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Hoi An’s Japanese Covered Bridge

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Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau) – The Soul of Hoi An

The Japanese Covered Bridge (Vietnamese: Chua Cau) is the quintessential symbol of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that now falls under the administration of the expanded Da Nang metropolitan area. This beautifully preserved wooden footbridge is more than just a crossing; it represents the historical blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese cultures that once thrived in this bustling 16th-century international trading port.

I. History and Cultural Significance

  • Construction and Purpose: The bridge was built around 1593 by the Japanese merchant community to connect the Japanese quarter on one side of the stream with the Chinese quarter on the other, facilitating trade and cultural exchange.

  • Unique Architecture: The structure is instantly recognizable by its sheltered, tile-covered roof and the small, intricately carved temple on the northern side. It perfectly demonstrates the harmony of three different architectural traditions.

  • The Deity: Unlike most Vietnamese pagodas, the temple inside the bridge is not dedicated to Buddha. Instead, it honors Tran Vo Bac De, the Taoist God of Weather, who was believed to control floods and protect the local community from natural disasters.

  • Guardians of the Bridge: At either end of the bridge are statues of a Dog and a Monkey. Folklore suggests they symbolize the years the construction started and finished (the years of the Dog and Monkey in the Chinese zodiac), or that they are guardians of the sacred site.

  • National Symbol: The bridge’s profound cultural importance is highlighted by its image being proudly featured on the reverse side of the 20,000 VND Vietnamese polymer banknote.

II. Essential Visitor Information

The Japanese Covered Bridge is located within the heart of the UNESCO-protected Ancient Town.

FeatureDetails
Location (Address)Intersection of Tran Phu Street and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam.
Opening HoursThe bridge itself is accessible 24 hours a day for photography.
Ticket RequirementTo walk onto the bridge and enter the inner temple, visitors must purchase a Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket.
Ancient Town Ticket Price (International)Approx. 120,000 VND – 150,000 VND. This ticket is valid for 24 hours and includes access to 5 heritage sites of your choice (e.g., old houses, museums, assembly halls, and the Japanese Bridge).
Contact (Hoi An)+84 235 3861 327 (Hoi An Ancient Town Management).

III. Visitor Tips for the Best Experience

  • Best Time to Visit:

    • Morning (Before 9:00 AM): To avoid large tour groups and the midday heat, and to capture serene photos.

    • Evening (After 6:00 PM): The bridge and the Ancient Town come alive with colorful lanterns, creating a magical, romantic atmosphere.

  • Getting There from Da Nang:

    • Hoi An is approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour drive from Da Nang City Center.

    • Options include private car, taxi, Grab, or shuttle bus services that run frequently.

  • Photography Tip: You can take beautiful, wide-angle photos of the entire bridge from the riverbanks or the adjacent footpaths without needing to use your ticket. However, the unique interior and the temple require the ticket for access.

  • Restoration: Note that the bridge periodically undergoes restoration work to preserve its integrity. Check local news for any ongoing maintenance before your visit.

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Dimitri S. profile picture
Dimitri S.
01:57 04 Oct 25
It's a nice bridge but don't get your expectations too high! You'll enjoy taking pictures there if it's not too crowded. I think this place is more interesting if you are into historical stuff, the origin of the bridge, architecture, etc. Other that that... It's a bridge!
Peter L. profile picture
Peter L.
11:16 02 Oct 25
The rich history of Hoi An is captured beautifully by this landmark bridge and the nearby Chinese temple, but the true charm of old Hoi An lies in the glorious street scene with shops, restaurants and coffee outlets galore, and as far as we could tell they’re all awesome.

Each evening the locals put on events like the lantern parade on the river, and the spectacular Hoi An memories show which I personally cannot recommend highly enough.
Chotika P. profile picture
Chotika P.
08:51 30 Sep 25
I was very disappointed with my visit to Hoi An. A female fruit vendor carrying goods on a shoulder pole forced me to take photos with her fruits, then demanded money and acted aggressively when I refused. This kind of behavior ruins the atmosphere and gives a bad impression of Hoi An. Prices in many shops were also unreasonably high.

However, I had a much better experience in Da Nang, where the people were much kinder and friendlier than in Hoi An.
Danny H. profile picture
Danny H.
15:30 12 Jul 25
The Japanese Bridge, located in Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most fascinating cultural attractions in Vietnam. Built in the 17th century, this monument has witnessed many changes in the town. If you come to Hoi An, it is a must-visit.

The Japanese Bridge is called Chua Cau Bridge in Vietnamese. It was built by Japanese merchants to connect with the Chinese neighborhood. It was built for communication and connections and has a very important meaning.

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is considered a beautiful representation of the town’s long history. For centuries, this bridge has connected the past, present, and future.

In 1719, Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu visited Hoi An and inscribed the name “Lai Vien Kieu” in three characters at the entrance of the bridge.

This means “Lai Vien Kieu” in Vietnamese and “Bridge to Welcome Guests from Far Away” in English.

Also, because this tower was mainly built by the Japanese, it was named the "Japanese Bridge" or "Japanese Covered Bridge."
Although it is commonly called the "Japanese Bridge," it is a unique combination of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese cultures in terms of building materials, design, patterns, and decorations.

On February 17, 1990, this bridge was designated as a national historic and cultural heritage.
There are a dog and a monkey at the entrance and exit of the bridge, respectively. These two statues symbolize the guardian deities of the bridge, as they symbolize protection and safety in Japanese culture. It is also said that these two statues mean that the construction began in the Year of the Monkey and was completed in the Year of the Dog.

Various cafes and restaurants have been built on both sides of the street centered around the Japanese Bridge, utilizing old and quaint houses.
The old cultural heritage of Hoi An (UNESCO World Heritage) and the appearance of the ancient city still remain along the street.
There are many unique cafes and restaurants here. There are also many shops selling traditional specialties, handmade products, and souvenirs on the street. And there are various galleries of various genres gathered here. This street was also a place where trade between Vietnam and Japan was active in the 17th century. It is a place with many things to see, so I recommend you visit.

Unlike the daytime, the nighttime scenery is also breathtakingly beautiful.
John W. profile picture
John W.
10:32 02 Jul 25
This iconic landmark sits in the heart of Hoi An’s Old Town and offers both charm and history. Built in the late 16th century by Japanese traders, it connected their settlement with the Chinese quarter across the river and symbolized peace between the communities.

It’s beautifully decorated and famously guarded by statues of dogs and monkeys at either end — symbolic of the years it began and was completed.

The area can get quite busy, especially around lunchtime, late afternoon, and into the evening when the lighting is perfect for photos. Many visitors gather on the riverbank to capture the bridge in all its charm. Despite the crowds, it’s a must-visit while exploring the Old Town.
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