Many rocks, parts of embankments, tree trunks, and even warning signs on Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang, the capital city of central Vietnam, have been defaced with graffiti, leaving visitors dismayed by the unsightly marks.

Over the past few days, many travelers have expressed outrage upon encountering the ugly sight of vandalism on the peninsula. 

Son Tra Peninsula, known as the ‘green lungs’ of the city and a natural treasure, is now being marred by inappropriate and damaging graffiti.

Among the worst-hit areas are scenic spots where visitors often stop to enjoy the breeze, including a prominent spot along the peninsula's most picturesque route, featuring three large boulders.

These rocks were smeared with graffiti, causing annoyance to tourists. Along the walkways, even the trunks of coconut trees were defaced with strange streaks of colorful paint.

“Such a charming space with its breathtaking natural scenery captivates throngs of tourists, but when I raise my camera to take a picture, every angle is ruined by these odd markings,” Anh Thu, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, expressed her displeasure.

“They might be acceptable in certain contexts, but here, in a natural reserve like Son Tra, they are completely inappropriate."

The vandalism is not limited to rocks and tree trunks. Even warning signs have been targeted. 

“One sign warning against lighting fires, feeding monkeys, and littering has been completely covered up with graffiti that obscures important information,” a local volunteer at the site lamented.

Meanwhile, one large warning sign that was completely covered with graffiti has been replaced.

Additionally, convex mirrors, placed at sharp curves for safety, have also been vandalized with graffiti, making them harder to use for motorists. 

The graffiti, often resembling personal signatures, has added to the discomfort of many visitors.

Le Tan Thanh, chairman of the People's Committee of Tho Quang Ward in Son Tra District, told Tuoi Tre ( Youth) newspaper that the administration has been aware of the situation and has directed police officers to work with forest rangers, while requiring the Son Tra Peninsula management board to identify and penalize the vandals.

Son Tra Peninsula is not only a popular tourist destination but also an invaluable biosphere reserve, home to the endangered red-shanked douc langur, a symbol of conservation in Da Nang. 

Protecting the environment and preserving the peninsula’s landscape is a shared responsibility of both authorities and the public.

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