Japanese Covered Bridge – The Ancient Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

The Japanese Covered Bridge (also known as the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An) is considered a must-visit spot in Hoi An Ancient Town, a beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam. So what is so special about this bridge? Before traveling here, it is best to know about the bridge’s history, characteristics, and cultural significance to Hoi An.

1. Overview of the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

• Address: Between Tran Phu Street and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, West of Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam Province
• Opening hours: 9 AM – 11 PM; 3 PM – 10 PM
• Hoi An Ancient Town Entrance Ticket: 150,000 VND (~$6) for foreigners (you can choose 3 out of 21 spots in the town)

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An (also called “Chùa Cầu” or “Lai Viễn Kiều” in Vietnamese) is a famous cultural symbol of the region, so famous that it is featured on the 20.000 Vietnam Dong bill. According to legend, it was originally built as a sword to pierce directly through the back of the sea monster Namazu, stopping it from quaking its tail and causing earthquakes in Vietnam, Japan, or India. Nowadays, a pagoda has been added to the bridge, honoring the Northern Emperor Zhenwu – who protects the region and brings happiness to the people.

• Check more about Hoi An Ancient Town here!

2. History of the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An was built in the 17th century with assistance from Japanese businessmen. In 1719, a Nguyen Dynasty lord visited Hoi An and named the bridge “Lai Viễn Kiều”, with a meaning to “Welcome guests from afar”. Then, in the 19th century, a pagoda was also built at the North handrail of the bridge, giving it the name “Chùa Cầu” (meaning Bridge Pagoda). Over time, the bridge has undergone many fixings, losing its Japanese architectural patterns,and  adopting Vietnamese and Chinese patterns instead.

3. Characteristics of the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An?

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is 18 meters long in total, with a yin and yang red lacquered wood canopy, crossing over the Thu Bon River. It connects the two banks of the river in Hoi An Ancient Town, the Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street (the Japanese quarter) in the West and Tran Phu Street (the Chinese quarter) in the East.

On either end of the bridge are wooden monkeys and wooden dogs, since these are two religious animals that protect people from the monster Namazu in Japanese folklore. In the middle of the bridge, is a statue of the Northern Martial God Zhenwu, who is believed to bring protection and happiness to Hoi An.

Some things visitors should do at the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An:

• Learn about Hoi An architecture: Visitors can observe the unique yin-yang tiled roof, ancient Chinese writings, wooden railings, and intricate carvings of the bridge. The unique blend of Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese styles is something you can only find in Hoi An Ancient Town.
• Pray to the Northern Martial God Zhenwu: The Northern Emperor Zhenwu is a very well-known powerful deity. Many locals and tourists stop by to light incense and make offerings, wishing for happiness and good fortune.
• Take stunning photos: The Japanese Bridge is one of the most photographed spots in Hoi An Ancient Town. Whether capturing its historic beauty in daylight or its magical glow at night, this iconic structure provides an unforgettable backdrop for your travel photos.
• Ride a boat on the Thu Bon River under the bridge: Experience the romantic charm of Hoi An by taking a lantern boat ride along the Thu Bon River in the evening. Floating beneath the Japanese Bridge while being surrounded by glowing lanterns is a peaceful and memorable experience.
• Pet the guardian animals: The sacred animals symbolize protection and longevity in Japanese folklore. Many visitors gently touch or take pictures with the statues, believing they bring good luck.

4. Nearby attractions to the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

After visiting the Japanese Bridge, visitors can also visit some other attractions within walking distance in Hoi An Ancient Town such as:

• Quan Cong Temple: Built in 1653, the temple is dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered Chinese general known for his loyalty and integrity. The temple is a significant spiritual and cultural site in Hoi An.
• 5 Assembly Halls: Hoi An Ancient Town has 5 ancient Chinese assembly halls, including Phuc Kien, Trieu Chau, Hai Nam, Cantonese and Chinese, each reflecting the traditions and architecture of different Chinese communities in Hoi An. Among these, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is the largest and most well-known one.
• Tan Ky Ancient House: One of the best-preserved merchant houses in Hoi An, Tan Ky Ancient House dates back over 200 years. It showcases a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences and has been passed down through seven generations. 
• Hoi An Central Market: A bustling marketplace where locals and tourists alike can explore a variety of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and handmade crafts. The market is also famous for its street food.
• Hoi An Museum of Cultural History: The museum provides insight into Hoi An’s rich heritage, from its early Cham civilization to its period as a major Southeast Asian trading port. Exhibits include ancient pottery, artifacts, and photographs that tell the story of the town’s multicultural influences over the centuries.

Check out the full map of Hoi An Ancient Town here! 

5. Travel tips at the Japanese bridge in Hoi An

• How to get there? To get to the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An Ancient Town, start at the Central Market, and walk down Tran Phu Street to the western end of the town. Visitors can also stop at beautiful cafes and restaurants on the way there.
• When to visit? The best time to visit the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is from 9 AM – 3 PM since it is less crowded during this time. Guests can also visit at night, sit on a lantern boat through the Thu Bon River, and have an overview of the bridge.
• Other activities: Visitors can also participate in other street activities including folk games and music performances in Hoi An Ancient Town, every day from 7 PM to 8:30 PM.
• Be quiet: The Japanese Bridge is also a spiritual spot directly connected to a pagoda. Therefore, when visiting this spot, visitors should remember to be quiet, dress politely, and be respectful of other people.

Conclusion

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is more than just an architectural wonder – it is a symbol of Hoi An’s rich history and multicultural fusion. Visiting this iconic landmark offers a deeper appreciation of the town’s heritage and its blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences.

For more places to explore Vietnam and our dynamic culture, check out our other blogs!

Plan your trip today and explore Hoi An’s timeless beauty with YESD Travel for an unforgettable journey!