Da Nang has officially begun its festive countdown to Lunar New Year Bính Ngọ 2026 with the impressive debut of a golden horse mascot at Da Nang International Airport, captivating both locals and international visitors alike.
On January 5, passengers passing through the waterfall area at the entrance of Terminal T2 were pleasantly surprised by the striking presence of the towering golden horse. This artwork marks the city’s first symbolic highlight in welcoming the upcoming Vietnamese Lunar New Year, setting a vibrant and auspicious tone for the holiday season.
Standing at approximately five metres tall, the golden horse is sculpted in the dynamic posture of a “Thiên Lý Mã” the legendary steed known for speed, strength, and endurance. With its powerful legs mid-gallop, head held high, and mane flowing dramatically backward, the sculpture radiates vitality, ambition, and forward momentum. Every muscle on the horse’s body has been meticulously shaped, reflecting the artisan’s exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.
The most remarkable feature of the artwork is its brilliant golden surface. According to the creators, the horse is clad in nearly 150,000 small aluminium (alu) pieces, each individually cut and applied entirely by hand. This painstaking process creates a shimmering, mirror-like effect, allowing the sculpture to sparkle under natural sunlight by day and glow magnificently beneath colorful lights at night.
The construction of the golden horse took more than a month of continuous work. Beneath its radiant exterior lies a robust steel framework, while the outer layer is covered with over 60 square metres of specialised gold-coloured alu panels. At the base of the sculpture, traditional apricot blossoms and peach flowers iconic symbols of Vietnamese Tết add a warm, festive touch, enhancing the Lunar New Year atmosphere.
The creator behind this stunning work is artisan Đinh Văn Tâm from Quảng Trị Province, a familiar name in Vietnam’s annual zodiac mascot installations. He is also the artist responsible for previous zodiac sculptures such as the Tiger (Nhâm Dần), Cat (Quý Mão), and Dragon (Giáp Thìn), each widely admired for their creativity and cultural depth.
More than a decorative highlight, the golden horse mascot carries a meaningful message. Its display at Da Nang International Airport symbolizes breakthrough, aspiration, and good fortune, reflecting the city’s desire to continue moving forward with strength and confidence in the Year of the Horse 2026.
As one of the first Lunar New Year installations greeting travelers upon arrival, the golden horse not only enhances the airport’s architectural space but also leaves a lasting impression of Da Nang as a dynamic, welcoming, and culturally rich destination.
