. The centerpiece of the structure—the pair of giant hands—was built in six months, from October 2017 to April 2018. The bridge spans 150 meters in length, has eight spans, seven piers and two abutments. The overall width is 5 meters, with a 3-meter walkway and 1 meter of planter beds on each side. Technically, the piers and foundations are reinforced concrete, while the supporting columns use steel pipes. The beam system is an I-beam steel frame, providing high stability. The bridge’s outer shell is clad in gold-painted steel sheets, paired with a titanium-coated stainless steel railing, helping the structure stand out in sunlight. Notably, the deck is finished with natural kiền kiền wood—an exceptionally durable material resistant to termites, suitable for harsh mountain weather. The design concept draws inspiration from the image of 'the mountain god's hands' lifting a golden ribbon between the clouds. The project was realized by architect Vo Cong Tri and TA Landscape Architecture. The giant hands are not carved from stone but consist of tubular steel frames, steel mesh and fiberglass, finished with a plaster-like coating and moss to evoke an ancient look as if it has existed for centuries. Seen from above, the Golden Bridge appears as a soft silk ribbon supported by the giant hands spanning the mountainside, a height that often places it in the clouds and creates a visual fusion of nature and architecture. The harmony between artificial construction and the natural landscape has made the site one of Vietnam’s iconic travel destinations. Since its debut in June 2018, the Golden Bridge quickly became a social-media phenomenon and drew coverage from major global outlets such as CNN, BBC, The New York Times, Time, Fox News and The Guardian. The New York Times described the scene as: 'From the cliff, a pair of giant hands lift a golden thread, as if the mountain itself has grown hands.' The Huffington Post described it as the 'most interesting bridge ever seen,' while The Guardian called the Golden Bridge 'one of the most spectacular pedestrian bridges in the world.' Daily Mail named it among seven 'new wonders' of the world. Beyond the initial media buzz, the bridge’s appeal has endured. In February 2026 Time Out ranked the world’s most beautiful bridges, with Golden Bridge in Da Nang placing fourth, ahead of Brooklyn Bridge and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Time Out experts noted the structure’s 'visual astonishment' and its status as a modern travel icon. The ranking honors architecture that integrates engineering and aesthetics, based on criteria including unique design, landscape harmony, and international media influence. Surpassing many of the world’s legendary icons, Golden Bridge remains the sole Vietnamese entry in the global top four, underscoring its status as a standout symbol of Southeast Asia. This is not the first time the project has earned recognition, but continued accolades years after its debut demonstrate the enduring appeal of a modern travel landmark.