Da Nang Cathedral
The city's charming pink landmark.
4.4 ⭐ (2.2K)
Introduction
Da Nang Cathedral (Nhà thờ Chính tòa Đà Nẵng) is a French colonial-era Catholic church located in the city center of Da Nang. Constructed in 1923, it serves as the cathedral for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Da Nang. The structure is known for its Gothic architectural style, distinctive pastel-pink exterior, and a weathercock atop its steeple, which has earned it the local nickname "Nhà thờ Con Gà", or the "Chicken Church".
The Pink Façade
The cathedral’s most recognized feature is its pink-washed exterior, making it a prominent landmark. The Gothic design is evident in its tall, pointed arches, ribbed vaults, and stained-glass windows, creating a clear contrast with the surrounding modern buildings.
The Chicken Weathercock
Perched atop the 70-meter-high steeple is the famous grey weathercock that gives the church its nickname. Made of a light alloy, it not only serves as a symbol but also functions practically by showing the direction of the wind.
Stained-Glass Windows
The interior of the cathedral, while simple, features classic Gothic stained-glass windows. These windows depict various saints and biblical scenes, adding color and light to the main worship hall.
Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
Located in the back of the cathedral grounds is a replica of the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. This quiet and devotional space provides a serene area for prayer and reflection, set away from the main church building.
Getting there
From the My Khe Beach area to Da Nang Cathedral (approx. 4-5 km):
🚗 Taxi: 10-15 mins | 70,000 - 100,000 VND ~ $2.75 - $4 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 10-15 mins | 50,000 - 80,000 VND ~ $2 - $3.15 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 10-15 mins
⚠️ The cathedral is centrally located and easy to find. Traffic in the city center can be busy, so allow for extra time during peak hours. Grab is generally the most convenient and cost-effective option for visitors.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Saturday: 5:00 AM - 5:30 PM (Grounds access)
- Sunday: 5:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Grounds access)
- Note: Access to the inside of the cathedral for sightseeing is often limited. Visitors are welcome to quietly attend mass.
Mass Times:
- Monday - Saturday: 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 5:00 AM, 8:00 AM, 10:00 AM (in English), 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM, and 6:30 PM
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Admission: Free for all visitors.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Visit on a weekday morning between 7:00 AM and 10:00 AM to experience the site with fewer crowds and in softer light for photography. The dry season from February to August offers the most pleasant weather. Attending the 10:00 AM English mass on Sunday is an option for those interested in the service.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Allow for 30 to 45 minutes to explore the grounds, take photos of the exterior, and see the grotto. If you plan to attend mass, budget for additional time.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👗 Be sure to dress respectfully, especially if you plan to enter the church during mass. This means covering your shoulders and knees. While access to the grounds is casual, the interior is an active place of worship where a conservative dress code is enforced.
🚪 Don't be surprised if the main gate on Tran Phu Street is closed. The most reliable entrance for visitors and worshippers is the side gate located at 156 Yen Bai Street. Head to this entrance directly to avoid confusion.
📸 For the best photos, visit in the early morning or late afternoon. The sun casts a harsh glare on the pink walls during midday, but the softer light of the "golden hours" makes the color appear richer and more defined.
💡 The 10:00 AM Sunday mass is conducted in English, offering a unique opportunity for English-speaking visitors to experience a full service. Arrive a few minutes early as it can be well-attended by both expatriates and tourists.
Be aware
🙏 This is an active and important religious site for the local Catholic community, not just a tourist attraction. Be mindful of ongoing services, prayers, and events. Avoid loud conversations and always refrain from taking photographs of people praying or during a mass.
⏰ Visitors frequently find the main church building locked outside of mass times. While you can always access the grounds to see the exterior, manage your expectations about getting inside for sightseeing. Your best chance to see the interior is by attending a service.
FAQs
Is Da Nang Cathedral free?
Yes, there is no entrance fee to visit the grounds of the cathedral.
Why is it called the Chicken Church?
It's nicknamed the "Chicken Church" (Nhà thờ Con Gà) because of the prominent weathercock shaped like a rooster on top of its steeple.
What is the dress code for Da Nang Cathedral?
To enter the church itself, you must cover your shoulders and knees. There is no strict dress code to walk around the exterior grounds.
Can tourists go inside the cathedral?
Yes, but access for sightseeing is often restricted to times outside of mass. The most certain way to see the interior is to respectfully attend one of the scheduled masses.
What are the mass times at the pink church in Da Nang?
Mass is held daily at 5:00 AM and 5:00 PM on weekdays, with multiple services on Sunday, including one in English at 10:00 AM.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Early morning (7:00 AM - 10:00 AM) is ideal to avoid large crowds and the midday heat. The light is also better for photography at this time.
Which entrance should I use for the cathedral?
The side gate at 156 Yen Bai Street is typically the main entrance for the public, as the front gate on Tran Phu Street is often closed.
When was the Da Nang Cathedral built?
It was built in 1923 during the French colonial period.
How tall is the cathedral?
The steeple is approximately 70 meters tall.
Is there an English mass at Da Nang Cathedral?
Yes, there is an English-language mass every Sunday at 10:00 AM.
Last updated:
