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.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location (Address) | Intersection of Tran Phu Street and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam. |
| Opening Hours | The bridge itself is accessible 24 hours a day for photography. |
| Ticket Requirement | To 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.
