Da Nang is the third largest city in Vietnam in terms of urban population and one of the major port cities, in addition to Ho Chi Minh City and Hai Phong. Situated on the coast of the Eastern Sea, at the opening end of the Han River, it is the biggest city in Central Vietnam.
?
Da Nang is the commercial and educational center of Central Vietnam, with a well-sheltered, easily accessible port. The North–South Railway makes it a hub for transportation. It is located within 60 miles of several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Imperial City of Hue, the Old Town of Hoi An, and the My Son ruins.
?
The city was previously known as C?a Hàn during early Đ?i Vi?t settlement, and as Tourane (or Turon) during French colonial rule. Before 1997, the city was part of Quang Nam-Da Nang Province. On Jan 1, 1997, Da Nang was separated from Qu?ng Nam Province to become one of four independent (centrally controlled) municipalities in Vietnam. Da Nang is listed as a first class city, and has a higher urbanization ratio than any of Vietnam's other provinces or centrally governed cities.