Exploring Da Nang’s Photogenic Spots with Sui | ISSUE #222

This time, we asked cizucu creator Sui, known for capturing the culture and identity of places around the world, to share their recommended photography locations in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Da Nang, where the sea and city coexist side by side, is a place where the liberating atmosphere of a resort blends with the local spirit. If you venture a bit further, you’ll also encounter the lantern-lit old town of Hoi An.

Vietnam is about a six-hour flight from Japan. Previously, I visited Ho Chi Minh City, but this time I chose Da Nang, which is located roughly halfway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.

This city, where the ocean and urban life are closely intertwined, offers a unique blend of resort-like openness and authentic local atmosphere. The tranquil scenery of the endless beaches made me lose track of time. And just a short trip away is Hoi An’s old town, enveloped in the glow of lanterns—a magical sight, especially at night, distinct from its daytime charm. Simply strolling through the city was a delight.

Interactions with the warm-hearted people of Vietnam also made this journey truly special. Here, I introduce some of my favorite spots in Da Nang, accompanied by photographs.

Located in the heart of Da Nang, Han Market is packed with shops selling everything from local foods to handicrafts, enveloped in the aroma of durian and the vibrant energy of the crowd. On the second floor, you’ll find shops selling ao dai, Vietnam’s traditional dress, with custom tailoring available.

The next day, I walked through the streets of Hoi An wearing a custom-made ao dai. The craftsmanship of Vietnamese artisans, who create garments with relaxed silhouettes yet impeccable technique, left a lasting impression.

Han Market is always bustling with people. If you look through the round holes in the stairwell, you’ll discover a different scene in each circle. Framing your shot as if peering through these openings allows you to capture the intriguing depth and vibrancy within the market’s lively chaos.

My Khe Beach is one of Da Nang’s most renowned beaches. It’s a place where you’ll encounter many locals, offering a glimpse into everyday life in Da Nang despite its popularity as a tourist destination.

People meditating, others jogging—everyone spends their time in their own way. Simply being there and observing these scenes felt soothing and uplifting.

Try photographing during the low-light period just after sunset. The transition from evening to night brings out subdued colors and a tranquil atmosphere. No matter where you are in the world, the sea remains a place that stirs the soul.

Hoi An Old Town was the place I most wanted to visit on this trip. About an hour’s drive from Da Nang, this city is wrapped in a mysterious atmosphere, as if time flows more slowly here.

The entire townscape is adorned in hues of yellow and pink, making it a joy to simply wander its streets. During the day, the soft light envelops the city, creating an uplifting and cheerful atmosphere.

At night, Hoi An transforms into a completely different scene. Lanterns shimmer everywhere, and every focal point becomes a picturesque composition.

It’s fascinating to capture the duality of the city, which presents entirely different faces by day and by night.

Vietnam is also renowned for its cuisine. Dishes like pho and banh mi are especially palatable for Japanese visitors.

Meals are often served with condiments and an abundance of fresh vegetables, allowing you to adjust the flavors to your liking. If you’re not a fan of cilantro, you can request your dish without it.

The most astonishingly delicious thing I tasted in Vietnam was the mango. Whenever I visit Southeast Asia, I always crave this fruit, and the local varieties are so good that I’m willing to take the risk. In Vietnam, you can buy a large mango for about 120 yen, which is also a plus.

When photographing food, I avoid color correction to preserve the authentic atmosphere. I aim to capture the vibrant colors and textures of the fruit as they are, along with the ambiance of the market.

What did you think? I encourage you to visit the photography spots recommended by Sui and experience their beauty firsthand.