Located about 10-12 km northeast of Da Nang city center, this site is associated with the legend of two immortal chess players on the mountain’s peak. Today, a statue of the immortal playing chess sits atop a large boulder, becoming a distinctive icon and a famous check-in spot for visitors to Son Tra.
At an elevation of 700 meters above sea level, Ban Co Peak is the highest point in the Son Tra Peninsula and is likened to the “roof” of Da Nang.
Legend has it that a celestial being once descended upon Son Tra and, captivated by its picturesque scenery, created a stone chessboard on the mountain peak for entertainment. One day, the famous chess player, De Thich, happened to pass by and asked to join the game. The two immortals played for several days, yet neither could claim victory.
One day, while fairy ladies from heaven were frolicking on the nearby beach (now known as Tien Sa Beach), their cheerful voices distracted De Thich, causing him to make a wrong move and lose the game. After his defeat, he remained seated, contemplating his mistake but couldn’t find a solution. To commemorate this story, the locals erected a statue of De Thich sitting by the stone chessboard on the mountain peak.
Hence, this place was named Ban Co Peak, and due to its superior altitude offering a panoramic view of the coastal city, it was also dubbed the “roof of Da Nang.” This destination is unique, combining mythology and exceptional scenic value in the exploration of Da Nang.
The ideal time to visit Ban Co Peak is from March to September, during Da Nang’s dry season. With clear skies and mild sunlight, the roads are dry and safe for traveling. Early mornings are a popular choice for many visitors to witness the sea of clouds, as the mist blankets the mountains and the city below resembles a watercolor painting.
From October to February, the area often experiences rain and dense fog, making the roads slippery and reducing visibility, which is not ideal for hiking or photography.
When visiting the “roof of Da Nang,” don’t miss the opportunity to strike a pose next to the De Thich statue, a prominent symbol of the city’s highest point.
After conquering the winding mountain roads, many visitors enjoy taking a break by the stone chessboard, immersing themselves in nature, and capturing unique photographs.
The best time to witness the sea of clouds at Ban Co Peak is in the early morning. The mist hangs low over the mountains, and the white clouds drifting through the forest create a mystical and romantic atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
The Son Tra Peninsula is at its most beautiful during early mornings and late afternoons. If you visit Ban Co Peak at sunrise, you’ll catch the first rays of sunlight filtering through the forest.
For an afternoon visit, set off between 3 and 4 pm to catch the sunset and admire the panoramic view of the city, the sea, and the fishermen at work in the distant Tien Sa Beach.
From Ban Co Peak, visitors can also explore other famous attractions nearby, such as the Linh Ung Pagoda, home to the 67-meter-tall Quan Am Buddha statue, and the Son Tra Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses in Vietnam.
In March 2024, billionaire Bill Gates visited the Ban Co mountain on the Son Tra Peninsula during his trip to Da Nang. Accompanied by his girlfriend, a tea ceremony artist, a guide, and a server, he climbed the numerous steps to the peak while his managers and bodyguards waited below. During his stay in one of Vietnam’s most livable cities, Bill Gates also visited Bac Ninh province and experienced the local culture by chewing betel and listening to Quan Ho folk songs.
Bill Gates, a world-renowned billionaire, visited Ban Co Peak in 2024.
When planning a trip to Ban Co Peak in Da Nang, it’s essential to keep a few things in mind for a safe and enjoyable experience. There are no eateries or shops at the peak, so make sure to bring your water and light snacks. It’s also advisable to carry a light jacket for the early morning hours when it can be a bit chilly. Additionally, as the Son Tra Peninsula is a strictly protected ecological area, visitors must not litter, break branches, or engage in any activities that could harm the natural environment.
The ideal times to visit Ban Co Peak are from 5:30 to 8:00 in the morning or from 3:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon. These timings offer pleasant weather, beautiful lighting for photography, and safer conditions for traveling on the steep and winding mountain roads.
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