By aussiematesvietnam G’day, Fellow Aussie Adventurers!
Crikey, has it been a wild ride living in Vietnam for nearly two decades! Tracy and I still pinch ourselves sometimes, wondering how a couple of laid-back Aussies ended up calling this vibrant corner of Southeast Asia home. One of the beauties of settling in Da Nang is watching this coastal gem transform from a sleepy fishing town into a thriving tourist hotspot that still manages to keep its authentic charm.
Today, I’m taking you through one of Da Nang’s most exciting attractions – Asia Park. Now, don’t roll your eyes thinking this is just another theme park! This place has enough thrills, spills, and cultural experiences to keep even the most jaded boomer entertained for a full day (or two, if you’re pacing yourselves like Tracy and I do these days).
[IMAGE:asia-park-entrance]
What Exactly Is Asia Park Da Nang?
Asia Park isn’t your run-of-the-mill amusement park. Spanning a massive 88 hectares in the heart of Da Nang, it’s a unique blend of thrilling rides, cultural exhibits, and stunning landscapes that showcase the best of Asian heritage. Opened in 2014, it’s relatively new on the scene but has quickly become a must-visit attraction for tourists and locals alike.
Tracy and I first stumbled upon Asia Park shortly after it opened. We were a bit skeptical at first – I mean, at our age, who needs another roller coaster, right? Wrong! We’ve since become regulars, bringing every mate who visits us from Down Under. The beauty of Asia Park is that it offers something for everyone, whether you’re after heart-stopping thrills or a more sedate cultural experience.
[IMAGE:sun-wheel-daytime]
The Sun Wheel – Da Nang’s Iconic Landmark
Let’s start with the park’s crown jewel – the Sun Wheel. Standing at a jaw-dropping 115 meters high, this Ferris wheel is one of the tallest in the world and has become Da Nang’s most recognizable landmark. Tracy wasn’t too keen on the height initially (she’s never been a fan of heights since that dodgy bungee jump in Cairns back in ’95), but even she couldn’t resist the panoramic views.
From the top, you’ll get a 360-degree vista of Da Nang city, the Han River, the magnificent Dragon Bridge, and the coastline stretching all the way to the Son Tra Peninsula. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be madly clicking your camera, trying to capture the perfect shot to make your Facebook friends back home green with envy.
Pro tip: Try riding the Sun Wheel just before sunset. The changing colors of the sky as the sun dips behind the mountains create a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments (yes, even us boomers use Instagram now – our kids would be shocked).
[IMAGE:sun-wheel-sunset]
Thrill Rides for the Young at Heart
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Aussie Mates, are you seriously suggesting I strap myself into a roller coaster at my age?” Too right I am! Age is just a number, and Asia Park has rides that will awaken the teenager in you.
The Golden Sky Tower is a freefall drop tower that shoots you 60 meters into the air before dropping you back down at high speed. Tracy and I held hands (and maybe screamed a little) during our first ride, but the adrenaline rush was worth every second of terror!
For something a bit less heart-stopping, the Monorail offers a leisurely journey around the park with stunning views. It’s a great way to orient yourself when you first arrive or to give your legs a break after walking around all day (because let’s face it, our stamina isn’t what it used to be).
Other noteworthy rides include:
- The Queen Cobra roller coaster – a twisting, turning adventure that’s surprisingly smooth for us older bones
- The Fairy River – a gentle boat ride through whimsical scenes that’s perfect when you need to catch your breath
- The Hurricane – a spinning, swinging contraption that had me questioning my life choices but laughing uncontrollably nonetheless
[IMAGE:thrill-rides]
A Cultural Journey Through Asia
What sets Asia Park apart from other amusement parks is its cultural focus. The park is divided into different zones representing various Asian countries, each featuring architecture, landscapes, and cultural elements typical of that nation.
Japan Garden is Tracy’s favorite. The meticulously manicured bonsai trees, serene koi ponds, and cherry blossoms (when in season) transport you straight to Kyoto. We spent a peaceful hour here just soaking in the zen atmosphere after the excitement of the rides.
The Central Vietnam zone holds a special place in my heart. After living here for so long, it’s touching to see how the park celebrates local heritage with traditional Hue-style architecture and cultural performances. If you’re new to Vietnam, this zone offers a condensed introduction to the rich culture of the central region.
Other cultural areas include:
- Cambodia Zone – featuring miniature replicas of Angkor Wat that make for fantastic photo opportunities
- India Zone – with colorful decorations and architectural elements reminiscent of the Taj Mahal
- Korea Zone – complete with hanbok-wearing staff and structures inspired by traditional Korean palaces
- China Zone – showcasing elements of Chinese architecture, including a stunning replica of the Great Wall
[IMAGE:cultural-zones]
Food Options That Will Tantalize Your Taste Buds
If there’s one thing Tracy and I have learned living in Vietnam, it’s that food is at the heart of every good experience. Asia Park doesn’t disappoint on this front. Each cultural zone offers cuisine typical of the country it represents, giving visitors a culinary tour of Asia without leaving the park.
In the Vietnam Zone, we usually grab a bowl of piping hot pho or some bánh mì sandwiches. The flavors are authentic, and the prices aren’t as inflated as you might expect from a theme park.
For a proper sit-down meal, head to one of the restaurants near the center of the park. Tracy swears by the lakeside Korean BBQ place, where you can grill your own meat while enjoying views of the landscaped gardens and water features.
And yes, for those moments when you’re craving a taste of home, there’s a Western food court serving decent burgers, pizzas, and – praise be – decent coffee that meets our Aussie standards!
[IMAGE:food-options]
Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
After countless visits (and a few mistakes along the way), Tracy and I have compiled some essential tips for making the most of your Asia Park adventure:
When to Visit
Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends. If you visit during Vietnamese holidays, prepare for long queues at the popular rides. The park is particularly magical in the evening when everything is illuminated with colorful lights, especially the Sun Wheel which transforms into a spectacular light show visible from across the city.
Ticket Information
Entrance fees are surprisingly reasonable compared to theme parks back home in Australia. At the time of writing, an all-inclusive ticket costs around 300,000 VND (about $20 AUD), giving you access to all rides and attractions. Keep an eye out for special promotions, especially during off-peak seasons.
Seniors over 60 and children under 1.4 meters tall get discounted tickets. And if you’re planning to visit multiple Sungroup attractions in Da Nang (like Ba Na Hills), combination tickets offer good value.
Getting There
Asia Park is located on Phan Dang Luu Street in Hai Chau District, easily accessible from most hotels in Da Nang city. A taxi from the beach area will cost around 100,000 VND (about $7 AUD). If you’re feeling adventurous, local buses also serve the area, and there’s a dedicated Grab (Southeast Asia’s Uber) drop-off point.
For those staying in Hoi An, consider hiring a driver for the day. Tracy and I often arrange this for our visiting friends, as it provides more flexibility than tour buses.
[IMAGE:park-map]
What to Bring
- Sunscreen and a hat – the Vietnamese sun can be brutal, especially for our fair Aussie skin
- Comfortable walking shoes – you’ll clock up the steps exploring all zones
- A light jacket for evening visits – it can get surprisingly cool after sunset
- A water bottle – while you can buy drinks inside, having your own will save money
- Camera – the views from the Sun Wheel alone are worth capturing
Our Personal Highlights and Recommendations
If you’re pressed for time and can’t experience everything, Tracy and I recommend these highlights:
The Sun Wheel at sunset is non-negotiable. Time your ride to begin about 30 minutes before the sun starts to set, and you’ll experience the magical transition from day to night over Da Nang.
The cultural performances in the Central Square happen several times daily and showcase traditional dances and music from various Asian countries. We’ve seen them dozens of times and still find them captivating.
For a bit of quiet reflection, the Japanese Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the excitement of the rides. Tracy often heads here when my enthusiasm for thrill rides exceeds hers.
If you’re visiting with grandkids or young companions, the Fantasy Park indoor game zone provides air-conditioned relief from the heat and has attractions suitable for all ages.
[IMAGE:cultural-performance]
Final Thoughts – Why Asia Park Is Worth Your Time
After almost 20 years in Vietnam, Tracy and I have seen our fair share of tourist attractions come and go. Asia Park stands out as one that consistently delivers a quality experience that appeals to visitors of all ages.
What makes it special for us Aussie boomers is the perfect balance of excitement and cultural enrichment. You can challenge yourself on the thrill rides, then slow down with a contemplative stroll through beautifully designed cultural areas.
The park is also constantly evolving, adding new attractions and seasonal events that keep things fresh. Even after numerous visits, we still discover something new each time.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Da Nang, put Asia Park high on your list. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, culture buff, or just looking for a pleasant day out, this park offers an experience that represents the best of what modern Vietnam has to offer – a respectful blend of tradition and innovation, served with warm hospitality.
As Tracy always says when we take our Aussie friends there: “This isn’t just a theme park – it’s Asia in miniature, with a dash of adrenaline thrown in for good measure!”
Until next time, mates – keep exploring!
Aussie Mates